bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To have to halve to have: “Being” in the middle in changing time's space
Authors: Lapp Cheryl A. , Carr Adrian N.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The aim of this paper is explore consequences of ambivalence and ambiguity on self‐concept, decision‐making, and quality of interrelationships between management and employees in one for‐profit organisation.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were re‐read to reveal that organisational members were constantly engaged in the process of changing their perceptions of “who” and “what” were “good” and “bad” in reaction to environmental change impacts.

Findings

The paper finds that philosophically, “splitting” is an age‐old form of decision‐making; psychodynamically, “splitting” is not necessarily a signal to a pathology but instead is merely an initiator of ambiguity and ambivalence that leverages change; from a change management perspective, “splitting” can reinforce polarisation that can impede the desire to engage in continual change; and predictions and perceptions of change consequences underscore both the quality and quantity of “splitting” in regard to polarisation. “Splitting” is an integral defense and offense change mechanism that occurs in all decision‐making, so practical implications are that its affects on self and other concepts need to be understood. To establish equalising and non‐polarised interrelationships between “employer” and “worker” and to negate the line between management and employee, exercises in recognition of mutual causation such as servant leadership practises can be introduced.

Originality/value

Unparalleled synthesis of seemingly divergent theoretical and practical studies, this paper is a valuable ontological and epistemological tool for ongoing investigation into complexity theory, including self and other organisation.
Progress of quality management practices in Australian manufacturing firms
Authors: Prajogo Daniel I.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to identify changes in quality management practices that occurred in Australian manufacturing firms between 1994 and 2001.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used two sets of data drawn from two separate surveys. The first survey was conducted in 1994 by the Australian Manufacturing Council (AMC) and the second survey was conducted in the early 2001 among the members of Australian Organisation for Quality (AOQ). After screening both data sets, 336 and 101 responses were usable for analysis using MANOVA.

Findings

In the year 2001, Australian manufacturing firms were investing less in training and development of employees, and saw themselves as needing to provide greater levels of leadership in pursuing best practice than in 1994. In addition, maintaining a high‐quality of working environment and managing customer relationships were considered far more important in 2001 than previously, and less emphasis was placed on the standardising and documenting of internal procedures. Finally, suppliers were increasingly involved in product development, suggesting a shift of competitive advantage from an internal focus into a supply‐chain orientation.

Research limitations/implications

The significant discrepancy in the sample size and the different populations of the two surveys are the major limitations in generalising the findings of this study.

Practical implications

The findings would be useful for practitioners who wish to track trends among Australian manufacturing firms and for those who want a benchmark against which to measure an individual firm's performance. Practitioners may also be interested in issues such as supplier involvement and documentation.

Originality/value

This study contributes new knowledge by assessing the trend of adoption of quality management practices in two separate cross‐sectional studies at two different times.
Business relatedness measurements
Authors: Pehrsson Anders
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend understanding of business relatedness, a concept that is central to diversification issues. These questions are put forward: What characterizes existing types of measurements of business relatedness? What are the weaknesses of these types? What would be the features of a model for measurement of business relatedness?

Design/methodology/approach

As relatedness concerns specific business attributes, common attributes used in measurements are presented. A review of previous studies on types of measurements of business relatedness (codes or indices, researcher assessments and managerial perceptions) is followed by a discussion on correlations between perceptual and objective measurements.

Findings

The review shows that application of standard industrial classification codes/indices and researcher assessments suffer from weak content validity of the measurements, and underestimation of the multidimensionality of the construct. Use of managerial perceptions needs to address the uncertainty inherent in managerial self‐assessments; previous research has found a major divergence between perceptual and objective measurements.

Practical implications

A model is proposed for the measurement of business relatedness using perceptual data. It is stressed that the context of the comparisons (i.e. reason for comparison and units to be compared) has a major influence on the outcomes. Business attributes to be subjectively compared by managers are those that have been singled out as important for financial performance.

Originality/value

The paper is unique as it represents a continuation of the most recent research on measurement of business relatedness, i.e. those measurements that are based on managerial perceptions. Another key value is that the review of research leads to a measurement model.
An improved analysis of bagging of textile fabrics. Part II: experimental work
Authors: Amirbayat J. , Namiranian B.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

Aims to analyse the stress distribution in a circular flexible sheet. Part II verifies the theory with experimental work.

Design/methodology/approach

The investigation includes analysing the stress distribution in a circular flexible sheet clamped around its circumference under an externally applied force by a spherical object. Movement of the material normal to its original plane is then related to the external force and the elastic properties of the sheet, i.e. the elastic modulus and the Poisson's ratio. The effects of the size of the force‐applying object, relative to the sample radius, are also investigated.

Findings

The relationship between the applied force on the centre of a flexible sheet material by a spherical object and the sag of the sheet was derived. Poisson's ratio has an important role on the mechanism of deformation, restricting the extension of the sheet when it is high and intensifying the discontinuity of the strain at the interface.

Research limitations/implications

The work could be expanded to industrial fabrics and to composite materials.

Practical implications

The two papers provide a first step in an attempt for a better understanding of the stresses involved in bagging of a linear elastic sheet. They provide the basis for the development of fabrics that can withstand bagging problems. This research may also put forward improved methods of measuring bagginess. Some of the theoretical work may be used to predict bagginess of fabrics based on properties.

Originality/value

The paper has two improvements on previous work: the inclusion of the effect of fabric Poisson ratio, and the suggestion of a better method of calculating the overall anisotropic properties.
Comparison of hyperelastic material models in the analysis of fabrics
Authors: Julio García Ruíz Manuel , Yarime Suárez González Leidy
Published: September 2006

Purpose

This work presents a review of the application of hyperelastic models to the analysis of fabrics using finite element analysis (FEA).

Design/methodology/approach

In general, a combination of uniaxial tension (compression), biaxial tension, and simple shear is required for the characterization of a hyperelastic material. However, the use of these deformation tests to obtain the mechanical properties of a fabric may be complicated and also expensive. A methodology for characterizing the fabric employing a different experimental test is presented. The methodology consists of a comparison of the results of the fabric characterization with only a tensile test and the combination of shear, biaxial, and tension experimental tests by using FEA.

Findings

Numerical results of the fabric behavior contribute to estimate the effects of experimental limitations in the material characterization and to select the best fit material model to modeling fabrics. Finally, a comparison of hyperelastic material models is illustrated through an example of a rigid body in contact with a hyperelastic fabric in 3D.

Originality/value

Hyperelastic models are used to characterize textile materials.
The influence of mechanical properties of sewing threads on seam pucker
Authors: Dobilaite Vaida , Juciene Milda
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The paper aims to evaluate the influence of mechanical properties of sewing threads on the seam pucker.

Design/methodology/approach

The mechanical properties of sewing thread were obtained performing tensile testing research. The seam pucker of lightweight fabric was evaluated after sewing, then after 24 h, after 48 h as well as after washing and drying. To determine dimension changes of fabric, the relaxation shrinkage was calculated. The results of thread properties and seam pucker were compared.

Findings

In respect of seam pucker the best results were established sewing with polyester threads, the reversible strain of which were the least. After washing and drying, the highest pucker was typical of the specimens sewn with cotton sewing threads. It was noticed that increasing the amount of layers in sewing the influence of threads on seam pucker decreases. Washing and drying made considerably greater influence on the occurrence of pucker then time.

Practical implications

This study has practical implications in the clothing and other nearly related industries. In the paper recommendations involved with application of sewing thread and evaluation of seam pucker are presented.

Originality/value

In most cases the changes of sewn thread mechanical properties after sewing is analysed. This study is aimed to determine the influence of thread properties on seam pucker. Recommendations in the area of sewing thread and garment quality are based on the research.
The role of technology readiness in customers' perception and adoption of self‐service technologies
Authors: Lin Jiun‐Sheng Chris , Hsieh Pei‐ling
Published: September 2006

Purpose

This study aims to examine how technology readiness (TR) influences customers' perception and adoption of self‐service technologies (SSTs) through development of an empirical model to explore the relationships among TR, perceived service quality, satisfaction and behavioral intentions toward SSTs.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical framework is proposed to suggest the links between the four constructs. Extant research and concepts from various fields, including marketing, psychology and information system (IS), are reviewed, deriving six hypotheses. Data from SST users is examined through structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

Results indicate TR influences perceived SST service quality and behavioral intentions, while perceived SST service quality has a positive impact on customer satisfaction and behavioral intentions toward SSTs.

Research limitations/implications

This study represents an early attempt at explaining the role of TR in customer SST usage. Future research directions are discussed, with an emphasis on incorporating attitudinal, behavioral, situational and psychographic factors to improve our understanding of SST usage.

Practical implications

TR should be given increased attention by firms implementing SSTs to improve customer perception and adoption of SSTs. Firms also need to examine all SST service quality dimensions in order to improve customer satisfaction and behavioral intentions toward SSTs. An aggressive approach toward strengthening TR drivers and reducing TR inhibitors will show benefits for both firms and customers.

Originality/value

This paper represents the first study to propose and empirically examine the relationships among TR, perceived SST service quality, satisfaction and behavioral intentions toward SSTs.
Value chain analysis in consumer focus improvement
Authors: Keivan Zokaei A. , Simons David W.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

A key vision of tomorrow's industry is creating supply chains which collaboratively strive on enhancing the value to the end‐consumer. The purpose of this paper is to introduce the food value chain analysis (FVCA) methodology for improving consumer focus in the agri‐food sector based on the lean paradigm, value stream mapping and value chain analysis (Porter, 1985).

Design/methodology/approach

This contribution presents a case‐study of a UK red meat supply chain explaining how the FVCA method enabled a team of researchers and practitioners to identify the misalignments of both product attributes and supply chain activities with the consumer needs.

Findings

This paper explains how the FVCA methodology potentially realigned the processes along the supply chain with the true consumer requirements and why the supply chain effectiveness was improved; this follows with a description of the subsequent efficiency gains from application of the FVCA methodology.

Originality/value

This paper further defines the demarcation between supply chain “effectiveness” and “efficiency”. This paper contributes to the debate on the importance of supply chain effectiveness by linking to consumer value at every stage of the supply chain.
Inventory management support systems for emergency humanitarian relief operations in South Sudan
Authors: Beamon Benita M. , Kotleba Stephen A.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To develop and test three different inventory management strategies as applied to the complex emergency in south Sudan.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative modeling, simulation, and statistics.

Findings

This research identified critical system factors that contributed most significantly to inventory system performance, and identified strengths and weaknesses of each inventory management strategy.

Research limitations/implications

This research represents a first step in developing inventory management systems for humanitarian relief. Future work would include modeling correlation among relief items, multiple items, and considering the impact of information.

Practical implications

In a domain that has seen limited application of quantitative models, this work demonstrates the performance benefits of using quantitative methods to manage inventory in a relief setting.

Originality/value

This research has value for relief organizations by providing a real‐world application of quantitative inventory management strategies applied to a complex emergency, and demonstrated performance advantages of quantitative versusad hocmethods. This research has value for researchers by providing a new application of simulation and mathematical modeling (humanitarian relief).
Supplier selection construct: instrument development and validation
Authors: Hsu Chin‐Chun , Kannan Vijay R. , Keong Leong G. , Tan Keah‐Choon
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To develop and test a reliable and valid supplier selection measurement scale that can be applied in different geographic regions, namely, the USA and Europe.

Design/methodology/approach

A three‐factor supplier selection measure is developed via extensive literature review and practitioner interviews. Psychometric properties of the survey instrument are evaluated using data from the ISM‐US sample via exploratory factor analysis. Based on the results, the survey instrument is modified and the revised instrument is mailed to a larger sampling group (APICS‐US and APICS‐Europe). Confirmatory factor analysis is used to validate the proposed three‐factor supplier selection construct and to test its validity across national boundaries.

Findings

This study demonstrates that underlying the documented supplier selection criteria is the need to assess a supplier's quality and service capabilities as well as its strategic and managerial alignment with the buyer.

Research limitations/implications

Although the research design incorporates extensive literature reviews, it does not capture every aspect of complex supplier selection criteria. Future efforts should establish a valid, reliable instrument for the underlying constructs.

Practical implications

This study provides supply management professionals with guidelines for analysing selection decisions, and also shows that the underlying dimensions of supplier selection are applicable for both US and European firms.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by answering the following two questions: what exactly constitutes effective supplier selection and what are the appropriate measures for selecting key suppliers?
Quality‐based pricing: a catalyst for collaboration and sustainable change in the agrifood industry?
Authors: Hines Peter , Francis Mark , Bailey Kate
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To establish learning points on how an alternative to traditional standard costing and inter‐company transfer pricing mechanisms can be developed and implemented for non‐engineered (agrifood) products such as primary farm produce that acts as a catalyst for inter‐firm collaboration as a part of a supply chain‐wide Lean change initiative. This approach is termed holistic quality‐based pricing (QBP) because it incorporates criteria that incentivise responsiveness to customer demands in addition to (narrower) product quality criteria that are a feature of most existing QBP schemes.

Design/methodology/approach

An action research‐based, 18 month longitudinal exploratory case study of Lean change initiative called “The Perfect Pineapple Supply Chain Programme” at an Australian canned pineapple supply chain. The focal company was the processing plant called Golden Circle. The case also involved fieldwork with four representative pineapple growers; three key suppliers of cans, cartons and pallets; and Australia's leading grocery retailer (Woolworth). Data collection instruments included observation of workshop activity, semi‐structured interviews and access to key company documentation.

Findings

This paper explains the development and evolution of the holistic QBP scheme that was used as a key catalyst for change within the Perfect Pineapple programme. It also suggests how the scheme could be used with other enabling approaches such as supplier development and factory gate pricing to progress down a Lean improvement path.

Originality/value

This paper characterises six critical success factors for practitioner firms considering the implementation of such a scheme as part of a supply chain‐wide Lean change initiative. It also provides a new decision support framework for informing how such an holistic QBP approach or adaptation might be applied to a range of primary produce environments.
A taxonomy for selecting global supply chain strategies
Authors: Christopher Martin , Peck Helen , Towill Denis
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the increasingly important question of supply chain design for global operations. With the rise of off‐shore sourcing and the simultaneous need for improved responsiveness to customer demand, the choice of supply chain strategy is critical.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws its conclusions from case‐based research supported by survey data.

Findings

The paper provides evidence that the choice of supply chain strategy should be based upon a careful analysis of the demand/supply characteristics of the various product/markets served by a company. It presents the basis for a taxonomy of appropriate supply chain strategies.

Research limitations/implications

The case studies and empirical research reported in this paper are specific to the clothing manufacturing and fashion industries and there would be benefit in extending the research into other sectors.

Practical implications

Given the increasing trend to out‐sourcing and off‐shore sourcing, the choice of supply chain strategy is of some significance and clearly impacts competitive performance.

Originality/value

Whilst there is a growing recognition of the need to match the supply chain to the market, there is still limited research into what criteria should be utilised to aid the choice of supply chain strategy. This paper attempts to extend our understanding of the issues.
The role of anticipated emotion, desire, and intention in the relationship between image and shopping center visits
Authors: Hunter Gary L.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify variables that intervene in the relationship between shopping center image and frequency of visits to that shopping center. Variables investigated as intervening are desires, intentions, and positive anticipated emotions.

Design/methodology/approach

The method uses a two wave mail survey. One wave gathers intentions and variables antecedent to intentions while a second wave gathers behavioral data.

Findings

Findings suggest that desire (i.e. motivation), intention, and positive anticipated emotions intervene between shopping center image and frequency of shopping center visits. Positive anticipated emotions are not emotions felt while shopping but are the expected emotional consequences of achieving a goal, in this case visiting a shopping center. Visiting a shopping center might be a goal in itself or it could be the means to goal attainment (e.g. shopping to get a product).

Research limitations/implications

A limitation of the study is that results are aggregated across types of shopping centers and across respondent classifications.

Practical implications

Results provide evidence that desire, intention, and positive anticipated emotions intervene between shopping center image and frequency of visits to the shopping center. Implications for shopping center managers are guidance for allocating resources towards increasing desire, intention, and positive anticipated emotions.

Originality/value

The value of this study is investigation of the process by which shopping center image impacts the frequency of visits to a shopping center. Focusing on this process should allow shopping center managers to more efficiently allocate resources. The value of this study is offering resource allocation guidance to shopping center managers.
The interplay of service complexity and spatial layouts
Authors: Värlander Sara , Yakhlef Ali
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the interplay of the internet and the spatial designs of the bricks‐and‐mortar contexts within which face‐to‐face services are provided.

Design/methodology/approach

Focuses on the travel, the banking and book‐selling industries; the methods involve interviews, observation and visual material of the new physical spaces within which customer‐sales representatives interact face‐to‐face.

Findings

The internet has not reduced the importance of physical space; on the opposite, this study argues, it has revalorised and emphasized the significance of space.

Research limitations/implications

The study's explorative nature does not allow for generalization. Whereas space and time are traditionally regarded as contextual factors, this study recognizes their dynamic nature, regarding spacing and timing as economic phenomena. However, further studies may seek to establish more thoroughly such economic effects.

Practical implications

Changes in spatial layouts of a work place leads to novel spatial practices, which require new personnel competencies. For example, employees' more intimate interactions with customers entail new demands on employees' interpersonal skills and competence. By the same token, new metrics are required for measuring the performance and efficiency of employees.

Originality/value

Highlights the relationship among new technologies, changes in the nature of face‐to‐face services, spatial layouts, and change in time orientation, namely a change from time effectiveness towards interaction effectiveness.
Enabling or disabling technologies? A critical approach to web accessibility
Authors: Adam Alison , Kreps David
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to analyse the continuing problem of web accessibility for disabled people as a critical information systems issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The ways in which the web is used by disabled people, and problems that can arise, are described and related to the development of critical disability theory from older models of disability, including the medical and social models, noting that the social construction of disability model may tend to mask the embodied, lived experience of disability.

Findings

The lack of interaction of the critical disability approach and dominant discourses of web accessibility and internet studies, particularly in relation to embodiment, is a major contributor to the continuance of an inaccessible Worldwide web.

Research limitations/implications

The paper does not offer a comprehensive set of web accessibility issues, concentrating instead on the most common problems as exemplars.

Practical implications

The paper raises awareness of web accessibility.

Originality/value

The paper brings the topic of accessibility of technology by disabled people into the critical information systems arena and also incorporates social construction of disability and theoretical considerations of embodiedness in its analysis.
Tourism and hospitality marketing: fantasy, feeling and fun
Authors: Williams Alistair
Published: September 2006

Purpose

Experiential marketing is arguably marketing's most contemporary orientation, but as with many marketing innovations it has been largely overlooked by those involved in tourism and hospitality marketing and promotion. Whilst in many industries companies have moved away from traditional features and benefits approaches, to putting experiential marketing centre‐stage, marketing in the tourism and hospitality sectors does not appear to have explicitly engaged the theoretical issues involved. This raises the question what, if anything, does experiential marketing have to offer marketers in the disciplines of tourism and hospitality? In this paper, I will seek to introduce the experiential marketing debate and demonstrate how the questions raised by the concept are critical to an understanding of marketing theory and research within the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the authors previous publications which sought to investigate alternative paradigms for studying hospitality consumers, this research attempts to consider the practical applications of one such model.

Findings

The tourism and hospitality sectors cannot be seen to be immune to fundamental changes in the orientation of marketing. Innovative experience design will become an increasingly important component of tourism and hospitality firms core capabilities. Those who go beyond service excellence, and market experientially will lead the creation of value in the sector.

Originality/value

Provides a framework as to how organisations might usefully implement an experiential marketing strategy.
Reflections on leadership
Authors: Turner Graham , Teare Richard
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To provide experience‐based reflections on building, sustaining and leading a successful international travel business.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach of the paper is based on an interview with the co‐founder and executive chairman of Flight Centre Limited.

Findings

The paper contains practical insights on how to build and sustain a business with illustrations drawn from Flight Centre Limited in relation to business focus, systems, procedures, human resources, motivating and incentivizing people, learning at work and developing an internal vehicle for work‐based learning.

Originality/value

The viewpoint contains candid and insightful reflections on how to run an international business from one of Australia's most successful entrepreneurs talking about Australia's largest travel business.
One life to live
Authors: Collis Jack , Teare Richard
Published: September 2006

Purpose

Provides experience‐based reflections on the dual challenge of learning and leading that tends to characterize inspirational and effective leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is an interview and a review.

Findings

Contains practical insights on the tasks of managing, leading, coaching others, business writing and speaking.

Originality/value

The viewpoint contains career‐long observations on the process of managing and leading organizations from one of Australia's best‐selling business writers.
Performance gaps in the dyadic order fulfillment process
Authors: Forslund Helena
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the existence of logistics performance gaps in the dyadic order fulfillment process.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review on service quality, logistics quality and logistics performance generated a conceptual model, four hypotheses and a scale for measuring logistics performance. Dyads of customers (large manufacturing companies) and their most important suppliers were addressed in two similar surveys. A total of 136 such dyads were acquired.

Findings

The dyadic order fulfillment process contains four significant logistics performance gaps, even though important business dyads are addressed. Customers' expectations are not perceived by customers as being fulfilled, customers' expectations are over‐targeted by suppliers, but suppliers' internal performance decreases performance. Finally, suppliers overestimate their performance compared with the ratings of customers.

Research limitations/implications

By applying a service quality model to a logistics process, new knowledge about logistics performance was obtained. A tested conceptual model and a tested scale for measuring logistics performance are theoretical contributions.

Practical implications

The model can be used as a basis for deeper communication between customer and supplier in order to improve logistics performance in the dyadic order fulfillment process.

Originality/value

A true dyadic approach is rare in logistics research. As no comprehensive studies of the “mechanisms” of the dyadic order fulfillment process were found, the results can be valuable to both customers and suppliers.
The design of logistics operations for the Olympic Games
Authors: Minis Ioannis , Paraschi Marion , Tzimourtas Apostolos
Published: September 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the design of the organization, processes, and systems of Olympic logistics.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic methodology has been developed to design the strategy and tactics of logistics operations for the Athens 2004 Olympic Games. This methodology considers Olympic‐specific characteristics, host country characteristics, as well as lessons learned from previous games. It comprises the generation, analysis and evaluation of strategic alternatives, the development of core business processes and the prediction of resource requirements. Furthermore, the proposed method provides guidelines to complement the experiential knowledge that has been used exclusively in the past to plan the logistics operations of the games and similar large‐scale events.

Findings

Successful design principles, such as model venue planning, standardization of materials, the establishment of the Logistics Command Center (LCC), as well as establishment of an independent administration function, can be applied regardless of the specific characteristics of the host country. However, there are principles such as outsourcing, warehousing, or just‐in‐time (JIT) deliveries, that are based on certain specific characteristics (constraints/advantages) of the host country, such as a mature 3PL market, the existence and availability of large warehouses, and the completion of the venues in sufficient time prior to the beginning of the games.

Practical implications

The proposed design process provides generic rules that may be applied to guide the set up of operations for future games. Furthermore, the paper offers some useful insights applicable to the logistics of large events.

Originality/value

It is the first time that a systematic view of Olympic logistics is dealt with, as opposed to experiential knowledge with local applicability that has been used in the past to plan similar operations.
Numerical modelling of a vapour bubble growth in uniformly superheated liquid
Authors: Yan Y.Y. , Li W.Z.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The paper aims at studying numerically a vapour bubble growth in uniformly superheated liquid.

Design/methodology/approach

Time dependent mathematical and numerical models are developed. Based on the Stefan boundary condition, the rate of heat transfer at the vapour‐liquid interface and the rate of bubble growth are calculated.

Findings

It is found that, at the initial stage of bubble growth, both the growth rate and the mean Nusselt number at bubble interface have the maximum values, then they decrease with time; the rate of bubble growth also has a significant effect on bubble deformation; the growth tends to keep the bubble at its initial shape. In addition, the growth and deformation of a vapour bubble have much influence on temperature propagation in the vicinity of the bubble‐liquid interface; the temperature wake at the rear of the bubble occurs at high Reynolds number but does not appear at low Reynolds number.

Originality/value

The paper is based on the authors' original work, focusing on the behaviour of a vapour bubble in uniformly superheated liquid–an issue of importance in the field of boiling and two phase flow.
Multiple steady state solutions for natural convection in a shallow horizontal rectangular cavity filled with non‐Newtonian power‐law fluids and heated from all sides
Authors: Lamsaadi M. , Naïmi M. , Hasnaoui M.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The aim of this work is to study numerically and analytically flow and heat transfer characteristics and multiplicity of steady states for natural convection in a horizontal rectangular cavity, filled with non‐Newtonian power‐law fluids and heated from all sides.

Design/methodology/approach

The governing equations are discretised by using the well known second‐order central finite difference method and integrated by combining the ADI and PSOR techniques. The analytical approach is based on the parallel flow assumption.

Findings

Natural and anti‐natural flows existence is proved when the Rayleigh number exceeds a critical value and the side lateral heating intensity values is chosen inside a specific range. The analytical results are found to agree well with those obtained numerically. The fluid flow and the heat transfer are found to be rather sensitive to the non‐Newtonian power‐law behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

The obtained results are limited to non‐Newtonian power‐law fluids and cannot be extended to fluids having other behaviours.

Practical implications

The problem is implied in some industrial thermal processes.

Originality/value

Existence of multiple steady state‐solutions in the range of the side lateral heating intensity values ensuring, that is reduced by the shear‐thickening behaviour and extended by the shear‐thinning one for a given value of Rayleigh number.
The computation of flow and heat transfer through an orthogonally rotating square‐ended U‐bend, using low‐Reynolds‐number models
Authors: Nikas Konstantinos‐Stephen P. , Iacovides Hector
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To assess how effectively two‐layer and low‐Reynolds‐number models of turbulence, at effective viscosity and second‐moment closure level, can predict the flow and thermal development through orthogonally rotating U‐bends.

Design/methodology/approach

Heat and fluid flow computations through a square‐ended U‐bend that rotates about an axis normal to both the main flow direction and also the axis of curvature have been carried out. Two‐layer and low‐Reynolds‐number mathematical models of turbulence are used at effective viscosity (EVM) level and also at second‐moment‐closure (DSM) level. In the two‐layer models the dissipation rate of turbulence in the new‐wall regions is obtained from the wall distance, while in the low‐Re models the transport equation for the dissipation rate is extended right up to the walls. Moreover, two length‐scale correction terms to the dissipation rate of turbulence are used with the low‐Re models, and original Yap term and a differential form that does not require the wall distance (NYap). The resulting predictions are compared with available flow measurements at a Reynolds number of 100,000 and a rotation number (ΩD/Ubl) of 0.2 and also with heat transfer measurements at a Reynolds number of 36,000, rotation number of 0.2 and Prandtl number of 5.9 (water).

Findings

While the main flow features are well reproduced by all models, the development of the mean flow within the just after the bend in better reproduced by the low‐Re models. Turbulence levels within the rotation U‐bend are under‐predicted, but DSM models produce a more realistic distribution. Along the leading side all models over‐predict heat transfer levels just after the bend. Along the trailing side, the heat transfer predictions of the fully low‐Re DSM with the differential length‐scale correction term NYap are close to the measurements, with an average error of around 10 per cent, though at the bend exit it rises to 25 per cent. The introduction of a differential form of the length‐scale correction term to improve the heat transfer predictions of both low‐Re models.

Research/limitations/implications

The numerical models assumed that the flow remains steady and is not affected by large‐scale, low frequency fluctuations. Unsteady RANS computations or LES must also be tested in the future.

Originality/value

This work has expanded the range of complex turbulent flow over which the effectiveness of RANS models has been tested, to internal cooling flows simultaneously affected by orthogonal rotation and strong curvature.
Do multi‐source feedback instruments support the existence of a glass ceiling for women leaders?
Authors: Weyer Birgit
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine if observed ratings on a multi‐source feedback (MSF) instrument reflect the same cognitive constructs of leadership across multiple rating pairs based on rater and ratee gender.

Design/methodology/approach

The independent variables of this quantitative research study are MSF rater and ratee gender. The dependent variables are leadership constructs reflected by MSF ratings. During phase I of the data analysis, five models of leadership constructs are built. During phase II of the data analysis, the five models are compared against each other to discover if the same factors determine the cognitive constructs of leadership comprising each model.

Findings

Findings from this study indicate that constructs of leadership across multiple rating pairs reflect the same cognitive constructs of leadership. Measurement equivalence for the MSF instrument under investigation has been established.

Practical implications

It is concluded that the MSF instrument is free of bias, thus not contributing to the existence of a “glass ceiling” keeping women from entering top‐level leadership positions. The potential for a “social epidemic” in the near future whereby the glass ceiling will be shattered and many women will enter into top leadership positions is confirmed.

Originality/value

Findings are contrary to the conclusions drawn from the literature review of social role theory, expectation states theory, and leadership categorization theory. This study fills a gap in the empirical body of knowledge, by including a large number of female managers.
Women in formal corporate networks: an organisational citizenship perspective
Authors: Singh Val , Vinnicombe Susan , Kumra Savita
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To investigate women's corporate networks, and the reported benefits for the women and their employers. To gain insight into the motivation for these voluntary activities, by drawing on organisational citizenship theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores the issue using in‐depth interviews with chairs and organisers of 12 women's networks, and triangulated the data with an email survey resulting in 164 responses from network members in five companies.

Findings

The paper identifies how networks were set up and managed, as well as the benefits that accrue to the organisation, the leaders and the members. Key findings were the wealth of voluntarily contributed extra‐role behaviours, and totally business‐oriented view of the activities presented by network leaders. More senior women were more likely to report prosocial behaviours such as driving change and supporting others. Organisational citizenship theory provided a lens through which to draw insight into actors' motivations for supporting corporate networking.

Research limitations/implications

This is a study of only 12 corporate networks within large UK companies, but findings should be useful for any employers or senior women thinking about starting or refreshing a corporate women's network.

Practical implications

Women and their employers appear to benefit strongly from being involved in corporate networking. Evidence suggests that employers should support internal women's networks, given the organisational citizenship behaviours voluntarily contributed for their benefit.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to investigate how women's corporate networks are organised, and how their activities benefit not just the women but also the employer. Organisational citizenship theory provides insight into motivation for such initiatives. The findings should be of interest not just for those involved in women‐in‐management studies, but also to organisational citizenship and networking researchers.
Encounters in social cyberspace: e‐mentoring for professional women
Authors: Headlam‐Wells Jenny , Craig Jane , Gosland Julian
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the barriers facing women aiming to progress in their careers, or return to work following a career break, and evaluate the effects of an innovatory e‐mentoring scheme designed to overcome such obstacles and promote career development.

Design/methodology/approach

An online community of practice was formed for professional women in four UK regions. A survey of the career barriers they experienced was carried out and 122 participants were matched using psychological profiling and computer processing. The e‐mentoring process and participants' development was evaluated by means of pre‐, mid‐, and post‐mentoring evaluation questionnaires.

Findings

Mentees showed improvements in many key employability skills. For example, their ability to identify their weaknesses and ways to develop professionally improved substantially, as did their networking skills and ability to identify their strengths. Mentors also indicated that they had experienced development, for example, greater self‐awareness, increased confidence, improved reflective skills, and development of online skills. A large proportion of participants viewed mentoring as a fundamental aid to women's development. The majority felt that electronic communication was effective in facilitating this mentoring.

Practical implications

The e‐mentoring programme which has been developed may be transferred to a range of other target groups. Matching mentees and mentors is one of the key challenges in e‐mentoring design: an innovative system was designed which was able to provide personalised matching for each mentee.

Originality/value

E‐mentoring is still relatively under‐researched, particularly from a European perspective. This paper provides evidence for the benefits of e‐mentoring in the promotion of gender equality.
Gendered ageism and “lookism”: a triple jeopardy for female academics
Authors: Granleese Jacqueline , Sayer Gemma
Published: September 2006

Purpose

This study set out to explore employees' experience and understandings of gender and age in higher education to identify if women in higher education experienced the double jeopardy of gendered ageism. Further the role of physical attractiveness and appearance in higher education is explored.

Design/methodology/approach

Rich data were afforded by the qualitative method of in‐depth interviewing of 48 employees in a matched by gender, age grouping and academic status design. The recorded transcripts were subject to content and interpretative phenomenological analyses.

Findings

This study supports previous findings in different workplace settings that women, both academics and non‐academics, experience the double jeopardy of being discriminated against on the grounds of their age and gender in a way that men do not experience. Emergent themes are women: question they experience age discrimination as any perceived discrimination may be gender related and not only age‐related (uncertainty); are socialised to tolerate acceptable levels (tolerance); grow to love the perpetrators (identify with the status quo). Physical attractiveness and appearance are seen as relevant to the workplace in higher education. Non‐academics see academics as being career driven by their lack of attractiveness and or poor appearance. Male academics perceive women academics as unattractive and dressing down in appearance. Young female academics play down their “looks”, i.e. attractiveness and appearance so the effect is minimal (minimisation) as they perceive these be a disadvantage in their careers. Male academics do not report such considerations. “Lookism” thus presents a further prejudice that female academics experience beyond gendered ageism.

Research limitations/implications

One experienced interviewer was used to enhance consistency of interviewing but there may be concerns about possible interviewer effects and the generalisability of the findings within higher education.

Practical implications

Having identified and elucidated “lookism” as a concern for female academics, its extent and sequalae in higher education may be addressed.

Originality/value

This is the first study to show female academics experience the triple jeopardy of gendered ageism and how they look i.e.“lookism”.