bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Success in Selling – The Current Challenge in Banking
Authors: Stephenson Bill , Kiely Julia
Published: May 2006

Some of the key issues facing banks in the UK are examined in order
to become better at selling in the personal banking market. These issues
concern attitudes towards organisational changes for sales including
those of personnel and physical organisation. Implicit in these issues
are matters of changes in management style, training, motivation and
recognition of branch sales personnel and the direct salesforce.
Interviews were held with senior sales and/or marketing executives in
the leading banks and a building society. While each of the
organisations interviewed has made considerable advances in achieving
the required cultural change, Midland Bank is well under way towards
accomplishing a sales culture. The results indicate that the radical
change called for in developing a true sales culture requires major
alterations to management structure and style and is most likely to be
successfully achieved by “top‐down” target setting based on
corporate business objectives. The need for different approaches in
developing an appropriate sales‐and market‐orientation in counter staff
and direct sales staff is discussed.
Dynamic Auditing of Quality Assurance: Concept and Method
Authors: Willborn Walter
Published: May 2006

The concept and method of dynamic auditing are discussed ‐ how they can support and guide auditors in their extended audit tasks. Differentiating between more conventional static auditing and modern dynamic auditing, without judging one superior over the other, will be helpful to auditors and auditees. Each basic type of auditing has its merits and applications. Dynamic auditing complements existing audit practices and renders auditing itself more effective.
How Often Should a Machine be Inspected?
Authors: Baker M.J.C.
Published: May 2006

This article provides the answer to the question asked in the title when certain simple conditions apply, and so improves the approximate solutions given by previous writers. The assumptions are: the machine either works perfectly or not at all; there is a constant probability of random failure; the cost of inspection and of restoring the machine to as‐new condition are both fixed: failure can only be detected by inspection.
Reliability Measures for Large Systems
Authors: Gandhi O.P. , Agrawal V.P.
Published: May 2006

A method for qualitative estimation of reliability of large and complex mechanical and hydraulic systems is presented. It is especially useful for comparison and optimum selection of the structure at the conceptual stage of design when no other information about the salient features or parameters of the system is known. The method permits the identification and analysis of critical paths, loops and subsystems causing failure under different causes and modes. The method is based on graph theory and the graph variants proposed as reliability measures are also modified to yield realistic and useful results. The concept of system graph introduced in the article for dealing with large systems appears to be the most appropriate for analysis, comparison, selection and reliability estimates at the beginning of the system′s design.
Quality Costs Determination on a Production Line
Authors: Brennan L. , Cullinane H. , O′Connor C. , Punch D. , Sheil J.
Published: May 2006

The determination of quality costs on a production line is discussed. An approach to quality costs analysis is developed and illustrated employing a particular production line. This line which is devoted to the assembly and testing of an advanced computer system is fully described. A diagrammatic model of the production line is presented which displays points on the line at which quality costs can arise and the nature of these costs. A quality cost model for this line incorporating prevention, appraisal and failure cost elements is presented and their estimation discussed. It is argued that the modelling concept developed can provide a general framework for the isolation of quality costs.
Co‐makership: The Japanese Success Story in a British Environment
Authors: Smith G.B.
Published: May 2006

The philosophy of co‐makership as practised by Nissan UK is described. The necessary precursors to successful co‐makership are outlined and the way in which co‐makership is embodied in the “Nissan way” of manufacturing is discussed. The importance of the workforce in the process is emphasised.
A Comparison of Operator Response Times Predicted by the HCR Model with those Obtained from Simulators
Authors: Dolby A.J.
Published: May 2006

A case study of the analysis of operator reponse times following an abnormal event is presented. A number of timings of operator responses on a full‐scale nuclear plant simulator have been taken. These timings are compared with the human cognitive reliability (HCR) model. Agreement with the basic framework of the model is shown. Based on the data collected and on operators′ judgements on behaviour differences on simulators and the plant, criticisms of some aspects of the model are raised. The principal findings are: (1) the technique relies on the judgement of the analyst in the correct selection of behaviour type. The results of the analysis are very sensitive to this behaviour type; (2) the methods proposed for estimating the median response time are questioned, particularly when applying data from simulator measurements to the plant.
Importance Measures for System Components in Population Models
Authors: Luxhoj James T.
Published: May 2006

Population models have been developed for large‐scale maintenance requirements planning. However, these models assume that all component groupings are equally important or critical to the functioning of the overall system. Importance measures from the literature are reviewed and modified to accommodate varying age groupings of identical components. By measuring the relative importance of component groupings in population models, an analyst will be able to identify those component groupings which merit further research and development in an attempt to increase overall system reliability at minimum cost. Numerical examples are presented for the cases of components with and without repair after failure.
Availability Management: Concepts, Evaluation and Strategic Directions
Authors: Mohanty R.P.
Published: May 2006

This article examines the underlying paradigm of the total management process of productivity so as to observe the underlying drives. Given the variety of conditions prevailing in developing countries, an organisation may take a number of concepts and alternatives to improve its ability to maintain values and to create values for the future. It has been hypothesised that productivity may be enhanced by recognising the need to maximise the availability of organisational assets.
Quality Assurance in the Textile Industry: Part III
Authors: Allen Neal , Oakland John S.
Published: May 2006

The work described in this article concerns the practice of quality management in the UK textile industry. This part describes the detailed in‐company work, the results of assessments to BS 5750 Part 2 (ISO 9002), and the quantification of a system audit, using conjoint analysis. There was found a distinct lack of good quality management practices in the industry. A technique for rating quality systems was established.
The Application of Failure Mode and Effects Analysis at an Automotive Components Manufacturer
Authors: Aldridge J.R. , Taylor J. , Dale B.G.
Published: May 2006

Research carried out to develop and advance the application of design and process failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) at Garrett Automotive Ltd, Skelmersdale, is described. The work has been undertaken under the umbrella of the UMIST Total Quality Management Multi‐company Teaching Programme. From an analysis of the present methods of preparing and using FMEAs, procedural changes have been made which have resulted in more effective use of the technique. The findings include the reluctance of product engineering and manufacturing engineering personnel to take a leading role in the preparation of design and process FMEAs, respectively. The main reasons for this relate to a perceived lack of time or lack of understanding of the technique′s potential. It is also pointed out that, in the past, FMEAs have mainly been used to satisfy the demands of major customers and it takes some considerable effort to ensure that FMEAs are prepared and used in the correct manner.
An Updated Model for Implementing a Quality and
Productivity System
Authors: McLean Gary N. , Persico John
Published: May 2006

The Total Quality Management Process (TQMP) is outlined as a
development from the original concept of Improving Quality Management
Process. The model outlines how to promote more guidance and direction
to the organisation involved in a quality transformation effort, the
role of the steering committee, the importance of statistics and the
role of customers and suppliers. The model emphasises the importance of
process as a key determinant of results.
Real Learning in Unreal Circumstances
Authors: Neffinger G.G.
Published: May 2006

Over the last 20 years, the training and development field has
witnessed the emergence of a new paradigm, Experience‐Based Training and
Development (EBTD). Although EBTD is being used extensively, there is no
comprehensive guide to its theory and applications. The present article
is designed to fill that gap.
Managing the Transition Phase of Mergers
Authors: Somers Mark John , Bird Keith
Published: May 2006

Immediately following a merger, there is a period of anxiety,
confusion and upheaval. Employee reactions during this period have been
fairly well documented, and are centred on what will happen to their
jobs and their careers. Following this period of confusion, there is a
transition phase during which management is faced with the task of
integrating the human resources of the merged firm. Not much is known
about this process or about how employees respond to mergers over the
longer term. To gain some insights, a survey of employee attitudes was
conducted approximately two years after a merger. The study indicated
that acting consistently with emergent organisational values and
integrating members of the target are particularly important during
transition.
Sex Differences in Leadership: Leadership Styles and
Subordinate Satisfaction
Authors: Bourantas Dimitris , Papalexandris Nancy
Published: May 2006

In order to test some major hypotheses on leadership styles of
women managers, empirical research was conducted among subordinates with
male and female supervisors in Greek firms. Analysis of results showed
that neither leadership styles nor subordinates′ satisfaction differed
between employees with male and female managers. The conclusions to be
drawn from this analysis are that gender should not influence hiring,
promotion and delegation decisions, and that women managers should be
encouraged to express certain innate qualities which could contribute to
the improved co‐operation and team spirit within organisations.
Business Ethics 1980‐2000: An Interim Forecast
Authors: Malachowski Alan
Published: May 2006

The issue of business ethics is addressed with the ethical
motivations of business concerns coming under closer public scrutiny.
The reasons for and the conditions which have helped this renewed
interest in making business practices more moral are outlined.
Better by Design: Auditing the Computer Workstation –
Part Two
Authors: Mason David , Willcocks Leslie
Published: May 2006

In many organisations information systems are difficult to use and
so underutilised that managers lose substantial productivity gains.
Major problems stem from design processes based on an engineering
paradigm; these are critically assessed. How to build the software
interface through user profiling, clearing a user migration path and
designing suitable methods of dialogue are then discussed. Four
fundamental design principles are advanced; the design considerations
for workstations and their immediate environments are detailed.
Implementation of the important but neglected proposals elucidated here
would help towards achieving systems usability – productive, safe
preferred use in practice. However, wider organisational issues, for
example, personnel policies, work hours, politics, also impact on
usability. These also must be considered by management in the process of
achieving effective workstation design.
Computer‐related Crimes: An Educational and Professional
Challenge
Authors: Roufaiel Nazik S.
Published: May 2006

Emphasis is placed on the influence of computer crimes on
accounting education and training programmes. Computer‐related crimes
and their definition, perpetrators, modi operandi, and methods
of prevention and detection, are discussed. Recommendations are given
for improving the whole delivery of the accounting education system.
Countering Computer Virus Threat
Authors: Collier Paul A. , Spaul Barry J.
Published: May 2006

Internal auditors have an important role in communicating the
threat posed by the spread of computer viruses and advising on
appropriate control strategies. Computer virus is defined,
distinguishing between “true” viruses and other rogue
software like logic bombs, Trojan horses and worms. Some reported
incidents are discussed; the application of risk management as an
effective approach is considered. Control techniques are listed under
the categories: organisational, software and hardware. How
epidemiological analogy can be applied in high risk situations is
explored through a system infection control programme under the
direction of a system infection control committee.
Ethics, Law and Computer Hacking
Authors: Vinten Gerald
Published: May 2006

Computer hacking is discussed sequentially with respect to: social
and business ethics, fraud legislation, computer misuse legislation and
computer controls. Enacting computer‐specific statutes is the approach
that is increasingly popular – UK, US and Canadian responses are
described. But law can only serve as one plank in prevention and
deterrence of hacking, while enforcement will present problems. Computer
auditors and security specialists must play a more significant role.
Security precautions are summarised.
Environmental Audits and the Local Authority
Authors: Laxen Duncan
Published: May 2006

The value and role of the environmental audit for local authorities
is outlined. The audit must be seen as a tool to help formulate and
implement the Environmental Policy/Action Plan for the authority. The
audit generally covers three areas: a review of the existing
environmental conditions; a review of policies; and a review of
practices. The issues covered in these three stages are illustrated.
Are You Getting Your Money’s Worth from Internal Auditing?
Authors: Ratliff Richard L. , Brackner James W.
Published: May 2006

It is argued that internal auditing functions are more valuable
when placed higher, rather than lower, in organisational structures. An
informal survey suggests that many internal auditing departments in the
US, New Zealand and elsewhere in the world continue to be narrowly
focused on almost exclusively financial matters at relatively low levels
within organisational hierarchies. Two internal auditing departments in
similar private sector retail organisations are studied, one in which
the department manager reports to the chief executive officer and the
other in which he reports to a financial executive. Results show that,
if supported by additional research evidence, internal auditing at a
relatively low organisational level is likely to be far less productive
than making a more substantial investment in these activities at a
higher organisational level.
Preferred Learning Style: Relevant for Accounting Educators?
Authors: Foxon Marguerite
Published: May 2006

The Experiential Learning Model of Kolb, Rubin and
McIntyre (1984) and the Learning Style Inventory
(LSI) developed by Kolb is discussed in relation to
accountants. The theory and the Inventory are
examined, and various criticisms of the LSI are presented.
Research using the LSI to identify the preferred
learning styles of accountants and accounting
students is discussed, and compared with the
author′s own research in one of the “Big Eight”
firms. The difficulties in applying Kolb′s work are
outlined, and some suggestions made about the
usefulness for accounting educators of learning style
theory in the design and presentation of continuing
education courses.
Civitas Humana: Wilhelm Roepke's Reform Proposals for a Humane Society
Authors: Tamedly Lenches Elizabeth
Published: May 2006

Wilhelm Roepke wrote his book Civitas Humana in the early
1940s in order to elaborate economic and social policy guidelines for
postwar reconstruction in Europe. Rejecting both central economic
planning (collectivism) and laissez‐faire, he looks for a third
alternative. He finds it in a socially‐oriented market economy based on
decentralisation, designed to provide citizens with roots in their
communities and families. Roepke calls for a genuine competitive order
with the government setting the general framework and also interfering
in the market process itself to prevent monopolies and facilitate
economic adjustments. He advocates a policy of encouraging the private
ownership of homes and small plots. With such an “anchor of
property”, people would be able to withstand the inevitable
hardships resulting from economic change.
Syllogistic Deductionism in Islamic Social Choice Theory
Authors: Alam Choudhury Masudul , Alam Choudhury Masudul
Published: May 2006

Pure economic theory ignores ethical values but in Islamic society these are seen as essentially recreated entities of the social order. Islam presents its worldview not as a pluralistic value but as one that calls for the organisation of social and economic order around its well‐defined precepts, principles and instruments. The relationships between these are explained both philosophically and logically. Islamic social choice formation using syllogistic deductionism is demonstrated.
Ethical Implications of Time in Economic Analysis
Authors: Sun Li‐Teh
Published: May 2006

Those economists who emphasise the short‐run analysis and its
effects tend to value distributive equity more than productive
efficiency, full employment more than price stability, fiscal policy
more than monetary policy and collective necessity more than individual
freedom. Those stressing the long‐run tend to believe in the opposite
way. Any emphasis on one particular time frame, however, represents at
best a partial and biased analysis of the whole economic reality and at
worst a distortion of it. It would be necessary, therefore, in economic
theory and policy, for both the short‐run and the long‐run effects, to
be monitored with equal interest and intensity.
Perestroika and Gandhian Economics
Authors: Diwan Romesh , Desai Suresh
Published: May 2006

Perestroika is defined and the type of economic change it
implies is considered. Its potential for realising its objectives is
assessed by evaluating various principles of Gandhian economics. Perestroika relates well to swadeshi equality,
non‐exploitation and bread labour. It has some elements of aprigraha but completely lacks trusteeship. It is this lack of the principle
of trusteeship that may be its undoing.
Wants and Metawants: Marshall's Concern for Higher Values
Authors: Haines Walter W.
Published: May 2006

Although Alfred Marshall is usually considered as a materialist
concerned with the abstract theory of supply and demand, his Principles of Economics and other writings are filled with personal,
ethical, and social observations that mark him as an important social
scientist concerned with the “higher values” that are the
true end goal of human beings. Like Abraham Maslow, he builds a
hierarchy of wants from the biological needs, through health and
education, friendship and affection, esteem and distinction, excellence
and self‐mastery, and on to morality and religion. He seems to condemn
the me‐too‐ism of the present day and looks to an ideal future world of
perfect virtue in which competition and private property would be out of
place.
Interest Groups and Cultural Protectionism: Apartheid and Public Arts Policies
Authors: Lingle Christopher
Published: May 2006

Apartheid is identified as the outcome of a form of (cultural)
protectionism. Understanding the protectionist nature of apartheid in
the context of the use of state intervention to protect or promote an
interest group, allows one to establish criticisms of this system based
on a set of principles. While this analysis provides the means for
evaluation of consequences, criticisms based on these principles do not
require an evaluation of either the intentions or the consequences of
protectionist policies. Most forms of interventionist protection are
vulnerable to the same objections which are correctly raised against
apartheid. Thus, public choice analysis provides evidence and arguments
which suggest that evaluation of interventionist policies should be
subjected to stringent criteria.
Comments on Some Controversial Problems in the Economic Reform
Authors: Kuan Zhao L , Ti Ren Yang
Published: May 2006

The reason that the ten‐year reform has encountered difficulties is
not that there are mistakes in the overall target to develop a commodity
economic system, but that the decision makers cannot understand properly
the nature and structure of the commodity economic system and its market
mechanism. They take it for granted that a highly efficient market
mechanism will be formed if we practise “letting the enterprises
make their own business operation decisions and share the profits with
the government” on the basis of the original highly centralised
product economic system, and they always try to combine the two
incompatible systems of product economy and commodity economy. The
radical reason that these two systems cannot be combined is that their
ownership‐profit structures are mutually incompatible. The economic
targets of the government, the enterprises, and the individual workers
must be rectified.
The Trend of Changes in the Distribution of Workers' Income
Authors: Renwei Zhao
Published: May 2006

Before the economic reforms, the main problem in the distribution
of income in China had been egalitarianism. The economic reforms are
aimed at widening the gap between individual incomes in order to raise
efficiency and achieve the aim of the common prosperity of all members
of the society. This is the same as the result of Kuznet′s research.
Before the reforms, China practised a policy of freezing wages and
prices for a long period, leading to a situation unfavourable to the
young generation in the distribution of income. The situation is
undergoing a change in the economic reforms. China mainly adopted the
non‐market method in the distribution of consumer goods before the
economic reforms, which call for wider use of the market method.
Some Views on the Choice of a Strategy for Reform
Authors: Wu Jinglian
Published: May 2006

After three years of economic reform in urban areas, China has been
confronted with a series of choices. Six of these choices are examined:
the focus of the reform, its approach, its target, the pattern of
national economic macro‐management, the macro‐economic policy, and the
pace of the reform. It is held that the focus of the reform should be
the establishment of a planned commodity economic system, which is the
correct target of the reform; such a reform must be carried out step by
step, systematically and in the light of an integrated design worked out
in advance, with greater paces to shorten the period in which two
systems confront each other; the macro‐management of the economy should
be carried out by the central authority on the basis of an integrated
market rather than administrative decentralisation; the money supply
should be controlled in order to create a relatively relaxed environment
for reform. On each of the six aspects, other prevailing views are
analysed.
The Buck Stops Here!
Authors: Lansman Veronica
Published: May 2006

Individual Behaviour, Motivation Research, Simulation Models

If trainers are to earn the respect of companies with whom they work and
for whom they take responsibility for training outcomes, they need to
know that what they do is right. Trainers are often aware that they need
to modify their behaviour from course to course or adopt different
methods of training. However, they tend to rely on experience to make
these changes. The Motivational Training Style Model, which now provides
a practical training tool to help them, is reviewed. By linking
Behaviour and Language to the Styles of the Model, trainers have a
mechanism which enables them to choose the appropriate behaviour and
methods for a given situation. This encourages learners to achieve the
best learning they need in order to get positive results back at work.
The KAI as a Survey‐feedback Instrument
Authors: Rickards Tudor
Published: May 2006

The Kirton Adaption‐Innovation Inventory was introduced as a
survey‐feedback instrument during a team development workshop. The
instrument proved easy to apply and interpret. Furthermore, the
intervention appeared to provide the participants with a powerful means
of dealing with misunderstandings and in‐group conflicts. The instrument
deserves further trials by organisational change agents and trainers.
Management Trainees in the Hotel Industry: What Do Managers
Expect?
Authors: Baum Tom
Published: May 2006

The recruitment of quality management is an issue of paramount
importance to the hotel industry in all major tourism destinations and
the educational sector is the main provider of personnel with the
appropriate competences. Ensuring a close match between the goals of
educational programmes and the demands of industry is an ongoing issue
in the hotel sector as it is in other industries. A comparison between
the prioritised expectations of American and British general managers
with respect to the competences that they require of graduate recruits
shows that while major similarities are evident, significant differences
also appear, especially in the greater priority given by British
managers to competences in the legal/ regulatory domain, including
hygiene, health and safety. The emphasis placed by both groups on
traditional, customer and staff contact skills is noted in an age of
increasing technological impact in the hotel industry. Conclusions, with
respect to both cultural variation in hotel management and the nature of
hospitality education programmes, are drawn.
CAL and Banking: A Major Development
Authors: Young Justyn B.
Published: May 2006

The Chartered Institute of Bankers has produced Computer Assisted
Learning (CAL) courses for its Banking Certificate examinations. CAL has
many benefits. The user is actively involved in the learning process.
They can be used by individuals, colleges or banks in group teaching.
Many topics are suitable for use on a wide range of business studies
courses and can be tailored for individual needs.
Consulting and the Process of Learning
Authors: Evans Bill , Reynolds Peter , Cockman Peter
Published: May 2006

Builds on the work of previous authors to present a cyclical model
of the process of consultation. Also argues that when consultation is
perceived in this way the process becomes consistent with models of
experiential learning and learning styles developed by Kolb and Honey
and Mumford. This unification serves as a guide for practice and gives
further insight into potential difficulties.
From Training to Consulting: The Team Dimension
Authors: Phillips Keri
Published: May 2006

When a training team moves towards consultancy then the pressures
pulling it apart often increase, just when it needs to be at its most
cohesive. Explores this dynamic, considering both the “hard”
and “soft” issues. Pays particular attention to the role of
team building and the establishment of a secure professional home base
from which to influence the organization. A concluding appendix itemizes
a number of important business questions requiring consideration by any
internal consulting team.
Competence‐based Qualifications: The Case against Change
Authors: Stewart Jim , Hamlin Bob
Published: May 2006

Provides a contribution to the debate in the UK on the
appropriateness of competence‐based qualifications. Identifies a number
of weaknesses in the competence philosophy as currently defined, and a
number of operational problems in implementing a national scheme of
competence‐based vocational qualifications. Argues that the change to
competence qualifications is unlikely to bring benefits commensurate
with the required investment, and that the approach will be unworkable
for higher level professional and managerial jobs. The first in a series
of three, which is intended to stimulate critical debate within the
education and training professions. The series will end with
recommendations on a way forward within the established NCVQ framework.
The Organization′s Role in Employment Training
Authors: Joyce Paul , Woods Adrian
Published: May 2006

The UK Government started Employment Training (ET), a programme for
unemployed people, in September 1988. It quickly became established as a
major programme; in February 1992 there were 146,000 ET trainees in
Britain. Thousands of employers are involved in ET by offering placement
opportunities to trainees. Looks at the way British employers
participate in ET and considers some ideas for improving the
effectiveness of and pay‐off for carrying out training under the
programme. Refers to a special survey of 301 London employers in the
spring of 1992. This was carried out for the Central London Training and
Enterprise Council (CENTEC). Provides evidence that employers
participate in ET because of the possibility of recruiting ET trainees
to the permanent workforce.
Learning to Use a Wordprocessor: Effects of the Leittext
Method
Authors: Teurlings Christa C.J. , Robert‐Jan Simons P.
Published: May 2006

Examines the application of the Leittext method (a training system
designed to stimulate active learning by novices) to the domain of word
processing. A pre‐test/post‐test control group design was used to study
effects of the method, learning performance, preferences for learning
activities, learning processes, motivations and learning conceptions.
Concludes that there may exist some interaction effects of learning
style but the size of the group studied was too small to allow
confirmation of this. Describes some ways in which the Leittext method
can be made more effective for learning word processing.
Company study: building networks of small brands
Authors: Abernathy Chris A.
Published: May 2006

Examines regional marketing as a mean of stimulate growth on
national brands competing in stagnant categories, to build networks of
acquired regionally marketed brands for national clout and efficiency,
and to provide springboards for building brands targeted for national
distribution. Using Campbell Soup and Borden as case studies, looks at
different approaches to regional marketing and also considers some wider
implications of regional marketing for the manufacturing industry.
Complaints as opportunities
Authors: Plymire Jerry
Published: May 2006

Argues that, although reducing complaints has traditionally been
equated with improved service, in actuality, the surest road to
customer‐focused culture is through increased complaints.
Envisions the encouragement of complaints as the route to greater
contact between buyers and sellers and hence increased sales
opportunities. Offers methods of generating complaints; of measuring
feedback from customers; and finally, of increasing opportunities.
Brand building in the 1990s
Authors: King Stephen
Published: May 2006

Claims that the time has come to consider how to apply marketing
principles and practices in an increasingly competitive and rapidly
changing environment. Argues that as it becomes increasingly difficult
to sustain a comparative advantage over competitors it will become
increasingly important to position organizations as “brands”
in the minds of actual and potential customers. Examines the nature of
brand building and methods for building company brand and concludes that
brand building provides the organization with limitless possibilities
for growth.
Using Organizational Culture to Design Internal Marketing
Strategies
Authors: Wasmer D.J. , Bruner Gordon C.
Published: May 2006

Considers how recent concerns with service quality have led to
increased awareness of the importance of the role of the front‐line
employee, the service provider. Describes how internal marketing has
been instrumental in raising service providers′ performance. Develops a
method, drawing on organizational literature, for identifying segments
of the service organization which can be targeted by internal marketing.
Argues that the service marketer should view employees as
“customers” who can be analysed using marketing techniques,
thereby enabling the enhancement of service quality. Includes detailed
recommendations and an appendix.
Profiling Early Triers of Service Innovations: A Look at
Interactive Home Video Ordering Services
Authors: Greco Alan J. , Fields D. Michael
Published: May 2006

Examines the need for marketers of service innovations to be aware
of barriers to trial and adoption. Considers the example of the
introduction of interactive home video ordering services in the USA
which failed in part due to inaccurate market segmentation and
targeting. Introduces empirical evidence, based on Roger′s model of
diffusion, that early trier segments exist for innovative services.
States that the study′s findings are of relevance to other services such
as cellular telephone systems and electronic funds transfer systems.
Concludes that early trier segments should be targeted during initial
marketing carried out by service providers, who will have studied
potential markets and identified requirements of different segments.
Relationship Marketing: Pursuing the Perfect
Person‐to‐Person Relationship
Authors: Davis Illingworth J.
Published: May 2006

Uses a company study focusing on Lexus, a Toyota dealership, to
examine the importance of person‐to‐person relationships in sales.
Describes various features of the service strategy used by Lexus
dealers. Concludes with figures demonstrating the success of the Lexus
philosophy.
Accreditation of Prior Learning: Implications for Trainers
and Managers of Colleges of Further Education
Authors: McAleer John , McAleavy Gerry
Published: May 2006

The results of an investigation into the possibilities with regard
to the accreditation of the prior achievements of instructors in
community workshops in Northern Ireland are detailed. A number of
instructors were interviewed to determine whether they would be
interested in accreditation and what kinds of evidence of prior
achievement they would be able to offer. It was found that instructors
would welcome the introduction of an accreditation procedure but that,
in most cases, they would be unable to supply documentary evidence of
prior achievements. It is suggested that managers of further education
colleges should make provision for accreditation, as this will be an
important source of clients in the future provided that they are able to
offer appropriate facilities in terms of counselling and assessment of
experiential learning.
Primary Education: Issues and Trends
Authors: Blanc Emile
Published: May 2006

This article is an Information File made available by the
International Bureau of Education. It summarises issues and trends in
primary education worldwide, looking at general policy, organisation,
management, the content of curricula, and teaching methods. A
bibliography is provided together with a list of national and
international centres which may provide information about primary
education.
Education in Finland
Authors: Nurmi Veli
Published: May 2006

A brief update on new developments in all spheres of education in
Finland is provided. The qualitative and quantitative development has
transformed the pre‐school kindergarten system, created a new
comprehensive system and upgraded teacher training to university degree
level. Vocational education and modular syllabuses are all aspects of
the reformed nature of public education.
The Economics of Higher Education
Authors: Johnes Geraint
Published: May 2006

Recent developments in the economics of higher education are
surveyed and a number of avenues which future research could usefully
follow are identified. Particular attention is given to the demand for
and supply of higher education, the role of higher education
institutions as multi‐product firms, the optimal pattern of provision,
and the academic labour market.
Performance Indicators and Consumer Choice
Authors: Dennison W.F.
Published: May 2006

In the environment of Local Management of Schools (LMS) two
features in the cost structures of schools will dominate: high fixed
costs (on salary and premises) and the minimal cost of educating a small
number of extra pupils. As a result the incentive for a school to
attract more pupils will be extremely high, and in such circumstances
the consumer as pupil or parent will be sovereign. The likely effects of
this sovereignty are discussed, and a list of 25 factors (The
Competitive Edge) which influence a choice for or against a school are
introduced. It is suggested that the factors represent the performance
indicators which consumers will use. How teachers might adjust to
consumer perceptions while fulfilling their professional
responsibilities are considered, with a view to schools developing
marketing strategies.
Some Crucial Issues in Educational Management
Authors: Holdaway Edward
Published: May 2006

Some of the most crucial current issues in educational management
are related to governance, effective schooling and performance
indicators, conditions of employment of teachers, and in‐service
education. For example, what different types of policy and operational
decisions should be made by central, regional, and school bodies? What
are the most important indicators of school performance that can be
reliably assessed? How can we assure that teacher‐evaluation practices
are conducted fairly and appropriately so that the interests of both
teachers and students are served? How can schools effectively integrate
their teaching and continual professional development activities so that
minimal disruption occurs with student learning? These issues were
identified during study leave in 1988‐89. Interviews were conducted with
staff in universities, colleges, schools, government departments,
research institutes, and local education authorities in several
countries. The crucial nature of the issues was assessed by frequent
attention to the intensity with which interviewees spoke about an issue,
and the author′s subjective assessment.
Effectiveness of Primary Schools
Authors: Johnson Neil A. , Holdaway Edward A.
Published: May 2006

Both the criteria which can be used to assess the effectiveness of
schools and the means by which effectiveness can be increased have
received considerable attention during the last two decades. These
criteria have usually been shown to revolve around school climate,
leadership, shared decision making, effective teaching, and parental and
community involvement. However, identification of universal criteria has
been criticised on grounds such as poor methodology, differences in
context and culture, assumptions of causality, and neglect of the
influence of the external environment. Primary schools have goals and
styles of operation which contrast markedly with those of secondary
schools. Using approaches which differed from those commonly used in
effectiveness studies, two Alberta studies asked principals
(headteachers) to identify items which were (a) critical for planning
and (b) important for judging the overall effectiveness of primary
schools. Emphasis was placed on climate, high expectations for students,
leadership, the morale and satisfaction of staff and students, effective
teaching and student attitudes.
School Administration in China: A Look at the Principal′s Role
Authors: Washington Kenneth R.
Published: May 2006

The findings of a qualitative inquiry that examined
the role of school principals in the People′s
Republic of China are reported. Specifically, the
focus was on ascertaining the extent to which
principals are involved in deciding who will teach
and what will be taught. Responses indicated that:
(1) in China, principals have little or no role to play
in the selection and evaluation of teachers; (2) the
principal′s role is limited to the implementation
of curricula; and (3) the principal′s role is severely
limited when it comes to making major building‐level
decisions. Lastly, a majority of the
interviewees viewed the delegation of more
decision‐making authority to principals as being
absolutely essential to improving the quality of
schooling in China.
Staff and Curriculum Development
Authors: Heaney Liam F.
Published: May 2006

Considers some of the issues involved in staff and
curriculum development with respect to science
and technology. Some consideration is given to
elements of in‐service training that could give
teachers the necessary support to carry through
new knowledge and skills to the classroom.
Making a start in science and technology, aspects
of classroom management and the organisation
and provision of resources are considered within
the context of teachers′ personal and professional
development.
Action Research in Industrial Training in BSE Course
Authors: Au Yeung Y.N. , Gow L. , Lai C.C. , Ho W.F. , Sivan A. , Ledesma J.
Published: May 2006

Action research involves practitioners in attempting to improve
their own teaching through cycles of planning, acting, observing and
reflecting. This idea was adopted by a group of interested staff to
evaluate the industrial training in the third year of the four‐year
sandwich course, B.Eng. (Hons) in Building Services Engineering, at Hong
Kong Polytechnic. As there are foreseen difficulties in locating
suitable and adequate high quality industrial placements, research was
carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of the existing arrangement.
Assesses attitudes of BSE staff, students and industrial supervisors
towards the training. Results of the survey indicated that objectives of
the training were not wholly fulfilled. Suggestions are included to
improve the management of the training system.
Flexible Working Hours: The Benefits for Staff in Education
Authors: Ambrose Maxine
Published: May 2006

Reports on systems of time recording of employees′ working hours in
the UK education system during the 1990s. Outlines the need for a new
system by discussing new work patterns. Suggests that implementation of
a new electronic system is more beneficial, making recording hours
easier and providing more accurate information. Claims that it gives
more control over the working day, making flextime easier and
facilitating planning and the construction of management reports.
Implementing Total Quality Management with Action Learning
Authors: Tattersall Jim
Published: May 2006

It is suggested that using total quality management (TQM) in
conjunction with action learning can bring exceptional benefits to an
organisation, in terms of improved quality and personnel awareness. With
the example of Japan and the USA (to a lesser extent) in mind, the
methods to achieve a transformation in European work attitudes are
outlined.
Institutional Arrangements for Poverty Alleviation: The
Lessons of Success
Authors: Sanwal Mukul
Published: May 2006

There are an increasing number of countries where governments have
the political will to bring about a reorientation in the management of
programmes and projects, but do not quite know how to design the
supporting institutions capable of reaching the poor. The relevant
factors here are administrative and social rather than technical and
financial. The problem is how to share decision making with the poor at
the local level in programmes initiated by government. Experience with
recent business practice in developed countries is drawn on to analyse
lessons of success in programmes in developing countries. Changes in
public policies in the management of programmes to draw on the benefits
of partnership with the poor, whose passivity acts as the major
constraint in development, are suggested.
Trainers′ Perceptions of the Factors which Influence the
Transfer of Learning: An Indian Case Study
Authors: Hayes John , Pulparampil John
Published: May 2006

A study which examines those factors perceived to be associated
with the transfer of learning from the training to the work situation is
presented. It was found that trainers were more pessimistic than their
clients about the extent to which successful transfer was achieved. The
main factors inhibiting the transfer of learning were associated with
the working environment to which trainees returned and included the low
receptivity of bosses and colleagues to new ideas and their strong
commitment to rules and procedures which inhibited innovation and
improvement.
Managing Firms across Borders: Operating Organisations′ Behaviour and Strategy Formulation in Public Enterprises
Authors: Kaynak Erdener
Published: May 2006

Public sector enterprises show distinct
differences in structure, management
philosophy, and perfomance when
compared to private sector enterprises.
This becomes more evident when one
compares the performance of
developed – versus developing‐country
public enterprises. In particular, they are
a dominant force for the socio‐economic
and technological development of
developing economies. In recent years,
public enterprises have enlerged as
important income contributors and a
potent technology source to developing
countries through their active
internationalisation efforts. After two to
three decades of home country‐based
operations, public enterprises have
begun to enter and operate in
international markets, due to the impact
of home country push and host country
pull factors. The purpose of this article
is to examine the internationalisation
process of public sector enterprises
from developing countries. In particular,
their structures, operational methods
and procedures, organisational
behaviour and strategy formulation
issues important to operations in
overseas markets are examined for
orderly decision‐making purposes.
Public sector enterprise development for
international markets is studied
conceptually as well as analytically, and
a number of effective strategies with
contemporary examples are discussed.
Political Accountability and Development in the Third World
Authors: Ghartey James B.
Published: May 2006

Social scientists have done a substantial amount of work on the
causes and problems of development in Africa and other parts of the
developing world. Literature on the deficiencies and proposed remedies
of Third World accounting has burgeoned in the past generation. During
this same period, the boundaries of accounting have been expanded beyond
the traditional stewardship function to embrace the broader political
and socioeconomic concerns of society. However, the interaction between
accountability, politics, and the dynamic structures and trends in
socioeconomic development is a subject which is rarely broached in the
literature. Africa is focused on as an example of a Third World region
to illuminate the interaction between politics, accountability, and
development literature in social sciences and accounting.
Government Intervention in the Marketing of Tourism
Products
Authors: Gilbert D.C.
Published: May 2006

Government′s role in the marketing of tourism products is examined.
Government intervention varies with the economic value placed on
tourism. National Tourism Offices are the key agents of intervention;
their role becomes more important as competition in the tourism
marketplace increases and consumers become better informed and more
demanding. Activities may include: collection and control of visitor
data, creation and maintenance of trade contacts abroad, provision of
literature and expert advice for the travel trade, and regulation and
co‐ordination of an industry characterised by diversity and
fragmentation.