bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated project delivery as an enabler for collaboration: a Middle East perspective
Authors: Hamzeh Farook , Rached Farid , Hraoui Youssef , Karam Antoine Joseph , Malaeb Zeina , El Asmar Mounir , Abbas Yara
Published: February 2019

Purpose

This study investigates the extent to which the popular forms of contract adopted in the Middle East (ME) address collaboration. The purpose of this paper is to assess how collaboration features weaved into the construct of integrated project delivery (IPD) may impact projects in the ME. In this context, the study identifies features in IPD and existing delivery methods that may enable or inhibit collaboration and evaluates their impact on project success from the perspective of various contract managers in the ME.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs structured face-to-face interviews with 41 construction industry practitioners in top contract management positions in the ME to evaluate the significance of collaboration features in IPD. Data collected from the structured interviews/surveys were analyzed using statistical tools in R and Excel.

Findings

Results reveal that while experts recognize the collaboration benefits which IPD features may contribute to a project, the current contractual environment of the industry does not optimally encompass these features. The current status of project delivery does not favor IPD implementation nor does it enable its collaborative features.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the growing international body of knowledge addressing the application of collaborative contracts in construction projects, and it is innovative in evaluating collaboration features within IPD and exiting project deliveries in the ME.
Entrepreneurship, firms creation and regional performance
Authors: Rico Paz , Cabrer-Borrás Bernardí
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse if the divergences in the economic growth of the Spanish regions are a result of sectoral differences, company size or technological level of the new firms that emerge in the market.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, a model is specified and estimated in which the total factor productivity of Spanish regions is explained by business dynamics, innovation, human capital and the level of entrepreneurship in each region.

Findings

The results obtained lead the authors to conclude that entrepreneurship understood as both the creation of new firms and entrepreneurial activity, have a positive effect on productive efficiency and can explain the differences in the economic growth of the regions. In addition, the stock of human capital and the promotion of innovation act as catalysts for the productive efficiency of the regions. However, the results show that it is not enough to generate new firms to boost economic growth; these businesses must also be oriented towards sectors that promote technological innovation and with the objective to reach an adequate size.

Originality/value

Empirical studies use either the creation of new firms or the index of entrepreneurial activity as alternative measures of entrepreneurship. In this research, however, both variables are considered together. Specifically, the creation of new companies is used as a measure of regional business dynamics, and the entrepreneurial activity index, provided by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, as a measure of regional entrepreneurship. The main novelty of this paper’s approach is that it considers different types of entrepreneurial capital in considering productive sector, size and technological level of the new companies.
Empowering entrepreneurial education using undergraduate dissertations in business management and entrepreneurship
Authors: Rodríguez-López Ángel , Souto Jaime E.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the discussion about entrepreneurship education through undergraduate dissertations (UDs). In order to achieve this objective, this paper addresses the problems detected in the degree subject “UD” – which entails the creation of a business plan – and the proposal of improvements in the teaching-learning process of this subject.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative and quantitative analysis are used. First, the paper reports the problems that occurred during two academic years (2012–2013 and 2013–2014), as well as the solutions to these problems, in the two academic years that followed (2014–2015 and 2015–2016). Second, the improvements achieved are analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney test, based on data drawn from the records and a survey conducted in 2012–2013 (174 responses), and in 2015–2016 (184 responses).

Findings

The results outline the positive effects on students’ learning outcomes and academic excellence, a three-stage assessment process, the strengthening of the coordination and supervision systems and the enhancing of entrepreneurial spirit among graduates, with a UD connected to a business incubator.

Practical implications

The authors describe the design and implementation of a UD that provides a major step in the students’ entrepreneurial education, emerging, not only, as an opportunity to train and connect skills and knowledge learned about the starting a new venture, but also as a practical experience of entrepreneurship; a first step that introduces the student to entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

There are very few examples of concrete subject designs that have undergone in-depth, longitudinal research, focusing on entrepreneurship. Prior research has focused on entrepreneurship primarily as a subject, forgetting the great utility of the UD as active training tool. Thus, this paper breaks new ground by highlighting the role of the UD in entrepreneurial education. In this regard, the UD allows the student to be guided and to actually engage in the real-world practice of entrepreneurship. Specifically, it encourages them to apply their academic knowledge of the field in the context of creating a new business. Moreover, by creating a business plan, students are applying the knowledge and skills learned in the subject of entrepreneurship with other spheres of knowledge and skills.
Rethinking life cycle cost drivers for sustainable office buildings in Denmark
Authors: Haugbølle Kim , Raffnsøe Lau M.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Sustainable building design suffers from a lack of reliable life cycle data. The purpose of this paper is to compare life cycle costs of sustainable building projects, examine the magnitude of various cost drivers and discuss the implications of an emerging shift in cost drivers.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on data from 21 office buildings certified in Denmark according to the sustainable certification scheme DGNB.

Findings

The paper supports previous findings that construction costs and running costs each roughly make up half of the life cycle costs over a 50-year period. More surprising is the finding that the life cycle costs for cleaning are approximately twice as high as the supply costs for energy and water.

Research limitations/implications

The data set is based on actual construction costs of office buildings constructed in 2013-2017. Although all running costs are calculated rather than measured, they are based on a more detailed, specific and industry-supported set of calculation assumptions than is usual for life cycle costing studies because of extensive collaborative work in a number of concomitant national research and development projects.

Practical implications

Authorities, clients and building professionals heavily emphasise energy-saving measures in new Danish buildings. The paper suggests redirecting this effort towards other more prominent cost drivers like cleaning and technical installations.

Originality/value

This paper provides a notable contribution to the academic understanding of the significance of different cost drivers as well as the practical implementation of life cycle costing.
Influence of facilities performance on student’s satisfaction in Northern Nigerian universities
Authors: Abdullahi Isa , Wan Yusoff Wan Zahari
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Higher institutions in Nigeria have witnessed an increase in the number of student enrolments; Northern Nigerian universities are not excluded. As the number of students increases, so do their needs in terms of facilities such as lecture halls, libraries, laboratories, accommodation, studios, furniture and other auxiliary facilities services (among others things). The purpose of this study is to explore the structural characteristics of building features’ performance and to statistically group them into building components (dependent) and physical and non-physical building features (independent) constructs, relating to influence of facilities’ performance in student satisfaction in Northern Nigerian universities.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaires used were designed to collect data on both academic facilities, based on student experience and satisfaction with respect to physical and non-physical facilities. The school building assessment method questionnaire by Sanoff (2001) was adapted. Hence, the validity and reliability of measures was examined via academicians and data analysis with statistical package of social science (SPSS) version 22. In general, the values of alpha coefficients were above 0.80.

Findings

The result of exploratory factor analysis revealed that all factors loaded more than 0.61. In conclusion, the results indicated acceptable factor loadings and effective grouping of the features according to the conceptualised framework for the building component. A hypothetical model of building components was then proposed, suggesting the effects of physical and non-physical building features on building components.

Research limitations/implications

This research has been applied to a Northern Nigerian university. The research should be expanded to other institutions offering higher education.

Practical implications

Based on a conceptual framework, the study gives practical insights concerning the performance of building component as a key success factor for higher education institutions’ (HEIs) facilities.

Originality/value

Therefore, the need to develop and improve instruments that will reflects facilities performance for students satisfaction in Nigerian universities became paramount. Thus there is lack of an integrating framework for facilities performance as well as students satisfaction and experience in the context of Nigerian HEIs, especially in the region of northern Nigeria.
The influence of e-banking service quality on customer loyalty
Authors: Shankar Amit , Jebarajakirthy Charles
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Providing high-quality e-banking services is considered a basic strategy for attracting and retaining customers with electronic-banking platforms. The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate a comprehensive moderated mediated mechanism for enhancing customer loyalty toward e-banking platforms via e-banking service quality (EBSQ) practices. Reliability, website design, privacy and security and customer service and support are the dimensions of EBSQ.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through structured questionnaires from a sample of 1,028 e-banking users in India. To test the hypotheses, a structural equation modeling approach was used.

Findings

The findings showed that of the EBSQ dimensions, reliability along with privacy and security enhanced customer loyalty to e-banking. The initial trust in e-banking mediates the effects of EBSQ dimensions on customer loyalty except for website design. The mediation effects of initial trust varied between high and low-involved consumers.

Research limitations/implications

This study was conducted with e-banking users in one country using cross-sectional data. Hence, the model should be replicated among e-banking users in other countries and with the longitudinal data.

Practical implications

Establishing a loyal customer base is an important goal for banks. This study demonstrates which specific EBSQ dimensions banks should emphasize to enhance consumers’ initial trust and loyalty toward e-banking services.

Originality/value

This study suggests a moderated mediated mechanism for enhancing customer loyalty to e-banking, which incorporates initial trust as a mediator and consumer involvement as a moderator. It applies cognitive-motivation-relational theory to link EBSQ dimensions with customer loyalty. Thus, this study enables a better understanding of this theory in the e-banking context.
Subjective financial knowledge, prudent behaviour and income
Authors: Riitsalu Leonore , Murakas Rein
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study how subjective and objective knowledge of finance, behaviour in managing personal finances and socio-economic status affect financial well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

The financial well-being score is constructed in quantitative financial literacy survey data from Estonia as the arithmetic mean of four statements on a five-point scale. Four hypotheses are tested in multiple regression analysis.

Findings

Subjective knowledge has a stronger relation with financial well-being than objective knowledge. Financial behaviour score and income level correlate with financial well-being.

Research limitations/implications

The paper contributes to literature on financial literacy, subjective financial knowledge and financial well-being. In future research, psychological factors and future orientated financial well-being should be included, and their relationship to subjective well-being could be analysed further.

Practical implications

The results highlight the importance of subjective knowledge and sound behaviour for improving financial well-being. Providers of financial services should address these more in the design of their services and communication.

Social implications

Policymakers developing national strategies for financial education need to address subjective financial knowledge for increasing financial well-being in society.

Originality/value

Knowledge, behaviour and subjective knowledge have not been used simultaneously in the analysis of financial well-being in Europe before.
Employees’ judgment and decision making in the banking industry
Authors: Kang Mijung , Park Min Jae
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Heuristics are used in the judgment and decision-making process of bank employees; however, discussions and research on the type or range of judgmental heuristics are very difficult to find throughout the world. In light of this, the purpose of this paper is to empirically analyze what types of heuristics are used in bank employees’ judgment and decision-making processes and the extent to which those types of heuristics prevent rational decision making due to the systematic biases they generate. In particular, this study aims to conduct empirical research based on various scenarios related to the banking industry.

Design/methodology/approach

To examine the heuristics in decision-making circumstances and the level of subsequent biases, the present study narrowed the scope of research to the three main types of heuristics introduced by Tversky and Kahneman (1974), namely, representativeness heuristics, availability heuristics and anchoring and adjustment heuristics. To analyze the bank employees’ decision making, this study specifically investigated the level of decision-making heuristics and the level of bias by focusing on these three types of heuristics. This study targeted bank employees who either sell financial products or are engaged in customer service work at a real/physical bank.

Findings

For representativeness heuristics, this study found bank employees’ judgment of probability was influenced by biases, such as insensitivity to prior probability, insensitivity to sample size, misconception of chance and insensitivity to predictability. Regarding availability heuristics, it found that bank employees judge the probability of events based on the ease of recalling an event instead of the actual frequency of the event, and so they fall prey to systematic biases. Finally, regarding anchoring and adjustment heuristics, this study found that employees fall prey to judgment biases as they judge the probability of conjunctive events and disjunctive events based on anchoring and insufficient adjustment.

Originality/value

Although people who are well-trained in statistics can avoid rudimentary errors, they fall prey to biased judgment at a similar level to those who are not properly trained in statistics when it comes to more complicated and ambiguous issues. It clearly indicates that it is risky to determine that financial experts would be more rational than the general public in making various judgments required in the policy-making process. To conclude, it is imperative to recognize the existence of heuristics-based systematic biases in the judgment and decision-making process and, furthermore, to reinforce the education and training system to improve bank employees’ rational choice and judgment ability.
Does work engagement mediate the influence of job resourcefulness on job crafting?
Authors: Chen Chien-Yu
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Researchers and practitioners have remarked the critical nature of job crafting for employee and organizational effectiveness in the hotel industry. However, few studies have investigated the determinants of job crafting, especially the role of personality traits. Hence, this study aims to address this research gap by exploring how job resourcefulness influences job crafting and by clarifying the mediating role of work engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample of the present study comprised 433 Taiwanese frontline hotel employees. The hypothesized relationships were tested using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results reveal that job-resourceful employees tend to engage themselves at work. Engaged employees tend to craft their jobs individually and collaboratively. That is, work engagement is a mediator between job resourcefulness and job crafting. Finally, the job resourcefulness–work engagement–individual crafting relationship is closer than the job resourcefulness–work engagement–collaborative crafting relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest that job resourcefulness can be considered as a criterion in selecting and retaining employees. Work engagement may serve as a mechanism for interpreting the relationship between job resourcefulness and job crafting. This study provides crucial insights to help hotel managers seek and aid employees who can actively reshape their work conditions. However, the sample comprises only frontline hotel employees and the generalization can be considered in the future studies.

Originality/value

This research is the first to examine the psychological process that mediates the connection between job resourcefulness and job crafting. The findings of this study contribute to the theory of the relationship between personality traits and job crafting and may serve as a reference in related practices.
The effect of message framings and green practices on customers’ attitudes and behavior intentions toward green restaurants
Authors: Xu Yang , Jeong EunHa
Published: February 2019

Purpose

This study identifies an effective communication strategy for promoting restaurants’ green efforts to customers by using different types of green advertisement messages. This study aims to investigate the relative persuasiveness of attribute-based versus benefit-based appeal messages in green restaurant advertisements and their matching effect with different types of green practices in the restaurant (environment-focused green practices vs food-focused green practices) and with different types of restaurants (fine dining vs fast casual dining) on customers’ attitude and visiting intention toward green restaurants. Furthermore, the study examines a moderating effect of restaurant types to assess whether the matching effects between types of messages and types of green practices work differently within the different types of restaurants.

Design/methodology/approach

A 2 (attribute-based vs benefit-based messages) × 2 (food-focused vs environment-focused green practices) × 2 (fast casual vs fine dining restaurants) between-subject experimental design was used to test the proposed hypotheses. An online scenario-based survey was developed and distributed to online panel members in the USA. Ultimately, 363 responses were used for data analyses. ANOVA and t-test were conducted to analyze the data.

Findings

The results indicate that benefit-based messages are generally more persuasive than attribute-based messages in green restaurant advertisements. For restaurants with food-focused green practices, an advertising message emphasizing the benefit of food-focused green practices (benefit-based message) would be more effective than an advertising message describing their tangible efforts to show the greenness of the restaurant (attribute-based message). For fine dining restaurants, a green advertisement with benefit-based information would be more persuasive than attribute-based information. This study further showed that the aforementioned interaction effect between types of green practices and types of messages was salient for fine dining restaurants.

Originality/value

This research is one of the few studies in restaurant management to examine the green communication effectiveness in terms of the types of green practices and the types of advertising message framing. By comparing the relative persuasiveness of green advertisements on consumers’ attitudes and behavior intentions, this study provides suggestions for restaurant professionals to make effective green communication strategies based on the type of green practices the restaurant primarily uses and the type of restaurant the manager is operating.
Airline passengers’ perceptions of service quality: themes in online reviews
Authors: Brochado Ana , Rita Paulo , Oliveira Cristina , Oliveira Fernando
Published: February 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the main themes shared in online reviews by airline travellers, as well as which of these themes were linked with higher and lower value for money ratings.

Design/methodology/approach

The research used mixed content analyses (i.e. quantitative and qualitative) to examine 1,200 reviews of six airline companies shared by airline travellers in a social media platform.

Findings

The analyses revealed nine themes in descriptions of airline travel experiences. These are the core services during “flights”, “airport” operations, crew and ground “staff”, ticket “classes”, “seats”, inflight “services”, “entertainment”, overall experiences of “airlines” and post-purchase recommendations of with which companies to “fly”. Low value for money ratings are linked with the “airport” and “flights” themes.

Originality/value

The results offer useful insights into airline travellers’ overall experiences based on social media information and facilitate the identification of the main themes linked with different value for money ratings.
Spectral dimensionality reduction for quantitative analysis of cotton content of blend fabrics
Authors: Sun Xudong , Zhu Ke
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to initiate investigations to develop near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy coupled with spectral dimensionality reduction and multivariate calibration methods to rapidly measure cotton content in blend fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 124 and 41 samples were used to calibrate models and assess the performance of the models, respectively. The raw spectra are transformed into wavelet coefficients. Multivariate calibration methods of partial least square (PLS), extreme learning machine (ELM) and least square support vector machine (LS-SVM) were employed to develop the models using 100 wavelet coefficients. Through comparing the performance of PLS, ELM and LS-SVM models with new samples, the optimal model of cotton content was obtained with the LS-SVM model.

Findings

The correlation coefficient of prediction (rp) and root mean square errors of prediction were 0.99 and 4.37 percent, respectively. The results suggest that NIR spectroscopy, combining with the LS-SVM method, has significant potential to quantitatively analyze cotton content in blend fabrics.

Originality/value

It may have commercial and regulatory potential to avoid time-consuming work, costly and laborious chemical analysis for cotton content in blend fabrics.
House prices and unemployment: an empirical analysis of causality
Authors: Irandoust Manuchehr
Published: February 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to examine whether there exists a long-run causal relationship between house prices and unemployment rates for eight major European countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The bootstrap panel Granger causality approach that accounts for cross-sectional dependence, slope heterogeneity and structural breaks is used to detect the direction of causality.

Findings

The empirical findings for the overall panel support the presence of unidirectional causality running from house prices to unemployment.

Practical implications

The findings are not only important for households but also for policymakers concerned with economic and financial stability.

Originality/value

There are only a limited number of studies that have investigated the direct link between house prices and employment or unemployment. Given the increased importance of labor market variables, particularly the choice of the unemployment rate as a key indicator in designing forward guidance and the increased financial stability concerns regarding house price dynamics, it is important to better understand the causal linkages between house prices and unemployment rates. To the best of the author’s knowledge, this paper is the first to apply the bootstrap panel Granger causality approach to examine the relationship between house prices and unemployment rates.
Exploring mentoring across gender, race, and generation in higher education
Authors: Freeman Jr Sydney , Kochan Frances
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine a long-term mentoring relationship between a White female from the Traditional Generation and an African American male from the Xennial Generation, as engaged in a mentoring relationship within higher education institutions in the USA. The study investigated if, how and to what degree the differences and similarities between them influenced their mentoring relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used an autoethnographic approach involving extensive questioning, dialoguing, note keeping and analysis over eight months.

Findings

The analysis suggested that race had the greatest influence on the relationship. The primary reasons for mentoring success were similarities in family backgrounds and commonly held values.

Research limitations/implications

This study may not be generalizable to mentoring relationships that do not involve cultural differences in race, age or gender.

Practical implications

The paper offers a model for the types of strategies individuals can use in cross-racial mentoring endeavors to help build and sustain these relationships. It also includes suggestions for individuals engaged in mentoring relationships, which include gender, race or age differences, and organizations seeking to enhance diversity within their institutions.

Originality/value

There is not an extensive body of research on individual cross-racial, gender and generational mentoring that provides an analysis of the experience of those involved. Additionally, the model presented for examining cross-racial mentoring relationships is unique.
Innovative methods for quality management in educational organizations
Authors: Aniskina Nina , Terekhova Ekaterina
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present good practices of improving quality of educational services through use of innovative methods in order to involve staff in the processes of the organization’s management.

Design/methodology/approach

The study of teachers’ and management’s perception of quality initiatives is used as a basis for analyzing main causes of inhibition of the quality initiatives. The authors formulate the issue of a low efficiency of quality management systems (QMS) and make conclusions about why it is important to expand the “quality spirit” among teachers and managers and why it is necessary to implement quality management principles (such as a leadership and staff involvement) in educational organizations.

Findings

The innovation and project (IP) technique of training is proposed to solve the tasks of expanding the “quality spirit,” creating leadership and involving educational organization’s staff in the quality management processes. The paper contains description and examples of use of the IP technique in order to create efficient management systems on the basis of leadership and involvement of managers and other staff in the processes of quality management. The authors formulate principles of innovative training and evaluate the effects of its use in the projects aimed at improvement of QMS.

Practical implications

The paper presents the experience of usage of the main component of the technique – an innovative workshop – for development of the strategy of Pastukhov Academy, building a managing team and involving staff in quality assurance activities. The paper presents the practical value of the results achieved by the academy in the process of implementation of the IP technique for development of the managing team and their strategic self-identification, as well as for increasing the quality of educational services. The IP technique is used in the process of implementation of social responsibility standards.

Originality/value

The paper is valuable for educational organizations, which may use the IP technique that will result in providing a real effect on the QMS, improving the educational courses and a positive impact on improving the quality of life.
Flexural capacity of bi-directional GFRP strengthened RC beams with end anchorages
Authors: Gora Abdurra’uf Mukhtar , Jaganathan Jayaprakash , Anwar Mohammed Parvez , Leung Hau Y.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the results of experimental and theoretical studies on the flexural capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened using externally bonded bi-directional glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites and different end anchorage systems.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of nine RC beams with a length of 1,600 mm and a cross-section of 200 mm depth and 100 mm width were prepared and externally strengthened in flexure with bi-directional GFRP composites. These strengthened beams were anchored with three different end anchorage systems namely closed GFRP wraps, GFRP U-wraps and mechanical anchors. All these beams were tested with four-point bending system up to failure. The experimental results are compared with the theoretical results obtained using the relevant design guidelines.

Findings

The experimental results demonstrate a significant increase in the flexural performance of the GFRP strengthened beams with regard to the ultimate load carrying capacity and stiffness. The results also show that GFRP strengthened beams without end anchorages experienced intermediate concrete debonding failure at the GFRP plate end, whereas all the GFRP strengthened beams with different end anchorage systems failed in rupture of GFRP with concrete crushing. The theoretical results revealed no significant difference among the relevant design guidelines with regard to the predicted ultimate moment capacities of the bi-directional GFRP strengthened RC beams. However, the results show that ACI Committee 440 Report (2008) design recommendation provides reasonably acceptable predictions for the ultimate moment capacities of the tested beams strengthened externally with bi-directional GFRP reinforcement followed by FIB Bulletin 14 (2001) and eventually by JSCE (1997).

Originality/value

The research work presented in this manuscript is authentic and could contribute to the understanding of the overall behaviour of RC beams strengthened with FRP and different end anchorage systems under flexural loading.
Consumer segments in the smart environmental objects market
Authors: Schill Marie , Godefroit-Winkel Delphine
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore consumers’ profiles for and purchase intentions towards smart environmental objects. It segments consumers according to two apparently contradictory dimensions of smart environmental objects: environment (i.e. environmental concern and environmental beliefs) and technology (i.e. materialistic values and technological beliefs).

Design/methodology/approach

A cluster analysis was conducted among 658 French consumers based on their environmental concern, environmental beliefs, materialistic values, perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. A regression analysis identifies the variables with the greatest influence on purchase intentions.

Findings

Four segments result from the analysis: unconcerned, retro eco-friendly, non-materialistic converted and converted. The converted consumer segment had the highest purchase intentions and exhibited high levels of both environmental beliefs and perceived usefulness compared with the other segments. Both environmental and technological beliefs and environmental concern influence purchase intentions more broadly.

Research limitations/implications

A combined consideration of both environmental and technological beliefs is necessary to influence purchase intentions towards smart environmental objects. This study challenges some previous research that assumes a clear opposition between materialism and environmentalism.

Practical implications

This study proposes tailored managerial recommendations for each of the four consumer segments in the context of smart environmental objects.

Originality/value

This study provides novel insights into consumers’ concerns, beliefs and values in the rapidly expanding context of smart environmental objects.
Organizational constraints and performance: an indirect effects model
Authors: Pindek Shani , Howard David J. , Krajcevska Alexandra , Spector Paul E.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Surprisingly, most studies have failed to demonstrate a strong correlation between organizational constraints (conditions at work that make doing a job difficult) and job performance. The purpose of this paper is to challenge the view that constraints are a direct barrier on performance and take an alternative approach whereby constraints have an indirect effect via decreased motivation and increased workload. Further, differential effects of various constraints are examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative and quantitative data were collected from 660 engineers licensed in the state of Florida using a single online survey.

Findings

Qualitative results showed that the most commonly experienced constraints were from coworkers and organizational rules and procedures. Constraints identified as having a greater detrimental effect on motivation are from the supervisor, and organizational rules and procedures. Quantitative results supported an indirect effects model that includes an indirect path via motivation, and a path via workload, which had a curvilinear component.

Originality/value

This is one of few studies to explain the relationship between constraints and performance, rather than simply estimate it. The use of mixed methods allows us to gain an in-depth understanding of constraints, and the convergence of findings across the methods increases confidence in this study’s results.
Alongside, not against: balancing man with machine in the HR function
Authors: Gikopoulos John
Published: February 2019

Purpose

In a world of mass technological advancement in our daily lives and in business, the HR function is facing an uphill battle. How can HR professionals ensure they are digitally transforming at the right pace for their business without losing the all-important human touch?

Design/methodology/approach

This paper outlines the thinking behind integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and automation technologies into HR, and it explores in depth each of the key ways in which we are beginning to see these technologies change HR as we know it. From operations to recruitment and interviewing, to on-boarding employees and maintaining performance, the opportunities are numerous – and they are right on the horizon.

Findings

AI and automation are already being integrated into HR in many organisations around the world. However, we can in the near future expect to see technology not only automating back-office functions, but increasingly taking on the more “human” elements of HR roles. There is a fine balance between man and machine, and while these technologies will increase efficiency, decrease bias and improve the value of HR in businesses, the human touch will always be the key to success.

Originality/value

This paper assesses not only how technology is impacting HR but also the interplay between man and machine, and it offers insights into how HR professionals can balance the need for digital transformation with the core human element of human resources. As such, it ties the human and the technology together inextricably, concluding that AI and humans work better together.
Understanding the main organisational antecedents of employee participation in continuous improvement
Authors: Jurburg Daniel , Viles Elisabeth , Tanco Martin , Mateo Ricardo , Lleó Álvaro
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Companies use continuous improvement (CI) as a strategy to achieve business excellence and innovation. Yet CI initiatives fail mostly due to a lack of employee engagement. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the CI literature and the technology acceptance model (TAM), a comprehensive model called continuous improvement acceptance mode (CIAM) was developed to understand the main organisational antecedents that predict employee intention to participate in CI. The CIAM is based on structural equation modelling using partial least squares and it was validated in a large manufacturing plant in Europe.

Findings

Emulating the findings of the TAM, this study shows that employee intention to participate can be predicted by two variables called ease of participating and usefulness of participating. The CIAM then relates these constructs with relevant CI enablers found in the CI literature.

Practical implications

The CIAM could help academics and practitioners to better understand employee participation in CI activities, allowing CI systems to be better designed and achieve long-term sustainability.

Originality/value

The CIAM presents new variables and interactions that help to understand employee participation in CI activities. Some of these variables and interactions have received scant attention in the CI literature and thus they are worth investigating in greater depth in the future.
Application of Lean Six Sigma in IT support services – a case study
Authors: E.V. Gijo , Antony Jiju , Sunder M. Vijaya
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Lean Six Sigma (LSS) has been accepted globally across the service sector as a management strategy for achieving process excellence. In the past one decade, the application and success of LSS in services is remarkable across Information Technology (IT) organisations. However academic research has seldom derived implications from this practitioner’s science of improving processes. The purpose of this paper is to feature the application of LSS in the system maintenance department of a manufacturing firm.

Design/methodology/approach

The research reported in this paper is based on a case study carried out in system maintenance department using the Six Sigma Define-Measure-Analyse-Improve-Control (DMAIC) approach and its application in reducing complaint resolution time.

Findings

The LSS article presented here highlights a real-world case study of how LSS DMAIC methodology help reduce the complaint resolution time from 12.5 to 8.5 h (~30 per cent improvement) and the corresponding standard deviation from 28 to 17.4 days. This study also has resulted in reducing the turn-around-time of all the core processes in the organisation. The indirect financial savings estimated as a result of this overall impact was around INR2.5m.

Research limitations/implications

The research was restricted to studying the impact of LSS in one organisation. The validity of the results can be improved by including more organisations and more case studies from the IT support services.

Originality/value

This could serve as a resource for both practitioners to derive useful implications and to academicians as it contributes to the LSS body of knowledge towards theory testing.
Biological Flora of the British Isles:Aesculus hippocastanum
Authors: Thomas Peter A. , Alhamd Omar , Iszkuło Grzegorz , Dering Monika , Mukassabi Tarek A.
Published: February 2019

This account presents information on all aspects of the biology ofAesculus hippocastanumL. (horse‐chestnut) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of theBiological Flora of the British Isles: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history and conservation.

Aesculus hippocastanumis a large deciduous tree native to the Balkan Peninsula. Native populations are small (<10,000 trees total) and apparently in decline, but the tree has been widely planted in gardens and streets across Europe and other temperate areas from the 17th century onwards. It was voted theUK's favourite tree in a 2017 poll. As a British neophyte, it is occasionally naturalised in open wooded habitats.

Horse‐chestnut is renowned for the beauty of its large (up to 30 cm long), upright panicles of white flowers, and for the large seeds (up to 42 g each) used in the formerly common children's game of “conkers.” More recently, the triterpene glycosides, extractable from various plant parts but especially the seeds, have been widely used in medicine.

In much of Europe, horse‐chestnut is affected by chestnut bleeding canker (caused byPseudomonas syringaepv.aesculi), the horse‐chestnut leaf minerCameraria ohridellaand the leaf blotch fungusGuignardia aesculi. The canker is likely to lead to death of <10% individuals, but seeds of plants infested with the leaf miner are 40%–50% smaller, which may affect long‐term establishment in non‐planted areas.
Ecological succession in a changing world
Authors: Chang Cynthia C. , Turner Benjamin L.
Published: February 2019

Ecological succession – how biological communities re‐assemble and change over time following natural or anthropogenic disturbance – has been studied since the birth of ecology, and the resulting theoretical framework underpins many aspects of the discipline. Recently, the mechanistic basis of classic succession theory has been advanced by studies of plant and microbial interactions, functional traits, and retrogressive stages of ecosystem development. This special issue brings together a series of papers that highlight these contemporary novel approaches and how our understanding of ecological succession has advanced.

Four key themes emerge from the issue: (a) generalizations about succession, (b) the influence of dispersal and habitat size on successional trajectories, (c) changes in plant functional traits during succession, and (d) belowground community interactions during long term during ecosystem development.

Synthesis. The articles in the special issue highlight novel perspectives on succession theory, revealing the importance of historical contingency, disturbance severity, dispersal limitation, functional traits, and belowground community processes in determining patterns of ecosystem development. Together, they reinforce the importance of ecological succession in understanding the response of plant and microbial communities to disturbance in a changing world.
Counselling training for speech–language therapists working with people affected by post‐stroke aphasia: a systematic review
Authors: Sekhon Jasvinder K. , Oates Jennifer , Kneebone Ian , Rose Miranda
Published: February 2019

Background

Speech–language therapists use counselling to address the psychological well‐being of people affected by post‐stroke aphasia. Speech–language therapists report low counselling knowledge, skill and confidence for working in post‐stroke aphasia which may be related to a lack of counselling training specific to the needs of this client group.

Aims

To identify current training in counselling for speech–language therapists to address psychological well‐being in people affected by post‐stroke aphasia. Specifically, the intent was to establish the objectives, content, amount, teaching methods and outcomes of counselling training provided to speech–language therapists working with people affected by post‐stroke aphasia.

Methods & Procedures

Eleven databases were searched from inception to January 2018 using terms relating to counselling, psychological well‐being, speech–language therapy, stroke, aphasia and training. Studies using any research methodology and design were included. Nine studies were critically appraised and synthesized as a systematic review using the Search, AppraisaL, Synthesis and Analysis (SALSA) framework.

Main Contribution

Information on counselling training came from the UK, United States and Australia. Student speech–language therapists received training in goal‐setting and generic counselling skills. After qualification, speech–language therapists received counselling training from mental health professionals within stroke workplaces, from external providers and further education. A range of teaching techniques and counselling approaches were described. Self‐report and themes from qualitative data were the primary measures of counselling training outcomes. Moderate correlations were reported between counselling training and levels of speech–language therapists’ knowledge, comfort, confidence and preparedness to counsel people affected by post‐stroke aphasia.

Conclusions

Research in counselling training for speech–language therapists working in post‐stroke aphasia is limited, with a small number of primarily low‐quality studies available. Training in generic counselling skills and brief psychological approaches with support from mental health professionals in the stroke workplace enabled speech–language therapists to feel knowledgeable, skilled and confident to address the psychological well‐being of people affected by post‐stroke aphasia. Evidence about the effectiveness of counselling training on speech–language therapists’ confidence and competence in practice and on client outcomes in psychological well‐being in post‐stroke aphasia is required.
The Effect of a Subway on House Prices: Evidence from Shanghai
Authors: Zhou Zhengyi , Chen Hong , Han Lu , Zhang Anming
Published: February 2019

Within the context of a transition economy, this article estimates how improved access to employment centers is capitalized into house price. We conduct an event study for the opening of subway Line 6 in Pudong district, Shanghai, China. The new line significantly reduces the commuting time to major employment centers. Other things being equal, easier commutes to the central business district center result in an average house price appreciation of 3.75%, with the most distant residential zone enjoying the largest appreciation. When taking into account multiple employment centers, we find that the largest source of appreciation is from an improved access to a suburb center with poor initial accessibility and attractive job opportunities. Finally, the total appreciation caused by time savings to major employment centers decreases with neighborhood income level and increases with the distance from Line 6 stations.