bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Major causes of problems between contractors and subcontractors in the Gaza Strip
Authors: Enshassi Adnan , Arain Faisal , Tayeh Bassam
Published: April 2012

Purpose

Subcontractors play a significant role in the Palestinian construction industry as about 90 per cent of the work is performed by subcontractors. The main objective of this paper is to identify and analyse the major problems which exist between the contractors and subcontractors in the construction industry in the Gaza Strip.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was designed to elicit contractors' and subcontractors' viewpoints regarding the most important causes of problems that affect the relationship between them. A total of 53 problems were identified based on a literature review, a pilot study was considered in this study and was listed under five groups. A total of 150 questionnaires were randomly sent to contractors and subcontractors. The respondents had extensive experience in the construction industry with average working experience of 20 years. The questionnaire was validated by the criterion‐related reliability test that measures the correlation coefficients between the factors selected for in each group and for all groups as one entity, and structure validity test (Spearman test).

Findings

The result of the survey indicated that, assigning part of the works to new subcontractor without informing the original subcontractor, contractor's financial problems, delay in contract progress payments, non‐adherence to the conditions of the contract, non‐adherence of the subcontractor to the time schedule, and lack of construction quality work were the most important causes of interface problems, while involvement in several projects with the contractor at the same time, weather conditions, and geological problems on site were considered as trivial causes of potential interface problems. Spearman's rank correlation tests showed that there are no differences in the viewpoints between contractors and subcontractors.

Originality/value

The research findings might assist practitioners to focus on major problems which have existed between the contractors and subcontractors in the construction industry in their present and future projects. By eliminating or minimizing these problems, subcontractors are encouraged to contribute significantly to the capital risk, resources, managerial effort, and business expertise supporting the largest industry in Palestine. The paper would be valuable for all academics and industry professionals involved in construction business in general.
E‐reverse auction design: critical variables in a B2B context
Authors: Aloini Davide , Dulmin Riccardo , Mininno Valeria
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper attempts to provide an empirical cross‐industrial study on critical success factors impacting on “price” and “process” performance in business‐to‐business (B2B) e‐reverse auction design.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on an online survey to a panel of academic experts and practitioners, the paper presents the empirical validation of a previous conceptual model using a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) approach.

Findings

Results demonstrate that a multi facet construct consisting of six main dimensions impacts on e‐auction performance. Moreover, these dimensions differently impact on price and process performance.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the complexity of the framework, the sample size and the qualitative nature of experts' observations, results should be seen as more indicative than conclusive and therefore generalization should be additionally tested.

Practical implications

Findings provide useful information for the formulation of managerial decisions in designing the auction event/process and supporting the definition of different negotiation strategies.

Originality/value

This article is a first attempt to test a conceptual framework on critical factors impacting on e‐reverse auction performance in a B2B context. A lot of conceptual papers try to systematize the numerous variables affecting e‐auction success and their complex relationships into a single comprehensive framework; nevertheless there is a lack of empirical evidence supporting these models especially in the B2B context.
Business process improvement of credit card department: case study of a multinational bank
Authors: Islam Samsul , Daud Ahmed M.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to study the shortcomings of the business process of credit card department of a multinational bank and to improve the existing business process efficiency and effectiveness through redesigning the process that eliminates bottlenecks and improves service quality.

Design/methodology/approach

The research investigates real‐life business process using case study methodology. It collects primary data through interviews of individuals, focus groups and secondary data from the investigation of company documents. It then uses SWOT analysis, Fishbone Diagram, Process Flow Diagram and a number of other tools to analyse and to redesign the existing process.

Findings

The research identifies that the business process of the credit card department of a multinational bank is unnecessarily lengthy and requires eight to nine days to complete from application processing to final account creation and to issue the card. It then designs a to‐be business process for the same business function. The proposed process reduces half of the time of the existing process.

Practical implications

The proposed business process reduces the cycle time effectively and uses the organisational resources efficiently to achieve better customer satisfaction. It also helps in growing card market share in this highly competitive and profitable segment of consumer products.

Originality/value

This paper illustrates a unique way of investigating an existing business process and designing a new business process that is very efficient and effective. The design process is quite generic which can be applied to other organisations, especially in the banking sector.
Intra/inter process continuous auditing (IIPCA), integrating CA within an enterprise system environment
Authors: Majdalawieh Munir , Sahraoui Sofiane , Barkhi Reza
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The pressure is on organizations to go beyond automating their internal audit activities and develop and integrate internal auditing into business processes of the enterprise. This paper aims to propose a “full power” continuous auditing (CA) model with three key components: electronic audit evidence functions; intra‐process auditing; and inter‐process auditing.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper follows a design science approach by identifying relevant problems from the current literature, defining the objectives of the study, designing and developing the “full power” CA model, and evaluating the model. The model supports business process‐centric auditing and enhances the business monitoring capacities of organizations enabling the fulfillment of increasingly stringent compliance requirements with internal policies as well as external regulations.

Findings

This work has attempted to fill the gap between the enterprise solutions offered by enterprise system providers and a structured approach to auditing within enterprise environments by proposing the IIPCA model which combines the automated controls inherent in the systems with continuous audits based on electronic audit evidence. The approach provides for auditing both within and between processes ensuring comprehensiveness of the audit process.

Originality/value

The paper makes a contribution by proposing a “full power” continuous auditing model on the principle of continuous monitoring and with predefined building block components; facilitating the integration of continuous auditing within business information processing in an enterprise using different building blocks; and giving practitioners insight on the adoption of the CA in the enterprise and how it will enhance their audit effectiveness, and audit efficiency.
Business process governance: a comparative study of Germany and Japan
Authors: Niehaves Bjoern , Plattfaut Ralf , Becker Joerg
Published: April 2012

Purpose

Business process management (BPM) networks have become an important theme in both research and practice. Drawing from governance theory, this paper seeks to provide a theoretical understanding of BPM networks and introduce three types of BPM governance: market, network, and hierarchy. Subsequently, it aims to study the impact of BPM maturity, organization size, and financial stress (independent variables) on the three types of BPM governance (dependent variable).

Design/methodology/approach

After a thorough literature analysis a quantitative study is conducted. Comprehensive data of 538 local public administration in Germany and Japan is comparatively studied by means of a PLS (model and multi group) analysis.

Findings

The empirical study provides evidence for the significant dependence of BPM governance on contextual variables: the configuration of the BPM network relies on the BPM maturity and the perceived financial stress. Also, such dependence does vary between the two countries. Higher financial stress leads to more higher network sourcing in Germany and to higher market sourcing in Japan, respectively.

Practical implications

This study suggests that the role of process managers changes over time. In immature organizations, process managers appear to work alone and struggle for resources. However, once organizations start to mature, the role changes to that of an “orchestrator of different actors.” Process managers in future public organizations (assuming a positive development of capabilities), both in Asian and European settings, must be able to collaborate with actors from different governance mechanisms.

Originality/value

First, the paper provides a governance‐theory based understanding of BPM networks. It introduces market‐type, network‐type, and hierarchy‐type BPM governance and thereby provides greater conceptual and theoretical clarity of this important phenomenon. So far, this research area has been under‐theorized. Second, the paper provides a theory that explains BPM network governance. Here, relevant contextual variables are taken into account, including the BPM maturity of an organization. Third, the paper contributes comprehensive empirical insights into BPM networks structures, governance mechanisms, and their dependence on contextual variables (especially the BPM maturity of an organization). Fourth, it provides an ample comparative theory‐based analysis of BPM networks in two different countries. Such an endeavor, as to the author's best knowledge, has not yet been undertaken so far.
The governance of adult safeguarding: findings from research
Authors: Braye Suzy , Orr David , Preston‐Shoot Michael
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to report the findings from research into the governance of adult safeguarding policy and practice in England, with particular focus on interagency partnership arrangements expressed through Safeguarding Adults Boards.

Design/methodology/approach

The study comprised a systematic search and thematic analysis of English‐language literature on adult safeguarding governance, a survey of Safeguarding Adults Board documentation, and key informant interviews and workshops with professionals involved in adult protection.

Findings

The effectiveness of adult safeguarding governance arrangements has not been subject to prior formal evaluation and thus the literature provided little research‐led evidence of good practice. The survey and workshops, however, revealed a rich and complex pattern of arrangements spanning a number of dimensions – the goals and purpose of interagency working, the structures of boards, their membership, chairing and rules of engagement, their functions, and their accountabilities.

Research limitations/implications

The research focus here is England, and thus does not incorporate learning from other jurisdictions. Whilst the research scrutinises the extent to which Boards practise empowerment, service users and carers are not directly involved in the fieldwork aspects of this study. In view of the absence of outcomes evidence identified, there remains a need to investigate the impacts of different forms of governance.

Practical implications

Drawing on this research and on governance frameworks in the context of related interagency fields, the article identifies standards to benchmark the approach to governance taken by Safeguarding Adult Boards.

Originality/value

The benchmarking framework will enable Safeguarding Adults Boards to audit, evaluate, and further develop a range of robust governance arrangements.
CEO turnover and firm performance, evidence from Thailand
Authors: Rachpradit Parichart , Tang John C.S. , Ba Khang Do
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine the relationship between chief executive officer (CEO) turnover and firm performance and the moderating effects of ownership structure and board structure with respect to listed non‐financial companies in Thailand.

Design/methodology/approach

Logit model is employed to analyze the relationship between CEO turnover and firm performance.

Findings

The paper finds that both ownership and board structure have effects on the relationship between CEO turnover and firm performance. The probability of CEO turnover is lower when the firm is controlled by family, the CEO is part of the controlling family, and board size is larger. Contrary to previous studies, sensitivity of CEO turnover to firm performance is higher with the presence of CEO duality and lower degree of board independence. When a CEO continues to work beyond retirement age, the probability of turnover is not associated with firm performance.

Originality/value

This study provides evidence that CEO duality and low independent board is not necessarily bad corporate governance practice for Thai companies and would be of interest to regulatory bodies, practitioners, and academic researchers.
UK, Russia, Kazakhstan and Cyprus governance compared
Authors: Johannesson Jokull , Palona Iryna , Salazar Guillen Jose Francisco , Fock Michael
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare and contrast the corporate governance standards of Cyprus, Russia, and Kazakhstan to those of the UK to facilitate investment decisions. The paper aims to discover governance gaps creating a potential for alignment to UK standards.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a qualitative case study of four countries based on the OECD criteria of 118 corporate governance measures.

Findings

The findings indicate that the corporate governance standards in Cyprus match 92 per cent of the UK standards, Russian standards match 75 per cent, and Kazakhstan ones 63 per cent. The greatest contrast to the UK standards were for Cyprus in the area of disclosure and transparency category, Russia's was in the area of responsibilities of the board, and Kazakhstan's was highest in the two areas mentioned above and low overall.

Research limitations/implications

The paper identifies areas of governance that could be aligned to UK standards. Further research is needed to compare the governance standards of the countries studied to international standards other than those of the UK's.

Practical implications

The paper provides insight on governance for investors in the three countries and aids effective investment decisions.

Social implications

The paper identifies areas of governance needing regulatory adjustment in the three countries and could influence government and industry policy.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper lies in identifying gaps in governance among the four countries. Thus the paper provides information for investors as to the corporate governance they are likely to experience, and facilitates development in governance regulation.
Convergence of corporate governance practices in the post‐Enron period: behavioral transformation or box‐checking exercise?
Authors: Bozec Richard , Dia Mohamed
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The objective of the study is to analyze corporate governance practices of Canadian companies in the post‐Enron period. The attempt is to investigate whether the convergence phenomenon evidenced in prior studies is limited to the minimum mandatory requirements imposed by regulators or reflects a real behavioral transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

Changing governance structure might be slow except in times of financial crisis, increased public scrutiny and reforms. These conditions are met in the post‐Enron period (2002 to 2005) where major reforms have been launched including the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act (SOX) in the USA and Bill 198 in Canada. The authors expect changes in corporate governance to be more important during this period, therefore, enhancing the robustness and reliability of their results. They measure corporate governance on a global scale, relying on the ROB index published by the Globe and Mail. The index distinguishes between four blocks of corporate governance, namely, board composition, compensation, shareholder rights, and disclosure.

Findings

The present results show signs of convergence. However, Canadian companies improved their corporate governance practices in the post‐Enron period mainly in areas mandated by regulation. This includes provisions related to the composition, attributes and working of the board of directors and board committees. No significant improvement is found in non‐regulated governance best practices.

Research limitations/implications

Overall, the findings suggest a lack of real behavioral change in corporate leaders. Instead, convergence in corporate governance appears to be the result of a box‐checking exercise.

Practical implications

If corporate governance is about ethical conduct and stems from the culture and mindset of management, these results show that corporate governance cannot be regulated by legislation alone.

Originality/value

This study goes beyond the minimum mandatory requirements and looks into compliance of non‐regulated provisions as well. Examining the evolution of corporate governance practices on these two fronts helps to further investigate the extent and nature of convergence.
Corporate governance regulation in Nigeria
Authors: Adegbite Emmanuel
Published: April 2012

Purpose

Whilst taking Nigeria's peculiar institutional configurations into consideration, this paper aims to critically evaluate the Nigerian corporate governance regulatory system, which is characterised by endemic corporate corruption, and to explore how regulatory policy responses can be strategically formulated to ensure corporate vitality and prevent market failures. The paper investigates the antecedents of effective corporate governance regulation in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs research method triangulation in order to provide an informative and comprehensive account. The following data collection methods were employed to conduct a survey of corporate governance professionals in academia, in practice (including board directors, managers, current and former CEOs and chairmen across different industries, as well as members of professional accounting and audit associations), and in the Nigerian polity: in‐depth interviews, focus groups, direct observations and case studies.

Findings

This study has provided some evidence to support the view that a country's peculiar institutional arrangements influence its predominant model and style of corporate governance regulation. These institutions may be regarded as integral and inseparable constituents of any particular nation, which can either aggregate to facilitate the success of regulatory initiatives and promote good corporate governance or constitute barriers to the implementation of good governance principles.

Originality/value

This paper primarily adds to the literature on corporate governance in sub‐Saharan Africa, whilst extending knowledge on the dynamics of corporate governance regulation in different institutional contexts. The paper further points out some transnational challenges, and suggests more caution, in the diffusion of corporate governance regulatory principles across different institutional environments. This further brings to the fore the need for countries to fashion out their corporate governance regulatory strategies in ways which deal with peculiar challenges, albeit within an umbrella of accepted principles of responsible corporate behaviour.
Revisiting joint working
Authors: Cameron Ailsa , Lart Rachel
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This article aims to consider recent changes to policy and practice in relation to joint working by returning to the authors' original article published in 2003 to ask what has happened in the intervening years.

Design/methodology/approach

The original article was based on research commissioned by the NHS shortly after New Labour came into office, at a time of increasing interest in the role of joint working in the provision of public services. The authors were commissioned to conduct a systematic review of the existing research literature about joint working in adult services between health and social services in order to identify broad lessons, which could inform future activity in this area. Here, they undertake an informal review of the progress made.

Findings

Having reviewed the original research, the authors move on to consider the reforms implemented by New Labour to better support joint working and the recent policies of the Coalition government. They argue that whilst the focus of government policy remains largely the same, some subtle changes have emerged. Finally, they consider more recent reviews of the evidence base which suggest that, whilst some progress may have been made, certain difficulties remain, specifically with regards the evaluation of the outcomes of joint working.

Originality/value

Having been approached by the Editor of JICA, the authors submit this paper for the 20th anniversary issue of the journal because of the impact and continuing relevance of their original article.
PNG's emissions path under the PNG development: strategic plan 2010‐2030
Authors: Mumu Elsah , Taiyabu Warren , Fairhead Lindsay , Levantis Theodore
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to consider how well the PNGDSP 2010‐2030 contributes to the target of reducing emissions to 70 per cent of 2010 levels by 2030. The PNG Development Strategic Plan 2010‐2030 (PNGDSP) is the Government's strategy for sustainable development to 2030. Although a small developing country, Papua New Guinea is conscious of its carbon footprint.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors utilise PNGGEM, a computable general equilibrium model of the PNG economy. PNGGEM simulations for the PNGDSP are used to examine the emissions path of PNG under the PNGDSP.

Findings

The findings reveal that implementing the PNGDSP would make substantial progress in reducing PNG's emissions in the 20 years to 2030. However, a strong commitment to clean, renewable energy sources will be required to remain below the emissions target in the longer term.

Practical implications

Promoting renewable energy in place of diesel for electricity generation, transport and industries could be an effective approach to achieve development that combines economic progress with low growth in emission.

Originality/value

The paper presents the assessment of meeting the target of reducing emissions to 70 per cent of 2010 levels by 2030 under the development strategies of the PNGDSP while addressing sustainable development and economic progress.
Caribbean RE: policies, competition and regulations
Authors: Iyare Osaretin S. , Leo Moseley L.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

A growing body of research has identified many barriers (such as education, identification of appropriate technologies, research and development in the indigenous environments and, perhaps most importantly, public policy) to the implementation of renewable energy (RE) programmes in small island developing states (SIDS). This paper seeks to examine the proposition that lack of an integrated RE policy, necessary non‐technical infrastructure and insufficient investment continues to limit the development and commercialization of RE technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The study surveyed literature, focusing on policies for supporting RE and the issues of competition and regulation. Caribbean policies for supporting RE were compared with those in selected countries.

Findings

The findings indicate that while undertaking a series of policy, economic, market and research and development (R&D) measures will advance the RE technologies and their deployment, it is also the case that regulatory mandates and financial incentives can lead to the same result.

Practical implications

The study represents a starting‐point for further research into the complicated interplay between competition and regulations in the development and commercialization of renewable technologies.

Originality/value

As we face fundamental issues of alternative energy use across the Caribbean region, the lack of an integrated RE policy, necessary non‐technical infrastructure and insufficient investment continues to limit the development and commercialization of RE technologies. Deeper understandings of this may help governments build a compelling case.
Who is listening? The SEC emphasizes importance of cybersecurity disclosure
Authors: Krus Cynthia M.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain the SEC's recent guidance on disclosure obligations related to cybersecurity risks and cyber incidents.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an overview of the guidance, including recommended mention of cybersecurity and cyber incident considerations in a company's discussion of risk factors, MD&A, description of business, disclosure of legal proceedings, financial statement disclosures, and disclosure controls and procedures. The paper recommends steps that companies should take in light of the guidance, including a review of cybersecurity practices, cyber disclosure, disclosure controls and procedures, regulation S‐P information security policies and procedures, and other legislative and regulatory proposals relating to cybersecurity.

Findings

The SEC staff guidance clarifies that even though the SEC's existing disclosure rules do not specifically reference cybersecurity, public companies should consider the growing importance of cybersecurity and make appropriate disclosures “consistent with the relevant disclosure considerations that arise in connection with any business risk”.

Originality/value

The paper provides expert guidance by experienced financial services lawyers.
SEC whistleblower bounties: ten things companies can do right now to stay ahead
Authors: McLucas William R. , Wertheimer Laura S. , Robinson Andrea J. , Jo Johnson Mary , White Thomas W. , Rosenfeld Jonathan D. , Dube Michael R. , June Arian M.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to recommend proactive measures that companies should take to manage reports of securities violations under the SEC's new whistleblower program.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explains the whistleblower bounty program and recommends ten proactive measures that companies should consider.

Findings

Companies have an incentive to investigate reports of potential violations quickly while also ensuring compliance with the anti‐retaliation protections.

Practical implications

Companies should take steps now to bolster internal reporting and investigative procedures and encourage employees to utilize internal reporting mechanisms.

Originality/value

The paper provides expert advice from experienced securities and financial services lawyers.
Dodd‐Frank clawbacks: hot issue for 2012
Authors: Earle James E. , Wilkerson Allison
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the requirements of Section 954 of the Dodd‐Frank Act, “Recovery of erroneously awarded compensation”, and what companies should currently be doing in anticipation of these requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explains what clawbacks are, what purposes they serve, the key requirements under Section 954, challenges with Section 954, including key terms that require greater definition and unresolved enforceability issues, and recommends what companies can do now to prepare for the likely enactment of the rules implementing Section 954 in 2012.

Findings

The Dodd‐Frank Act's clawback requirements under Section 954 relate to the recovery of “windfall” compensation without regard to misconduct if there is a financial misstatement or other change in financial results, and as a result more compensation was paid than otherwise would have been paid had the correct financial results originally been reported.

Practical implications

Given the number of key open issues with Section 954 and the potential sensitivities around a policy that could require companies to recover previously earned and paid compensation without fault of the executive, companies will want to closely monitor the rulemaking process in 2012.

Originality/value

The paper provides practical guidance from experienced financial services lawyers.
Developing brand identity for Slovenia with opinion leaders
Authors: Konecnik Ruzzier Maja
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the first systematic approach toward brand development of the country of Slovenia. The approach was of a holistic nature as relevant areas (i.e. economy, tourism, culture, science, sport) and related key stakeholders that affect and co‐create the Slovenia brand had been determined in advance and invited to participate in building Slovenia's identity.

Design/methodology/approach

Specifically, the paper presents the results of creating the identity of the “I feel Slovenia” brand from the viewpoint of 30 Slovenian opinion leaders. The author invited experts to express their opinions through a Delphi method, which was repeated in two iterations. The results of both iterations are presented in the paper. Their opinions represented the first step of the process in developing identity elements of the Slovenia brand.

Findings

According to opinion leaders, the key idea of brand identity should be related to Slovenian nature, which should also be reasonably incorporated in other brand identity elements.

Practical implications

The development of brand identity with opinion leaders represents the first, but very important step towards a systematic process in developing the country brand of Slovenia.

Originality/value

The brand‐building process was executed on a real example of the country of Slovenia, which has never been a strong country brand. The paper could serve as a case study for other countries in central and eastern Europe, which have not worked seriously on their country brands until now.
Financial challenges in the Indian hospitality industry
Authors: Sanjeev Gunjan M. , Gupta Kanika , Bandyopadhyay Rumki
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a practitioners' perspective on financial challenges prevalent in the Indian hospitality industry. The paper also makes an attempt to give useful insights into possible solutions to the issues raised.

Design/methodology/approach

The study assimilates data from senior finance professionals from a spectrum of hotels in India. The study involves the collection of primary data through structured interviews.

Findings

The study highlights that some of the financial challenges faced by the Indian hospitality industry include high financing costs, multiplicity of taxes charged, licensing and legal issues, working capital issues and eroding margins. The study also gives some useful insights to the possible solutions to the challenges identified.

Research limitations/implications

This paper provides some very useful qualitative analysis of the contemporary challenges and their possible solutions prevalent in the Indian hospitality sector. The findings will be useful for hoteliers, policy makers and researchers to deliberate on the issues raised. However, it does not involve any quantitative analysis.

Originality/value

This study makes a sincere attempt to bring forth some real life issues, challenges and solutions which would be a good value addition to the existing literature.
Managing diverse stakeholders in the context of destination marketing
Authors: Bhat Sushma , Gaur Sanjaya S.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to address the issue of balance of power among stakeholders in the context of destination marketing and to offer direction for managing its diverse set of stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach is used to provide a clearer insight into the phenomenon of stakeholder management in the context of destination marketing. This research uses a combination of three sources of evidence – interviews, documents and physical artefacts (in the sense of the actual web site) – and is based on the in‐depth study of the case of the development of the official web site of Tourism New Zealand (www.purenz.com).

Findings

This study shows that a wide variety of organizations and even the entire population of the country who are affected by destination marketing decisions should be recognized as destination stakeholders. Tourism New Zealand's leaders' understanding of cooperation and its value emerged as a major factor having an effect on the cooperation in the purenz development. The different objectives and perspectives of key stakeholders come through clearly in the case study which suggests that different approaches for managing the diverse stakeholders in the context of destination marketing are required.

Practical implications

A key finding that cooperation is not uniform has several implications for national tourism organizations (NTOs) around the globe. Study shows that the expectations of a cooperative process in destination marketing differ from group to group. This provides a useful guidance for Indian NTOs and NTOs in other countries who are responsible for tourism‐related policies in their country. The study makes the clear suggestion to Indian and global tourism practitioners and policy makers that management of various stakeholders in the context of destination marketing is not a given but a strategic choice which is affected by the existing network structure and climate.

Originality/value

This research is based on the data from one of the world's popular tourism destinations – New Zealand – and therefore, provides very valuable and practical guidance for national tourism organizations around the globe. Besides being of immense value to global as well as Indian practitioners, this study opens an avenue for students and academics to determine if there are differences in the understanding and expectations of cooperation among stakeholders of other tourism networks and to investigate the implications of different expectations of cooperation on the balance of power issues in inter‐organizational cooperation.
Summing up key challenges faced by the hospitality industry in India
Authors: Jauhari Vinnie
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to review and summarize the theme issue outcomes in relation to the strategic question: What are the challenges faced by the hospitality industry in India?

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on the findings of the theme issue contributors to identify industry developments from a global perspective and to explore the implications for research, policy and practice relating to the industry's development in India.

Findings

This paper reviews the main findings and relates these to the key issues and challenges and the implications for policy makers and industry practitioners.

Practical implications

The theme issue draws extensively on roundtable discussions with senior level practitioners so as to balance the analysis drawn from published sources.

Originality/value

India's hospitality industry is developing rapidly and yet there is limited data relating to these developments. This theme issue draws extensively on practitioner inputs and published sources to provide an authoritative contribution that addresses the Indian context and additionally explores the implications for other developing economies.
Adjudication enforcement: partial final determinations and insolvency
Authors: Marshall Heath
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine two specific circumstances where UK courts may stay the execution of a judgment to enforce a statutory adjudication decision; where a final decision is sought on a discrete point; and where the winning party is insolvent. In this context, there is consideration of what a “binding” decision means for the purposes of Part II of the Housing Grants Construction and Regeneration Act 1996.

Design/methodology/approach

A black letter, doctrinal approach is adopted, using two High Court decisions as a focus for wider critical reflection.

Findings

The cases where a final determination on part of an adjudication decision is successful are rare and will depend on the facts. Despite some unorthodox recent decisions, the likelihood remains that parties will struggle to challenge part only of an adjudication decision. The leading case authorities support the underlying principle of the Construction Act insofar as adjudication decisions are binding and should be enforced or else the Court will impose punitive statutory interest on the debt. This principle applies even in cases where the adjudication decision is successfully challenged in such cases.

Originality/value

This paper also addresses two decisions given by Edwards‐Stuart J. in the High Court, both of which adopt a novel approach to the relevant issues, and hence this discussion of those approaches demonstrates originality.
Extensions of time and liquidated damages in construction contracts in England and Wales
Authors: Brawn Daniel
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between extensions of time and payment of liquidated damages under construction contracts in English law.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper sets out the law relating to granting extensions of time and liquidated damages and examines the effect of one upon the other. The JCT form of contract is used as an example, although it is submitted that the position is the same under other forms of contract. Case law is examined to illuminate the judicial approach and highlight inconsistencies, and consideration is given to the position in other jurisdictions.

Findings

This paper examines the effect of delaying events in particular circumstances, including where time is “at large”, sectional completion, partial possession, set‐off of liquidated damages and liquidated damages after termination of the contract. Particular attention is paid to concurrent and sequential delays; where both parties are at fault, it may be appropriate to deny the employer any entitlement to liquidated damages and deny the contractor any entitlement to loss and expense.

Practical implications

An understanding of the effect that delaying events have upon the contractor's right to an extension of time and the employer's entitlement to liquidated damages is critical for successful project completion. This relationship is not always straightforward and judicial approach is not always consistent. Clarification is required as to the effect of sequential delays.

Originality/value

This paper is of value to researchers and practitioners in establishing the legal position in an area that is often complex and obscure.
Self‐efficacy as a mediator of the relationships between learning and ethical behavior from human resource development in corporate social responsibility activity
Authors: Sukserm Thumwimon , Takahashi Yoshi
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the relationships between learning and ethical behavior with mediation of self‐efficacy. The current study is distinguished from previous studies by its investigation of the relationships of three variables such as learning, self‐efficacy, and ethical behavior based on the four‐level model of Kirkpatrick and transfer of training by the application of the social cognitive theory of Bandura through the analysis of human resource development (HRD) in corporate social responsibility (CSR) activity in local Thai firms. This study aims to encourage organizations to prepare and construct “ethical behavior” through CSR activity.

Design/methodology/approach

Linear and multiple regression procedures were the basis of the analyses and a PASW statistics version 18 macro (syntax) was used.

Findings

The major finding was that self‐efficacy mediated the relationship between learning (KSA change) and ethical behavior.

Practical implications

The researchers believe that companies should promote and encourage employees to participate in actual learning of such kinds of CSR activity in order to develop confidence. To achieve this goal, in addition to the purpose of KSA, improvement learning emphasis should be arranged to support self‐efficacy of employees and increase a person's confidence in his/her ability to eventually perform ethical behavior. In terms of modification of the four‐level model, the company ought to add “self‐efficacy” into the procedure of the training and/or activity evaluation to increase its effectiveness.

Originality/value

The study examined Kirkpatrick's foul‐level evaluation model and transfer of training by the application of Bandura's social cognitive theory.
Behind brand performance
Authors: Trong Tuan Luu
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This investigation into consumer goods manufacturing companies in Vietnam seeks to discern if such constructs as corporate social responsibility (CSR) and ethics act as antecedents for brand performance with the mediating role of integrated performance measures.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 387 responses reverted from self‐administered structured questionnaires despatched to 1,452 middle level managers were dissected via ANOVAs and structural equation modelling (SEM).

Findings

From the findings emerged the interconnections between ethics of justice and legal CSR/economic CSR. Ethics of care, on the other hand, tends to nourish ethical CSR, which in turn positively impact performance measurement integratedness. The findings also paved the path from performance measurement integratedness to high brand performance.

Originality/value

From the results of the study, the insight into the interconnection pattern of brand performance and its antecedents highlights the magnitude of CSR and ethics training program as well as the adoption of integrated performance metrics in optimizing brand performance in consumer goods manufacturers in the Vietnamese market.
Middle managers' career success and business strategy in the Canadian aerospace industry
Authors: Dahan Jacqueline , Dufour Yvon
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The main aim of this paper is to investigate the way middle managers picture their career success and the business strategy of their firm with the following key question in mind: “Is there a relationship between the two?”.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is based on a “polar sample” of two companies of the Canadian aerospace industry that use generic business strategies which differ considerably along the continuum of strategic approaches from one another. A list of 50 people was made in collaboration with the executives of the companies investigated. A total of 74 percent (37) of the middle managers invited to be interviewed accepted the invitation. The interviews lasted on average 90 minutes. They were analyzed using NVivo software.

Findings

The analysis yielded a set of four empirical configurations of career success. The idea of central orchestrating theme has been at the core of configuration theory since its inception but few researchers have set the task to investigate them let alone in studying career success. Four core unifying themes were found: “just watch me”, “one for all and all for one”, “eureka”, and “thanks but no thanks”. Each of the company strategies provides a receptive context for no more than two coexisting configurations of career success, one leading to a rapid ascent and the other to a slower one.

Originality/value

Few studies have looked into how middle managers portray career success for themselves. Furthermore, the literature is wanting in another crucial respect: the researchers do not take into consideration the particular strategic context of the firm. This paper argues that the paths toward career success must be understood in the context of the business strategy of the firms that give them form, meaning, and substance.
Shadows and disorder: ethics in “dark times”
Authors: Thorne Kym , Kouzmin Alexander , Johnston Judy
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the “ethics and transparency‐accountability” paradox in which the oft‐repeated mantras of ethical luminosity, such as transparency and accountability, appear designed to assure one that all is well when such confirmation is, possibly, no more than part of an illusion – a superficiality purporting to confirm that what is seen is the only reality of public ethics.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing an analytical approach based on the comparative analysis of historical and contemporary isomorphisms this paper suggests that despite post‐modern voices about fracture, the multiplicity of “realities” and possible futures, there still remains an almost paradigmatic conviction that “visibility” is politically more efficacious than “invisibility.” Rendering situations visible supposedly exposes violations of ethical standards, professional norms and protects one from “criminogenic” elites. This paper questions whether light always cast out darkness and whether “Dark Times” demand relentless transparency?

Findings

This paper finds that constructing “realities” has always involved a manipulation of what is seen and not seen – what is real and what is illusionary. “Shadows” and “disorder” are also important in understanding how visibility, invisibility and ethics are parts of the pervasive apparatus of political and economic hegemony. This paper also finds that the translucence of accountability policies, supposedly encompassing the pillars of professional propriety/integrity, might be encompassed within Offe's “procedural ethics”.

Social implications

The social implications of this paper involve the development of a public administration able to calibrate whether the fluxing of visibility/invisibility/ethics is constructive or destructive of social capital and legitimacy.

Originality/value

This paper concludes that a public administration solely focused on transparency not only misdirects attention and political resources, but also is actually self‐defeating, leaving citizens less informed and more subjugated than before.
The partnership approach – an assessment of the present and future
Authors: Houghton John
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to offer an assessment of the partnership approach to reducing crime and disorder after 30 years of experience.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an overview of developments in the partnership approach, identifying shifts in the conceptual and operational frameworks over time, as difficulties emerged. The extent to which the partnership approach has been successful is discussed and the prospects for the future role of the partnership working are assessed.

Findings

Despite continued problems in relation to information sharing and the identification of clear structures of leadership within partnerships, the overall balance sheet is a positive one. It is suggested that the development of “neighbourhood management” provides the partnership approach with a mechanism that will allow the partnership approach to play a key role in the future reduction of crime and disorder in a period of constrained public sector finance.

Originality/value

The paper provides a rationale for the partnership approach remaining at the centre of the Ministry of Justice's programme for “Transforming Justice”.