bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transitioning from total quality management to total innovation management
Authors: Prajogo Daniel I. , Sohal Amrik S.
Published: September 2004

Addresses the key question of whether there is a link between quality management practices and innovation performance. Presents an empirical case study of a large manufacturing firm in Australia that has been successfully maintaining its competitive advantage and growth. Analysis of the research findings suggests five major lessons that can be learned from the company. First, organisations need to keep vigilant in observing the changes occurring in the business environment and adjust their strategy in accordance with these changes. Second a quality management system needs to be implemented and aligned with the company's business strategy. Third, TQM principles that were developed in the manufacturing area can be adapted in the design and development area and provide a greater leverage for the business in the future. Fourth, the case study demonstrates a recursive learning process. Finally, it is highly important for organisations to redefine and broaden the application of the principles of total quality management and to understand the need to tailor these principles.
A revised failure mode and effects analysis model
Authors: Ben‐Daya M. , Raouf Abdul
Published: September 2004

Proposes an improvement of the RPN model used in the failure mode and effects analysis. The aim of the proposed model is to make RPN a better measurement tool. Suggests combining the improved RPN model with an expected cost model in quality improvement efforts.
Quality of customer service in supply chain system: a diagnostic study
Authors: Sinha R.K. , Subash Babu A.
Published: September 2004

Supply chain systems play very significant roles to improve the quality of customer service and therefore, derive considerable attention from managers of enterprises in pursuit of competitive excellence. Different strategies are used to improve customer service and different measures are also used to quantify this. A detailed diagnostic study was conducted in a large Indian company dealing with fast moving consumer goods. In this study, a new measure called Depot Service India (DSI) was used to measure the quality of customer service and using which various statistical analyses were carried out to study how the DSI values vary over time and among various depots, how these values are auto‐correlated, what factors influence the variations in DSI values and how various decisions at strategic, tactical and operational levels affect the performance of the system. The details of how the results obtained were used to evolve remedial measures to improve the quality of customer service in the supply chain system of this company are also discussed in this paper.
Assessing manufacturing/quality culture and practices in Asian companies
Authors: Sohal Amrik S.
Published: September 2004

This article uses data collected from direct observations made during visits to over 20 Asian companies over a period of four years (1992‐1995) and discusses the culture and managerial approaches of companies located in Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Taiwan. The main objective of these visits was to provide the participants the opportunity to gain an appreciation of the management approaches of internationally competitive manufacturing companies located in Asia and to gain an understanding of “World Best Practice” for a range of manufacturing/quality management methods and technologies. In this paper we present our overall observations relating to such factors as mission and purpose, culture of the organisation and consistency of purpose and of management. The evidence suggests, for example, that Asian companies have a long‐term vision and mission which is focused on benefiting mankind and a dedication to developing the knowledge, skills and health of the general community as well as their employees.
Introduction: Understanding organizational trust  – foundations, constellations, and issues of operationalisation
Authors: Möllering Guido , Bachmann Reinhard , Hee Lee Soo
Published: September 2004

This paper gives an overview of major issues in trust research, identifying common foundations and multiple constellations of organizational trust. In doing so, the paper also addresses important implications of theory development and empirical research. First, it provides a historical sketch of different approaches to understanding the phenomenon of trust, drawing upon various social science disciplines. Second, it discusses different levels of analysing trust in organizational settings. Third, it deals with important issues of operationalisation and measurement of organizational trust. Finally, it briefly summarises the contents of the five papers that follow this introductory paper in the special issue of JMP on “The micro‐foundations of organizational trust”.
Senior management relationships and trust: an exploratory study
Authors: Atkinson Sally
Published: September 2004

This paper explores the phenomenon of trust in the context of managerial relationships, particularly examining the extent to which trust, or lack of it, drives those relationships. The results of an exploratory study that highlights the significance of trust in this context are reported. The initial part of the paper sets out a relational continuum, extending between different relational types, drawing on theory already established in social psychology. The later sections report the results of the study that supports and extends the practical application of the proposed relationship continuum. Implications regarding the extent to which trust drives the framing and dynamics of different types of relationships, and broader factors that appear to characterise the relational domain of senior management, are discussed.
Trust‐building strategies in inter‐organizational negotiations
Authors: Koeszegi Sabine T.
Published: September 2004

One challenge for multinational organizations is to manage inter‐organizational relationships with customers, collaborators, competitors, governments and other important stakeholder organizations. Negotiations can be seen as a process to manage interdependence and conflicts of interests between parties. As a result, negotiation analysis and theory provide a useful framework to analyze dynamics of relationship‐ and trust‐building and hence are increasingly important for the understanding of inter‐organizational relationships. This paper explores the set of strategies managers can implement in negotiations to establish relationships based on mutual understanding and trust in order to reach satisfactory agreements and manage inter‐organizational dependencies and its associated threats.
Do personality traits indirectly affect women's advancement?
Authors: Metz Isabel
Published: September 2004

This study first assesses if women's personality traits of ambition, masculinity, and adaptability are indirectly related to their managerial advancement through training and development and work hours (the mediators). It then examines if personality traits (the moderators) influence the way in which women use training and development and work hours. A confidential, voluntary survey was mailed to 1,346 women working in banks. The results provide evidence that masculinity and adaptability are related to women's advancement through training and development (the mediator). The results also indicate that personality traits can function as moderators, by showing that ambition weakens the positive effect of training and development on women's managerial advancement, and that masculinity and adaptability strengthen the relationship between work hours and managerial advancement. Implications for women and banks are discussed.
Charity SORP compliance – findings of a research study
Authors: Palmer Paul , Isaacs Martin , D’Silva Kenneth
Published: September 2004

This paper describes an empirical research study on the first year of compliance by a set of “major” UK charities with the Charity SORP that came into force in 1996 and replaced the previous SORP, which had been recommended since 1988. This new Charity SORP, unlike its predecessor is prescriptive and has the authority of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 1995. From a sampling frame of top charities the accounts and financial statements of 125 major charities were selected for analysis (all of which were statutorily required to comply with the new SORP through the regulations). Additionally these top charities were selected as they were all subject to full professional audit, which should mean that the auditors would ensure compliance. Previous studies on charity accounts have recorded variations in accounting treatments. The new Charity SORP is mandatory for charities with an income of more than 250,000 and is designed to provide consistency in accounting by charities and a transparency to their affairs. The research found that there continues to be significant variation in the presentation of charity accounts and questions recent published research that claims significant improvements. The research also found that auditors, including those with charity expertise were failing in either advising or ensuring that charities complied with the SORP.
Opinion poll about tax audit
Authors: Arenas del Buey Torres Pablo
Published: September 2004

The research focuses on a survey addressed to specialists in the field of financial audit. The purpose is to find out their opinion on aspects related to tax audit, principally in its private but also in its public dimension. Some conclusions are: scope – a high percentage (75 percent) thinks that the scope of a financial audit with respect to tax field should approach all the non‐prescribed tax exercises; tools – the four most important tools used to obtain evidence of a fiscal situation of a company are the following: global similarities (71 percent); external confirmations (56 percent); computer systems (54 percent) and dynamic analysis (53 percent); and responsibility – there exists a slight disagreement about the hypothesis that the auditor may be responsible for the quantification of a probable contingency, but 56.4 percent of the respondents consider the auditor is responsible for a fiscal fraud when (s)he has deliberately hid information about it.
Mail survey reliability through follow‐up mailings: the case of auditor changes
Authors: Dunn Kimberly A. , Fenwick Huss H.
Published: September 2004

Two of the possible problems that may arise from gathering data by mail questionnaire are: survey recipients fail to respond, or they respond but provide unreliable data. Extant research has examined the effects of pressure to respond on increasing response rates; however, efforts to achieve a high response rate may produce unreliable data. The analysis presented in this paper examines the effects of increased pressure to respond to mail surveys on the reliability of survey responses. Our findings suggest that increased pressure to respond, decreased the reliability of information obtained. In addition, we show that personalization of the survey increases the reliability of responses. However, the conclusions concerning information suppression are not clear. The type of auditor change was a significant determinate of response reliability, but companies with greater financial distress were no more likely to give unreliable responses concerning the independent auditor changes.
Anatomy of computer accounting frauds
Authors: Seetharaman A. , Senthilvelmurugan M. , Periyanayagam Rajan
Published: September 2004

This paper introduces fraud as asset misappropriations (85 per cent of cases), corruption and fraudulent statements. Symptoms include accounting anomalies, lack of internal control environment, lifestyle and behaviour. The most effective tools for fraud detection are internal audit review, specific investigation by management, and whistle‐blowing. The paper details the fraud investigation process and the role of auditors as fraud examiners. The correlation of fraud perpetrators' personality with the size of losses is examined. Personality is analysed into age, gender, position, educational background and collusion. A strong system of internal control is most effective in fraud prevention. Fraud prevention procedures, targeted goals and improvements to system weaknesses feature in the paper. Fraud impacts on accounting transactions in accounts receivable, receipts and disbursements, accounts payable, inventories and fixed assets, and financial reporting. The monetary impact resulting from fraud is analysed by the type of victim and the amount of loss. Internal control and good employment practices prevent fraud and mitigate loss.
Internal Quality Management Auditing:An Examination
Authors: Askey J.M. , Dale B.G.
Published: September 2004

Presents a review and examination of internal auditing based on research
and practical experience gained in a medium‐sized chemical manufacturer
over a period of four years. Discusses benefits of management auditing
and proposes a structured approach to efficient and effective audits.
Analyses problems experienced in establishing an audit programme and
gives guidelines to help organizations avoid some of the difficulties
which are typically experienced.
Operational auditing education
Authors: Fernandes John J. , Poposky Margaret L. , Savage Linda L.
Published: September 2004

Posits that traditional text‐book‐oriented auditing education is
not enough to provide students with the necessary background to become
an internal auditor. Proposes that by forming a partnership, in order to
enhance internal auditing education, educators and internal auditing
professionals can improve a student′s learning. Investigates how this
can be done. Suggests that an auditing course provided by the Institute
of Internal Auditors (IIA) and the University of Central Florida (UCF)
could be the answer.
Anchor and adjustment heuristic effect on audit judgement
Authors: Presutti Anthony H.
Published: September 2004

Describes research which investigated the operation of the anchor
and adjustment heuristic in the context of the continuing audit
engagement. Specifically, the impact of information concerning the
previous year′s compliance test results was measured over several
reported error rates from the current year′s compliance test results.
The experimental instrument was applied to two classes of participants,
audit practitioners from public accounting and from a government audit
service. Each participant was required to supply an estimate of the
total population error rate using the information given and the risk
assessment methodology. The results of this empirical investigation
determined that the addition of the previous year′s information appears
to moderate the impact of the anchor and adjustment heuristic by
reducing the decision makers′ confidence that the sample error rate
represents an acceptable population error rate.
Coping with one’s boss: how to receive feedback
Authors: Knippen Jay T. , Green Thad B.
Published: September 2004

Briefly looks at ways on how to receive feedback from an employer or boss. Includes the following as key pointers: prepare to receive feedback; understand the feedback; contribute new information; analyse the feedback; agree on the next step; summarize the discussion; and finally, give positive reinforcement to your boss.
Creation, imagination, and business: is there a link?
Authors: Doost Roger K.
Published: September 2004

Looks at the possible link between creativity, imagination, God and accounting. Questions whether there is a link. Asks students to submit their thoughts on spirituality and God. Provides an example to show that a link between imagination and business does exist.
Viewpoint: how organizations should manage expense accounts
Authors: Hansen Peter E. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: September 2004

Argues that an efficient expense management programme is the most effective way of enabling managers to control their bottom line. Outlines the elements of an expense management programme ‐ budgeting, monitoring and corrective action. Provides several items of practical advice on controlling expenses and on the right attitudes for achieving success.
Managerial auditors’ mixed cost forecasting assumption departure error estimates for litigation and professional liability risk reduction: the electronic security industry
Authors: Rushinek Avi
Published: September 2004

Managerial auditors (MAs) are frequently relying on mistaken mixed costs (MC) forecasting assumptions. Two such assumptions are that MC are linear within the relevant range and variable costs vary proportionately with activity levels. Departure from these assumptions can lead to understating expenses, overstating profits, and even to fraud, litigation, and mounting professional liability risk. Develops a forecasting model of mixed cost error estimates, or error difference (ED). MAs can reduce the risk of litigation and professional liability by including such an ED in the internal control structure of a company. Uses Sensormatic Corporation and the electronics security industry as sample case because of the recent prominence of litigation and professional auditor liability verdicts. Focuses on the electronics security industry, but some of the findings may apply to other industries.
Toolkits and the assessment of outcomes: the ICT EVALKIT Project
Authors: Haswell Gayle , Banwell Linda
Published: September 2004

Describes the activities, processes and outcomes involved in the development of a searchable Web‐based directory of toolkits to support the evaluation of information communication technologies in the higher education/further education sector. Explains the definitions and terminology used to define the notion of toolkits, evaluation and the tools listed within the directory. Briefly considers those tools and toolkits included in the database relating to performance measures and quality assessment. Concludes that the main outcome of this project has been the realisation that the notion and form of a toolkit and the tools held within has yet to be clearly established
Standardizing statistics of the hybrid library: issues and perspectives
Authors: Mundt Sebastian
Published: September 2004

For decades, standards on library statistics have provided a solid knowledge base for collecting, reporting and comparing statistical data and therefore been widely respected by libraries nation‐ and world‐wide as an extremely useful and important framework. As electronic resources have established their place besides traditional media, the statistics of library collections and their use have become increasingly complex, partially incomplete and even inconsistent. In this environment, many libraries are facing difficulties in collecting and making use of the data for management decisions and planning. By analysing the environment and its practical, formal and technical obstructions, this contribution tries to identify issues and perspectives for future standardization of library statistics.
The use of electronic information services by students at Glasgow Caledonian University
Authors: Crawford John
Published: September 2004

Investigates, through the use of questionnaires, the use of electronic information services by students at Glasgow Caledonian University in a programme of research undertaken in conjunction with Leeds Metropolitan University. Presents a series of conclusions.
A library and teaching center collaboration to assess the impact of using digital images on teaching, learning, and library support
Authors: Nitecki Danuta A. , Rando William
Published: September 2004

Describes the electronic library initiative project at Yale University and summarizes the first‐year collaborative research methodologies and initial results. Concludes that it offers several core contributions both through practical insights into the role of digital images in teaching, learning and service support, and in evolving a model of discovery and expression of an assessment project results.
Measuring electronic information resource use: towards a transferable quality framework for measuring value
Authors: Pickard Alison Jane , Dixon Pat
Published: September 2004

Focuses on the research outcomes of a longitudinal, in‐depth investigation of the electronic information resource use of 16 young people. Aims to provide a flexible, qualitative framework that can be applied within local contexts to enable context‐specific understanding of electronic information resource use. Concludes that, although the groups may remain consistent, personal constructions and notions of value within those groups is more likely to be context‐specific.
Challenges of UV curable ink‐jet printing inks – a formulator's perspective
Authors: Hancock Andrew , Lin Long
Published: September 2004

UV curing technology has a number of unique advantages over the conventional curing technologies. However, until very recently, there had been few successful examples of the application of UV curing technology in ink‐jet printing. Several reasons, including the requirement of low viscosity for ink‐jet printing inks, were responsible for the lack of development of UV curable ink‐jet printing inks. This paper describes, in some details, the challenges that a formulator had to face in developing UV curable ink‐jet printing inks, together with information on the status quo of UV curable ink‐jet printing technology.
A study of anti‐corrosive effects of Artemisia oil on steel
Authors: Bouyanzer A. , Hammouti B.
Published: September 2004

The effects of natural Artemisia oil on the corrosion of steel in molar hydrochloric acid were studied by the measurements of weight loss, electrochemical and EIS polarisation. The results obtained revealed that Artemisia oil reduced the rate of corrosion. The corrosion inhibition efficiency increased with the increase of inhibitor concentration. Potentiodynamic polarisation studies clearly revealed that the presence of the natural Artemisia oil did not alter the mechanism of the hydrogen evolution reaction and acted essentially as a cathodic inhibitor. Good agreement between gravimetric and electrochemical polarisation results was noted. The effect of temperature on the corrosion behaviour of steel in 1M HCl, with and without the oil in the temperature range of 308‐353 K, indicated that inhibition efficiency increased with temperature. The adsorption of Artemisia oil on the steel is followed by Frumkin adsorption isotherm.
A study of the effects of the process parameters on the flexographic printing problem “dot bridging” – Part I: experimental design and linear run length
Authors: Galton D.J.
Published: September 2004

Commercial pressure has forced improvements in the reduction of press down time. One restraining factor for the flexographic printing process has been the lack of predictability and consistency. The results of a factorial designed experiment, are reported in this paper. Investigations into the complex interactions of many variable factors that take place during the printing process were carried out. Various statistical methods were employed for the design of the experiment and for the interpretation of experimental data generated. The results of the investigation have been used to optimise the flexographic printing techniques to significantly manipulate the properties of various production components for the end‐use application to enhance the plates printing performance and consistency.
An investigation on the moisture resistance of wood finishes
Authors: Fotsing J.A.M. , Ndadja G.
Published: September 2004

Impermeability tests had been carried out to compare the moisture resistance of two wood finish paints available on the Cameroonian market. Two types of paints had been used namely, an oil‐based paint and an emulsion paint, both manufactured in Cameroon by SMALTO Company. It appeared that the oil‐based paint gave better protection to wood in wet environments, areas with strong pluviometry (where the quantity of humidity in the air is very high). The emulsion paint was found to be suitable for use for interior decorative purpose. It was suggested that a glycerophthalic lacquer could be used for wood finishing in areas subjected to the emissions of water vapour or requiring frequent washing (bathroom, kitchen, WC, etc.). In addition, the number of coating layers should be increased to enhance the moisture resistance of such paint films.
The role of partnerships in the delivery of local government museum services
Authors: Wilson Lesley‐Ann , Boyle Emily
Published: September 2004

Partnerships have become more prevalent in the delivery of public services, particularly in relation to non‐traditional sectors such as culture, arts and leisure. This paper presents a synthesis of research on partnerships and their relevance to local museums in the light of recent government policy. The relevance of partnerships to this sector is explored through a case study of four local authorities in Northern Ireland that partnered to form a regional museum service. Qualitative interviews revealed that despite the small scale of the partnership, a number of benefits have been delivered and that the partnership mechanism can work for organisations with little in the way of resources. Much of the success of the case study partnership can be attributed to the skills and leadership of the appointed member of staff. Further research is recommended to map the type, scope and purpose of museum partnerships in order to develop a typology for this sector and to evaluate current government policy.
Planning Your Total Career and Life Portfolio
Authors: Zajas Jay J.
Published: September 2004

Provides a case study of a group process experience for personal growth
and career development. A small group of adults meets under the
supervision of their leader and co‐leader for the purpose of improving
their interpersonal communication, personal growth, and career
development perspective. This personal growth adult group completes
several structured readiness, interviewing, and learning activities to
assist its members to achieve their individual contract goals. Members
prepare a detailed autobiography to target their original life scripts
and themes. Scripts are then revised using a number of self‐assessment
and group psychotherapy interventions. In a non‐threatening, open
atmosphere, each member is encouraged to reach for greater personal
growth or career development. Presents evaluative comments and format
suggestions from an outside observer′s perspective.
Restructuring for TQM: a review
Authors: Jabnoun Naceur
Published: September 2004

TQM gurus have mentioned little about organization structure. We don’t even have a clear answer on whether a TQM organization is centralized or not. Many companies superimpose their TQM committees on their existing structures, overlooking the fact the success of any organization rests heavily on the compatibility between its strategy and its structure. Restructuring is absolutely necessary for a successful TQM implementation. This paper presents a review of the literature on restructuring for a successful TQM implementation.
ISO 9000 certification and quality management in Spain: results of a national survey
Authors: Escanciano Carmen , Fernández Esteban , Vázquez Camilo
Published: September 2004

The increasing demand of mechanisms making easier the choice of a provider, both in the domestic and global markets, has contributed to ISO 9000 certification possession becoming a requisite for the development of commercial relations. The present article is based upon the results of an empirical research in which the effectiveness and reach of ISO 9000 certification is studied at a multi‐sector level in Spain. Mail surveys were carried out on 3,864 certificated organizations, and 749 (19.4 per cent) responded. Results indicated that certification helps in terms of being a management tool, a source of competitive advantages and its potential to stimulate the company transition towards total quality management.
Linking QS‐9000 to quality performance outcomes
Authors: Johnson Dana M.
Published: September 2004

Although many suppliers in the automotive industry have obtained quality system requirements, QS‐9000 registration/certification, there does not appear to be a direct link to all operational performance outcomes. As companies improve their quality performance as measured by parts per million, other areas such as delivery performance are experiencing missed deadlines. Organizational factors play a key role in long‐term QS‐9000 success change efforts. This presentation summarizes the results from an empirical study of Johnson Controls, a major Tier 1 supplier, and their key suppliers in the USA and Canada who participated. Although the results focus on QS‐9000, some of the theories and practical application could apply to any company desiring registration or compliance to a quality standard.
Techno‐speed change – the race to position your organization to be a fierce and flexible competitor: leading
Authors: Moran John W. , Mead Jeffrey M.
Published: September 2004

Change is often brought about by an organization’s old ways being shown to be ineffective and inefficient in the currrent market environment. For most organizations this is usually found out too late in today’s rapid pace of Internet speed change. Organizations must approach change just as the most successful “techno‐individuals” have, by constantly reinventing and making minor changes, so they are always positioned for the next wave of change in the marketplace. Their workforces then view change as a phenomenon to embrace and not fear. It is normal to change if one is always doing it. Organizations must ask themselves “What do we need to change to be a fierce and flexible force in our marketplace?” “How have we changed this week? How must we change next week?”.
An investigation into Japanese 5‐S practice in UK industry
Authors: Warwood Stephen J. , Knowles Graeme
Published: September 2004

This paper presents the findings of a survey on the use of the Japanese practice of 5‐S for workplace organisation in the UK. The research methodology was to review the literature, conduct a survey using a questionnaire, follow‐up the questionnaire with a series of semi‐structured interviews and critique findings with the literature. The conclusions of the research are that practice and theory are closely related and any differences in the implementation of 5‐S can be attributed mainly to the maturity of the 5‐S programme. Clearly, there is great scope for the application of 5‐S in the non‐manufacturing environment.
Quality management and e‐commerce: the role of codes of conduct governing the use of technology
Authors: Iles Jennifer , Healy Michael
Published: September 2004

Discussion of the relationship between TQM and information and communications technology (ICT) normally focuses either on technological issues, or on the role of ICT in enabling the achievement of quality goals by means of business process re‐engineering. Less attention has been paid to the effects that the increased utilisation of ICT is having on management style, and on the quality of relationships. This paper reports on research undertaken into the development, implementation and enforcement of codes of conduct designed to govern employees' use of ICT. A study of 125 London‐based employers found that, although such codes had been introduced in nearly three‐quarters of the organisations, the majority failed to address a key issue of concern to customers – privacy of personal data. Furthermore, the codes themselves were seen to have little influence on the behaviour of employees. The reasons for this are discussed within a TQM framework, and suggestions made as to how compliance might be improved in future.
Lead users concept in building design: its applicability to member selection in technologically innovative projects
Authors: Intrachooto Singh
Published: September 2004

The lead user concept developed by Eric von Hippel is perhaps the only formal method designed specifically for identifying innovators. This paper discusses the applicability of von Hippel's lead user concept in the architectural industry where technological innovations are necessary yet gravely scarce. In order to examine the applicability of the lead user method, a set of seven case studies of novel energy efficient solutions found in built facilities in Europe and North America were analyzed. The result of the study indicates that the method may not be suitable for identifying the likely source of innovation if the innovation does not focus on an individual's needs; combined efforts are mandatory to create the innovation; and the size and complexity of the innovation make it impossible for a user or an individual to deliver or to test it out on his/her own. The concept of lead provider is introduced and several characteristics are identified.
From total quality management to total quality environmental
management
Authors: Borri Fabio , Boccaletti Giuliano
Published: September 2004

Total quality management (TQM) was developed at the same time as
the interest in environmental issues began to emerge and, as such, it
has built in the same concepts as those regarding issues relevant to the
environment. Suggests the acronym in use today, TQEM (total quality
environmental management), clearly reflects its genesis and the existing
parallelism between quality and environmental problems. In the vision of
a TQM‐oriented company in which, by striving for continuous improvement,
quality is deployed to everybody, the analogy with the environmental
programme is demonstrated by the fact that it is not necessary to
convince anyone of the need to operate in a “greener” manner
because each person is already convinced of his/her own role in this
domain both as an individual and as an employee of the company.
Reconnecting our communities
Authors: Laree Jacques March
Published: September 2004

Examines the notion that total quality can do for communities what it has done for businesses worldwide and describes ongoing community‐wide quality projects in the USA. Shows how respected organizations such as the Association for Quality and Participation (AQP), the World Center for Community Excellence, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and The W. Edwards Deming Institute have launched successful community‐wide quality initiatives.
Triadic dependencies in business networks
Authors: Svensson Göran
Published: September 2004

The author argues that the unidirectional measurement and evaluation of the dependence in a specific relationship is not enough to understand the existing dependence between two actors in a dyadic relationship, but a bi‐directional approach may be necessary. Furthermore, a bi‐directional approach may not always be sufficient to understand the dependencies in a specific relationship. The incorporation of a third actor may improve the understanding of dependencies in dyadic business relationships. Therefore, a method is applied to analyze the dynamics of dependence in triadic business networks.
Bundling in a semi‐global economy
Authors: Mourdoukoutas Pavlos , Mourdoukoutas Panos
Published: September 2004

Crosscurrents between globalization and localization have created two world industry segments, an open highly competitive global industry, and a closed highly localized industry. Searching for competitive advantage in this new market environment, global manufacturers are becoming more like local service providers by executing a dual strategy: a global cost leadership strategy and a local product differentiation strategy. To achieve global cost leadership, manufacturers cooperate with their competitors to reach economies of scale and reduce costs. To achieve local product differentiation, manufacturers compete with their global partners by cooperating with local service providers to differentiate their offerings. This trend is analyzed to suggest two interdependent mechanisms for building successful bundling strategies. The competitiveness of a bundle that brings together global products and local services depends upon the degree of bundle localization. Sustainable bundling strategies should be treated as bundles of international business relationships.
Contributions of in‐plane fabric tensile properties in woven fabric bagging behaviour using a new developed test method
Authors: Abghari R. , Shaikhzadeh Najar S. , Haghpanahi M. , Latifi M.
Published: September 2004

To investigate the relation of in‐plane fabric tensile properties with woven fabrics bagging behavior, a new test method was developed and a real time data acquisition and strain gauge technique were used. The bagging procedure was carried out while the woven fabric tensile deformations along warp and weft directions were measured. The fabric bagging behavior was characterized by bagging resistance, bagging fatigue, residual bagging height and residual bagging hysteresis. The experimental results show that the bagging load, work, hysteresis, residual hysteresis and fatigue are highly linearly correlated with corresponding parameters in warp and weft directions. An empirical relationship obtained between residual bagging height and bagging fatigue and resistance (R2=0.83) suggests that the proposed new test method is able to evaluate bagging behavior of fabrics.
On the performance of the geometrical models of fabrics for use in computational mechanical analysis
Authors: Provatidis Christopher G. , Vassiliadis Savvas G.
Published: September 2004

The computer aided engineering and the respective computer aided design tools compose a modern mechanical modelling environment for the textile materials. The numerical mechanical models of the textile structures are a strong tool for the in‐depth study of the mechanical properties and the behaviour of the textiles. The precision of these models in terms of their accuracy in representing the exact geometry of the real textile structures is the fundamental factor affecting the overall success of the idealisation. This paper discusses older traditional analytical models (Peirce, Saw‐tooth, Kemp) as well as some variations of these fundamental models. Their numerical solutions are successfully compared to the experimental measurements of the yarn longitudinal deformation parameters using microscopic and digital image processing techniques. The results of the analytical models are compared with the actual measurements and the more precise models are indicated.
Structural characterization of textile fabrics using surface roughness data
Authors: Vassiliadis Savvas G. , Provatidis Christopher G.
Published: September 2004

The surface of the textile fabrics is not absolutely flat and smooth. Its geometrical roughness within certain extents is considerable. The surface roughness influences the fabric hand and it plays a significant role in the end use of the fabric. In parallel, the periodic variations of the fabric surface level due to the regular interlaced patterns of the yarns cause a respective variation of the geometrical roughness measurement. Thus, the fabric roughness data measured using the Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabrics and imposed to a certain process of numerical calculations result into the retrieval of the structural parameters of the fabric. The principle of the method has a non‐destructive character and can be applied to woven or knitted fabrics.
Eco‐efficient products and services through LCA in R&D/design
Authors: Laestadius Staffan , Karlson Lennart
Published: September 2004

Increasing demand for sustainable development during the last decades has expanded the scope of corporate responsibility to include environmental issues in all levels of operations. A number of different environmental management tools have been developed and implemented in companies. One important question is whether the resources spent in environmental management tools are used in an optimal way. Another question is if these resources give more eco‐efficient products as well as increased competitiveness. The aim of this paper is to analyse whether, and to what extent, the environmental management tool LCA is perceived as efficient within ABB. The conclusions to be drawn from this study are somewhat contradictory. On the one hand the technical, economic and environmental benefits from current use of the LCA tool seem to be very modest and LCA activities seem not to be integrated in normal operational activities, nor have they been used frequently in product development projects. On the other hand, there is a very positive opinion about the applicability and future use of the LCA tool. In fact a majority of the respondents believe that the LCA tool will stay and can be useful in the future.
Material flow based eco‐balancing and evaluation of a beer production process
Authors: Marx‐Gómez Jorge , Rautenstrauch Claus
Published: September 2004

This study describes the preparation of an eco‐balance to document the materials and energy which are part of the beer production process of the Hasseröder Brewery Ltd. A general introduction to eco‐balances and material flow networks is followed by the description of the concrete case study. The modelling of material flows and the derivation of eco‐balances is illustrated with the help of a selected process from beer production. Finally, the possibilities and limitations of the balance evaluation is discussed with the aid of performance measurement systems. The article closes with a preview of future studies.
The UK’s Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution after 25 years
Authors: Williams Andrea
Published: September 2004

In 1995 the UK’s Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution was 25 years old. Examines just a few aspects of the way it has functioned during its life.
Competitive Communication Strategies
Authors: Marsh Stephen
Published: September 2004

Summarizes the findings of the work undertaken by the Centre for
Exploitation of Science and Technology into the interaction between
transport and communications. Draws on the views of senior managers
within information and communication industries and also uses an
analysis of a range of communication‐based applications and market
surveys to evaluate user/supplier relationships and the development of
applications. Looks at one growth in teletrading and its strategic
importance in one future as a competitor with the transport system and
concludes with the thought that information and communication technology
will create business opportunities and that there needs to be a better
political and industrial understanding of its economic benefits.
Management of Uncertainty in AMT Implementation:
Authors: Lindberg Per
Published: September 2004

Develops a framework for the implementation and adaptation of flexible
manufacturing systems, paying particular attention to the uncertainty
involved in implementation. Discusses the subsystems associated with
technology, management and strategic control, with technology being
split into operations, materials and knowledge and relates latent
uncertainty to the almost inevitable misalignment of the various factors
and comments on the adaptation cycles needed for successful
implementation. Presents three case studies to illustrate the points
made.
When the JIT Starts to Fly Is It Time to Keep Your Head down or Go for
ISC?
Authors: Sutton Simon
Published: September 2004

For many manufacturing companies reaching forward into Europe.
Just‐in‐time (JIT) implementation is merely the start of the race. This
may be difficult for those in the materials function who saw MRP as the
be‐all‐and‐end‐all. Yet the integrated supply chain (ISC) cannot be
tackled without the experience gained from MRP and JIT. Discusses,
given that JIT is a prerequisite for ISC, how JIT can be used to
advantage in an ISC culture.
Putting the Logistics Manager in the Driving Seat
Authors: Hagon Tony
Published: September 2004

Attempts to question the established paradigms of the relationship
between logistics companies and their traditional customers, the
suppliers, the manufacturers, retailers and wholesalers. Calls for a
completely open mind to the role of logistics in future and seeks to
address concerns that ought to be felt by logistics managers (both
managers of companies and managers of the internal logistics function).
Recommends that the definition of logistics be broadened to include
transport and storage of knowledge. Concludes that the logistics manager
must grasp the initiative by being an active partner in the supplier
customer dialogue, emphasizing the value of logistics to that dialogue.
Design and Use of Digitized Road Networks in International Road
Transport
Authors: Eibl Peter G.
Published: September 2004

Road transport information systems (RTIS) and their underlying digitized
road networks, have recently undergone a major enhancement with the
extension from national to international databases. Today operators can
choose among a wide range of strategic, tactical and operational RTIS
allowing for the effective planning of international distribution.
Discusses some modelling considerations behind the design and use of
digitized road networks for planning and managing international
distribution, in particular cross‐border or pan‐European operations.
Initial emphasis is attributed to the importance of national and
international road transport relative to other modes of transport.
Subsequent sections highlight the benefits of international road
networks and outline their area coverage. Special attention is given to
the discussion of some of the network technology′s critical issues in
the international (European) context. Closes by illustrating the
application of digitized road networks in three state‐of‐the‐art RTIS,
including vehicle routeing and scheduling software, depot allocation
software and supply chain planning software.
Retail marketing strategies and logistical operations at a Japanese grocery supermarket chain – case study of Summit Inc.
Authors: Azuma Nobukaza , Fernie John
Published: September 2004

The aim of this paper is to develop an understanding of the retail marketing, merchandising, and logistical practices in the Japanese grocery supermarket sector. Most of the literature in English has focused on the structure of the sector with little detailed research on the Japanese consumer and the corporate response to retail change. This paper highlights the case of Summit Inc., which has established a niche position in the Japanese grocery market through its operational excellence.
Defending the local market against foreign competitors: the example of Chilean retailers
Authors: Bianchi Constanza , Mena Joaquin
Published: September 2004

South American countries have experienced the arrival of large US and European retailers that attempt to occupy an important position in these markets. Nonetheless, the situation in Chile differs from its neighboring countries. The largest retailers in Chile are local family businesses that have established themselves as legitimate organizations and are well regarded in the Chilean business community. Based on an analysis of the three major sectors of retailing in Chile, this paper describes the actions taken by Chilean retailers to defend themselves effectively against the attempts of foreign retailers to operate in their market, and the outcomes resulting from this process. By having to deal with strong local and foreign competition, Chilean retailers imitated the best practices of foreign competitors and learned to adapt their retail offer to satisfy the local customers' needs.
Efficient tracking for short‐term multi‐company networks
Authors: Kärkkäinen Mikko , Ala‐Risku Timo , Främling Kary
Published: September 2004

Tracking of shipments is an important element of customer service in the transportation industry; and essential for logistics services as merge‐in‐transit. However, contemporary tracking systems are designed for use within a single company, and are thus invariably inadequate for multi‐company environments. The single company focus has led to a reduced span of monitoring and a diluted accessibility of information due to proprietary tracking codes and information architectures centred on the tracking service provider. This paper presents a novel forwarder‐independent approach for solving the difficulties of tracking in multi‐company supply networks. The research argues that the proposed tracking approach is superior to contemporary approaches for material flow tracking in short‐term multi‐company distribution networks.