bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of performance amongst shop‐floor employees
Authors: Sarmiento Roberto , Beale Jo , Knowles Graeme
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to explore the determinants of perceived job performance in a sample of shop‐floor employees in a manufacturing plant in northern Mexico.

Design/methodology/approach

It is hypothesised that job satisfaction, age and education levels are significant predictors of job performance. A thorough literature review reveals that studies of the variables that influence job performance within a manufacturing setting are basically lacking. A questionnaire distributed amongst shop‐floor employees and their immediate supervisors was used in order to measure the variables included in the study. Statistical analyses were performed with the data in order to test for the reliability and validity of the measures, and also to test the three main research hypotheses.

Findings

It was found that two variables that measure job satisfaction are positively and significantly associated with job performance. This result is consistent with previous studies. Nevertheless, age and education levels do not show a significant association with job performance. Interestingly, it was also found that education levels are negatively related to job satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size is small, and it includes only one manufacturing plant. Consequently, the statistical analyses are limited. These limitations prevent the generalisation of the results. More objective measures of job performance would be preferable. Also, other variables such as leadership style and motivation could be included in future studies.

Practical implications

Although exploratory in nature, the results from this study can be used to gain a better understanding of the different factors and relationships that are conducive to higher job satisfaction, and how job satisfaction is related to job performance.

Originality/value

Job satisfaction and its influence on performance have been researched across a number of industries and sectors. Nonetheless, to the best of one's knowledge, this is the first study that uses a sample of shop‐floor employees in a manufacturing plant to test this relationship. A similar situation is observed in terms of age and education levels: the effect of those variables on performance within a manufacturing setting has been clearly under‐researched.
Addressing the “gender gap” in the managerial labour market
Authors: Wynarczyk Pooran
Published: November 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the “gender management gap” in the scientific labour market in the North East of England. The paper seeks to compare and contrast employment, ownership, management structure and capacity between men and women in the Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical investigation is based on a survey of 60 SET‐based small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), operating in the North East of England.

Findings

The results show that women are particularly under‐represented in managerial and senior positions of scientific nature in the private sector in the North East of England. The “glass ceiling” effect appears to be widespread.

Research limitations/implications

There are very limited empirical data and research on the nature and level of participation of women in the scientific managerial labour market at firm level in the UK. There is a need for more rigorous research at firm and regional levels to examine the cumulative effects of underlying factors that prevent women from progression, beyond the “glass ceiling”, in the scientific labour market.

Practical implications

This paper builds upon a research project funded by the ESRC Science in Society Programme. The key findings have resulted in a subsequent award from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Impact Grants to establish the “North East Role Model Platform for Innovative Women” in the light of the Science City Initiative.

Originality/value

The “gender management gap” in the scientific labour market in the North East of England has not, empirically, been investigated before and appears to be a highly neglected area of public policy and research.
Leader‐member exchange and attitudinal outcomes: role of procedural justice climate
Authors: Ansari Mahfooz A. , Kee Mui Hung Daisy , Aafaqi Rehana
Published: November 2007

Purpose

Building upon the “fair exchange in leadership” notion (Hollander; Scandura), the purpose of this paper was to hypothesize the mediating impact of procedural justice climate on the relationship between leader‐member exchange (LMX) and two attitudinal outcomes: organizational commitment and turnover intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 224 managers voluntarily participated in the study. They represented nine multinational companies located in northern Malaysia. Data were collected by means of a structured questionnaire containing widely used scales to measure LMX (contribution, affect, loyalty, and professional respect), procedural justice climate, organizational commitment (affective, normative, and continuance), and turnover intentions. After establishing the goodness of measures, hypothesized relationships were examined using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). While commitment and LMX were, respectively, conceptualized as 3‐ and 4‐dimensional constructs, procedural justice climate and turnover intentions were each treated as unidimensional constructs.

Findings

Whereas hypotheses for direct effects received low‐to‐moderate support, the mediation hypothesis received substantial support only in the case of professional respect dimension of LMX.

Research limitations/implications

The study has obvious implications for leader‐member exchange and procedural justice in organizations. Though findings are in line with those in the past research, they should be viewed with caution – given the nature of cross‐sectional data.

Originality/value

Management needs to pay attention to the quality of LMX, as today's employees look for mutual trust.
Leadership in context: investigating hierarchical impacts on transformational leadership
Authors: Bruch Heike , Walter Frank
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate hierarchical impacts on specific transformational leadership (TFL) behaviors (i.e. idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration).

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data on TFL, job satisfaction, and hierarchy were collected from 448 managers from a multinational corporation in Sweden.

Findings

Idealized influence and inspirational motivation occurred more frequently among upper rather than middle managers, while there were no differences for intellectual stimulation and individualized consideration. Also, idealized influence, inspirational motivation, and intellectual stimulation were more effective in strengthening subordinates' job satisfaction among upper rather than middle managers, while individualized consideration was similarly effective in both groups.

Research limitations/implications

The cross‐sectional research design precludes causal conclusions and potentially allows for common method bias. With the main research interest pertaining to hierarchical differences in TFL, however, method bias seems unlikely to fully account for the results.

Practical implications

Study results emphasize the necessity to strengthen TFL on lower managerial levels. Organizations might achieve this by cutting administrative constraints and empowering lower level leaders.

Originality/value

The study addresses repeated calls for a consideration of contextual factors in TFL research. It points to the role of hierarchy as a boundary condition of TFL.
Leadership, administrative heritage and absorptive capacity
Authors: Dixon Sarah E.A. , Day Marc
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify critical success factors for the management of change in transition economies.

Design/methodology/approach

Four longitudinal case studies of Russian oil companies covering a ten‐year period from 1995, based on 71 in‐depth interviews. Examines organisational change from a resource‐based and organisational learning perspective.

Findings

Explains how top managers firstly, break with administrative heritage to increase absorptive capacity and secondly, leverage administrative heritage for rapid implementation of change. Intra‐ and cross‐case analyses demonstrate that absorptive capacity increases and organisational change occurs where the top management team has radically different skills and mindsets from the dominant logic of the post‐Soviet organisation, an entrepreneurial orientation and the capability to drive through change due to a top‐down management style.

Research limitations/implications

The research is restricted to four case studies. However, the critical success factors identified could apply to any large, conservative and bureaucratic organisation undergoing change. This represents an interesting avenue for research on organisational turnaround in the West.

Practical implications

An understanding of the critical success factors for dealing with administrative heritage will assist managers in transition economies and in turnaround situations in the West.

Originality/value

The speed of change in the Russian oil industry provided a unique setting for research into organisational change in transition economies. On the basis of cross‐case analyses, a new theoretical framework was developed to explain the change process.
Using emotional intelligence to identify high potential: a metacompetency perspective
Authors: Dries Nicky , Pepermans Roland
Published: November 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to demonstrate the utility of using some indication of emotional intelligence (EI) to identify high potential in managers. Presupposed correspondences between the EI Personal Factors Model (Bar‐On) and Briscoe and Hall's metacompetency model of continuous learning are elucidated.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample consisted of 51 high potentials and 51 “regular” managers, matched onto one another by managerial level, gender and age. All participants completed an online survey containing Bar‐On's Emotional Quotient Inventory, Blau's career commitment scale and a self‐anchored performance item.

Findings

EQ‐i subscales: assertiveness, independence, optimism, flexibility and social responsibility appear to be “covert” high‐potential identification criteria, separating between high potentials and regular managers. Furthermore, high potentials display higher levels of job performance and, supposedly, less boundaryless career attitudes.

Practical implications

Using emotional intelligence – or at least some of its subscales – in identifying high potential may well contribute to the validity of such processes. Furthermore, the importance of cultivating positive emotions at work is spelled out in relation to high‐potential identification and development policies and retention management.

Originality/value

In the majority of studies on high potentials, direct supervisors serve as research samples or a non‐empirical, rather normative approach is taken to the matter. The empirical study presented in this paper is rather unique since it departs from the viewpoints of high‐potential individuals, thus delivering added value to the study domain.
Dynamics of fiscal and current account deficits in Thailand: an empirical investigation
Authors: Zubaidi Baharumshah Ahmad , Lau Evan
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute further on the twin deficits debate in a developing economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The data for Thailand over three decades are used as a case study.

Findings

The major findings are: first, a stable, long‐run equilibrium relationship between fiscal deficit, interest rate, exchange rate, and current account was found. Second, the causal relationship between the two deficits runs from fiscal deficit to current account deficit. This evidence is supportive of the twin deficits hypothesis. Further econometric analysis reveals that the two financial variables (interest rate and exchange rate) act as intermediating variables – that is an increased fiscal deficit causes interest rate to rise, and this in turn puts pressure on the exchange rate. The appreciation of the domestic currency causes a current account deficit.

Originality/value

The paper is of value by showing both direct and indirect channels to uncover the twin deficits phenomena. Based on a persistent profile response, it was found that the adjustment process may take as long as a year to complete.
Economic transparency and effectiveness of monetary policy
Authors: Ferreira de Mendonça Helder , Simão Filho José
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study if the central bank (BC) communications affect the effectiveness of the monetary policy.

Design/methodology/approach

For this analysis, a new Keynesian theoretical model and the ordinary least squared methodology were used. The objective to be achieved was to determine if there is some effect of economic transparency on accountability, inflation average, output gap, interest and central bank credibility.

Findings

The results highlighted that central banks with greater transparency contribute to decrease inflation rate and interest rate. The findings denote that an increase in the information quality (clarity) implies a significant change in the rate of readjustment of market expectations. Furthermore, central bank transparency contributes to anchor the public expectations and to affect long‐run interest rates.

Research limitations/implications

Impulse‐answer research was employed to show how the central bank transparency affects the credibility of monetary authorities.

Practical implications

This paper suggests that the central bank publicizes its outlook, its policy monetary decisions, its expectations and its preferences.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper resides in the fact that empirical and theoretical studies were made in the single work. Also, new results were found denoting that economic transparency reduces uncertainty effect and increases the power of incentive contract made between the BC and public.
Dispositional and situational sources of control
Authors: Andreassi Jeanine K. , Thompson Cynthia A.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the relative influence of personality (locusof control) and situational control (job autonomy) on the experience of work‐to‐family conflict (WFC), family‐to‐work conflict (FWC), and positive work‐family spillover (PS).

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from the 2002 National Study of the Changing Workforce (n=3,504) and from O*Net, an independent database of occupational characteristic ratings, regression analysis was used to test direct effects, relative weights analysis was used to determine the relative influence oflocusof control and job autonomy on work‐family outcomes, and mediation analysis was used to examine the mediating influence of perceived job autonomy.

Findings

Dispositional control (i.e. internallocusof control) was more strongly associated with the outcome variables than was situational control (i.e. objective job autonomy). As expected, internallocusof control was negatively related to WFC and FWC, and positively related to PS. Job autonomy, however, was unexpectedly related to higher levels of FWC and was unrelated to WFC and PS. Relative weights analysis revealed that situational vs dispositional control were differentially related to the outcome variables. Perceived job autonomy mediated the relationship betweenlocusof control and WFC and PS.

Research limitations/implications

The correlational design prevents conclusions about causality.

Practical implications

Knowing that both personality and job autonomy are important in understanding work‐family outcomes enables managers to intervene appropriately.

Originality/value

This study increases our understanding of the role of personality in relation to work‐family outcomes. In addition, it used a novel technique to partial the effects of situational and dispositional control, and used an objective measure of job autonomy.
When do job demands particularly predict burnout?
Authors: Xanthopoulou Despoina , Bakker Arnold B. , Dollard Maureen F. , Demerouti Evangelia , Schaufeli Wilmar B. , Taris Toon W. , Schreurs Paul J.G.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on home care organization employees, and examine how the interaction between job demands (emotional demands, patient harassment, workload, and physical demands) and job resources (autonomy, social support, performance feedback, and opportunities for professional development) affect the core dimensions of burnout (exhaustion and cynicism).

Design/methodology/approach

Hypotheses were tested with a cross‐sectional design among 747 Dutch employees from two home care organizations.

Findings

Results of moderated structural equation modeling analyses partially supported the hypotheses as 21 out of 32 (66 per cent) possible two‐way interactions were significant and in the expected direction. In addition, job resources were stronger buffers of the relationship between emotional demands/patient harassment and burnout, than of the relationship between workload/physical demands and burnout.

Practical implications

The conclusions may be particularly useful for occupational settings, including home care organizations, where reducing or redesigning demands is difficult.

Originality/value

The findings confirm the JD‐R model by showing that several job resources can buffer the relationship between job demands and burnout.
Managerial level, personality and intelligence
Authors: Furnham Adrian , Crump John , Chamorro‐Premuzic Tomas
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether managers at different levels differ in terms of ability and personality.

Design/methodology/approach

Assessment centre results for over a thousand managers on two cognitive and two non‐cognitive tests were subject to analysis of variance.

Findings

Non‐manager specialists scored highest on one ability test, but lowest on the other. Senior managers had highest Expressed Inclusion and Control scores but lowest Wanted Inclusion and Control scores. Non‐managers were found to be most diligent and dutiful.

Research limitations/implications

Level is inevitably confounded with age and experience, which may impact onto the individual difference variables making it difficult to accurately attribute causality.

Practical implications

It is important to use psychometric test data to help in selection of all managers. Different levels require different profiles.

Originality/value

An exploration of individual differences in a large sample of managers that may relate to promotion to senior management levels.
KM and the enterprise of the future
Authors: Holtshouse Dan
Published: November 2007

Purpose

This aim of this paper is to discuss knowledge management's (KM) long‐term relationship and support of the enterprise of the future over the next ten to 15 years.

Design/methodology/approach

Several topic areas are identified in knowledge management that can provide important support to the enterprise of the future's productivity and growth goals.

Findings

Advances in the areas of raising the value of work, advancing workplace/workspace performance, reducing and streamlining work complexity, and early detection of emerging market changes/disruptions are identified as being among some of the leading future KM capabilities needed by future enterprises.

Originality/value

The paper contains useful information on directions for development of future KM capabilities.
A systems approach for human capital management
Authors: Jackson Patrice
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to suggest a model for knowledge asset management as a foundation for correlating human capital management to organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A systems engineering approach is suggested as a model where inputs develop the knowledge asset, mechanisms inventory the asset and outputs utilize the asset.

Findings

In the knowledge economy, people are an organization's most valuable asset, yet a methodology that correlates their value to organizational performance. is lacking The goal is to propose a knowledge asset model for human capital management. Future research will be performed to substantiate the model and develop a measurement instrument to investigate the correlation between knowledge asset management and organizational performance.

Originality/value

This paper suggests moving people to the center of an asset management model to correlate their value to an organization's performance.
From stories to strategy: putting organizational learning to work
Authors: Bennet Alex , Bennet David
Published: November 2007

Purpose

This article aims to build on the unique relationship between stories and organizations to explore the use of stories as strategy and strategy as stories.

Design/methodology/approach

First, various uses of stories as strategy are explored. This is followed by an application example from the US Department of Navy. Finally, some potential concerns are addressed.

Findings

Stories may be used as a specific strategy themselves, in support of a particular strategy, as part of a generic strategy of learning as one goes, or to jump‐start a new strategy.

Originality/value

This work offers new ways to strategically engage the use of stories as strategies for knowledge transfer and organizational learning.
Data‐driven decision making for the enterprise: an overview of business intelligence applications
Authors: Hedgebeth Darius
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to inform the knowledge worker about Business Intelligence (BI) – its origins, value in decision‐making processes, and currently available BI applications.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses the evolution of decision support systems (DSS) and their close relationship with the business intelligence arena. Open source and commercial BI products are also identified.

Findings

The data that are accessed by BI applications must be accurate if managers of knowledge enterprises are to make informed decisions. Effective partnerships for business and information entities should be observed when BI tools are introduced to an enterprise. Buy‐in from top management is absolutely necessary for the successful implementation of BI tools.

Originality/value

The use of BI applications aids a knowledge enterprise by promoting efficiency within an organization, particularly by using analytical methods to provide valuable decision‐making knowledge to minimize operating costs and to accurately forecast market trends.
Knowledge sharing in large IT organizations: a case study
Authors: Han Brent M. , Anantatmula Vittal S.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

Research has shown that the current knowledge management (KM) practices are developed from the standpoint of the management and do not put enough emphasis on knowledge sharing from the non‐executive employees' perspective. However, it is important for organizations to understand – from the perspective of employees – the factors that motivate employees to share knowledge for successful implementation of any KM program. In this exploratory study, willingness of employees to share knowledge is the dependent variable. The purpose of this study is to explore the knowledge sharing factors from the employees' perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

Using survey methodology, two large IT service and consulting organizations were included in the study to examine cultural, technological, motivational and organizational factors, which influence knowledge sharing within an organization from the perspective of non‐executive employees.

Findings

The study results showed that issues related to availability and usability of technology, leadership support and motivating structures were shown to have influences on knowledge sharing. The study also revealed that employees' willingness to share knowledge was not affected by their concerns about the loss of power or job insecurity.

Research limitations/implications

Self‐reporting bias is a limitation of the survey study. Self‐report bias occurs when individuals would bring in their experiences, self‐perception, and their work environment when completing a survey. Even though the present study clearly indicates to the participants that it is anonymous, it is possible that sometimes participants may misreport and misrepresent their perceptions to make themselves look better. The study was exploratory, and it was limited to two organizations. This would therefore restrict one from generalizing the outcomes of the study.

Originality/value

This exploratory study contributed to a deeper understanding of knowledge sharing with empirical data from two large IT organizations based on the non‐executive employees' perspective rather than that of management.
From knowledge to wisdom: the case of corporate governance in Islamic banking
Authors: Nathan Samy , Ribière Vincent
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to define and explore the concepts and relationships between intellectual capital, knowledge, wisdom and corporate responsibility in the context of the corporate governance of Islamic financial institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents an adaptation of the Nicholson and Kiel intellectual capital model of the board of directors including the role of the Shari'a Supervisory Board (SSB). It is driven by the following research questions: how does the SSB add value to the corporate governance model of IFIs through their intellectual capital? Is there any value in replicating the IFIs structure in western conventional banks and, if yes, how could it be done without the religious and cultural impacts?

Findings

It was only recently that one entered the knowledge economic era and organizations are slowly realizing the need and the benefits not only of managing knowledge better, but also of managing it in a wiser way. The concepts and values carried by Islamic banking and by social responsible investments have a lot in common and they both tend to bring wisdom to the organization's operations and goals.

Originality/value

This paper explores how the core concepts of Islamic banking governance could be adapted to conventional banking. It shows the need for organizations to continue their knowledge management journey by integrating organizational wisdom with their decisions and actions. Corporate social responsibility is perceived as being a first step to reach organizational wisdom. This paper touches on various critical issues and it is hoped that it will be a source of inspiration for numerous research questions and debates on these topics.
News analysis through text mining: a case study
Authors: Mogotsi I.C.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to provide a tangible example of the use of text‐mining techniques in a real world setting, i.e. using real, as opposed to test, data.

Design/methodology/approach

News stories are modeled using the vector space model, with the similarity between documents quantified using the cosine measure. For data analysis, three clustering algorithms are used, and the results from the best‐performing algorithm retained.

Findings

Agglomerative clustering performed poorly, while direct k‐way clustering and k‐way clustering through repeated bisections yielded similar results, with the former performing marginally better in terms of external isolation and internal cohesion of the clusters produced. A number of themes that dominated news coverage during the period under consideration were identified, some of which were noticeably only topical during certain parts of the year.

Research limitations/implications

Text mining holds much promise for businesses, particularly if integrated into a well‐orchestrated competitive intelligence function. However, more publicly accessible studies need to be undertaken if businesses are to derive maximum value from it.

Originality/value

There is a growing body of literature devoted to both data and text mining. However, much of this literature focuses on the development of new algorithms, with scant attention paid to the practical application of these techniques in business settings, possibly because of the strategic sensitivity of project findings. This study helps fill this yawning void.
What our schools are named? An investigation among information leaders
Authors: Alimohammadi Dariush , Sajjadi Mahshid
Published: November 2007

Purpose

There are many differences in, and various opinions on, naming library education institutions around the world. In a number of countries, this diversity has increased a powerful trend among library professionals to discuss and to challenge the problem of naming schools in which they are studying the discipline and the programs by which they are being taught. The present study, in response to this trend, aims to find out an adequate answer to this problem based on the real state of the librarianship's educational institutions on the World Wide Web.

Design/methodology/approach

After an introductory note, various opinions are classified into two categories. The diversity in interpretation of renaming schools is reviewed chronologically. The survey was done and a sufficient conclusion was presented.

Findings

More than 98.5 percent of the schools have renewed their titles, while fewer than 45 percent have changed their titles completely from the traditional forms to the newer ones.

Research limitations/implications

Relativeness of the industrialization concept is too much. Therefore, conceptualization for such research would usually be a big problem.

Practical implications

It was not possible to discover whether the titles of the schools were being changed when the survey was being done or not.

Originality/value

The results of this survey can solve the paradox of renaming schools.
Mechanical drilling of printed circuit boards: the state‐of‐the‐art
Authors: Fu Lianyu , Qu Jianguo , Chen Haibin
Published: November 2007

Purpose

To provide a clear picture of the current status of mechanical drilling of printed circuit boards (PCBs).

Design/methodology/approach

A review paper detailing the developments of micro‐drill bit and PCB mechanical drilling techniques.

Findings

Mechanical drilling will still dominate the PCB hole processing methods. A design method on the basis of theoretical analysis, numerical simulation and experimental verifications is proved as an applicable way to improve the drill bit design efficiency. Newly developed tungsten carbide, novel coating techniques and high‐performance steel‐shank micro‐drill bits are expected. Solutions of micro‐drill bits for high‐density interconnection, IC substrate flexible PCBs, halogen and lead‐free assembly compatible PCBs, as well as 2 mm shank diameter drill bit are worthy of being concerned.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the state‐of‐the‐art techniques of micro‐drill bit manufacturing and novel developed micro‐drill bit. The development direction of micro‐drill bit in the future is concluded.
Development of a comprehensive in‐line quality control system for printed circuit board assemblies
Authors: Nicholson P.I. , Wallace P.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

To present an overview of the research and development carried out by an EC Framework 6 part funded consortium, known as MICROSCAN, for the implementation of an in‐line PCB inspection prototype system that is capable of offering comprehensive defect detection.

Design/methodology/approach

Four non‐destructive testing inspection modules based on digital radiography (X‐ray) inspection, thermal inspection, automated‐optical inspection and acoustic inspection have been integrated to form a combined inspection system.

Findings

A proof in principle in‐line PCB inspection system, utilising four different inspection techniques, has been developed and demonstrated. The system is based on a generic mechanical, electrical and software communications platform culminating in a flexible system that enables the inspection modules to be used separately, together or interchanged to give the best results in terms of inspection coverage and inspection throughput.

Research limitations/implications

In its current embodiment, the prototype is suited to inspection of high‐return PCBs, particularly those used in medical and aerospace products, rather than high‐throughput PCB production work. The X‐ray inspection module is the slowest inspection technique and combining four different inspection techniques reduces the inspection throughput of the whole system to that of the X‐ray inspection module. Further, trials and investigations need to be carried out to improve inspection throughput.

Originality/value

The novelty of the system is that it is the first time that four inspection techniques have been combined to give the capability of 100 per cent defect coverage.
Processing waste printed circuit boards for material recovery
Authors: Hall William J. , Williams Paul T.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The authors aim to investigate the use of pyrolysis for the processing of waste printed circuit boards (PCBs). The aim was to make the process of separating the organic, metallic, and glass fibre fractions of PCBs much easier and therefore make recycling of each PCB fraction more viable.

Design/methodology/approach

The PCBs were pyrolysed in a fixed bed reactor at 850°C. The organic fraction released by the boards was analysed by a variety of gas chromatography techniques. The residue that remained after pyrolysis was analysed by ICP‐MS to determine the type of metals that were present.

Findings

When PCBs were heated to 800°C in an oxygen free atmosphere, the organic fraction decomposed to form volatile oils and gases leaving behind the metal and glass fibre fraction of the boards. The pyrolysed boards were very friable and the different fractions (metal components, copper power boards, glass fibre, etc.) could be easily separated. The recovered metals could then be recycled by traditional routes with particular emphasis being placed on the recovery and recycling of rare and precious metals. The organic oils and gases which are produced during pyrolysis of PCBs can either be used as a chemical feedstock or as a fuel.

Research limitations/implications

The research was only carried out on a very small scale so an investigation into scale‐up must be performed.

Practical implications

By using pyrolysis, the organic and metallic fraction of PCBs can be separated and recycled.

Originality/value

This paper presents a novel method for resource recovery from PCBs.
Dominated by women: managed by men? The career development process of retail managers
Authors: Broadbridge Adelina
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to explore some issues regarding the career development of men and women retail managers and provide an overview of the main issues these present for retailers in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

The research utilised combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. Data were collected via a questionnaire survey with 286 male and female UK retail managers.

Findings

Managers generally reported satisfaction with their current jobs and were highly ambitious to develop their careers. Factors managers particularly associated with facilitating their careers to date were attributed to own efforts and attitudes towards their work. Problems in their careers to date were associated with factors outside of their own control. The findings demonstrated that the culture of retailing is still perceived to be dominated by male norms and values and this has implications for the way in which men and women managers experience their jobs and career opportunities.

Practical implications

Managerial recommendations include the provision of meaningful mentoring relationships, the creation of developmental opportunities not bounded by a linear structure and re‐examination of organisational cultural attitudes and practices. The importance of reconsideration of working arrangements and the provision of flexible working arrangements at all levels of the management hierarchy is emphasised.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to current understanding of the career issues experienced by UK retail managers in the twenty‐first century.
Consumer responses to shelf out‐of‐stocks of perishable products
Authors: van Woensel Tom , van Donselaar Karel , Broekmeulen Rob , Fransoo Jan
Published: November 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to identify customer behavior with regard to out‐of‐stocks (OOS) of perishable products (focused on bakery bread) and the resulting inventory performance for these perishable products.

Design/methodology/approach

Insights on how consumers behave when their preferred bread product is OOS are derived based on 3,800 customer interviews performed in three stores of a large Dutch grocery retail chain. Next to this, additional logistical information was measured on regular moments with respect to the shelf availability per stock‐keeping unit during the day and to waste at the end of the day.

Findings

The customer behavior with regard to perishables is observed to be different from that for the non‐perishable items. The key observation is that customers have a high willingness to substitute. The incorporation of the obtained knowledge of the observed consumer buying behavior into the existing automated store ordering (ASO) systems is discussed. In the current ASO systems, no distinction is made between perishable and non‐perishable products, as it is primarily designed and used for the non‐perishables. The authors show that the current ASO can be enriched and extended by taking into account some extra crucial parameters which are based on the observed consumer behavior.

Originality/value

One common factor in the research papers published so far is that they primarily looked into the customer behavior for non‐perishable items. The current paper on‐hand extends these works towards perishable items with a focus on bakery bread.
A comparison of shipper and carrier relationship strength
Authors: Golicic Susan L.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

Prior research has primarily examined interorganizational relationships from the supplier or customer side or using dyadic pairs. The study aims to offer a comparison of carrier and shipper relationship views using a hybrid research method examining the relationship from both points of view by sampling both populations independently with identical surveys.

Design/methodology/approach

Mail surveys were used to collect data from the two samples. Invariance tests were conducted, and the model was analyzed using structural equation modeling (AMOS 5.0).

Findings

Invariance tests of the measurement instrument and comparisons of specific results show that, in the context of shippers and carriers, relationships – specifically trust and commitment and the contribution of dependence to relationship strength – are perceived differently.

Research limitations/implications

Empirically supporting significant differences in theoretical relationship constructs between the two participants in an interorganizational relationship is important for understanding and advancing knowledge on supply chain relationships.

Practical implications

Successful supply chain management can only be achieved when firms successfully develop and manage relationships with other firms in their supply chain; therefore, it is important to recognize and understand any differences in these relationships so that they will be better equipped to manage them. Knowing that the other firm perceives differences in levels of trust and commitment and the contribution of dependence to relationship strength can provide indications of behaviors that are important to a firm in reaching their relationship goals.

Originality/value

The paper applies a method to compare supplier and customer relationship views that has not been used in supply chain management literature to uncover and support relationship differences between carriers and shippers.
An assessment of sourcing strategies in the Swedish apparel industry
Authors: Åkesson Johan , Jonsson Patrik , Edanius‐Hällås Robert
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically identify different types of sourcing strategies applied in the apparel industry, and to explain how various sourcing strategies are related to the apparel firm's characteristics, prerequisites and supplier performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on a survey that was sent out to Swedish apparel firms. Commonly applied sourcing strategies, in terms of supply markets and supply channels, are first derived using cluster analysis. These strategies are then linked to relevant firm characteristics, prerequisites and supplier performance measures, where significant differences between groups of firms applying various sourcing strategies are targeted.

Findings

Five commonly applied sourcing strategies are identified. Further, several significant differences – with respect to product issues, organizational issues and supplier performance – are found between the firm groups.

Research limitations/implications

Several future research areas in conjunction with this study can be derived by widening or changing the scope. For instance, other industries as well as apparel industries in other countries can be targeted and thus provide valuable comparisons.

Practical implications

Assessing the contextual appropriateness of sourcing strategies provides a strategic sourcing benchmark for firms across industries. Notably, apparel firms' experience in exploiting low‐cost supply markets may provide valuable insights for firms that just recently have recognized the potential of these markets.

Originality/value

This paper provides a contextual understanding of how various sourcing strategies are utilized in the Swedish apparel industry, and thereby contributes to the general conception of sourcing strategies.
Exploring future competitive advantage through sustainable supply chains
Authors: Markley Melissa J. , Davis Lenita
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The paper's purpose is to outline the potential competitive advantage firms can create through the creation of a sustainable supply chain, and to describe potential measures for managers to use.

Design/methodology/approach

Arguing that firms can increase their competitive advantage as a result of a stronger triple bottom line, propositions are created from a natural‐resource‐based view of the firm perspective that is supported using accounting theory, management strategy, green logistics and supply chain literatures. Secondary data resources that could be used for testing by managers and academicians are identified.

Findings

The paper finds that, as sources of competitive advantage for firm become scarcer, potential new areas of advantage must be explored.

Practical implications

This research will serve to help managers in the exploration of these possible outlets.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to explore the impact of a sustainable supply chain on the triple‐bottom line of a firm. Not only does this fill a necessary gap, it also serves to bring together the supply chain, sustainability and triple‐bottom‐line literatures to create a potential advantage for future organizations.
Value‐informed pricing in its organizational context: literature review, conceptual framework, and directions for future research
Authors: Ingenbleek Paul
Published: November 2007

Purpose

In the face of increased pricing pressure, managerial attention for value‐informed pricing (in which a price is based on the customer's value perception) is on the rise. Although value‐informed pricing in its organizational context received a great deal of attention, the body of literature is fragmented and insights are often not cumulative. It is the aim of this article to review and integrate the empirical literature on pricing practices in order to pave the road for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical studies on pricing practices are collected and reviewed. Building on the resource‐based view of the firm, the findings from these studies are summarized in an integrative framework that includes testable research propositions.

Findings

Value‐informed pricing is the result of the deployment of informational resources such as market research, relationships and internal knowledge on customers. Firms should not only develop these information sources, but also secure the process by which they are deployed. The latter is among others influenced by the competitive context and organizational information processing that may evolve into a routine.

Originality/value

The article integrates the insights from a stream of research that thus far has been highly fragmented. It generates insights that may help firms to establish a value‐informed pricing process and it may help to develop a more mature body of research on value‐informed pricing.
An integrated model of price, satisfaction and loyalty: an empirical analysis in the service sector
Authors: Martín‐Consuegra David , Molina Arturo , Esteban Águeda
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of customer satisfaction both directly and indirectly (through loyalty) on price acceptance. In addition, price fairness is considered as an antecedent of customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a theoretical discussion regarding the relationship among price fairness, customer satisfaction, loyalty, and price acceptance, empirical research was conducted to test the proposed relationships. Multiple‐item indicators from previous studies were employed to measure the constructs.

Findings

The results from the study provide empirical support, suggesting that perceived price fairness influences customer satisfaction and loyalty. The analysis also suggests that customer satisfaction and loyalty are two important antecedents of price acceptance.

Research limitations/implications

The study ponders the relationship between customer satisfaction and loyalty and price acceptance, while other factors that have an influence on price acceptance are not considered.

Practical implications

The research results suggest that perceived price fairness in service industries can be viewed as a threshold factor in order to maintain satisfied and loyal customers. Additionally, managers should consider that price acceptance depends on the level of satisfaction and loyalty.

Originality/value

The present study provides useful information on the relationship among price fairness, customer satisfaction, loyalty, and price acceptance in service industries.