bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the market economy development parametrical regulation theory
Authors: Ashimov Abdykappar , Sagadiyev Kenzhegaly , Borovskiy Yuriy , Iskakov Nurlan , Ashimov Askar
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer the theory of a parametrical regulation of market economy development, and the results of the theory development and usage.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretical results of the abstract have been obtained by way of applying the theory of ordinary differential equations, geometrical methods in variation tasks and the theory of dynamic systems. These results have been used for solving a number of practical tasks.

Findings

The market economy development parametrical regulation theory structure has been offered. The approach to parametrical regulation of a nonlinear dynamic system's development has been suggested. An assumption about the existence of solution to the task of calculus of variations on the choice of the optimum laws of parametrical regulation within the given finite set of algorithms has been set forward. An assumption about the conditions sufficient for the existence of an extremal's bifurcation point of the task of calculus of variations on the choice of the optimum laws of parametrical regulation within the given finite set of algorithms is presented, formulated and proved. Theory application samples have been provided.

Research limitations/implications

Future papers would be focused on studies of rigidness of other mathematic models of economic systems.

Practical implications

The research findings could be applied to the choice and realization of an effective budget and tax as well as monetary and loan state policy.

Originality/value

The market economy development parametrical regulation theory has been offered for consideration for the first time.
RHC method for application to BMI‐based systems
Authors: Kawabe Tohru
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present research in the area of control method for the man‐machine systems with brain machine interface (BMI). Concrete target system is, for instance, a car cruising system and so on.

Design/methodology/approach

The improved receding horizon control (RHC) method for the sampled‐data systems and the adaptive digital‐to‐analog (DA) converter which has the way to switch the sampling functions according to the system status are used. The feature selection method based on the kernel support vector machines with the backward stepwise selection for the BMI signals are also used.

Findings

This paper proposes the new improved RHC method with the adaptive DA converter for the application of the BMI‐based systems. The proposed method is illustrated as useful and effective method for the systems to which switch of control laws is indispensable by the simulations.

Research limitations/implications

Although the proposed method is effective for the BMI‐based systems with switching of control laws, the faster algorithm for RHC will be need to apply to the man‐machine systems with the BMI in practical use.

Practical implications

The basic concept or framework of the proposed method can be used for the real man‐machine systems with the BMI, for examples, car crusing systems, wheel‐chaired systems and so on.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the development of the new effective control method for the BMI‐based man‐machine systems.
Worst‐case allocation algorithms in a complex of operations with interval parameters
Authors: Józefczyk Jerzy
Published: June 2008

Purpose

In many decision‐making problems under parameter uncertainty, the most popular stochastic approach is not used because of its serious drawbacks. The purpose of this paper is to present another approach, which copes with the uncertainty of parameters. It uses a precise criterion evaluating a decision with respect to uncertain parameters. This precision by the maximum operator is performed on a term based on the criterion and called the relative regret. The approach is applied to the allocation problems in a complex of operations.

Design/methodology/approach

The resource allocation problems in a complex of operations of independent and dependent structures to minimize a total execution time of all operations are investigated. Then, the results are extended for the problem of a task allocation in the complex of independent operations. The case is considered when the parameters in the functional models of the operations are uncertain, and their values belong to the intervals of known bounds. The solution algorithms for the uncertain problems are based on known solution algorithms for the corresponding deterministic problems. The solution algorithms for the latter problems are outlined in the paper.

Findings

The main contribution of the paper consists in presenting the property that it is possible for the uncertain problems considered to replace the solution of the uncertain allocation problems by solving a number of corresponding deterministic problems.

Research limitations/implications

The useful and interesting property of the solution algorithm for the allocation problems, in general, cannot be applied to the other decision‐making problems under uncertainty. As an example of such a problem, a simple routing‐scheduling problem is presented for which, however, a number of possible parameter scenarios can be substantially limited.

Practical implications

The allocation problems addressed in the paper have a variety of applications in computer systems and in manufacturing systems. Moreover, a lack of crisp values for the parameters in models of individual operations is rather common.

Originality/value

The paper extends previous results for the allocation problems in a complex of operations.
The challenges of the information society
Authors: Rudall B.H. , Mann C.J.H.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to review current developments that have been initiated to meet the challenges of the information society.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes the form of a general review and survey of selected research and development (R&D) topics.

Findings

The paper illustrates the multi‐ and trans‐disciplinary nature of cybernetics, systems and management sciences.

Practical implications

The choice of reviews provides an awareness of the current trends in these areas of endeavour.

Originality/value

The reviews are selected from a global database and give a studied assessment of present‐day R&D initiatives.
Arabic calligraphy: phishing
Authors: Andrew Alex M.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss a computational facility for generating Arabic script with its traditional elegance. Reference is also made to computer analysis of historic Ottoman documents which, unlike modern Turkish, use Arabic script. The paper also seeks to note aspects of ancient Arabic science. An account is to be given of the menace of “phishing” for personal details through spam messages.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.

Findings

The computer generation of Arabic script fills a need that has existed since the beginning of movable‐type printing. Retrieval of Ottoman documents is valuable historically and presents a technical challenge. Arabic science was in many ways more advanced than is widely realised.

Practical implications

Possibilities for computer typesetting are artistically and usefully extended. “Phishing” has to be seen as a serious menace.

Originality/value

It is hoped that this will be a valuable periodic review.
Principle of holography in complex adaptive systems
Authors: Shaduri Marina
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper seeks to present a hypothesis that is based not only on theoretical considerations, but also on experimental and clinical data. The hypothesis concerns the holographic principle as the main principle that ensures formation and functioning of any complex adaptive system (CAS).

Design/methodology/approach

The submitted paper represents the continuation of an article published in 2005 in Kybernetes. It substantiates the crucial role of holo‐diffraction in system‐genesis and system‐functioning. New experimental results are discussed and some parallels are also drawn between natural systems of various scales.

Findings

A new physical phenomenon of holo‐diffraction is considered as the general principle of CAS organization.

Research limitations/implications

Biological holograms, emitted by various minor parts of the human body in specified conditions, allow in vivo and harmless imaging of various internal disorders. New approach to the study of complex adaptive (living) systems would help researchers to reveal some general laws and regulations of natural systems formation.

Practical implications

A new approach to the study of living systems that is based on parametric and visual analysis of emitted holograms is already used for medical purposes. Recently developed analytical software is being tested.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the understanding of those principles which enable any CAS to integrate, control and organize its components while functioning.
On blocks and coverings based on semi‐equivalence relation in pansystems methodology
Authors: Wu Chen , Hu Xiaohua , Yang Jingyu
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to construct diverse granules and coverings derived from a semi‐equivalence class and then to reveal the relationships between granules and coverings and even relations, and to help one to study pansystems relations in a trans‐cross view.

Design/methodology/approach

Forms regarding semi‐equivalence classes as primitives, blocks or granules such as tolerance class, join class, meet class, optimist/pessimist selected compatible class, and tolerantly kernel class in an incomplete information system are defined and compared. Different approximations are also introduced. Furthermore, diverse coverings are also suggested.

Findings

A tolerance class of an object is proved to be the join of semi‐equivalence classes containing it, i.e. a result of acting union operation on some primitive classes. A compatibly kernel class of an object is a meet of semi‐equivalence classes including it, i.e. a result of acting intersection operation on some primitive classes. Related coverings can also be regarded as coverings derived from the covering consisting of primitive granules. Several necessary and/or sufficient conditions for a general covering to become a semi‐equivalence or complete covering are obtained. Meaningful property and relationship results are also exploited.

Practical implications

Constructing diverse granules naturally from an incomplete information system to form a different knowledge expression system looks promising for data mining in the information society. It widens the approach and schema.

Originality/value

The paper shows that the formation process of granules is natural, newly defined, and not similar and theoretic to those existing in a neighborhood system. The relationship between diverse granules and coverings is described by mathematical theorems in sufficient or necessary condition form.
A cybernetic approach to the problem of pouring flows
Authors: Guechi F. , Mekias H.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This study aims to calculate 2D free surface potential flow of a liquid poured from a container when the liquid runs along the underside of the spout.

Design/methodology/approach

The effect of surface tension is taken into consideration and gravity is neglected. The solutions for the free‐surface profiles were computed numerically using a boundary‐integral equation.

Findings

The numerical computation shows that the solutions are found for different values of α and a train of capillary waves in the far field for 4.16≤α<10.

Research limitations/implications

No solutions were found for α<4.16.

Originality/value

The study provides an application of the use of cybernetic methodology to a practical problem.
Economic yoyos, parasites and child labor
Authors: Lin Yi , Forrest Dillon
Published: June 2008

Purpose

In the light of a recent systemic model, the yoyo model, this paper aims to look at how to show Bergstrom's Rotten Kid theorem as a simple corollary of earlier results along this line of work, explaining why transferable utility implies Becker's Rotten Kid theorem. It also aims to look at the relevant problem with child labor.

Design/methodology/approach

The systemic yoyo model published earlier is the road‐map and foundation for the discussion. Since “as long as the benevolent head continues to contribute his income to all, other members are also motivated to maximize the family income,” as claimed by Becker's Rotten Kid theorem, the issue of child labor naturally comes into play. To this end, an example is constructed to show that the works of Baland and Robinson and Bommier and Dubois need to be fine‐tuned.

Findings

The paper provides a short and clean proof for Bergstrom's Rotten Kid theorem and, by linking to Buchanan's Samaritan's dilemma, the clouds surrounding the difficult situation can be penetrated with more clarity. More specifically, child labor and children's human capital accumulation should not be mutually exclusive, as Baland and Robinson and Bommier and Dubois had assumed.

Originality/value

The paper shows rigorously how Baland and Robinson and Bommier and Dubois need to be fine‐tuned in order to capture more of the published empirical findings.
Numerical expansion methods for solving Fredholm‐Volterra type linear integral equations by interpolation and quadrature rules
Authors: Yusufoğlu Elçin , Erbaş Barış
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper sets out to introduce a numerical method to obtain solutions of Fredholm‐Volterra type linear integral equations.

Design/methodology/approach

The flow of the paper uses well‐known formulations, which are referenced at the end, and tries to construct a new approach for the numerical solutions of Fredholm‐Volterra type linear equations.

Findings

The approach and obtained method exhibit consummate efficiency in the numerical approximation to the solution. This fact is illustrated by means of examples and results are provided in tabular formats.

Research limitations/implications

Although the method is suitable for linear equations, it may be possible to extend the approach to nonlinear, even to singular, equations which are the future objectives.

Practical implications

In many areas of mathematics, mathematical physics and engineering, integral equations arise and most of these equations are only solvable in terms of numerical methods. It is believed that the method is applicable to many problems in these areas such as loads in elastic plates, contact problems of two surfaces, and similar.

Originality/value

The paper is original in its contents, extends the available work on numerical methods in the solution of certain problems, and will prove useful in real‐life problems.
Some characteristics of solutions of a class of rational difference equations
Authors: Dehghan Mehdi , Mazrooei‐Sebdani Reza
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to study the global behavior of a higher order nonlinear difference equation.

Design/methodology/approach

The character of semicycles, periodicity, global stability and boundedness of positive solutions of the mentioned difference equation are investigated.

Findings

It is deduced that, when q<1, then the positive equilibrium of this equation is globally asymptotically stable and, when q>1, then this difference equation possesses unbounded solutions.

Originality/value

The paper investigates some of the characteristics of nonlinear difference equations.
On neutrosophic topology
Authors: Gallego Lupiáñez Francisco
Published: June 2008

Purpose

Recently, Smarandache generalized the Atanassov's intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFSs) and other kinds of sets to neutrosophic sets (NSs). Also, this author defined the notion of neutrosophic topology on the non‐standard interval. One can expect some relation between the intuitionistic fuzzy topology (IFT) on an IFS and the neutrosophic topology. This paper aims to show that this is false.

Design/methodology/approach

The possible relation between the IFT and the neutrosophic topology is studied.

Findings

Relations on neutrosophic topology and IFT are found.

Research limitations/implications

Clearly, this paper is confined to IFSs and NSs.

Practical implications

The main applications are in the mathematical field.

Originality/value

The paper shows original results on fuzzy sets and topology.
A new approach to the study of controlled systems
Authors: Bilbao‐Guillerna Aitor , de la Sen Manuel , Alonso‐Quesada Santiago
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to improve the transient response and the inter‐sample behavior of a model reference adaptive control system by an appropriate selection of the fractional order hold (FROH) gain β and the multirate gains used in the control reconstruction signal through a fully freely chosen reference model even when the continuous plant possesses unstable zeros.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiestimation adaptive control scheme for linear time‐invariant continuous‐time plant with unknown parameters is presented. The set of discrete adaptive models is calculated from a different combination of the correcting gain β in a FROH and the set of gains to reconstruct the plant input under multirate sampling with fast input sampling. Then the scheme selects online the model with the best continuous‐time tracking performance which includes a measure of the inter‐sample ripple, which is improved. The estimated discrete unstable zeros are avoided through an appropriate design of the multirate gains so that the reference model might be freely chosen with no constraints on potential unstable zeros.

Findings

The scheme is able to select online the discretization model with the best continuous‐time tracking performance without an appropriate initialization.

Research limitations/implications

The switching mechanism among the different models should maintain in operation the active discretization model at least for a minimum residence time in order to guarantee closed‐loop stability. The inter‐sample behavior is improved, but it is not always completely removed.

Practical implications

The transient response and the inter‐sample behavior are improved by using this multiestimation‐based discrete controller compared with a single estimation‐based one. The implementation of discrete controllers makes it easier and cheaper to implement and also more reliable than continuous‐time controllers.

Originality/value

The main innovation of the paper compared with previous background work is that the reference output is supplied by a stable continuous transfer function. Then the scheme is able to partly regulate the continuous‐time tracking error while the controller is essentially discrete‐time and operated by a FROH in general.
Manufacturer price reduction pressure and supplier relations
Authors: Henke John W. , Parameswaran Ravi , Mohan Pisharodi R.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

Manufacturer price reduction pressure on suppliers is an important contributor to helping a manufacturer maintain a strong competitive position by keeping costs low. The benefits of trusting supplier working relations also help strengthen a manufacturer's competitive position. The purpose of this paper is to determine if manufacturer price reduction pressure and trusting working relations with the pressured suppliers, typically considered to be mutually exclusive, can co‐exist.

Design/methodology/approach

A structural equation modeling approach was used to analyze data covering 946 production buying situations involving 279 suppliers and six NA automotive OEMs.

Findings

Manufacturer price reduction pressure and trusting working relations with the pressured suppliers, are not mutually exclusive, they can co‐exist.

Research limitations/implications

The research found that it is not the pressure that impacts the manufacturer – supplier relations, but rather it is the manner by which the manufacturer goes about pressuring its suppliers that impacts its supplier working relations. The research, however, does not directly address how a manufacturer can achieve both ends simultaneously.

Practical implications

Manufacturers no longer have to choose between exerting price reduction pressures on suppliers or working to achieve trusting relations with suppliers. They can successfully do both. At the same time, suppliers must recognize that these conditions may occur and when applied simultaneously ultimately benefit both parties.

Originality/value

This research adds to the critically under‐researched B2B pricing processes and pricing impact areas, while helping to influence managerial actions, an area in which academic B2B research is considered to be lacking.
Key‐account‐management in business markets: an empirical test of common assumptions
Authors: Sven Ivens Björn , Pardo Catherine
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The concept of key account management (KAM) has received considerable attention from practitioners and scholars for well over 20 years now. However, numerous articles build on a set of tacit assumptions for which we lack empirical evidence. This paper seeks to propose an empirical test of several of these assumptions.

Design/methodology/approach

The contribution draws on a study conducted among 297 purchasing managers in two industries (packaging goods, market research data).

Findings

The findings indicate that parts of the foundations of KAM are not as solid as they may appear at first sight.

Practical implications

This paper invites managers of KAM programs to carefully consider the objectives they assign to such programs by integrating the idea of value created both for key customers and for suppliers implementing such programs.

Originality/value

The paper extends knowledge of key account management in the business field by providing new – and, in the light of the extant literature, sometimes rather counter‐intuitive – insights in this important management phenomenon. It does this by systematically comparing key account relationships and non‐key account relationships.
Towards an integrated framework of key account management
Authors: Zupancic Dirk
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to identify the elements of professional key account management programs, to understand the success factors and to create an integrated framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The article is based on an analysis of the existing literature as well as on several qualitative research projects. Existing content from around 30 years of KAM research and practice was reviewed. A total of 18 companies were analyzed using case study methods and action research approaches. A total of 27 interviews with practitioners and 18 workshops were conducted to conceptualize the integrated KAM framework.

Findings

Key account management is more complex than the existing literature suggests and companies believe. A professional KAM framework addresses two different target groups: key account managers (and teams) and the company's management (or someone the responsibility of the entire program is delegated to). Both groups have to pay attention to five dimensions of KAM (named strategy, solution, people, management, screening) and several aspects that are different for each group.

Practical implications

A full overview about all the necessary elements of a professional KAM program can be used to assess a company's ways of working with strategic customers and to conceptualize or optimize an entire KAM program.

Originality/value

The presented framework is the first that integrates the different views of the two most important target groups of KAM. It offers a unique overview of all important elements.
A relationship model between key problems of international purchasing and the post‐purchase behavior of industrial firms
Authors: Lucero Carrete
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the key problems related to the international purchasing operations and their interrelationship with the post‐purchase industrial behavior: repeated purchase with modification, repeated purchase without modification and no rebuy. The objective is to develop a conceptual model in the area of international post‐purchase industrial behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Based upon prior research in business marketing, international marketing, international business and intercultural communication, and complemented by an exploratory qualitative approach, the paper proposes a conceptualization of the post‐purchase industrial behavior and of the relationships between cost, logistics, governmental and cultural factors affecting international post‐purchase industrial behavior.

Findings

This paper elaborates a conceptual model and research propositions that delineate the relationship between key problems of international purchasing and the post‐purchase behavior of industrial firms. The importance of the cultural factor‐problem is outlined.

Originality/value

The value of the paper is to provide an emerging theory for the study of international post‐purchase industrial behavior. The concept of post‐purchasing behavior is explained in the context of international purchasing. Also, the paper provides insights of the effect of culture in international delivery times.
Adoption of strategic networks: evidence from the Hong Kong clothing industry
Authors: Lau Mei‐mei , Ka‐leung Moon Karen
Published: June 2008

Purpose

Recent management literature demonstrates a growing interest in strategic networking. The aim of this paper is to explore the adoption of strategic networks using Hong Kong clothing industry as the context because the influence of Asian cultures is under‐researched.

Design/methodology/approach

Three key research questions about asset specificity, years of relationship, and size of the supplier base were developed from the literature. Qualitative data were collected from in‐depth interviews with senior executives at five large clothing companies in Hong Kong.

Findings

The qualitative findings confirm that the specific asset investment, reciprocal or one‐way, has a positive impact on the development of strategic networking; that enterprises strive hard to maintain longer relationships with key supplier members; and that a small supplier base is widely adopted by the sample firms.

Practical implications

The implications for managerial practice are that strong strategic networking is needed as transaction‐specific assets can safeguard the network relationship; that a long‐term relationship enables effective transactions; and that managing a small number of suppliers helps to stabilize network relationships.

Originality/value

This paper represents an initial attempt to include Asian cultures in the study of strategic network concepts within one globalized industry – the Hong Kong clothing industry. The paper also demonstrates to practicing managers how strategic networks made up of manufacturers and their suppliers are adopted and maintained, and in turn, guides practicing managers on how to allocate resources appropriately to develop a strategic network.
Survey of BPR experiences in Iran: reasons for success and failure
Authors: Jafar Tarokh Mohammad , Sharifi Esmail , Nazemi Eslam
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims at studying the success and failure of BPR projects executed throughout Iran. For this purpose, effective indices and also factors of success and failure are to be investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on statistical analysis of efficiency indexes mean value and project effectiveness, as well as the test outputs for the projects' total success, it was proved that except for the two organizations, the rest lack necessary efficiency and except for two organizations, the others lack necessary effectiveness.

Findings

The total success test outputs has verified the results of the two above‐mentioned tests, so by 95 percent of assurance, it has to be commented that BPR projects executed in Iran have failed to reach predefined acceptable success.

Practical implications

The lack of data from organizations is a big problem in BPR projects in Iran.

Originality/value

The article recommends that every BPR project before execution needs deployment of success factors such as: preparation for change, planning, recognition and design, evaluation, culture and change, information technology, and outcome in governmental organizations.
Challenge grants: frightening, frustrating, and fruitful
Authors: Stanley Mary
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the challenges and benefits of a challenge grant.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explains the University of Waterloo Library's first‐hand experiences in seeking and acquiring a challenge grant from the Kresge Foundation.

Findings

The challenge grant can provide libraries with a unique opportunity to raise their profiles, enlist the support of key leaders, generate excitement about their organizations' work and future plans, and raise additional funds.

Originality/value

The paper provides practical suggestions that offer incentive and encouragement to seek a challenge grant due to the many benefits that accrue to a library development program.
Books as inventory: suggested lessons from business
Authors: Marcum James W.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe books as inventory and suggest lessons which can be learned from business.

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses inventory theory and how it pertains to libraries.

Findings

New books get most of their use in the first two years on the shelf, as a rule. A book that is unused is “dead inventory” from the perspective of this argument. The small public library that “weeds and turns” its holdings will be highly valued by its patrons. An academic library with 90 percent of its holdings sitting idle may be revered by a core of faculty and friends; but it will likely be totally ignored by many of the net generation who read few books or print journals. This high price in idle inventory cannot continue to be borne if libraries are to thrive in a challenging and fast‐changing future.

Originality/value

The paper offers an alternative view that may help library adminstrators cope with the challenges they face.
Planning strategically and strategic planning
Authors: Linn Mott
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper argues that, while one needs to logically decide on an organization's strategy, it does not need to be a product of a lengthy strategic planning process.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses and gives examples to illustrate why an institution does not need to go through an intricate strategic planning process.

Findings

A laborious process is not needed to plan a library's strategic direction.

Practical implications

A library can more efficiently use its money and time to satisfy its customers than by spending them on a drawn‐out strategic planning process.

Originality/value

Hopefully, this article will motivate librarians to find the proper balance between having no strategy and wasting too much time and money on creating a lengthy strategic plan.
The foundational standard: integrity
Authors: Fitsimmons Gary
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to expound upon integrity, which is the first of the “leadership performance standards” introduced in the last installment of this column. It shows how integrity in the library staff is foundational to good cost‐effective library service and how it can and should be modeled and encouraged by the library administrator.

Design/methodology/approach

The article sets forth several assertions regarding integrity and then explains and supports them one at a time, concluding with a checklist for developing an atmosphere of integrity.

Findings

Integrity is the most highly sought after attribute in library directors and is foundational to all good cost‐effective library service. An atmosphere of integrity for the workplace can and should be fostered by the example of the library administrator.

Originality/value

Learning why integrity is necessary and how to foster it in library staff and in the atmosphere of the library is the first step toward ensuring that the library will be able to fulfill its mission in a cost‐effective manner.
Keeping up
Authors: Maxymuk John
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight current awareness web sites.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a general review.

Findings

Staying current is essential today more than ever.

Originality/value

The sites reviewed in this paper are useful tools to that purpose.
Digital preservation – making the song remain the same
Authors: McCarthy Frank
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a viewpoint using analogies to musical media of the issues that information professionals face in selecting the right digital preservation strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

Analogies to the changes in music media along with a selection of articles between 1995 and 2008 provide the basis for a number of views from the author. The preservation portions are sorted into the three main categories of translation/conversion, migration and emulation. A conclusion to the article summarises the difficulties being faced.

Findings

Having the correct electronic records policies, procedures and systems that adhere to ISO 15489 is a cornerstone of an electronic record preservation programme. Stephens noted that, in practical terms, this means that any recordkeeping system, regardless of the particular technology or storage medium employed, should be designed and implemented in a manner such that its operators can demonstrate the integrity of the records if called upon to do so.

Originality/value

The paper provides a useful viewpoint from an experienced records manager tackling the issues of digital preservation.
A case study of the use of the Records Management Capacity Assessment System (RMCAS) software tool across the London Museums Hub
Authors: Demb Sarah R.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to document a case study of recent use of the International Records Management Trust's Records Management Assessment System (RMCAS) software tool.

Design/methodology/approach

The author used RMCAS as the primary data collection tool in an assessment of records management across the London Museums Hub.

Findings

The application of RMCAS in a museum context underlined its flexibility for use within the public sector outside of central government ministries. While RMCAS continues to serve as an excellent data collection tool that can deliver high‐level analyses, its use outside central government highlights the potential benefits of some re‐design in its next generation.

Originality/value

This paper can serve as a guide to others considering the use of RMCAS outside its original context.
Records management practices in construction industries: Australian perspectives
Authors: Nycyk Michael
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to present findings from research undertaken in Australian construction companies that describes some issues faced in the management of records on large‐scale projects.

Design/methodology/approach

Ethnographic data were collected from several projects by observations, interviews and looking at records management systems. Thematic analysis was employed, where common descriptions of practice and frequency of themes emerged.

Findings

This paper found three themes Australian construction companies experience in daily records work. A construction project's pace means project staff create records, but neglect to share them amongst other team members. Secondly, there are differences between overseas trained project staff and local staff in the way they give importance to records management issues. Thirdly, the pace of modern construction projects and managing the many data types that now make up records causes difficulty in keeping records current. Learnt work habits and resistance to changing practices is common despite pressures to ensure records are current, accurate and easily retrievable.

Practical implications

The paper's findings discuss the merits and drawbacks of ethnographic research suggesting strategies for undertaking such work. Using ethnographic methods is a way of uncovering micro‐level reasons for resistance to change and what work practices hinder successful records management. These findings produce an account of daily practice that provides detailed information to management to identify areas of change.

Originality/value

This paper provides a description of one way of researching records management issues and an insight into such issues occurring in the Australian construction industry.
Numerical study of thermosolutal convection with Soret effect in a square cavity
Authors: Kaffel Rebaï L. , Mojtabi A. , Safi M.J. , Mohamad A.A.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a numerical and an analytical study of the thermohaline convection with Soret effect in a square enclosure filled with a binary fluid mixture.

Design/methodology/approach

The horizontal boundaries of the enclosure are impermeable and heated from below while its vertical walls are assumed to be adiabatic and impermeable. The Navier‐Stokes equations under the Boussinesq‐Oberbeck approximation are solved numerically. The results are given for different values of the separation ratio. The critical Rayleigh number at the onset of convection is determined analytically and numerically. The Hopf frequency at the onset of convection is obtained.

Findings

The existence of two stable stationary bifurcation branches is illustrated. Furthermore, it is shown that the existence of stable traveling waves in the transition from one branch to the other depends on the value of the separation ratio. For some values of Rayleigh number, asymmetric flows are observed. A good agreement is found between the numerical solution and analytical analysis.

Originality/value

The present work is the first to consider thermosolutal convection with Soret effect in a square enclosure.
Effects of some parameters on numerical simulation of coastal bed morphology
Authors: Huu Chung Dang , Eppel Dieter P.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The aim is to investigate in detail the sensitivity of sediment transport and bed morphology with respect to some parameters including bed slope, non‐hydrostatic pressure term, sand grain size, temperature, salinity and lower boundary conditions for suspended sand concentration on a regional scale through numerical simulations based on a mathematical model.

Design/methodology/approach

The numerical model consists of a 3D hydrodynamic code amended by a sediment transport module. At the same time, the influence of wave action has been taken into account. The model is applied to the Sylt‐Romo tidal bay covering approximately 20 × 30 km2 spanned by about 2.7 × 106 active grid points with the constant wind and wave fields.

Findings

The computed results of seven different cases over 150 h show that the effect of bed slope correction is very strong, especially in case of largely changeable bathymetry and depends on the horizontal grid resolution. Sand grain size strongly influences the vertical distribution of suspended sediment and then sedimentation. The impact of sea water temperature is relatively clear despite being less powerful than two former parameters. Non‐hydrostatic pressure perturbations of the flow field and the kind of the lower boundary condition as well as salinity are negligible allowing for considerable savings of CPU time when the numerical simulation is carried out for a large area and for a very long‐time period.

Originality/value

The results of the study demonstrate that the geometrical factor of coastal bed and the range of sand particle size on the bottom contribute to the tendency of bed evolution in some measure. Additionally, the increase of temperature of sea water due to global warming may also make a considerable change to the mechanism of sediment transport and sedimentation in future. Therefore, the human intervention in the process of natural evolution is possible through the behaviour to the nature. At the same time, this is also interesting and useful information and it can consolidate the idea for coastal engineering projects.
Numerical analysis of heat transfer enhancement in a double pipe heat exchanger with porous fins
Authors: Kahalerras H. , Targui N.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The aim is to study numerically the heat transfer enhancement in a double pipe heat exchanger by using porous fins attached at the external wall of the inner cylinder.

Design/methodology/approach

The Brinkman‐Forchheimer extended Darcy model is used in the porous regions. The differential equations subjected to the boundary conditions are solved numerically using the finite volume method. Numerical calculations are performed for a wide range of Darcy number (10−6≤Da≤10−1), porous fins height (0≤Hp≤1) and spacing (0≤Lf≤39) and thermal conductivity ratio (1≤Rk≤100). The effects of these parameters are considered in order to look for the most appropriate properties of the porous fins that allow optimal heat transfer enhancement.

Findings

The results obtained show that the insertion of porous fins may alter substantially the flow pattern depending on their permeability, height and spacing. Concerning the heat transfer effect, it is found that the use of porous fins may enhance the heat transfer in comparison to the fluid case and that the rate of improvement depends on their geometrical and thermo‐physical properties. Performance analysis indicated that more net energy gain may be achieved as the thermal conductivity ratio increases especially at high Darcy numbers and heights.

Research limitations/implications

The results obtained in this work are valid for double pipe heat exchangers with the same fluid flowing at the same flow rate in the two ducts and for the case of an inner cylinder of negligible thermal resistance.

Practical implications

The results obtained in this study can be used in the design of heat exchangers.

Originality/value

This study provides an interesting method to improve heat transfer in a double pipe heat exchanger by use of porous fins.
Natural convection in a horizontal cylindrical annulus using porous fins
Authors: Kiwan S. , Zeitoun O.
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The aim is to study the effects of fin conductivity ratio, Darcy number, and Rayleigh number on the average Nusselt number for fins made of porous material when attached to the inner cylinder of the annulus between two concentric cylinders. The paper also aims to compare the results with those obtained using solid fins over a range of Rayleigh numbers.

Design/methodology/approach

The Darcy‐Brinkman equations were used to model the fluid flow inside the porous media and the Boussinesq approximation was used to model the buoyancy effect. The energy equation is also solved to find the temperature distribution in the domain of interest. The model equations are solved numerically using a finite volume code.

Findings

Porous fins provided higher heat transfer rates than solid fins for similar configurations. This enhancement in heat transfer reached 75 per cent at Ra=5 × 104 and Da=2.5 × 10−2. It is also found that unlike solid fins the rate of heat transfer from the cylinder equipped with porous fins decreases with increasing the fin inclination angle.

Research limitations/implications

The range of the Rayleigh number considered in this research covers only the laminar regime. The research does not cover turbulent flows. In addition to that, the local thermal equilibrium assumption is used.

Practical implications

This work can help designers in selecting the proper material properties and operating conditions in designing porous fins to enhance the heat transfer in the annulus between two horizontal concentric cylinders under natural convection condition.

Originality/value

This work has not been done before and it can initiate additional research projects as looking at the performance of porous fins under other conditions and configurations (e.g. turbulent conditions).
Boost your business value with succession planning
Authors: Seymour Stephen
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to put forward the view that, when the owner‐managers or drivers of a successful business have to give responsibility to a new management, careful succession planning can minimize the risk of damage and enhance the value of the business.

Design/methodology/approach

Explains the various aspects of good succession planning, and how they can be put into practice.

Findings

Emphasizes the importance of optimizing the contribution of existing management, staff and workforce through, for example, job rotation, training, coaching and mentoring. Concedes, however, that it will not be possible to promote from within in all cases.

Practical implications

Contends that employees will be prepared to make a deeper commitment to an enterprise that invests in them and their route to achieving their personal ambitions, perhaps through promotion.

Originality/value

Advances the view that the future performance of any company depends on the thoroughness and vigor of today's succession planning.
How to get real results from virtual teams
Authors: Morris Stephen
Published: June 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to examines why a high percentage of virtual teams fails to deliver, and considers how the problems can be overcome.

Design/methodology/approach

Differentiates between virtual teams and co‐located teams, and presents ways of leading each, while stressing that both types of team require a clear, well‐founded and compelling purpose.

Findings

Advances the view that, when dealing with a co‐located team, the leader can communicate purpose in a way that appeals to the hearts and minds of potential team members. With a potential virtual‐team member, in contrast, the leader must present a strong business case, clear and achievable short‐term goals, agreed principles and a visible link to the skill set of the potential team member.

Practical implications

Demonstrates that the human element brings technology to life and defines its use and its impact on the world.

Originality/value

Warns against developing the view that technology is a replacement for human interaction.
The impact of culture on brand perceptions: a six‐nation study
Authors: Foscht Thomas , Maloles Cesar , Swoboda Bernhard , Morschett Dirk , Sinha Indrajit
Published: June 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how cultural differences affect the perception of a brand.

Design/methodology/approach

A study was carried out in six countries among different involvement groups. The study uses Hofstede's cultural dimensions and Aaker's brand personality dimensions to see if brand perceptions of a product are similar among all six countries.

Findings

This study provides clear evidence that a same brand is perceived differently in different cultures in spite of its identical positioning. This means that if a firm wishes to achieve the same brand perception in different countries, the firm needs to create brand positioning strategies that emphasize the characteristics that enable consumers to perceive the product in a similar way.

Originality/value

This paper examines the perception of a single brand in the context of cultural dimensions in a global setting – in particular in six countries on three continents.