bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wizard and warrior: neglected leadership roles
Authors: Bolman Lee G. , Deal Terrence E.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

In many companies, executives function as either the analyst or the caregiver. The authors believe there are two more appropriate leadership roles – wizard and warrior.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conclude that the responsibilities of the analyst and the caregiver could often successfully be delegated to managers below C‐level.

Findings

Too many managers are repelled or intimidated by either the warrior or wizard role. Managers who are comfortable in the roles of caregivers and or analysts tend to shy away from the possibilities and powers embodied in the wizard and warrior role.

Practical implications

In fact, great leaders need to be able to assume both mantels – wizard and warrior – and switch between roles as situations demand. It is a skill that managers can learn through persistence and practice.

Originality/value

By understanding these archetypal roles, leaders can embrace their own potential for both courage and imagination, and develop their capacity to face competitors and to find competitive advantage in possibilities that others have not yet seen.
The use of a research diary as a tool for reflexive practice
Authors: Nadin Sara , Cassell Catherine
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To provide a practical example of how a research diary can be used to aid reflexivity in the research process. Whilst there have been increasing calls for reflexivity in management research, little has been written about how to “do” reflexivity in practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative data from the first author's research diary which relate to three distinctive experiences are used as analytical examples.

Findings

The research diary was a valuable tool, prompting insights which informed a variety of methodological and theoretical decisions in relation to the research.

Practical implications

Suggests that all researchers should systematically use a research diary, regardless of epistemological position. However, what is needed first and foremost is a commitment to the pursuit of reflexivity and awareness on ones' own epistemological assumptions.

Originality/value

The paper gives a practical example of how to practice reflexivity, something which is lacking in the current literature. It is intended to be of use to those management researchers interested in pursuing reflexive research.
Users' perceptions and uses of financial reports of small and medium companies (SMCs) in transitional economies
Authors: Duc Son Dang , Marriott Neil , Marriott Pru
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report the findings of an exploratory study examining users' perceptions and uses of SMC financial reports in the transitional economy of Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with a wide range of users of financial information.

Findings

The range of users of financial information was limited, mainly the tax authorities and government agencies. Banks were considered to be another important user, but only by a minority of the companies interviewed. External users were concerned with the reliability of information provided by SMCs. In addition to the main indicators in the financial statements, cash flow information and forecasts were seen as important, but these were normally unavailable or poorly presented.

Research limitations/implications

As the study focuses on a small sample of users of financial information, the generalisability of the findings is restricted. Appropriately designed quantitative studies could be conducted to verify the findings of this study.

Practical implications

Accounting expertise was seen as the main concern in the directors' use of information. The study also found a low awareness of cost‐benefit considerations amongst the directors of SMCs. Auditing was regarded as infeasible because of the low quality of the audits available and inadequate capacity of auditors to supply the small company market.

Originality/value

The study offers rich data on the users' perceptions and uses of financial information of SMCs. This is the first time this type of research has been conducted in Vietnam.
Using discrepancy theory to examine the relationship between shared cognition and group outcomes
Authors: Coetzer Graeme H. , Bushe Gervase R.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

This empirical study tests hypothesized relationships between team effectiveness and a measure of shared cognition that quantifies the degree of similarity between knowledge of the actual group and beliefs about preferred group states.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model of shared cognition is based upon the triadic structure of actual‐ideal‐ought cognitive representations employed within self‐discrepancy theory. Self discrepancy theory proposes that the degree of discrepancy (similarity) between cognitive representations of the actual self and representations of both the ideal and ought self represents particular emotional situations. This study elevates the concept of a self‐state representation to the group level by asking group members to list attributes associated with the actual, ideal and ought group‐states (group‐state representations). Shared cognition for 56 project teams is measured by comparing the actual group‐state representations of each member with both the ideal and ought group‐state representations of the other members. This extends the measurement of shared cognition beyond the aggregation of individual measures and creates the potential for capturing group level cognition structures that have the potential to evoke affect, influence motivation and impact outcomes.

Findings

Hypotheses proposing a relationship between team effectiveness and both shared actual‐ideal and shared actual‐ought group‐state representations, mediated by cohesion and confidence in the team's ability, respectively, are mostly supported.

Originality/value

By examining the degree of similarity between perceptions of what currently exists (knowledge) and what is preferred (belief) this research examines evaluative cognitive structures that have the potential to evoke affect, influence motivation and impact on outcomes.
Goal attainment, satisfaction and learning from teamwork
Authors: Pineda Rodley C. , Lerner Linda D.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

Businesses have increasingly relied on educators to train students on teamwork skills that are valuable in a highly competitive marketplace. But what are students actually getting from these initiatives? Are they seeing the linkage between teamwork skills and goal accomplishment? Are they developing positive attitudes toward teamwork? What skills are they learning from their teamwork experiences?

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigated the relationship between student team member outcomes and the team activities that they engage into achieve these outcomes. Students were surveyed using items developed from a taxonomy of team processes found in the management literature, and measures of goal attainment, satisfaction and learning.

Findings

Results show that students derived different outcomes when practicing specific team process activities. Students who engaged in transition and action processes perceived that their goals were accomplished through teamwork. Those who engaged in transition and interpersonal tasks developed a more positive attitude toward teamwork and felt that they learned significantly from their teamwork experience.

Research limitations/implications

This study is meant to help educators fine‐tune their understanding of the linkages between teamwork skills and team performance outcomes in student team projects so that they can structure the teamwork experience more effectively. The reader, however, is reminded that the findings were obtained in the context of student team projects.

Originality/value

Unlike most of the past research on team processes and outcomes, this study examined which team processes are linked to each of several team performance dimensions.
Pre‐departure cultural training: US managers in Mexico
Authors: Celaya Leandra , Swift Jonathan S.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The variety of differences encountered when interacting with people from other cultures can be daunting for foreign nationals operating in another country. Consequently, many companies send their managers on some form of cultural orientation training, before beginning their duties in a foreign country. The problem for companies is: “Which programme to choose?” This paper seeks to examine forms of cross‐cultural training, and assess the relative effectiveness of each.

Design/methodology/approach

Potential participants were identified using a stratified random sample of companies that do business in Mexico. Individuals received a personal e‐mail, requesting their participation in the research. Those who agreed to participate completed a questionnaire and cultural understanding survey online.

Findings

The data showed that meetings with experienced international staff were the most common type of training. The second was lecture training. Behaviour modification methods and field experiences were the methods that were the greatest help to US managers in understanding Mexican culture. Analysis of the data would seem to support the idea that there must be factors other than training that influence a US managers understanding of Mexican culture. A possible explanation is the level of psychic distance between the cultures of those involved in the interaction.

Research limitations/implications

Some respondents felt that the scenarios were somewhat generalised and did not account for regional differences in Mexico, or for the great degree of cultural convergence that is occurring between the USA and Mexico, especially along the border between the two countries. However, another respondent uses very similar scenarios in her consulting and training practice. It appears, therefore, that the debates regarding generalised national cultures are as evident among business people as they are among academics.

Practical implications

Companies should use meetings with experienced expatriates as a central part of their training programme. Field experience, despite its obvious resource implications, should be considered as a key element of training for those preparing to work in Mexico. Companies should place greater emphasis on cross‐cultural skills for expatriates, both in terms of their initial selection, and their subsequent training. There is also the issue of the length of time spent in training: 20 of the 29 participants surveyed either had no training, or had less than one week's training. Companies that claim to take the issue seriously must be prepared to devote a correspondingly serious level of resources to the issue.

Originality/value

The paper shows how companies should look at cultural training not in terms of time‐limited, task‐specific, discrete chunks, but should seek to develop programmes that aim to educate the whole person.
Preventive effect of optimal replacement policies
Authors: Jiang R. , Ji P. , Tsang Albert H.C.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore whether or not a preventive replacement model always gives a solution with a specified preventive effect and looks at the relationship between the preventive effect and cost saving.

Design/methodology/approach

The age and block replacement policies with the Weibull failure distribution are considered. Measures of the preventive effect associated with specific maintenance policies are derived.

Findings

The sufficient condition to achieve a given preventive effect is represented graphically as a function of the system's aging intensity and the cost ratio of failure and preventive replacements.

Practical implications

The models developed in the paper will help maintenance engineers to know whether a system is aged or not and then they can make a decision on replacement.

Originality/value

The optimal replacement models considered in this paper give a solution with a good preventive effect only if the maintained system is sufficiently aged. The criterion whether or not the system is sufficiently aged is set by the decision‐maker based on specific maintenance situations or maintenance objectives.
Blades condition monitoring using shaft torsional vibration signals
Authors: Al‐Bedoor B.O. , Aedwesi S. , Al‐Nassar Y.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to validate mathematically the feasibility of extracting the rotating blades vibration condition from the shaft torsional vibration measurement.

Design/methodology/approach

A mathematical model is developed and simulated for extracting rotating blades vibration signatures from the shaft torsional vibration signals. The model simulates n‐blades attached to a rigid disk at setting angles and the shaft drives the disk is flexible in torsion. The model is developed using the multi‐body dynamics approach in conjunction with the Lagrangian dynamics. A three‐blade rotor system example is simulated for blades free and forced vibration under stationary and rotating conditions. Frequency spectrums for the shaft torsional and blades bending vibration are represented and studied for analysis verification purposes.

Findings

The torsional vibration frequency spectrums showed blades free and forced vibration signatures. The blade setting angle is shown to reduce the sensitivity of torsional vibration signal to blades vibration signatures as it increases. The torsional vibration signals captured the variation in blades properties and produced broadband frequency components for mistuned system. The shaft torsional rigidity is shown to reduce the sensitivity of torsional vibration signal to blades vibration if increased to extremely high values (approaching rigid shaft). The rotor inertia is shown to have less effect on the torsional vibration signals sensitivity. The method of torsional vibration as a tool for rotating blades vibration measurement, based on the proposed mathematical model and its simulation, is feasible.

Practical implications

There is a growing need for reliable predictive maintenance programs that in turn requires continuous development in methods for machinery health monitoring through vibration data collection and analysis. Turbo machinery and bladed assemblies like fans, marine propellers and wind turbine systems usually suffer from the problem of blades high vibration that is difficult to measure. The proposed new method for blades vibration measurement depends on the shaft torsional vibration signals and can be used also for verifying the signals from other types of bearings sensors for possible blades vibration condition monitoring.

Originality/value

This paper presents a unique mathematical model and simulation results for the rotating blades vibration monitoring. The developed model can be simulated for studying coupled blades vibration problems in the design stage as well as for condition monitoring in maintenance applications.
A dynamic opportunistic maintenance policy for continuously monitored systems
Authors: Zhou Xiaojun , Xi Lifeng , Lee Jay
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a dynamic opportunistic maintenance policy for a continuously monitored multi‐unit series system with integrating imperfect effect into maintenance activities.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the hybrid hazard rate recursion rule, an imperfect maintenance model for a continuously monitored single‐unit system was proposed. Then by introducing the “set‐up cost” concept, a dynamic opportunistic maintenance (OM) policy for multi‐unit‐series‐systems was developed. The optimal maintenance activities were determined by maximizing the short‐term cumulative OM cost saving for the continuously monitored system. A numerical example is given to show how the proposed dynamic OM policy proceeded.

Findings

The simulation results imply that the proposed policy is better than the policy to maintain the system units separately and the policy to maintain the system units together.

Practical implications

The proposed dynamic maintenance policy can fulfill the real plant environment that maintenance action is always imperfect and maintenance information is only available over a short term. Under this policy, the maintenance manager can easily and quickly adjust the maintenance schedule at any moment according to the working condition of the system.

Originality/value

The proposed model in this paper integrates the imperfect maintenance effect into condition‐based predictive maintenance, and the system maintenance schedule is dynamically determined based on the short‐term information of the system.
Opportunity development as a learning process for entrepreneurs
Authors: Sanz‐Velasco Stefan A.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To contrast and test two conceptualisations of entrepreneurship: “opportunity discovery” and “opportunity development”.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the development of a conceptual framework for the study, an investigation was conducted through semi‐structured interviews with the founders and managing directors of 20 start‐up ventures in the Swedish mobile internet industry.

Findings

The study illustrates how entrepreneurial learning can be understood from the perspective of “opportunity development”. This conceptualisation of opportunity incorporates market interaction and real‐life processes influenced by prior knowledge, resources, and the industrial context. It is especially appropriate in situations characterised by uncertainty. The alternative conceptualisation of opportunity (in terms of “opportunity discovery”) is more suitable in situations of low risk when initial opportunity perceptions are comprehensive, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on their products and services, rather than on potential customers and/or appropriation in the market.

Research limitations/implications

The study concerns one industry undergoing substantial changes during a specific period, which limits the generalisability of the findings.

Practical implications

Entrepreneurs might do well to launch ventures based on comprehensive opportunity perceptions.

Originality/value

The paper takes a novel approach to the discussion of opportunity in entrepreneurship.
Managerial work in small firms: summarising what we know and sketching a research agenda
Authors: Florén Henrik
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to describe the basic characteristics and qualities of managerial work in small firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The article draws on a summary and synthesis of five studies from the “managerial‐work research tradition” that investigates the behaviour of top managers in small firms by means of direct observation. Studies are evaluated by using research on managers' jobs in general, and some needs as well as guidelines for future research on entrepreneurial and managerial work in small firms are suggested.

Findings

Managerial work in small firms is described by discussing: how managers divide their time between different activities; managerial interaction and communication, and the elements of managerial work in small firms. Three limitations of existing studies are identified: they are difficult to compare; they adopt a simplistic conception of the constituents of managers' jobs, and more specifically of the relation between the managing actor and the context in which he/she works; and they fail to recognise to the value of inductive analysis.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies of managerial work in small firms have much to gain by considering the development that has been taking place within general management theory and in the study of managers' jobs. This article contributes a first step towards bringing research on managers' jobs into the small‐business research community.

Originality/value

The paper initiates a better understanding of the basics of managerial work in small firms, which has not previously been elaborated upon and is an important step in exploring the dynamics of small business management.
Corporate communication practice and pedagogy at the dawn of the new millennium
Authors: Goodman Michael B.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To explore the case for, and value of, corporate communication practice in professional development.

Design/methodology/approach

This article, based on the findings of the Corporate Communication Institute's (CCI) Corporate Communication Practices and Trends 2005 Study, aims to offer a positive relationship between corporate communication practice and productive global relationships as the underpinning of a sustainable business strategy.

Findings

Successful global businesses recognize the value of corporate communication in meeting the challenges of global business.

Originality/value

Successful professional development of the next generation of corporate communication executives will focus on understanding of corporate communication functions and on strategic implementation capabilities.
Corporate communication through nonviolent rhetoric
Authors: Dhir Krishna S.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine some of the problems associated with the prevailing rhetoric in corporate communication. It proposes the consideration of nonviolent rhetorical approaches.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explains corporate communication's affinity for aggressive, militaristic language in terms of constraint of time, and expediency and efficiency of standardized communication strategies designed for large‐scale effectiveness. However, such communication strategies run the risk of dehumanizing the intended targets, distancing the individuals, and compromising socially responsible corporate behavior. The recent corporate scandals of unprecedented scale, occurring in spite of vast improvements in communication theory and technology, have highlighted the need for alternative approaches to corporate communication. Further, it examines the prerequisites that must exist for corporate communication based on nonviolent rhetoric to be effective. The conditions that must be present in the environment, in the corporation or its agent, and in the method of communication, for nonviolent rhetoric to prove effective are discussed.

Findings

Corporations seek to establish and modify relationships by influencing stakeholder beliefs, values, expectations and needs. Corporate rhetorical success is reflected in enhanced reputation and respectability, which in turn has significant economic consequences. To achieve these ends, corporations expend considerable effort on communication to educate, entertain and inform their stakeholders. Yet, scholars have generally neglected to study role of rhetoric and language in public relations.

Originality/value

This paper would be of value to researchers and practitioners, in the fields of corporate communication, organizational communication, public relations, and strategic management, seeking to promote, practice or otherwise influence socially responsible corporate behavior.
The use of humor in corporate communication
Authors: McIlheran John
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how humor can be used to help improve understanding of a message, as well as to validate the findings of the Booth‐Butterfield humor orientation scale.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used the Booth‐Butterfield humor orientation scale to measure the effectiveness of using humor to maintain focus on written or verbal messages.

Findings

The results showed that participants who rated higher on this scale are more apt to understand and use humor in their daily communications with each other and the home office. The study also showed that there is no significant difference in the frequency and effectiveness of humor usage by participants based on age or geographic location.

Research limitations/implications

All of the managers for this conservative company are currently male. This limits any analysis of this study based on gender. It also removes gender as an additional variable, which could have complicated the results.

Practical implications

Humor has been proven to contribute to increases in compliance, learning, attitude shifts and enjoyment. It also contributes to improved organizational cohesiveness. By knowing whether an audience perceives humor differently, based on age or location, the sender can target the message more effectively.

Originality/value

This paper took the findings of the Booth‐Butterfield study and expanded the parameters to include a larger age range and demographic area to test the impact on the humor orientation scale.
Card sort technique as a qualitative substitute for quantitative exploratory factor analysis
Authors: Santos Gilmar J.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to advocate that qualitative research tools can replace and merge with quantitative ones, in order to simplify the task of gathering and processing information.

Design/methodology/approach

The study demonstrates how a qualitative technique (card sort) was successfully used to replace a quantitative tool (exploratory factor analysis) for the task of construct development, saving time, funds and sample units. All the steps in the card sort technique are described and exemplified by its application to develop two constructs in a research about newspapers internal communication management.

Findings

The constructs were tested through confirmatory factor analysis across a sample of 184 Brazilian newspapers, satisfying all fit indexes and other statistical requirements.

Research limitations/implications

Although the card sort technique successfully substituted exploratory factor analysis in this research, such a procedure must be used carefully. Whenever exploratory factor analysis is feasible, it must be done. Moreover, the study reports only one case in which the substitution was successful. Therefore, the technique must be repeated to get its validation.

Practical implications

As the processes of gathering data are simplified, the easier it is for managers to base their decisions on research and information.

Originality/value

The study proves empirically the feasibility of merging qualitative and quantitative approach – a procedure that has been advocated but hardly demonstrated. Card sort can be recommended as an interesting tool for corporate communications research, at both managerial and academic levels.
Risk regulations and financial disclosure
Authors: Combes‐Thuélin Elisabeth , Henneron Sandrine , Touron Philippe
Published: September 2006

Purpose

Risk orientated disclosure is a focal issue of corporate communication. Many provisions have been implemented in the USA and in Europe to promote transparency about risks faced by companies, especially by quoted ones. The increase of mandatory risk reporting applying to companies leads to the question of whether or how companies are compliant with these regulations. The answer itself implies further questions: what is required to be disclosed? And what is risk? The purpose of this paper is to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a qualitative methodology based on Huberman and Miles in order to explore the collected data (annual reports of companies, laws, accounting standards, professional sources).

Findings

The paper established an inventory of rules currently existing in order to identify the risk disclosure context faced by French companies and found that there is no consensus between the different pieces of legislation. It is demonstrated that the terminology referred to by companies tends to differ from one to another.

Research limitations/implications

The study focused on risk disclosure within annual reports of listed companies and on risk reporting within mandatory provisions.

Practical implications

A consensus on the definition of risk needs to be reached in order to assess company management, as well as their compliance with provisions.

Originality/value

An attempt is made to set up a framework which could eliminate deficiencies in the lack of consensus in laws and company practice.
From tinkering around the edge to enhancing revenue growth: supply chain‐new product development
Authors: van Hoek Remko , Chapman Paul
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To expand beyond existing research on the integration of supply chain and new product development that has a limited focused on the need to pre‐inform supply chain before product launch, the need for new product development to consider the impact of product design on supply chain operations and research has focused on ensuring product availability at the product launch.

Design/methodology/approach

This research note suggests avenues forward and areas for practice and research to progress.

Findings

The existing and limited focus on involving supply chain in new product development overlooks several central issues and opportunities that companies are beginning to explore and that can be supported by research. In particular the opportunity to focus on leveraging supply chain in new product development, for greater market impact and revenue growth.

Practical implications

Addressing the path forward, beyond limited approaches requires greater alignment between new product development and supply chain, it requires a focus that goes beyond just ensuring product availability and it requires alignment much further upstream in the new product development process. Examples of early progress in companies are provided.

Originality/value

In addition to summarizing existing research, new avenues for research and practice are offered that can tremendously improve alignment and the contribution of supply chain on new product development, for the good of the company as a whole. Specific research areas are suggest to enable research to support the realization of the path forward in this area.
Spanning flexibility: supply chain information dissemination drives strategy development and customer satisfaction
Authors: Zhang Qingyu , Vonderembse Mark A. , Lim Jeen‐Su
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To respond to an increasingly uncertain environment, firms are seeking to enhance flexibility across the value chain. Spanning flexibility, a critical dimension of value chain flexibility, is the ability of a firm to provide horizontal information connections across the value chain to meet a variety of customer needs. This research organizes literature on spanning flexibility and classifies it according to competence and capability theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The study collected data from 273 manufacturing executives related to spanning flexibility. The instruments used to collect these data have been validated via literature review and structured interviews with executives. Structural equation modeling was applied to these data to test relationships among the variables in the study.

Findings

This study develops valid and reliable instruments to measure the sub‐dimensions of spanning flexibility. The results indicate strong, positive, and direct relationships between flexible spanning competence and capability, and between flexible spanning capability and customer satisfaction.

Originality/value

This paper describes a framework to explore the relationships among flexible competence (supply chain information dissemination flexibility), flexible capability (strategy development flexibility), and customer satisfaction.
Predicting purchase intention of a controversial luxury apparel product
Authors: Summers Teresa A. , Belleau Bonnie D. , Xu Yingjiao
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The aim of this study is to determine, using the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), affluent female consumers' purchase intention of a controversial luxury product, apparel made with American alligator leather.

Design/methodology/approach

Influence variables evaluated in the model included: attitude toward performing the behavior (purchasing alligator leather apparel); subjective norm, involvement (fashion involvement); controversy perception (social acceptance and endangerment status of the American alligator); price perception (price‐quality schema and prestige sensitivity); personality traits (self‐confidence and self‐consciousness); and demographics. A mail survey of 1,200 affluent female consumers residing in eight US metropolitan statistical areas defined as fashion centers was conducted.

Findings

A total of 430 usable surveys were returned for a 36 percent response rate. The general linear model regression analysis revealed that attitude toward performing the behavior, subjective norm, controversy perception (social acceptance), and fashion involvement were significant predictors of purchase intention.

Practical implications

The model was effective in predicting affluent females' purchase intention for a controversial luxury apparel product, and results suggest the TRA could be used to predict purchase intention of other luxury products considered controversial. Producers and retailers of controversial luxury apparel products or interested researchers could use the model in their exploration of consumer attitudes and behavioral intentions. Luxury exotic leather producers and retailers could use the results as they develop merchandising and promotions campaigns for their product lines.

Originality/value

The theory could be used to predict purchase intention of other controversial and/or luxury fashion merchandise. Information about affluent female consumers' knowledge, perceptions, and purchase intention of American alligator leather apparel is provided, thus expanding the current limited literature.
Value and fairness in US textile industry partnerships
Authors: Divita Lorynn , Cassill Nancy , Ludwig David
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a demographic profile and to examine the types of value (social and economic) and fairness received from strategic partnerships between members of the US textile industry with their US suppliers and vendors.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a theoretical Relationship Retention Model by Gassenheimer and Houston and incorporating Transactional Cost Analysis, social exchange theory and distributive justice as theoretical frameworks, a quantitative instrument measured partnership economic value, social value and fairness. Standard least squares regression analysis combined with bootstrap analysis was used in data analysis.

Findings

Results indicated that a significant relationship (p>0.0001) existed between social value and fairness. These findings refute the theoretical model, which shows both economic value and social value to be equally important to a successful partnership.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations arose from adapting a theoretical model to a testable path model, a limited number of partnerships and that this survey did not involve time‐series or longitudinal research methods. Future research may include dyadic research, a longitudinal study or the scope of the survey may be broadened to the global level.

Practical implications

Industry can use study findings to evaluate their own strategic partnerships, while results may be taught in academia as part of a strategic planning or management course or used as a basis for further research.

Originality/value

This study fills a void in current research literature by: using an empirical approach to analyze strategic partnerships in the US textile industry, and testing a previously untried theoretical model.
Play in fashion: bridging China to the west with a look at Taiwan fashion branding
Authors: Hung Sharon (Hsueh‐Kuan)
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate strategies of European and Taiwanese fashion marketing and give explanations for the difference between a successful brand and an unsuccessful one.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews were carried out with international fashion brand managers and buyers. Advice of practitioners and a literature review are presented.

Findings

The paper finds that, by adapting to the local market and building brand image, value and design, many Western luxury brands have become successful in Taiwan and the Asian markets. Many Taiwanese fashion retailers have become successful in markets of Mainland China.

Practical implications

Taiwan's luxury fashion brand experience is a window into China's new luxury goods market. The current market in China for luxury goods includes 1.7 billion consumers with sales totaling approximately US$20 billion. Just as high social status and recognition in society are long‐held values in Taiwan, the attraction to high‐quality luxury goods will originate from these same cultural values in China.

Purpose

The paper provides useful information on European and Taiwanese fashion marketing strategies and what is a successful or unsuccessful brand.
Rediscovering Japan: some thoughts on change and continuity in traditional Japanese careers
Authors: Van Maanen John
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to comment on the articles presented in the Special Issue ofCareer Development Internationalon “Change and continuity of traditional Japanese careers” (Vol. 11 No. 3).

Design/methodology/approach

Commentary is provided to contextualize traditional careers and a quick overview is presented on the likely forces of change at work in Japan.

Findings

Continuity is seen as being more prominent in Japan than change because the so‐called employee sovereignty model of organization still holds sway in most large Japanese firms.

Originality/value

The paper offers some observations, exhortations and prophecies that pertain to the research reported in the Special Issue and locates this work in a context slightly one‐off from the work itself.
Career anchors: distribution and impact on job satisfaction, the Israeli case
Authors: Danziger Nira , Valency Rony
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the career anchor concept developed by Edgar Schein.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper focuses on the distribution of the eight career anchors, on a large heterogeneous sample and the differences in the distribution by gender and type of employment; and the impact of the congruence on job satisfaction between a person's career anchor and his job setting. The sample consists of 1,847 Israeli men and women who completed Schein's Career Anchor Inventory questionnaire. They also provided biographical data and indicated their level of job satisfaction. A new measure is developed and validated to assess the congruence between a person's career anchor and his job.

Findings

The most prevalent career anchor in the sample is lifestyle with the technical/functional anchor, second. Major differences were found between the self‐employed and salaried workers in four anchors. Significant differences between men and women are found in all but two career anchors: technical/functional and security. Finally, the study supports the hypothesis that congruence between a person's job and his career anchor has a positive impact on his job satisfaction.

Originality/value

The study furthers existing research on career anchors by using a large heterogeneous sample and offering a new measure of “congruence” between a person's job and his career anchor.
Volunteer overseas development workers: the hero's adventure and personal transformation
Authors: Hudson Sheena , Inkson Kerr
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide new information about overseas volunteer development workers undertaking projects in underdeveloped countries, specifically, their backgrounds, personalities, values and previous experience, motivations, experiences, learning and “transformation” gained, and possible impact on further career; the degree of fit of experiences to the archetypal “hero's adventure”.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a longitudinal study of a cohort of 48 New Zealand volunteers starting work on NZ aid organisation Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA) assignments in 2001. This included structured interviews and administration of the NEO‐ PR personality inventory and the Schein Career orientation Inventory pre‐departure and on return and an e‐mail survey halfway through the assignment. Data analysis was largely qualitative using NVivo software.

Findings

Volunteers had high levels of openness and agreeableness, and career anchors of dedication to a cause and pure challenge. The majority of volunteers fitted the main characteristics of the “hero's adventure” model, duplicating results for business expatriates by Osland and academic expatriates by Richardson. Key features were motivations of adventure and altruism, descriptions of trials and tribulations during the project, feelings of success, new skill and personal transformations in identity and values.

Research limitations/implications

This is a mainly qualitative study of small sample from specific national location. Longer‐term follow‐up needed.

Practical implications

The paper provides valuable information for potential volunteers, for aid organisations selecting and supporting them and potential employers of volunteers.

Originality/value

Volunteer development work is increasingly common, is undertaken by thousands in third‐world countries, and is a potentially life‐changing experience, but research on it is very limited. This is the first in‐depth study, where findings paint a vivid picture of its nature and effects on the individual.
Perceived effects of an MBA degree on employability and career advancement
Authors: Mihail Dimitrios M. , Antigoni Elefterie Kristina
Published: September 2006

Purpose

Given this rapid expansion in business schools and MBA graduate numbers, the purpose of this paper is to assess whether and how graduate management education offered in Greece makes better managers.

Design/methodology/approach

To this purpose an empirical research was conducted, interviewing 68 MBA graduates from a Greek business school, to assess whether and to what extent, MBA training can influence managerial competencies, employability and career development. More specifically, the paper tests the hypotheses that gaining an MBA will: provide graduates with business‐related competencies; enhance graduates' employability; promote career advancement and lead to increased compensation.

Findings

Analyzing graduates' perceptions and attitudes, the findings indicate that MBA studies have a positive effect on skills, employability and compensation and a much moderate effect on career advancement.

Research limitations/implications

This is an exploratory study that seeks to analyze the self‐reports of a limited number of respondents. A large‐scale national survey involving graduates from numerous academic institutions across the country would result in a more comprehensive assessment of the effectiveness of MBA studies on managers in Greece.

Practical implications

This study has shown that an accredited MBA program seems to add value to graduates' managerial skills and employability in an ever‐changing labor market.

Originality/value

Given the dearth of empirical research on management education in Greece, this study contributes to debates in the wider academic community discussing the impact of MBA studies on managerial jobs.
Workaholic worker type differences in work‐family conflict
Authors: Russo James A. , Waters Lea E.
Published: September 2006

Purpose

This study had three aims. First, to examine the validity of the workaholism triad as compared to the workaholism dyad. Second, to test the relationship between workaholism and work‐family conflict. Third, to explore the three‐way relationships between worker type, work‐family conflict (WFC) and supervisor support and flexible work schedules.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants consisted of 169 workers employed in the legal industry. The sample used was respondent‐driven and questionnaires were self‐administered. Workaholism was operationalised using two dimensions of the Spence and Robbins WorkBat: first, drive to work and second, work enjoyment, which produced four worker types (workaholics, enthusiastic workaholics, relaxed workers and uninvolved workers).

Findings

Support was found for McMillan et al.'s dyad conceptualisation of workaholism as opposed to Spence and Robbins' triad model. Specifically it was found that the work involvement subscale had low internal reliability and an unreliable factor structure. Results demonstrated that worker type was significantly related to WFC. Specifically, workaholics and enthusiastic workaholics experienced significantly more WFC than relaxed and uninvolved workers. Regarding the three‐way relationships, it was found that worker type moderated the relationship between schedule flexibility and WFC. Specifically, it was found that enthusiastic workaholics, in contrast to their workaholic counterparts, experienced declining WFC with access to flexible scheduling. Supervisor support was not significant.

Practical implications

The current study suggests that blanket policies, designed to promote work‐life balance, are unlikely to be effective for all employees. Indeed, it appears that although both workaholics and enthusiastic workaholics experience high levels of WFC, these two worker types may require different support mechanisms in order to achieve greater work‐life balance.

Originality/value

Despite their apparent conceptual linkage, the relationship between workaholism and work‐family conflict has not been explored in the literature to date. The current study contributes to the field of organisational behaviour both through proposing an additional dispositional antecedent to WFC (i.e. workaholism) and through uncovering an additional consequence of workaholic behaviour patterns (i.e. WFC).
On the vicissitudes of the study of workaholism: a construct at a crossroad
Authors: Zohar Dov
Published: September 2006

Purpose

As an epilogue to this special issue, this paper aims to provide a summary and set of conclusions to the papers contained in the issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviews the papers and comments about the findings and research implications.

Findings

The study of workaholism has a long way to go yet and there is much to do. There are still problems with shared understandings so much so that even after 25 years convergence has still to be achieved.

Originality/value

Provides a more objective commentary on the papers and stresses the areas that still need research and work.
Senior police managers' views on integrity testing, and drug and alcohol testing
Authors: Prenzler Tim
Published: September 2006

Purpose

To ascertain the attitudes of senior police managers toward the deployment of integrity tests, and drug and alcohol tests, in misconduct prevention.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire‐based survey was conducted of 114, mainly Australian, senior police managers.

Findings

Responses revealed very high levels of support for targeted testing in more serious cases of suspected corruption. There was also moderate support for random testing in serious cases. Views were divided on both targeted and random testing in less serious cases. There was very strong support for alcohol and drug testing. Overall, the results show willingness on the part of police leaders to embrace radical measures to combat corruption.

Originality/value

Integrity tests involving simulated misconduct opportunities, and related drug and alcohol testing programs, have been used in a number of jurisdictions as a means of revealing and deterring police corruption. However, such tests have been criticised as being unethical, especially in terms of “entrapment”. There are also practical issues regarding allocating scarce resources to a testing program and potential pitfalls with unintended consequences such as conflicts and injuries. Policy level decisions to develop testing programs will therefore depend to a considerable extent on the beliefs of senior managers about the utility and fairness of these strategies.