bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The British Library, copyright and publisher relations
Authors: Russon David
Published: April 2007

This paper reviews the development of UK copyright law since the time the British Library was established, with particular reference to the “fair dealing” and “library” exceptions. At times when copyright laws have been under review publishers have argued for fewer and narrower “exceptions”, librarians have sought to maintain them or even extend them. The relationship between interlending and document supply and journal subscriptions has been a key issue in the debate. Studies which have attempted to understand this relationship are reviewed, as are the developing document supply policies of the British Library. Finally, note is made of the Library’s approach to licensing electronic versions of journals and the legal deposit of non‐print publications.
On volumetric locking of low‐order solid and solid‐shell elements for finite elastoviscoplastic deformations and selective reduced integration
Authors: Doll Stefan , Schweizerhof Karl , Hauptmann Ralf , Freischläger Christof
Published: April 2007

As known from nearly incompressible elasticity, selective reduced integration (SRI) is a simple and effective method of overcoming the volumetric locking problem in 2D and 3D solid elements. This method of finite elastoviscoplasticity is discussed as are its well‐known limitations. In this context, an isochoric‐volumetric decoupled material behavior is assumed and thus the additive deviatoric‐volumetric decoupling of the consistent algorithmic moduli tensor is essential. By means of several numerical examples, the performance of elements using selective reduced integration is demonstrated and compared to the performance of other elements such as the enhanced assumed strain elements. It is shown that a minor modification, with little numerical effort, leads to rather robust element behaviour. The application of this process to so‐called solid‐shell elements for thin‐walled structures is also discussed.
Design optimization of structural steelwork using a genetic algorithm, FEM and a system of design rules
Authors: Toropov V.V. , Mahfouz S.Y.
Published: April 2007

In this paper a structural optimization technique based on a modified genetic algorithm (GA) is presented. The technique is developed to deal with discrete design optimization of structural steelwork. Also, the paper discusses the effect of different approaches, employed for the determination of the effective buckling length of a column, on the optimum design. In order to consider realistic steelwork design problems, a modified GA has been linked to a system of structural design rules (British Standards BS 5950 and BS 6399), interacting with a finite element package. In the formulation of the optimization problem, the objective function is the total weight of the structural members, as it gives a reasonably accurate estimation of the cost. The cross‐sectional properties of the structural members, which form the set of design variables, are chosen from two separate catalogues (universal beams and columns) covered by the British Standard BS 4. The minimum weight designs of two plane steel frame structures subjected to realistic multiple loading cases are obtained. These examples show that the modified GA in combination with structural design rules and more accurate analysis provides an efficient tool for practicing designers of steel frame structures. Finally, it is shown that the resulting design optimization is considerably influenced by a specific choice of a technique employed for the evaluation of the effective buckling length of structural members.
Retail buyer beliefs, attitude and behavior toward pioneer and me‐too follower brands
Authors: Alpert Frank , Kamins Michael , Sakano Tomoaki , Onzo Naoto , Graham John
Published: April 2007

One potential source of pioneer brand advantage is retail buyers’ preference for pioneer brands. A model of pioneer brand advantage with retailers developed in the USA was tested in Japan, as a replication and cross‐cultural extension. This provides the first empirical study of Japanese retail buyer beliefs, attitude, and behavior toward new offerings, and the first direct statistical comparison of US and Japanese retail buying behavior in the marketing literature. Similarities and differences in pioneer brand advantage with retailers between Japan and the USA are discussed. Results from a survey of buyers from Japan’s largest supermarket chains suggest that pioneer brand advantage is about as strong for them as for their US counterparts, though for somewhat different reasons. The survey’s results were analyzed in two ways (through a multi‐attribute attitude model and a PLS causal model), with results that complement and corroborate one another. Data were standardized to deal with potential extreme response style bias.
Conducting international marketing research in the twenty‐first century
Authors: Samuel Craig C. , Douglas Susan P.
Published: April 2007

As businesses expand further and further in international markets, the role of timely and accurate marketing research to guide decision making becomes increasingly critical. Research to support international marketing decisions has evolved over the past four decades and must change even more to support firms in the twenty‐first century. There are four key areas where progress must be made. First, international marketing research efforts need to be more closely aligned with market growth opportunities outside the industrialized nations. Second, researchers must develop the capability to conduct and coordinate research that spans diverse research environments. Third, international marketing researchers need to develop new creative approaches to probe the cultural underpinnings of behavior. Finally, technological advances need to be incorporated into the research process in order to facilitate and expedite research conducted across the globe.
A cross‐cultural analysis of television advertising in the UK and the Czech Republic
Authors: Koudelova Radka , Whitelock Jeryl
Published: April 2007

This paper presents the results of a cross‐cultural analysis of television advertising in the Czech Republic and the UK. The need for this research is suggested by a gap in the literature concerning cross‐cultural studies involving Eastern European countries. The aim is to compare advertising in the two countries in order to add to the debate on the feasibility of standardised advertising across cultural borders. The literature relating specifically to cross‐cultural studies of advertising in two or more countries provides the basis for this research study. A sample of television advertisements was collected from the two most viewed UK and Czech commercial channels and was examined using content analysis. The focus of the research is on differences and similarities in the creative strategies and executional formats used in the product categories advertised. In terms of creative strategies, there was great similarity overall. However, significant differences were found for six out of the 14 individual product categories studied. In contrast, many significant differences were found overall for executional formats. The partial nature of the support for the view that creative strategy is associated more with product category than with culture reflects a complex situation vis‐à‐vis international advertising standardisation.
Is the ISO 9000 Series for Total Quality Management?
Authors: Ho Samuel K.M.
Published: April 2007

Many companies are working very hard to achieve high quality goods and
services and using them as competitive advantages in their businesses.
In the 1990s, there are two main subjects on quality that capture the
attention of most businesses in the world: namely, the International
Quality Management Standard ISO 9000 and total quality management (TQM).
Much publicity and promotion have accompanied these two subjects. It is
like a fire in the forest among the industrialized nations. Attempts to
find out what is so special about ISO 9000 and TQM and why it is
necessary for industries and businesses to acquire them. There are four
main parts. First, the current thinking on and development of ISO 9000
and TQM are summarized. Then, the rationale of going for ISO 9000 and
TQM are established. This is enhanced by numerous examples. Next, the
relationships between ISO 9000 and TQM are discussed. Finally, a
framework for implementation of either scheme is suggested based on
well‐founded research.
Empirical Analysis of Quality Improvement in Manufacturing
Authors: Maani K.E. , Putterill M.S. , Sluti D.G.
Published: April 2007

Despite a strong research output in quality in recent years, the
literature is still scant in empirical studies of commonly held quality
theories. Empirically investigates the operational and strategic impact
of improved process quality and describes the construction of a model of
process quality and its correlates in manufacturing. Using empirical
data, the study performs a micro assessment of the impact of quality on
operations performance. Implications for the business unit as a whole
are also considered. Since the research domain of the study is
manufacturing industry, the conformance dimension of quality has been
adopted as a more precise and measurable definition than those followed
in other research. Structural equation modelling (SEM) is used for
analysing the magnitude and direction of hypothesized relationships, a
rigorous and reliable way of testing multivariate data and path models.
Research findings generally support the consensus view that there is a
favourable impact of enhanced quality in the form of improvements in
productivity, inprocess inventory, on‐time delivery, and manufacturing
cost. Flow‐through effects on business performance were also noted
though not in all dimensions. This research complements
marketing‐oriented evaluation which has been a feature of approaches to
date.
Reflections
Authors: New George E.
Published: April 2007

Provides a framework for the assessment of a person’s competencies. Describes three types of competence: job specific (JSC), general management (GMC) and corporate specific (CSC). JSCs and GMCs relate to performance in a particular job, while CSCs determine an individual’s success in an organization. Proposes that a profile of the competencies necessary for an employee to do well in a role and in a company can be identified. In turn, these can be used as a basis for selection, training and management development, which can ensure an optimum match between the competencies of individuals and the capabilities needed for effective performance in an organizational position. Competencies can also be used as an indicator of future career performance, although at senior management levels this is predominantly dependent on a person’s CSCs.
Genesis of a profession: towards professional status for internal auditing
Authors: O’Regan David
Published: April 2007

Reviews the success of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) in enhancing the professional status of both the discipline of internal auditing and the IIA itself. The IIA has established the paraphernalia of a formal professional framework but several factors appear to hold back the professional “project”, the most important of which is the absence of monopolistic control over the discipline. The IIA faces two options for the future. It may wish to proceed further along the path of creating a formal professional framework. Alternatively, the IIA in its current form may be ideally positioned for a new, post‐professional world for which traditional, antiquated professional institutions seem ill equipped.
How to manage the implementation of shared care ‐ A discussion of the role of power, culture and structure in the development of shared care arrangements
Authors: Mur‐Veeman Ingrid , Eijkelberg Irmgard , Spreeuwenberg Cor
Published: April 2007

The Dutch health care sector has become familiar with innovation of care delivery in order to meet the changing demand of the steadily ageing population, in need of complex care. Innovations often concern the implementation of shared care models, implying collaboration and substitution of care. Whereas ageing is a European‐wide phenomenon, the development of such new care arrangements can be observed not only in The Netherlands, but also in the UK, Scandinavia, Italy and other countries. In this article we discuss the implementation of shared care, with the help of three concepts: power, culture and structure. We discuss the role of these factors from the view that shared care can be considered as inter‐professional working within a network context. The central question is how structure, culture and power can offer change managers a starting‐point for improving their innovative capacity. To illuminate our discussion we make use of a number of event‐descriptions from five Dutch shared care projects. Also, we give some practical recommendations for change managers.
Corporate reputation: Anything but superficial – the deep but fragile nature of corporate reputation
Authors: Alsop Ronald J.
Published: April 2007

Corporate reputation has never been more valuable – or more vulnerable. All of the corporate malfeasance of the past few years in the US not only showed how precious and fleeting reputation is, but it also demonstrated how one company’s misdeeds taint an entire industry. Some businesses with superb reputations have found themselves unfairly lumped with the pack of fraudulent companies, and some executives have been dismayed to learn that they are viewed as greedy and unprincipled. One of the most important rules of reputation management is the need for constant vigilance. Companies today are exposed to unprecedented scrutiny through the Internet and 24‐hour all‐news television channels. Business is truly global and information, especially gossip, travels fast. Many people mistakenly equate reputation with corporate social responsibility and ethical behavior. While certainly of growing importance, ethics and social responsibility are but two elements of the equation. Financial performance, the workplace, quality of products and services, corporate leadership, and vision also figure into reputation. There’s also that elusive emotional bond between a company and its stakeholders that is central to the most enduring reputations. If they ever hope to maximize the value of their reputations, companies must make reputation management a fundamental part of the corporate culture and value system. Companies must spread the message of reputation management throughout the organization and make employees cognizant of how each and every one of them affects reputation on a daily basis. Reputation must be central to the corporate identity, not merely clever image advertising and manipulative public‐relations ploys.
Surfacing creativity through the arts: a short interview with Terry McGraw
Authors: Seifter Harvey
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to give the reader a first‐hand view of why and how a major global corporation uses arts‐based learning, from the perspective of its Chairman and CEO.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is an interview with Harold (Terry) McGraw III, Chairman and CEO of The McGraw Hill Companies, discussing the value of arts‐based learning to his corporation.

Findings

Mr McGraw characterizes creativity as a “business imperative,” and puts The McGraw Hill Companies’ successful experiences with arts‐based learning in a broad strategic context of “surfacing creativity” through engagement with the arts.

Originality/value

The McGraw Hill Companies is a global pioneer in the use of arts‐based learning to train leaders, help employees solve problems creatively, and foster personal growth; and is one of America's leading corporate supporters of the arts. Mr McGraw is a leader of unique stature and credibility, and with this interview, he becomes perhaps the most senior business leader in the world to discuss arts‐based learning in business from a perspective of direct experience.
Evaluating the Joint Information Systems Committee's Information Environment: the EDNER and EDNER+ projects
Authors: Brophy Peter
Published: April 2007

Purpose. Reports on findings of work concerning the use of the JISC information environment by students, considering how information environments are related to the working environments of their users. Design/methodology/approach. CERLIM at Manchester Metropolitan University, partnered by CSALT (the Centre for Studies in Advanced Learning Technologies) at Lancaster University, has brought to bear perspectives from both information management and educational research. During 2003 to 2004 the scope of the evaluation was broadened to include all of the JISC development activity in the information environment area and has been extended to the further education sector: this is known as EDNER+. Findings. The use of quality attributes approaches can provide clues as to what it is about a service which is creating dissatisfaction among the users. Research limitations/implications. Coupled with other findings about “satisficing” behaviours, the findings are suggestive of some of the key areas which need to be given attention. They also support a finding from this and other work in EDNER/EDNER+, namely that to students internet search engines in general and Google in particular represent a benchmark of “good”. Practical implications. Given that use of bibliographic services is uniformly low among undergraduate students, and that the use of OPACs is variable, IE service developers will have to work very hard to produce services which gain acceptance among this group of users. Since IE includes further education students among its target user groups, it will be critical to address the full range of attributes against the needs of this group, as well as the higher education group, in future service design. Originality/value. Using a wide range of methodologies the team has explored the outcomes of a large number of projects funded by the JISC, as well as examining the architecture and rollout of the information environment itself.
Valuing socio‐diversity
Authors: O’Hara Sabine U.
Published: April 2007

The loss of bio‐diversity has received increasing attention as one of the most serious environmental threats we face. Yet not only biodiversity is being lost at staggering rates, socio‐diversity is being lost as well. Sociodiversity is defined as the various social and economic arrangements by which people organize their societies, particularly the underlying assumptions, goals, values and social behaviours guiding these arrangements. Just as the loss of bio‐diversity has focused attention on the interface between human socio‐economic and ecological systems, so too can the interaction between these systems give us insights into the reasons for the loss of diversity in socio‐economic systems. Examines the assumptions and valuation concepts underlying economic theory and the ways in which mainline economic theory contributes to the loss of socio‐economic diversity. The analysis draws on ecologically relevant concepts and proposes that the base for economic theory and valuation be expanded to include five categories identified as relevant to sustain bio‐diversity. These are: context, participation, place, limits and temporality. These categories point to the need to expand, diversify and make concrete economic theory and methodology.
Initial performance of Greek IPOs, underwriter's reputation and oversubscription
Authors: Kenourgios Dimitris F. , Papathanasiou Spyros , Rafail Melas Emmanouil
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to provide additional international evidence on the initial public offerings (IPOs) by examining the initial performance and two main determinants of short‐run underpricing of 169 IPOs listed on the Athens Stock Exchange (ASE) over the period 1997‐2002.

Design/methodology/approach

In the first stage, the initial performance of the IPOs is measured by two calculated formulas: the raw returns and the excess or adjusted returns of the first, fifth and 21st day, respectively. In the second stage, a proxy is used to rank the underwriters' prestige along with the times of oversubscription, which are introduced as explanatory variables in the model.

Findings

The results of the analysis on the initial performance of the IPOs provide evidence of significant underpricing. Furthermore, the cross‐sectional analysis on the determinants of the IPOs shows that both the underwriters' prestige and the times of oversubscription significantly affect the underpricing level of the IPOs. Research limitations/implications – To understand the Greek IPO market with further depth, future studies could shed light on the other hypotheses emerging from the finance literature to explain the underpricing phenomenon.

Practical implications

This paper helps investors and issuers to understand the role of an underwriter's reputation into the Greek going public process and the underpricing phenomenon and supports that the oversubscription is a pure signal to the investors that the shares are underpriced. Originality/value – This paper presents further evidence on the underpricing of the Greek IPOs, while extending previous relative studies by providing an explanation of this phenomenon over the most important and “hot” period for the Greek emerging stock market since its establishment, in terms of growth rates, acceleration of the going public process and volatility of market and stock returns.
Retail bargaining behaviour of American and Chinese customers
Authors: Lee Don Y.
Published: April 2007

Reports on a cross‐cultural study of retail bargaining behaviour between American and Chinese customers. The framework of the Fishbein behavioural intention model is applied to the retail bargaining setting, and bargaining style is treated as an action “caused” by bargaining intention, which is in turn affected by the subjective norm and bargaining attitude. The respondents were 100 American and 100 Chinese Singaporean customers. The findings of this study suggest that the Fishbein behavioural intention model can be used to explain the retail bargaining behaviour of both American and Chinese customers. The study also found that Chinese people have a higher level of bargaining intention and a more competitive bargaining style than the Americans, although the bargaining attitudes and subjective norms of the two groups do not differ.
The commodification of the past, postmodern pastiche, and the search for authentic experiences at contemporary heritage attractions
Authors: Goulding Christina
Published: April 2007

Aims to explore the nature of authenticity as defined and constructed by visitors to sites of heritage. The concept of authenticity is explored through the literature relating to the commodification of the past and also in the context of postmodern theories regarding the blurring of the boundaries between high and mass culture. The paper draws on findings from a study of consumer behaviour at three distinct attractions and offers an explanation of authentic experiences in the light of three identified types; the “existential”, the “aesthetic” and the “social” visitor. These findings are then discussed in relation to theoretical and managerial implications.
Relationships between personal and corporate reputation
Authors: Bromley Dennis B.
Published: April 2007

The psychological study of personal reputation has implications for the study of corporate identity and reputation. One set of implications deals with the way organisations are perceived by members of internal and external groups. Another set deals with the relationships between identity and reputation. Historical trends suggest the possibility of a shift of emphasis from the study of individual organisations to the study of similarities and differences between organisations. The size, shape and multiplicity of corporate reputations appear to be neglected areas of research. Other issues include: language usage, the distribution of attributions, visual identity, subculture, cognitive functions, ideals, and leadership.
Applications of impression management and the drama metaphor in marketing: an introduction
Authors: Fisk Raymond P. , Grove Stephen J.
Published: April 2007

In recent years, impression management and the application of the metaphor of behaviour as drama have found their way into the marketing literature. While such creative perspectives concerning the marketing enterprise are generally welcome, little effort has been devoted to providing a specific vehicle for their development. This special issue of the European Journal of Marketing represents an attempt to rectify that circumstance. Discusses in broad terms the relationship of impression management to marketing, while arguing that much room for applications such as impression management’s drama metaphor abound. To demonstrate the efficacy of impression management for marketing, briefly presents the four articles that comprise this special issue. Finally, registers a call for continued work in the area of impression management’s application to marketing.
A relationship marketing approach to guanxi
Authors: Tomás Gómez Arias José
Published: April 2007

In recent years there has been a growing interest in Asian business practices, in particular the use of social networks in China for business purposes. Because of its relational nature, some have identified guanxi with a traditional form of relationship marketing. We use the recent developments in relationship marketing theory to analyse guanxi. We find that understanding and managing guanxi is useful in the development of partnerships under the current economic situation in China, but does not support the other two basic strategic essentials of relationship marketing: service and process management. Additionally, we detect relevant changes in the structural conditions of China that make guanxi necessary in the access to the Chinese market.
A polemic
Authors: Piercy Nigel F.
Published: April 2007

Argues that fundamental mistakes have been made in the way in which business school professors have been managed in many schools. The effects of our well‐meaning actions in enhancing income and conditions for this fortunate group of people has exploded in our faces and left us with many professors who contribute little to their universities, their disciplines or professional groupings, or to industry and commerce. It may not be too late to rebuild the academic leadership of the key business disciplines so they fulfil their promise, but this first demands that this problem should be recognised and addressed.
Examining the antecedents of sales organization effectiveness: an Australian study
Authors: Grant Ken , Cravens David W.
Published: April 2007

Examines the impact of manager and salesforce antecedents on sales organization effectiveness, using a sample of 146 Australian sales units. Indicates that sales manager monitoring, directing, evaluating and rewarding activities distinguish between high and low sales unit profitability and managers’ satisfaction with their units. Suggests that sales territory design displays significant differences between high and low sales/market share and unit satisfaction. Discovers that several salesperson characteristics and performance were significantly different between high and low customer satisfaction effectiveness and managers’ satisfaction with sales units. Highlights significant antecedent roles for sales manager and salesforce antecedents of sales organization effectiveness.
A dynamic analysis of market entry rates in a global industry: a community ecology perspective
Authors: Özsomer Aysegül , Tamer Cavusgil S.
Published: April 2007

States that it is critical that incumbent firms understand the processes that enhance or inhibit entry of new firms into their industry. A new entrant into an industry may create additional demand by legitimizing the technology/products, and/or may share the existing market by drawing buyers away from incumbents. An analysis of market entry rates is especially important in new, high technology industries where sub‐groups of firms pursue different technology and global market diversification strategies because such sub‐groups may have asymmetrical cross‐effects on entry rates of new firms. Suggests a community ecology approach to assessing the impact of industry density on new firm entry rates. The framework is demonstrated by applying it to the global personal computer industry during the period of 1977‐1992. Results suggest that density has a nonmonotonic positive effect, while the firm‐level variables of technological strategy and market expansion strategies have a monotonic positive effect on new firm entry rates.
The partner selection process in international joint ventures
Authors: Al‐Khalifa Ali K. , Eggert Peterson S.
Published: April 2007

Argues that the motivation involved in partner selection must be distinguished from the motivation to enter into a joint venture; the latter may be considered the “ends” dimension of motivation while the former is concerned with “means”. Thus it is important to distinguish between “task related” factors and “partner related” factors in analyzing the partner selection process. Based on a survey of 42 international joint ventures in Bahrain, respondents rank partner related factors as significantly more important than task factors in selecting a partner. The existence of partner related factors as a separate construct is also confirmed by factor analysis. Further, shows that respondents’ factor scores on four factors are significantly related to the corporate history and characteristics of the corporate partner, and to the personal characteristics of the Chief Executive Officer.
Calculation of ironless permanent magnet couplings using semi‐numerical magnetic pole theory method
Authors: Charpentier J.F. , Lemarquand G.
Published: April 2007

This paper deals with a way of computation of the mechanical behavior of permanent magnet synchronous couplings. This method is based on the calculation of the forces between the magnets of the device. The formulation of these forces is based on magnetic pole theory. The computation is done using a semi‐numerical integration method. This method has been validated in test cases and appears to be very advantageous in terms of calculation time and precision. So this solution appears to be a good way to study and design this kind of device.
An improved technique for enhancing diversity in Pareto evolutionary optimization of electromagnetic devices
Authors: Di Barba P. , Farina M. , Savini A.
Published: April 2007

When a multiobjective optimization problem is tackled using Pareto optima theory, particular care has to be taken to obtain a full sampling of the Pareto Optimal Front. This leads to variability of individuals in both design space and objective space. We compare two different fitness assignment strategies based on two individual sharing procedures in the space domain and in the objective domain on some test cases.
Electromagnetic device optimization by hybrid evolution strategy approaches
Authors: dos Santos Coelho Leandro , Alotto Piergiorgio
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to show on a widely used benchmark problem that chaotic sequences can improve the search ability of evolution strategies (ES).

Design/methodology/approach

The Lozi map is used to generate new individuals in the framework of ES algorithms. A quasi‐Newton (QN) method is also used within the iterative loop to improve the solution's quality locally.

Findings

It is shown that the combined use of chaotic sequences and QN methods can provide high‐quality solutions with small standard deviation on the selected benchmark problem.

Research limitations/implications

Although the benchmark is considered to be representative of typical electromagnetic problems, different test cases may give less satisfactory results.

Practical implications

The proposed approach appears to be an efficient general purpose optimizer for electromagnetic design problems.

Originality/value

This paper introduces the use of chaotic sequences in the area of electromagnetic design optimization.
Tabu Search metaheuristic for designing digital filters
Authors: Fanni A. , Marchesi M. , Pilo F. , Serri A.
Published: April 2007

This paper deals with the application of a Tabu Search (TS) metaheuristic to the design of digital filters, with coefficient values expressed as the sum of power of two. The performances of the algorithm are heavily affected by the choice of its parameters, which in turn are related to different implemented strategies. The tuning of these parameters has been performed after many tests. The results of the proposed technique are compared to those obtained by simply rounding the optimal values of coefficients obtained by means of Remetz algorithm, and to those obtained using a simulated annealing algorithm.
Fuzzy logic in the formulation of decision functions from linguistic specifications
Authors: Yager Ronald R.
Published: April 2007

Focuses on the applications of fuzzy set theory as a tool for the construction of multi‐criteria decision functions from specifications expressed in natural language. Starting with the ability to represent individual criteria satisfactions in terms of membership of fuzzy subsets, shows how different types of linguistic specifications are implemented. Consideration is given to the representation of trade‐offs between criteria, quantifier‐guided aggregations, conditioned criteria and possibilistically qualified criteria.
Gutterdämmerung (twilight of the gutter margins): e‐books and libraries
Authors: Peters Thomas A.
Published: April 2007

Several aspects of the e‐book revolution are reviewed, as well as some related issues confronting libraries. Regardless of format, texts and text‐bearing devices have relationships of mutual dependence, and readers simultaneously experience both. The dominant relationship between texts and text‐bearing devices is shifting from static to dynamic. The e‐book revolution is more about new distribution systems for content, new digital rights management systems, and perhaps an unwitting or inchoate power struggle among the principal interested parties, than it is about the design and diffusion of dedicated reading devices. The e‐book revolution opens up possibilities for new and improved post‐retrieval processing of texts, defined as anything a person can do with a text after it has been retrieved. Librarians need to reassert – especially to the fledgling e‐book industry – the enduring principle of libraries as a social good. The two biggest challenges facing libraries are how to make the transition to an era dominated by dynamic relationships between texts and text‐bearing devices, and how to foster and facilitate robust and complex post‐retrieval processing of texts.
The common user interface in academic libraries: myth or reality?
Authors: Arant Wendi , Payne Leila
Published: April 2007

Academic libraries have long desired one‐stop shopping for their customers and, in this electronic age, their customers are demanding it: a way to search from a single point at any physical location, and retrieve information from the library catalog, citations from journal indexes, and full text information from electronic resources. Academic libraries have explored ways to provide this access, as have library vendors of electronic databases, indexes, and integrated online library systems. The various components for a universal common user interface are in use and available, but have yet to be combined into a single system interface, adaptable enough to include any electronic resource, yet still powerful and versatile enough to provide a powerful and expert search engine. This article discusses the integrated facets as well as the system components that should be built into the ideal electronic library interface, taking into account the information needs of everyone from the newest freshman to the most erudite scholar and their expectations with regard to access, functionality and personalization.
E‐books: the University of Texas experience, part 1
Authors: Dillon Dennis
Published: April 2007

This article describes the e‐book program of the University of Texas, surveys the state of the e‐book market and e‐book technology, provides e‐book usage statistics for three different consortia, and offers guidelines for e‐book acquisitions, as well as e‐book issues to be considered. Relevant specification, standards, and working groups are explained, as are the future e‐book plans of The University of Texas. The author concludes that e‐books are to printed books, as television is to radio and movies: another format with its own strengths and weaknesses.
How does marketing effectiveness mediate the effect of organizational culture on business performance? The case of service firms
Authors: Sin Leo Y. M. , Tse Alan C. B.
Published: April 2007

Addresses two important and interrelated questions: (1) Do firms showing an identifiable set of organizational cultural values demonstrate superior strategic marketing effectiveness? (2) What effect does strategic marketing effectiveness have on business performance? The findings from 388 service firms located in Hong Kong suggest that organizational cultural values are related to dimensions of strategic marketing effectiveness. Furthermore, the findings suggest that dimensions of strategic marketing are related to profitability but not to market share. Finally, the findings further show that organizational cultural values affect both directly and indirectly the performance of the company through its impact on marketing effectiveness.
How much more are consumers willing to pay for a higher level of service? A preliminary survey
Authors: Tse Alan C.B.
Published: April 2007

A survey was conducted using conjoint analysis to determine how consumers perceived the relative importance of price vs. quality of service in the selection of restaurants. The use of conjoint analysis enables one to mimic the trade‐off situation in a consumer’s choice process. The results showed that price was a more important factor than quality of service. Estimates are also made regarding how much more respondents are willing to pay for a higher level of service.
Marketing effectiveness and business performance in the financial services industry
Authors: Appiah‐Adu Kwaku , Fyall Alan , Singh Satyendra
Published: April 2007

The purpose of this exploratory empirical study was to examine the link between effective marketing practices and business performance in the financial services industry. Based on a multi‐item construct of marketing effectiveness, data were generated from 52 banks and building societies. The effects of different marketing effectiveness dimensions upon profitability and growth as well as customer‐based performance indicators were investigated. Our results suggest that organisational variables such as customer philosophy, operational efficiency, marketing information and integrated marketing organisation are generally, significantly and positively associated with business performance. To conclude, managerial implications of the findings, study limitations and future research directions are discussed.
Controlling the standard‐setting agenda: the role of FRS 3
Authors: Weetman Pauline
Published: April 2007

The consensus‐based approach to setting accounting standards, which incorporates a formal consultation process, leads to questions about the lobbying process with regard to the nature of the argument, the characteristics of lobbying groups and the responsiveness of the standard setters. FRS 3, as the first standard initiated by the UK Accounting Standards Board (ASB), provides the context for considering these questions in relation to the nature of responses and respondents to the prior exposure draft, and the extent of comment integration, leading to a conclusion that the relative lack of change between the exposure draft and the standard is not explained by the pluralist concept of the standard‐setter in bilateral interactions with the independent respondents. It may, however, be rationalised in terms of a community of business interests collectively permitting the ASB to demonstrate its effectiveness through the apparent legitimisation afforded by an overt position of accommodating users as a special interest group and a market force. The formal consultation process served the purpose of a symbolic ritual to establish the acceptance and acceptability of a newly‐established regulatory agency.
A study of patients’ expectations and satisfaction in Singapore hospitals
Authors: Cheng Lim Puay , Tang Nelson K.H.
Published: April 2007

In today’s highly competitive healthcare environment, hospitals increasingly realise the need to focus on service quality as a means to improve their competitive position. Customer‐based determinants and perceptions of service quality therefore play an important role when choosing a hospital. This paper attempts to determine the expectations and perceptions of patients through the use of a generic, internationally used market research technique called SERVQUAL. An analysis covering 252 patients revealed that there was an overall service quality gap between patients’ expectations and perceptions. Thus, improvements are required across all the six dimensions, namely, tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, empathy and accessibility and affordability.
The theory and methodology of provider profiling
Authors: Tucker Jessie L.
Published: April 2007

Physician profiling is the comparison of physician practice patterns to determine the existence and effects of significant differences in outcomes. To optimize care quality, these comparisons can be used to influence provider behavior through awareness when outcomes are poor or do not warrant provider expenditures. To maximize the value of such a technique, the underlying bases for comparison and the uses of derived data must be understood. Several factors must be considered or controlled for when determining comparable providers. Additionally, the worth or significance of findings must also be understood. This paper seeks to provide information in these two areas for the benefit of those responsible for managing care at all levels.
The nurse retention, quality of care and patient satisfaction chain
Authors: Newman Karin , Maylor Uvanney , Chansarkar Bal
Published: April 2007

This paper proposes an integrated approach to examining and dealing with the complex issue of nurse recruitment, retention, healthcare quality and patient satisfaction. The paper depicts and describes a generic conceptual framework or chain derived from a review of the literature on nurse recruitment and retention, service quality and human resource management. The chain is made up of the following components: NHS and Trust conditions and environment (internal quality) –service capability – nurse satisfaction –nurse retention – quality of patient care – patient satisfaction. The value of the chain is derived from its synthesis and display of the prime constituents or drivers of nurse satisfaction, quality of patient care and satisfaction. From this holistic picture it is possible for both national and local initiatives to be integrated in a mutually reinforcing way in order to achieve improvements in nurse recruitment, retention, quality of care and patient satisfaction.
Modified importance‐performance analysis: an application to hospitals
Authors: Yavas Ugur , Shemwell Donald J.
Published: April 2007

This paper seeks to investigate the reasons why, in an increasingly competitive health care milieu, patients choose certain hospitals over others. It introduces the modified importance‐performance analysis technique and presents the method and findings of an empirical study which applied importance‐performance analysis in a health care setting. The strategies derived from the study findings are discussed.
Casemix accounting systems and medical coding
Authors: Lowe Alan
Published: April 2007

The adoption of DRG coding may be seen as a central feature of the mechanisms of the health reforms in New Zealand. This paper presents a story of the use of DRG coding by describing the experience of one major health provider. The conventional literature portrays casemix accounting and medical coding systems as rational techniques for the collection and provision of information for management and contracting decisions/negotiations. Presents a different perspective on the implications and effects of the adoption of DRG technology, in particular the part played by DRG coding technology as a part of a casemix system is explicated from an actor network theory perspective. Medical coding and the DRG methodology will be argued to represent “black boxes”. Such technological “knowledge objects” provide strong points in the networks which are so important to the processes of change in contemporary organisations.
Putting our own house in order: whiteness, change and organization studies
Authors: Grimes Diane
Published: April 2007

Assumptions about race in the discipline of organization studies are explored by introducing the notion of “interrogating whiteness”. Standpoint epistemology, which assumes people’s experiences are relevant to the ways they know, allows the apparently unmarked, neutral category of whiteness to be seen as one standpoint among many. To encourage a useful discussion of race, key terms are situated linguistically and historically, background is given on paradigms for thinking about race, and there is a consideration of the consequences of whiteness and blackness. I examine what writers say about race when it is not the topic about which they claim to write. The organizational life of the discipline and authorship is explored. I then turn to the organizational literature for further illustration of whiteness as unmarked, stereotypical examples, and distancing language.
The purpose of the picnic: using Burke’s dramatistic pentad to analyse a company event
Authors: Walker Robyn , Monin Nanette
Published: April 2007

Uses Kenneth Burke’s “dramatistic pentad” as an analytical framework to analyse a company event that in New Zealand became symbolic of social responsibility in action. Presents the event in which the staff of an Auckland food processing operation was flown to Western Samoa for a weekend “picnic”. Explores the act – what happened; the scene the physical, geographic and cultural milieu of the action; the agent – managing director Dick Hubbard’s individual identity and the role he played out in terms of the action; the agency – the means by which Hubbard was enabled to accomplish this action, and his role in initiating, approving and funding the staff picnic; and finally, the purpose – the intended effect of the action and a consideration of perceived outcomes. Considers the usefulness of the dramatistic pentad to other organisational contexts. Concludes that it provides a useful model to guide the analysis of diverse organisational texts.
The Resurrection of Taylorism: Total Quality Management’s Hidden Agenda
Authors: Boje David M. , Winsor Robert D.
Published: April 2007

Looks at the historical roots of TQM. Finds that TQM, while popularly attributed to W. Edwards Deming, can be linked in Japan to 1920s industrialization and to the importation of Taylor’s philosophy. Posits that TQM’s neo‐modernism. Concludes with post‐TQM ideas for managing change.
The legitimation of learning in organizational change
Authors: Rhodes Carl
Published: April 2007

Explores organizational learning based on the interpretations of actors in the organizational setting. Brings out the major point that events of organizational change are subject to multiple and competing interpretations and that labelling a particular event as “organizational learning” can be seen as an act of power through which a progressive and positive interpretation of organizational events is privileged over other interpretations. Argues that, although the metaphor of “learning” is a useful tool for organizational analysis, focusing only on learning marginalizes the darker themes of people’s organizational experience and leaves us with a more partial appreciation of organizational life.