bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using simulation to evaluate the batching approach to part type selection in flexible manufacturing systems
Authors: Tabucanon Mario T. , Batanov Dentcho N. , Basu Sanjay
Published: July 2002

The selection of part types for simultaneous processing in a Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) is one of the most responsible phases of the short‐time production planning. The batching approach to part type selection is more popular in practice but this leads to the requirement for a preliminary evaluation of the results obtained. Using simulation is a convenient, no‐risk and cheapest way to do this, which is shown and discussed in the paper. The objective of batching approach is to maximize the number of part types in a batch taking into account constraints on tool magazine capacity and tool type availability. Two alternative ways of assigning weights in the objective function of the part type selection model are explored to direct the search to a different set of part types. A procedure to determine the mix ratios of the selected part types is used so as to balance the aggregate machine workloads. The model aggregations have been accounted for in a simulation experiment conducted to evaluate the performance of the batching approach and to investigate the sensitivity of total makespan and machine utilizations.
Lace cutting for the next millennium
Authors: Jackson M.R. , Preston M.E.
Published: July 2002

The problems of pattern cutting as applied to flexible elastic mesh fabrics (lace) are described within the context of the total manufacturing process. While the design and knitting stages of lace manufacture are highly computerised, providing associated benefits, the cutting room operates with conventional, slow, labour intensive machinery, leading to substantial processing bottlenecks and dependent costs. A new system is presented which uses machine vision to determine the required cutting path on the lace fabric in real‐time via sophisticated, yet high speed, image processing algorithms. The determined cutting path data are used to direct a high speed CO2laser beam to the correct cutting point with beam velocities of typically 6 m/sec. Simultaneous dual edge cutting is now possible using this new system, leading to lace throughput being increased by a factor of ten typically, with the possibility of processing more sophisticated designs and achieving higher cut edge quality.
An effective maintenance system using the analytic hierarchy process
Authors: Labib Ashraf W. , O’Connor Richard F. , Williams Glyn B.
Published: July 2002

Attempts to develop a model of maintenance decision making using the analytic hierarchy (AHP). Describes problems in maintenance arising from not having clear criteria and not having robust decisions with which to maintain failing equipment. The objective being to develop a dynamic and adaptable maintenance system that utilises existing data and supports decisions accordingly. Proposes a three‐stage system that can handle multiple criteria decision analysis, conflicting objectives, and subjective judgements. Moreover, the methodology facilitates and supports a group decision‐making process. This systematic, and adaptable, approach will determine what specific actions to perform given current working conditions. The first stage involves identifying the criteria upon which engineering personnel wish to formulate a maintenance decision, or action. The second stage is to prioritise the different criteria by implementing a multiple‐criteria evaluation method. Finally, based on different criteria, machines are ranked according to criticality. This is followed by an analysis of failures in a graphical and a hierarchical format.
Integration of design method software for concurrent engineering using axiomatic design
Authors: Chen Ke‐Zhang
Published: July 2002

Concurrent engineering can help manufacturing enterprises to achieve shorter time to market, reduced development costs, and high‐quality products. In order to realize the concurrent engineering, a lot of integrations are required according to parallel development technique, such as the integration of the people with different disciplines, the integration of the software of design methods and design data, and so on. This paper discusses the integration of the software of existing design methods for concurrent engineering by using axiomatic design. The results show that a very complicated software system for concurrent engineering becomes simple and consists of 26 modules corresponding to 26 design methods and one main module which contains all the junctional properties at each level. The task of the programmer for the integration becomes clear and is mainly programming for the main module.
Role of organizational commitment in advanced manufacturing technology and performance relationship
Authors: Gupta Atul , Prinzinger Joe , Messerschmidt Dan C.
Published: July 2002

This study, utilizing an advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) intensity index, first, examines the variations in a company’s performance as a function of the simultaneous effect of organizational commitment and the dimensions of manufacturing technology intensity and, second, using the moderator hypothesis, examines a proposal that the greater the organizational commitment complemented AMT’s competences, the greater would be the performance impact of AMT. Results from the study indicate that elements described as complementary to AMT strengths (i.e. desire to keep membership and willingness to exert effort on behalf of the organization) interact negatively with AMT.
An improved self‐adaptive filter forecasting method
Authors: Bo Wang , Yimei Luo , Yuning Wang
Published: July 2002

This paper improved the self‐adaptive filter‐forecasting model that is one of deterministic constant parameter forecasting models. An attenuation/gain function is drawn into a direct iteration search method that belongs to the multi‐variables extreme value research based on the optimization theory, so that it combines the quantitative methods with the qualitative analysis by the experts and increases the explanatory ability and simulation level of the original model. As an empirical study, the authors applied the improved method to the forecasting of the middle‐term demand for cellular phones in China.
Functional requirements of manufacturing planning and control systems in medium‐sized batch manufacturing companies
Authors: Howard Alexander , Kochhar Ashok , Dilworth John
Published: July 2002

This paper describes the use of a set of manufacturing planning and control (MPC) system activities for assessing the functionality suitable in individual companies. Field studies were carried out in medium‐sized batch manufacturing companies and the set of activities was used to investigate the functionality and level of computer support suitable in each case. The field studies verified the set of activities and the findings were used to refine the activities and identify additional activities to be included in the set. The field studies were also used to develop detailed reasons why each activity was considered relevant or not relevant. From the field studies it was possible to conclude that the overall type of company (i.e. make‐to‐order (MTO), make‐to‐stock (MTS), etc.) was not in itself sufficient to predict which activity would be relevant to a particular company. It is proposed that there are numerous reasons why an activity is relevant or not relevant and that it is the detailed characteristics of the individual company which are important in reaching this decision.
Design for customer satisfaction: an information modelling approach
Authors: Omar A.R. , Harding J.A. , Popplewell K.
Published: July 2002

The role of market information is critical to the success or failure of new product introduction. The challenge of bringing market information to design engineers throughout the design process is addressed, using an information modelling approach. This allows valuable quality function deployment (QFD) information to be captured alongside other product design information, within an object‐oriented database. An environment that facilitates the collection, modification and evaluation of information for QFD analysis is provided. This integrated software environment allows valuable market information to be shared between multi‐discipline project team members. Use of the decision support system is demonstrated through a case study.
The implementation of a model for integration of MRP II and TQM
Authors: Keung Donald Chan Chi , Yung K.L. , Ip W.H.
Published: July 2002

A way of initiating and sustaining the implementation of total quality management (TQM) by exploiting the widely adopted manufacturing resource planning (MRP II) is presented. A detailed analysis of MRP II software has found that they have a number of inherent features that can be further extended to organizational performance including operations efficiency, responsiveness, company‐wide problem‐solving capability and product quality. This paper contributes in the development of a model for the MRP II with the incorporation of mechanisms to initiate a culture change in the organization towards TQM. In the adaptation of MRP II to guide the implementation of TQM, a structural analysis technique was proposed to help develop a model and methodology for the integration. In the structural analysis, an IDEF model of a “reference” company structure was created to illustrate and describe the integration. The reference company, which is a lamp manufacturer, is used to illustrate the systematic implementation of the TQM philosophy through adaptation of the MRP II software. The study demonstrates that MRP II can be adapted to provide the drive for effective implementation of TQM for productivity and profits.
FLEAS: a flowline environment for automated supervision
Authors: Spragg J.E. , Fozzard G. , Tyler D.J.
Published: July 2002

The paper discusses the design, implementation and validation of FLEAS, a flowline environment for automated supervision of clothing manufacturing systems. The paper argues for a mixed initiative approach to system control which incorporates both a scheduling component, based on local search, and a simulation component which dynamically tests the validity of the supervisory decisions made by the scheduler.
A systemic and integrated approach to flexible manufacturing systems design
Authors: Borenstein Denis , Luiz Becker João , Ribas Santos Eduardo
Published: July 2002

Flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) design is a complex problem which is concerned with the selection from a wide variety of available system configurations and control strategy alternatives in the light of several criteria (costs, production, flexibility etc.), many of which are difficult to quantify. Although there is a reasonable number of currently available modelling tools to be applied in FMS design, they are based on an erroneous approach, in which design is considered as a separated, local and myopic activity. Design is divided into isolated and unconnected subproblems whose individual solutions may result in a poor global solution. This paper describes a methodology of analysis and evaluation of FMS design competitive alternatives. It examines the use of an integrated, systemic, global, and user‐centred approach for solving the FMS design problem.
Deregulation and decentralization of education in Japan
Authors: Muta Hiromitsu
Published: July 2002

Japan in the late nineteenth century centralized its institutions, including education, in order to catch up with the Western industrialized nations. However, in the late twentieth century, in order to maintain its competitive edge as a world leader in the economic globalization process, the national leadership instituted a series of reforms to deregulate and decentralize the educational system. The objective is to provide sufficient flexibility and local control at the school level that creativity, individual initiative, and the spirit of entrepreneurship will become part of the teaching/learning process for each new generation of Japanese students. However, it is difficult to change the mindset of those who deal with reform. It is odd that deregulation and decentralization have been implemented in a uniform manner by conveying the orders of governments.
Letting go while holding on
Authors: Fennell Hope‐Arlene
Published: July 2002

Power relations affect all aspects of our lives. MacGregor Burns states that “Power is ubiquitous; it permeates human relationships … Power shows many faces and takes many forms”. The purpose of this paper was to explore women principals’ experiences with power relations in the schools during times of increase in decentralization and accountability. The findings of this phenomenological study were that the six principals viewed power as an enabling, and a positive energy for change and growth in schools rather than a source of “top‐down” domination. Their descriptions of power also asserted that “power is not reducible to any one source”, and that an understanding of poststructuralist and structuralist theories of power will be essential for school leaders facing the dilemmas and challenges of the twenty‐first century.
Prediction of success for school principal candidates by means of a decision‐making test
Authors: Klein Joseph
Published: July 2002

In an attempt to identify the most capable candidates for selection as school principals, examines the validity of the prediction of success by means of a questionnaire. This tool measured the level of cognitive activity with respect to three diverse components of the decision‐making process. A total of 99 school principals ranked by their superiors responded to the questionnaire. It was found that successful principals, in the first phase of the decision‐making process, ascribed great importance to gathering information from objective sources, while the unsuccessful principals gave greater emphasis to data collection from subjective sources. In the final decision‐making phase, both successful and unsuccessful principals preferred the subjective sources, although it was the former who particularly stressed the subjective aspect. Explores the reason for the change in the approaches of the two groups. Investigation of three aspects of decision‐making processes characterizing the different groups, together with a locus of control test, made it possible to identify the various gradations of success of the principals with a 55 percent degree of accuracy.
Law enforcement officers in schools: setting priorities
Authors: Lambert Regina D. , McGinty Dixie
Published: July 2002

Increasingly, law enforcement officers are being assigned to US schools as part of the “School Resource Officer” (SRO) program. The SRO’s role is defined as that of a law enforcement officer, a counselor on law‐related matters, and a classroom teacher of law‐related education. This study is a survey conducted to determine what personal characteristics, skills, and job tasks were deemed to be important for an SRO from the perspectives of principals, law enforcement administrators, and SROs themselves. A 64‐item Likert‐scale questionnaire was administered to 161 principals, 159 SROs, and 57 law enforcement administrators in North Carolina. A series of one‐way ANOVAs indicated revealed many significant differences in the importance ratings given to the various items by these three stakeholder groups, suggesting that job expectations for the SRO need to be clarified, and that the SRO role needs to be more clearly defined.
Aspects of Senior Debt Used by and Available to Property Development
Companies
Authors: Naylor Tom
Published: July 2002

Describes research undertaken to assist property companies trying to
raise finance and their advisers. The information was obtained from
postal questionnaires sent to 530 property development companies and 200
potential providers of property finance. Subjects covered were: the
length of the typical term loan, sources of debt, security required,
margin over base paid, lending fees incurred and treatment of interest.
In each case compares the choice of the companies with what is offered
by the lenders.
Property initial public offerings: regulations, costs and price
reactions
Authors: Gerbich Marcus , Levis Mario , Venmore‐Rowland Piers
Published: July 2002

Summarizes the regulatory environment and practices for providing a
property company with a public listing. Furthermore, reports evidence of
the direct and implied costs of undertaking a property initial public
offering. The results indicate that choice of issue method and timing
are key decisions to be made by property company financial managers.
An extended actuarial model of rehabilitation versus new construction of housing
Authors: Johnstone Ivan M.
Published: July 2002

Johnstone’s (1995) actuarial benefit‐cost ratio model estimates the maximum justifiable expenditure on rehabilitation of public housing for each age at which rehabilitation takes place. The model estimates correct maximum expenditures when annual maintenance costs over each age interval are proportional to the depreciation of dwelling services. Extends and generalizes the model to include regimes of annual maintenance costs which are not proportional to the depreciation of dwelling services. The maximum justifiable expenditure on rehabilitation increases as discount rates decline. Low discount rates favour rehabilitation over new construction and may also justify demolition and replacement, especially should increases in annual maintenance costs with age be substantial.
Exploring companion selling: does the situation affect customers’ perceptions?
Authors: Polonsky Michael Jay , Cameron Heidi , Halstead Sara , Ratcliffe Angela , Stilo Pietro , Watt Gillian
Published: July 2002

Examines whether respondents’ attitudes towards companion selling (i.e. suggesting the purchase of a related good) varies based on two hypothetical situations. The results suggest that overall there are some differences in attitudes based on the selling context. However, overall respondents believe that companion selling is generally an appropriate activity and might even contribute to better customer service levels.
Viewpoint: back street to side street to high street to e‐street: sporting betting on the Internet
Authors: Jones Peter , Clarke‐Hill Colin M. , Hillier David
Published: July 2002

Gambling is big business in the UK with an annual turnover of some £25 billion and for the past 40 years betting shops have been the most prominent and visible element within this market. This paper outlines the changes in the general locational pattern and the service environment of betting shops as a prelude to a description of the origins, characteristics and growth of sporting betting operations on the Internet. The paper then discusses some of the issues surrounding sporting betting on the Internet focusing particularly on the challenges it is seen to pose to traditional betting shop businesses.
An examination of the relationship between trust, commitment and relationship quality
Authors: Wong Amy , Sohal Amrik
Published: July 2002

Attempts to examine the concepts of trust and commitment, on two levels of retail relationships: the salesperson level as well as the store level, and test their impact on relationship quality. Based on a review of the literature, a conceptual model has been developed that links trust and commitment to relationship quality. A number of research hypotheses have been formulated to examine the relationships proposed. The paper presents the model developed and discusses some empirical findings from a survey of 1,261 shoppers in a departmental store setting in Victoria, Australia. In particular, the two levels of relationships (salesperson and store level) are examined from the customer’s perspective, using structural equation modelling (LISREL VIII). Concludes with a discussion of the implications of the study and provides directions for future research.
Retail cooperatives: group size, group identification, communication frequency and relationship effectiveness
Authors: Stoel Leslie
Published: July 2002

Observes that the group size of some US retail hardware cooperatives increased during the 1990s, as cooperative managements strove to increase the quantity and quality of group members. For example, a 1997 merger doubled the membership of one group. Large size was deemed necessary to achieve the economies of scope and scale needed to compete in an intense retail marketplace. Group research generally shows that large size has a negative impact on group dynamics. The current study examines size of retail hardware cooperative groups in relation to group identification, communication frequency, and relationship effectiveness. Findings show that size does not influence the relationships between the variables in the study. Also, a member’s level of group identification is a primary driver of perceptions of relationship effectiveness. The higher the identification with the group, the more effective the relationship is perceived to be by the member.
Importance‐Performance Analysis:
Authors: Keyt John C. , Yavas Ugur , Riecken Glen
Published: July 2002

Presents an application of importance‐performance analysis. Using
restaurants as a case in point, illustrates the derivation of a modified
importance‐performance matrix. The findings indicate that more precise
strategies emerge if a competitive dimension is included in the
analysis.
Retail Influence on Evoked Set Formation and Final Choice of Shopping
Goods
Authors: LeBlanc Ronald P. , Turley L.W.
Published: July 2002

Investigates retailers′ relative influence on consumers′ sequential
decision‐making process of forming evoked sets and then making purchase
decisions from the evoked sets. Describes a study in which consumers
report on 23 durable goods grouped into three product categories. Evoked
set sizes were smaller than those for previously studied convenience
goods but larger than those suggested by recent reports on consumer
durable purchases. The findings indicate that the influence of the
retailer is higher in evoked set development than in the final purchase
stage of consumer decision making and that the influence of the retailer
on product choice varies significantly across different categories of
durable products.
Hong Kong Retailers:
Authors: Phillips Lisa A. , Calantone Roger
Published: July 2002

Examines the environment hostility‐planning‐performance relationship of
Hong Kong retailers. A positive relationship is found between
environment hostility and the threats encompassed by the existing labour
shortage, rising rents, foreign‐based competition, the 1997 return to
Chinese governance and Hong Kong′s relationship with mainland China.
Retailers who perceive less hostility in their environment are more
planning‐oriented. Short‐term planners significantly outperformed
non‐planners. Formal long‐range planning was unrelated to retailer
performance.
One in the eye to plastic card fraud
Authors: Torbet Gail E. , Marshall Ian M. , Jones Steve
Published: July 2002

Explores the potential use of behavioural and physiological
biometric techniques in the battle against credit card fraud in the
retail environment. Discusses automatic speaker and dynamic signature
verification, fingerprint and facial recognition, retinal and iris
scanning, and hand and finger geometry. The requirement for recognition
performance, speed of use, usability and customer acceptance, device and
card cost are considered, along with industry standards for biometric
devices.
Consumer complaint behaviour: the case of electrical goods
Authors: Broadbridge Adelina , Marshall Julie
Published: July 2002

Consumer complaint behaviour has been the topic of much academic
research. Aims to contribute to this process empirically by
investigating post purchase dissatisfaction levels of consumers of
domestic and major electrical appliances. The findings show that
electrical goods generate a high ratio of public to private complaints.
The nature, complexity, life expectancy and price of the product are
factors causing a high public action ratio; smaller, inexpensive
electrical goods generated the fewest complaints. Furthermore, consumer
dissatisfaction was seen to intensify as they sought redress, owing to
poor customer service levels of electrical retailers.
The Scottish grocery market: an overview
Authors: Fernie John , Woolven John
Published: July 2002

Looks at Scotland′s uniqueness within the UK and, in particular,
the Scottish patriotism with regard to buying “home” type
goods. Also shows that, perhaps in spite of this, the Scots are
nevertheless quite progressive in trying out new products/ideas.
Evaluates how to market to the Scottish consumer through retail
channels.
Food retailing in Australia ‐ three retailers, three strategies
Authors: Treadgold Alan
Published: July 2002

Considers the structure of grocery retailing in Australia and, in particular, presents and contrasts the development strategies being pursued by the three major retailers in this highly concentrated market. Woolworth’s, the market leader, is a classic corporate recovery story and is emerging as one of the most impressive food retailers in the world. By contrast, the grocery businesses of Coles Myer, Australia’s leading retailer and one of the largest retailers in the world, are under intense pressure from both a rejuvenated Woolworth’s and the company’s own internal weaknesses, many of which are a legacy of a long period of unchallenged market dominance. Coles now faces the challenge of reinventing itself and is taking an approach quite different to that of Woolworth’s. Franklins is number three in Australian grocery retailing and its origins are as a price aggressive discounter. However, as Franklins’ own market position has come under pressure, the company is responding by moving towards more direct competition with Coles and Woolworth’s.
Format change in US grocery retailing
Authors: Morganosky Michelle A.
Published: July 2002

Examines the cross‐shopping patterns of 300 US consumers for five different grocery formats including conventional supermarkets, supercentres, warehouse clubs, convenience stores and limited line discount stores. The extent to which each channel extracts customers from every other channel is assessed and analysed in light of continuing structural change in grocery retailing. As a fairly new retail format in the US market, supercentres have moved quickly in attracting customers from each of the other formats. Discusses major players in the supercentre phenomenon in light of these changing market conditions.
Case study: a Christmas fit for a Prince’s Square ‐ the role of design in shopping centre positioning
Authors: Moore Christopher M. , Lochhead Malcolm
Published: July 2002

Examines the role of design within the context of shopping centre positioning by means of a case‐study approach, based upon the design and implementation of festive decorations for the award‐winning Prince’s Square shopping centre in Glasgow. Seeks to identify the role that design and the designer plays in the process of developing a positioning statement for a shopping centre. Examines in particular the design development process from the designer’s perspective, and provides an insight into how these professionals approach the problem of integrating design creativity within the physical constraints of a shopping centre, while at the same time seeking to satisfy the marketing aspirations of the retailers housed there.
Budgens plc: coping with competition in UK grocery retailing
Authors: Hawkesworth Richard I.
Published: July 2002

Five years ago, Budgens plc, Britain’s tenth largest grocery retailer, established an alliance with REWE of Germany to develop a discount format in the south of England ‐ Budgens’ heartland ‐ to exploit what was perceived as a growth area in the UK as the other multiples had tended to vacate this sector of the market. Budgens had no experience of discounting and thus an alliance with REWE, a large German discount operator, was an attractive proposition. The article explains why and how the alliance developed and, importantly, assesses why the experiment was relatively short‐lived. Essentially, it illuminates the problems of attempting to pursue both differentiation and cost/price leadership strategies.
Queues, customer characteristics and policies for managing waiting‐lines in supermarkets
Authors: Bennett Roger
Published: July 2002

Shoppers leaving four supermarket outlets (two in one of London’s most prosperous boroughs and two in London’s poorest) were questioned about their attitudes towards having to wait in queues, including express checkout lines. The list of interview questions incorporated items designed to assess whether customers possessed Type A or Type B personality traits. It emerged that although Type A inclination did help explain certain shoppers’ perspectives on waiting‐in‐line, customers’ locations in either a rich or a poor neighbourhood and their subjective evaluations of whether their families were better‐off or worse‐off than other families in the area were more influential as determinants of attitudes concerning queues.
A transactional approach to global sourcing: application to French food retailers
Authors: Paché Gilles
Published: July 2002

Global sourcing is undoubtedly one of the major symbols of current worldwide strategies. Although much has been written on manufacturers’ ploys in searching for more competitive and/or reactive foreign suppliers, this is not the case for retailers, surely because retail buyers do not wish to speak about an issue deemed politically sensitive. The objective of this paper is to try and partially remedy this lack of information from field studies conducted on French food retailers. Based on Williamson’s (1975, 1985) “transactional paradigm”, the paper analyses how the retailers have known ‐ or not ‐ how to implement structures and to develop strategic behaviours to reduce the risk linked to global sourcing, from experience acquired in distribution channel management on the domestic market.
Vertical market relations in the UK grocery trade: analysis and Government policy
Authors: Stewart Howe W.
Published: July 2002

The article examines trends in the market power relationship between UK grocery manufacturers and retailers over the past 10‐15 years. It identifies the underlying causes of trends in this area, the implications for consumer welfare, and the legislative framework relating to these relations. Contributory factors to the changed market‐power relationship are relative manufacturer and retailer firm size and market share, individual manufacturing firm market dependence upon particular retailers, information technology, private label merchandise and product development activities, logistics arrangements and other vertical links between manufacturers and retailers. Aspects of welfare economics are examined as a basis for assessing consumer outcomes in this area, and past and present government legislation in the matter is considered, together with some reference to international comparisons. A case is made for some further strengthening of the relevant legislation in the UK.
Retail buyers’ perceptions of quick response systems
Authors: Fiorito Susan S. , Giunipero Larry C. , Yan He
Published: July 2002

Quick response (QR) systems are being implemented by retail firms at an ever quickening pace throughout the USA. While dramatic changes occur throughout the retail company adopting QR strategies, it is the buyers and buyers’ assistants that are more affected by these changes than other executives in the retail firm. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions, attitudes and opinions of retail buyers toward QR. Over 200 buyers from leading department and specialty store firms that have implemented, or are beginning to implement, QR participated. In general, the findings indicated that buyers had a positive view of QR systems; felt QR would save them time but not reduce the number of buyers currently employed; and that they used technology as an integral part of their job. The study also found several significant factors describing buyers’ perceptions of QR that were related to the size of their organization.
Research note: Wal‐Mart in Europe
Authors: Arnold Stephen J.
Published: July 2002

Discusses Wal‐Mart’s entry into Europe. Explains the factors that have contributed to the success of the company, for example an efficient logistics system, extensive internal communications, and a capacity for innovation and reinvention. Outlines Wal‐Mart’s strategy for expanding into Europe, which is based on acquisition. Details the main challenges to Wal‐Mart’s entry into Europe, namely the size of the competition and cultural differences.
Retailer and student perceptions of competence development
Authors: Hart Cathy , Harrington Amanda , Arnold John , Loan‐Clarke John
Published: July 2002

Despite the availability of retail management graduates, retailers continue to recruit graduates from any discipline. A key issue, therefore, is to what extent are retail degrees developing the competences of prime importance to retailers? Conversely, considering retailer graduate recruitment objectives, how well do students understand retailers’ priorities amongst competences in graduate selection? As a relatively recent management profession, do the retail competences differ from other more established management disciplines such as finance? This paper examines these issues through the results of a survey of employer and undergraduate perceptions of competence development in undergraduate degrees. Findings suggest that retail degrees provided a high level of perceived competence development. However, the strongest focus was not necessarily on those competences the retailers most wished to see in applicants. Furthermore, the competence profile of placement work was no closer to the retailers’ selection priorities than that of academic work. The paper concludes with a discussion of the main implications for retailers and retail management degrees.
A comparison of structure and strategy in electronic commerce
Authors: Marchewka Jack T. , Towell Elizabeth R.
Published: July 2002

The study of interorganizational systems (IOSs) has been an important area of interest in information systems research. Proponents of “transaction cost” economic theory predict that IOSs will tend towards a market‐driven orientation over time. Other researchers, however, suggest that there is a reverse trend occurring towards more hierarchical systems (fewer and closer relationships between buyers and sellers). This study examines the theoretical and strategic perspectives that tend to promote one form of network relationship over the other. An exploratory qualitative study of both a market (Amazon.com’s Internet book sales system) and a hierarchical (the Wallace Information Network system) network structure supports the development of a framework to guide future research and strategy.
Institutional intervention and the expansion of ICTs in Latin America
Authors: Silva Leiser , Figueroa B. Eugenio
Published: July 2002

Proposes a framework for the analysis and the execution of policies aimed at the adoption of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in developing countries. This framework is derived from institutional theory that offers, we argue, an alternative for those interested in understanding the forces that influence the adoption of ICTs in developing countries. We use the framework as a lens to tease out meanings of the Chilean case and identify possible courses of action that a country in a similar situation may take to expand and boost the expansion of ICTs. By drawing on the framework, we theorize about why some policies achieve their objectives while some others may not. We conclude by suggesting ways in which the framework can be applied by planners and decision makers in the formulation and evaluation of national ICTs policies.
Boundaries and Quandaries: Establishing a Professional Context for IT
Authors: Shapiro Stuart
Published: July 2002

The professionalization of IT has long been complicated by disagreement over the appropriate model to employ. Physicians, lawyers, scientists, engineers, artisans, and artists have all one been invoked at one time or another by one group or another as guiding examples for the development of an IT profession. Yet none of these has proved fully convincing. Discusses the different kinds of professional practice which have been likened to IT, considers why it has proved so difficult to settle on a single one, and suggests an alternative way of conceptualizing IT practice.
Human Identification in Information Systems
Authors: Clarke Roger
Published: July 2002

Many information systems involve data about people. In order reliably to
associate data with particular individuals, it is necessary that an
effective and efficient identification scheme be established and
maintained. There is remarkably little in the information technology
literature concerning human identification. Seeks to overcome that
deficiency by undertaking a survey of human identity and human
identification. Discusses techniques including names, codes,
knowledge‐based and token‐based identification, and biometrics.
Identifies the key challenge to management as being to devise a scheme
which is practicable and economic, and of sufficiently high integrity to
address the risks the organization confronts in its dealings with
people. Proposes that much greater use be made of schemes which are
designed to afford people anonymity, or which enable them to use
multiple identities or pseudonyms, while at the same time protecting the
organization′s own interest. Describes multi‐purpose and inhabitant
registration schemes, and notes the recurrence of proposals to implement
and extend them. Identifies public policy issues. Of especial concern is
the threat to personal privacy that the general‐purpose use of an
inhabitant registrant scheme represents. Speculates that, where such
schemes are pursued energetically, the reaction may be strong enough to
threaten the social fabric.
Notes on ateleological information systems development
Authors: Introna Lucas D.
Published: July 2002

Provides a critique of teleological information systems development methodologies. Argues that these methodologies lead to “dead” systems that make very little sense to their users. Presents the work of the architect Christopher Alexander as an example from another discipline of ateleological development. Using principles gleaned from his work, presents some ideas of how information systems development may become more ateleological. Narrative, metaphor and myth seem to provide some indicators of how such ateleological development may be achieved. Acknowledges that there is no simple answer to the issues involved, except for the conviction that more precision or automation in teleological development methodologies would not do much to solve the enormous problems occurring in practice today.
In cyberspace all they see is your words
Authors: Whitley Edgar A.
Published: July 2002

Examines the claims that cyberspace allows individuals to create sustainable new identities. It examines these claims in relation to the ongoing argument about embodiment and information systems. Accepts that computer mediated communication changes the nature of the interaction by removing bodily cues from the process, but argues that creating new identities is not simply a case of using new words. Argues that the choice of words is the result of socialized learning into a particular role, a process that cannot be taught explicitly. Analyses an existing case study and highlights the limitations of playing with an identity into which one has not been socialized. Ends with a discussion of the implications of the ideas presented.
The telecommuting paradox
Authors: Pliskin Nava
Published: July 2002

Despite advances in information technology, telecommuting, or work away from the workplace (at home, on the road, etc.) via low‐bandwidth telephone lines, remains an inhibited phenomenon. High bandwidth communication available at the workplace, on the other hand, enables members of virtual teams to collaborate with peers and share information and knowledge despite being dispersed at several work locations. Members of virtual teams thus substitute real proximity to information resources and to knowledgeable peers with virtual proximity and are better positioned for effective group collaboration than telecommuters. The “telecommuting paradox” is that, despite enormous improvements in IT, the prevalence of telecommuting is lower than expected. In an attempt to shed light on the paradox, focuses on the infrastructural factors that have affected telecommuting throughout its history.
Implementation of a knowledge‐based agricultural geographic decision‐support system in the Dominican Republic: a case study
Authors: Grabski Severin V. , Mendez David
Published: July 2002

Effective land use management in lesser developed countries is problematic due to a variety of factors including inexperience and turnover of decision makers, lack of communication among experts in functional areas, and scattered or missing data needed by managers to make informed decisions. This paper describes a “first step” approach toward the solution of these problems that was implemented in the Dominican Republic. The paper introduces a framework used to organize and facilitate the sharing of data needed for land use decision across multiple disciplines. The framework provided the basis for the development of a prototype agricultural geographic decision support system for use in the Dominican Republic. This system is unique in that it combines concepts from semantic data modeling and database design, geographic information systems, and knowledge‐based systems.
EC of groceries for elderly and disabled
Authors: Heikkilä Jukka , Kallio Jukka , Saarinen Timo , Kristiina Tuunainen Virpi
Published: July 2002

Increased demand for organized home help for elderly and disabled people and parallel budget cuts of social care require new efficient solutions to save home‐helpers’ time and ensure the current quality of provided services. A number of trials for renewing grocery purchasing process as a part of home help for the elderly and disabled have lately been initiated in Finland. In all but one of these trials electronic commerce (EC) services are included in the purchase process. In this article we compare these trials using the time efficiency of home‐helpers as a primary criterion. Using electronic order delivery gives even additional benefits, releasing the home‐helper from the need to visit the grocery store. The Full EC Model would be the best solution. However, it might not be feasible for most customers, who do not necessarily have the technology or ability to use it. Therefore, the intermediary based EC seems to be most suitable for this customer group.
The effect of selected socio‐demographic factors on lodging demand in the USA
Authors: Rao Palakurthi Radesh , Parks Sara J.
Published: July 2002

Many lodging operators in the USA might intuitively, or through long experience, be aware of the more important socio‐demographic market segments of their business. This research quantifies the significance and the contribution of such market segments to aggregate lodging demand in the USA. Finds that age distribution, income distribution, occupation and gender are the most significant socio‐demographic factors that have an effect on lodging demand. The aggregate lodging demand contribution of specific market segments obtained by combining the above factors pairwise, i.e. age and income, age and occupation, etc. is also discussed in the study.
Just‐in‐time education: tools for hospitality managers of the future?
Authors: Cho Wonae , Schmelzer Claire D.
Published: July 2002

A conceptual model that incorporates critical thinking, collaborative learning, and just‐in‐time education is presented for use in the hospitality industry. The theory and constructs of the model and a method for application to the industrial training setting are explained. The concepts of the model have relevant application to both industry and academic education settings. Continuing education opportunities, which are designed using the proposed model, would allow current managers in the industry to update their decision‐making, problem solving and communication skills. .
Contract catering: the skills required for the next millennium
Authors: Wilson Mervyn D.J. , Murray Anna E. , Black Margaret A.
Published: July 2002

In recent times the contract catering sector of the hospitality industry has grown substantially in size and scope. However, there have been few management studies carried out within this market sector. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by determining the essential competencies required by contract catering managers. These results are then compared with how managers spend their time. The differences between contract catering sub‐sections are discussed, in addition to the differences between contract catering and other sectors of the hospitality industry. Concludes that there is a need to develop the knowledge and skills of contract catering managers to assist in bridging the current gap between industry and education.
An analysis of daily occupancy performance: a basis for effective hotel marketing?
Authors: Jeffrey Douglas , Barden Robin R.D.
Published: July 2002

Time series analysis of daily room occupancy rates in 91 hotels in England from January 1992 to December 1994 is used to analyse within‐week occupancy performance in the English hotel industry. Two major temporal patterns are identified: one features a midweek peak and Saturday sub‐peak; the other features a broader weekend peak and midweek trough. Both are represented in the occupancy profiles of most hotels. They are used to define a two‐dimensional daily occupancy performance space. The positioning of hotels within this space is explained in terms of location, market and other characteristics of the hotels, in a stepwise regression analysis. The implications of the findings are discussed in a marketing context.
Key dimensions of outsourcing hotel food and beverage services
Authors: Hemmington Nigel , King Christopher
Published: July 2002

Hotel restaurants are widely considered to be under‐performing assets and hotel companies have sought to improve their financial performance in a number of ways including outsourcing to specialist restaurant companies. This article reports the findings of a study that explores the key dimensions of outsourcing through a series of semi‐structured interviews and group discussions with 55 key informants. The findings reveal five key dimensions to the outsourcing relationship: core competencies, brand compatibility, organizational culture, operational tension, and systems of review, evaluation and control. It is concluded that, whilst there is evidence that the outsourcing of hotel restaurants can offer substantial benefits for both hotel and restaurant companies, it is important that the relationship is treated as more than merely the contracting‐out of support services. The provision of food and drink is an important and integral part of the hotel product and the complexities of the relationship between the partners, particularly in terms of issues such as brand association, organizational culture and operational tension, should not be underestimated. The impact on consumer perceptions of the hotel product and consumer satisfaction should also be considered carefully.
Expatriate recruitment in South East Asia: dilemma or opportunity?
Authors: Barber Neill , Pittaway Luke
Published: July 2002

This paper has analysed the impact of the South East Asian crisis on the recruitment strategies of multinational hotel companies. In the paper a brief review of expatriate recruitment is conducted. From this review a number of strategies of recruitment are identified. The paper proceeds to use the method of environmental scanning to analyse how the South East Asian economic crisis may affect the usefulness of these strategies. In conclusion the paper introduces a process of expatriate recruitment and shows how the process could help address some of the difficulties that may arise as a result of the crisis.