bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Set‐up time reduction and mistake proofing methods: an examination in precision component manufacturing
Authors: Patel S. , Dale B.G. , Shaw P.
Published: April 2007

The purpose of the study reported in this paper was to examine how manufacturing organisations used set‐up time reduction and mistake proofing methods. The study was conducted in companies involved in manufacturing precision components. It was found that the companies were approaching the application of these concepts mainly through traditional work‐study type methods rather than using Shingo’s single minute exchange of die and poka‐yoke or mistake proofing methodologies. There was clear evidence that the four companies are reducing set‐up time through supporting mechanisms such as kaizen teams. The main poka‐yoke devices used were jigs, gauges, pegs, lights and buzzers. Total productive maintenance, suggestion schemes and quality management tools and techniques were also employed to reduce set‐up times and mistake proof processes. The main barriers to the application of these methods include traditional methods of working and resistance to change.
Regenerating Your TQM Effort: What to Do When It Runs out of Steam
Authors: Foster Morris , Smith Stuart , Whittle Susan , Tranfield David
Published: April 2007

Total quality (TQ) is likely to fail or run out of steam 18‐24 months
into the endeavour and this cycle is likely to repeat itself as the
programme progresses. Discusses why this occurs and describes a
methodology of resuscitating the total quality management (TQM)
programme. This involves, in addition to the traditional approaches to
TQ (planning, learning and visionary mindsets) introduction of the
transformation mindset.
The effects of advanced information technology on organizational
design
Authors: McCleary Karl , Asubonteng Patrick , Munchus George
Published: April 2007

Illustrates several issues associated with the effects of advanced
information technology on the organizational design function. Explores
the relationship between technology and organizational design. Cites
some early empirical studies and identifies some contemporary
challenges. Also mentions implications for new organizational forms
within the context of a realigned health‐care industry perspective.
Concludes that organizational theorists and information systems scholars
must integrate their efforts in order to appreciate the changes within
this field of management theory, thought and practice.
Teaching health economics to medical personnel from developing nations
Authors: Lloyd John
Published: April 2007

Outlines the author’s experiences and the lessons learnt from work in the field of management training for doctors and other medical personnel. Explains the policy of using a dual approach: economic concepts and ideas in practical situations. States that by adopting this participative, problem‐solving approach and involving the discipline of economics in tandem with other skills and subjects, it addresses some of the issues which medical personnel face in their places of work.
Thinking beyond the box
Authors: Lloyd Geoffrey C.
Published: April 2007

Contends that as techniques to motivate, empower and reward staff become ever more sophisticated and expensive, one of the most obvious, though overlooked, ways of tapping the creativity of employees is the suggestion scheme. A staff suggestion scheme may well be dismissed as a simplistic and outdated vehicle by proponents of modern management methods, but to its owners it can be like a classic model ‐ needing just a little care and attention in order for it to run smoothly and at a very low cost. Proposes that readers should spare some time to consider introducing a suggestion scheme as an entry level initiative and a precursor to more sophisticated, elaborate and costly change management mechanisms.
Asymmetry of information, entrepreneurship and complex environments: a study of market stimulation and destruction in the satellite television industry
Authors: McPherson Campbell
Published: April 2007

This article is concerned with a specific market niche composed of very small, and small enterprises (SE) providing access to satellite television channels directly to an individual’s home (DTH). It focuses on the role within that niche of a specific segment providing products which are generally termed “pirate” by governments, companies and the public. In this context, it examines the nature, and consequences, of information and influence asymmetry between SEs and large broadcasting companies, especially as it relates to the national and European policy process. Finally, it considers whether other small enterprises can learn from the experience of the satellite television sector.
Barriers to women’s participation in international management
Authors: Linehan Margaret , Scullion Hugh , Walsh James S.
Published: April 2007

From the extant research in international human resource management it is evident that women are not progressing to senior international management positions at comparable rates to their male counterparts. Previous research has estimated that only 3 percent of expatriate managers are women. This paper argues that female international managers have to overcome many additional overt and covert barriers before being developed for international assignments. Based on an extensive empirical research study conducted with senior female international managers in a European context, the paper highlights a number of the barriers which the interviewees believed limit women’s international career opportunities. The paper also highlights the implications of these barriers for international human resource management policies and practices.
Accelerating the development of the European information economy: the European Commission’s eEurope initiative
Authors: Turner Colin
Published: April 2007

The eEurope programme is the latest in a long line of initiatives that seek to accelerate the development of the European information economy. The core objective is to bring as many Europeans online as quickly as possible. The key to its success is in stimulating a mature information market, which in turn relies upon spreading electronic commerce throughout the EU’s socio‐economic body. However, agreement in this key area has been slow to emerge, restrained in part by cultural factors in the EU.
Restructuring in European telecommunications: modelling the evolving market
Authors: Lal David , Pitt Douglas C. , Beloucif Ahmed
Published: April 2007

The past 20 years have seen the worldwide telecommunications industry transformed from predominantly dormant, country‐centred, government‐run agencies, to increasingly competitive, innovative and market‐led organisations. Much of the will to change has stemmed from the visionary market liberalisation and deregulation policies of the US and UK governments. Indeed, such determined change has brought with it creative and vibrant strategic positioning and repositioning of firms within the evolving global telecommunications marketplace. As a result, in pushing forward the frontiers of knowledge within this rapidly changing environment, the main focus of this study examines and analyses secondary literature and considers the key dynamic factors driving structural change within the European telecommunications market. To this end, a theoretical model of their respective impact on market structure is generated.
Kalecki, any old idiot and the European Central Bank
Authors: Potts Nick
Published: April 2007

If we accept the logic of mainstream free‐market ideology‐based macroeconomic theory, the European Central Bank should, to maximise economic efficiency, be independent of political influence. It is easy to forget that such an understanding of the economy was discredited by the great 1930s slump and banished from government policy in the “Golden Age” of capitalism, between 1950 and 1973. Proposes to move beyond the free‐market/monetarist/new‐classical consensus to consider if the row over who should head the ECB is as trivial as it seems. First considers the work of Michal Kalecki, which typically represents the Golden Age’s prevailing ideology of positive state intervention. Next considers how Europe’s post‐war economic performance can be consistently explained by Kalecki’s work. Then moves on to consider the development of the Single European Currency project with the insight that an alternative economic ideology provides.
Appraising job performance – to be or not to be? An Asian
dilemma
Authors: Shaikh Tayyab S.
Published: April 2007

Describes an ongoing research project to monitor performance
appraisal reports (PARs) of staff working at the Indira Gandhi
International Airport, New Delhi, India. Presents major shortcomings of
the PAR mechanism as observed while analysing the data. Suggests ways in
which the existing appraisal mechanism could be improved in order to
introduce and maintain a performance‐oriented work culture.
Measurement of Water Absorption Perpendicular to Fabric Plane in Two‐ and Multi‐layered Fabric Systems
Authors: Yoneda Morihiro , Mizuno Yuko , Yoneda Junko
Published: April 2007

Examines water absorption by capillary action which is perpendicular to the fabric plane as an important property in clothing comfort and hygiene. Proposes that layering fabric is an effective way of controlling water absorption properties in fabric systems. Reports the results of measurement of water absorption in two‐ and multi‐layered fabric systems using apparatus based on the pressure sensor method. Concludes with a list of results obtained by analysis with the finite element method.
Influence of Wool Content on Properties of Blended Fabrics
Authors: Militky Jiri , Bajzik Vladimir
Published: April 2007

Examines wool/polyester blended fabrics with a view to finding the optimal blend in relation to suitable utility, surface and handling properties. Concludes that a simple general mixing rule is possible for use in producing the required optimum blends.
Non‐recovery of Futon Padding after Repeated Compression
Authors: Sukigara Sachiko , Yokura Hiroko , Niwa Masako
Published: April 2007

Non‐recovery of wool Futon padding was investigated by compression and creep tests. Simulation tests are also carried out to use the minuter model Futon. Fibre crimp was found to be an important parameter to be considered in the non‐recovery of Futon. Futon padding which consists of crimpy fibre has large apparent fibre density and shows less reduction of thickness compared with those made from uncrimpy fibres. The moisture inside and outside the Futon has a large influence on the recovery process.
Importance of mechanical and physical properties of fabrics in the clothing manufacturing process
Authors: Shishoo Roshan L.
Published: April 2007

Deals with the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the tailorability of lightweight wool fabrics, as well as studies related to the interaction between the ease of tailorability and performance characteristics of wool fabrics. The role of mechanical/physical properties of fabric in the making‐up process as regards lightweight wool fabrics must be fully understood in order to achieve trouble‐free tailoring of garments made from such fabrics. Places emphasis on practical analysis of tailorability of difficult lightweight wool fabrics, providing subsequent solutions for the making‐up of such fabrics. In tailorability prediction analysis work, in addition to analysis of overall garment production, the further analysis of part processes such as sewing, feeding and handling have also been made using TEFO’s computerized methods of analysis. Results are analysed in terms of the relevant mechanical and physical properties of the test fabrics. Evaluates properties using both the Kawabata Evaluation System (KES) and Fabric Assurance by Simple Testing (FAST) sets of instruments.
A neuro‐fuzzy control system for intelligent overlock sewing machines
Authors: Stylios George , Sotomi J.O.
Published: April 2007

A neuro‐fuzzy control model has been devised for the next generation of so‐called “intelligent sewing machines”. The model incorporates discrimination of material characteristics to be stitched by automatic determination of their properties. The fabric/machine interactions at different speeds have been computed in the form of linguistic rules of a fuzzy model and implemented in a neural network to allow for optimization of fuzzy membership functions and, subsequently, self‐learning. The model is successfully applied to an instrumented industrial sewing machine.
Lightweight wool garment wrinkle performance
Authors: Salter C.J. , Roczniok A.F. , Stephens L.G.
Published: April 2007

A controlled wear experiment which examined the wrinkle performance of lightweight wool fabrics is described. Six lightweight wool and wool blend fabrics were tailored into trousers and worn by six wearers in controlled ambient environments of 20°C, 40 per cent rh, and 25°C, 75 per cent rh, for two‐hour sessions. Black and white photographs were taken of the wrinkled garments at specific recovery times. These were assessed for wrinkling by ten observers using a scale that was defined in relation to two reference photographs. Fabrics were shown to have different wrinkle performance at the end of the wear sessions. Wearers contribute a large proportion of the variation seen in the overall assessments of the fabrics. The largest source of variation was due to the different ambient wear conditions during the wear session, highlighting the importance of this factor when considering wrinkling in wear.
Strength reduction in sewing threads during high speed sewing in industrial lockstitch machine
Authors: Sundaresan G. , Salhotra K.R. , Hari P.K.
Published: April 2007

The mechanism of strength reduction of sewing threads has been discussed in Part I of this paper. The effect of fabric tightness and certain thread properties like its size, coefficient of yarn‐metal friction, twist direction, number of piles, type of fibre and fibre denier on strength reduction has been studied and found to influence the severity of strength reduction of the thread.
Simulation of sewing machine mechanisms using program package ADAMS
Authors: Žunič Lojen Darja
Published: April 2007

Use of programme package ADAMS to simulate the sewing machine mechanisms is presented within this contribution. The simulation of needle bar mechanism was carried out. The influence of velocity changes of the main shaft on velocities and acceleration of sewing needle in the penetration area is described on the basis of simulation results. Achieved data could be used for calculation of needle penetration force. The influence of length modification of needle bar mechanism elements on sewing needle velocity and acceleration is also presented. This analysis could contribute to better understanding of sewing machine activity.
Numerical evaluation of fabric construction parameters
Authors: Ziberna‐Sujica Milena , Pinteric Andreja
Published: April 2007

In the paper the theoretical fundamentals of numerical evaluation of the significant fabric construction parameters (fabric setting, working‐in and fabric weight) are represented, which are the base for the prediction of theoretical fabric parameter values for a particular fabric application area. For fabric samples also the measured values and the comparison of selected construction parameters were obtained. The results confirm a good agreement in fabric setting and fabric weight values but a minor agreement in working‐in values of selected fabric samples. Our research work refers to the fabrics for under‐linen and fabrics for bed linen.
The fabric pressing performance and its role in predicting the appearance of men’s wool suit jackets
Authors: Giorgio Minazio Pier
Published: April 2007

A test method and instrumentation have been developed to facilitate the identification of potential appearance problems and for the development of improved fabric pressing performance. The method determines the fabric pressing performance with a greater degree of certainty than using a steam press. The weft “pressing performance” crease angle, as measured by the test method developed by CSIRO, in cooperation with IWS (Biella Technical Centre) and the Italian industries, combined with warp formability, as measured by SIROFAST, were found to be the two fabric properties most important for the prediction of the acceptability and appearance of a range of high quality men’s suits. It also appears that a good pressing performance can partly compensate for the seam pucker symptoms of low formability.
Generating positive word‐of‐mouth communication through customer‐employee relationships
Authors: Gremler Dwayne D. , Gwinner Kevin P. , Brown Stephen W.
Published: April 2007

In this study, we hypothesize and empirically test the proposition that interpersonal bonds, or relationships between employees and customers, can significantly influence positive word‐of‐mouth (WOM) communication. Such influence may be especially true for many services, particularly in situations where a relationship has developed between the customer and individual service providers. In this study we look at four dimensions of interpersonal bonds: trust, care, rapport, and familiarity. We contend that as a customer’s trust increases in a specific employee (or employees), positive WOM communication about the organization is more likely to increase and such trust is a consequence of three other interpersonal relationship dimensions: a personal connection between employees and customers, care displayed by employees, and employee familiarity with customers. These propositions are investigated using data collected from bank customers and dental patients, and we find empirical support for all but one of our hypotheses. A key finding is that the presence of interpersonal relationships between employees and customers is significantly correlated with customer WOM behavior. We conclude with a discussion of how interpersonal relationships between customers and employees might be fostered in order to increase the likelihood of customer WOM behavior.
Customer adoption of e‐service: an experimental study
Authors: de Ruyter Ko , Wetzels Martin , Kleijnen Mirella
Published: April 2007

So far, the term e‐commerce has been primarily associated with communicating the brand and/or enabling sales transactions. However, the next vista for companies operating in the virtual marketplace seems to be e‐service or, delivering value‐added, interactive services to customers. This e‐business function has been left virtually unexplored in the services research literature. In this article, an attempt is made to investigate the impact of organizational reputation, relative advantage, and perceived risk on perceived service quality, trust and behavioral intentions of customers towards adopting e‐services. In the context of an electronic travel service, hypotheses on the relationships between aforementioned variables are investigated by means of an experimental study. The results suggest that the three factors have a significant main effect on the customers’ attitude and behavior towards e‐service. The only exception is that relative advantage does not appear to have a significant impact on customer trust. The results also show that organizational reputation and perceived risk have a combined effect: a good organizational reputation impacts the effect of perceived risk on the three dependent variables. Finally, the three factors appeared to be evenly important in the forming of customers’ attitude and behavior. Again, the only exception is that organizational reputation and perceived risk appear to be more important in terms of trust than relative advantage.
Networks and Australian professional services in newly emerging markets of Asia
Authors: Freeman Susan , Cray David , Sandwell Mark
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To understand better how professional services firms (PSFs) use networks to gain entry into newly emerging markets (NEMs), to analyze how such firms are assisted in this process by prior networks and to provide a framework of this process.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology utilised in this study is qualitative and exploratory. Ten interviews across three large firms (legal, finance and media consulting) were used for the data gathering. Analysis incorporated open, axial and selective coding.

Findings

Prior networks provide impetus to the foreign entry aspirations of PSFs and are critical to the process. The specific functions of network actors in the entry process are to influence the firm and to provide intelligence‐gathering, arising from their participatory role in the foreign market. A framework is presented, supporting network theory as a key theoretical underpinning of strategy formulation, decision‐making and implementation by PSFs entering NEMs.

Research limitations/implications

The framework presented in this paper could be tested most appropriately by analysing an extended number of cases, still within a qualitative approach, prior to survey‐testing the extent of the phenomena. Within the scope of the current study, however, the framework is supported by these preliminary findings.

Practical implications

Networks are perceived by PSFs as a medium for capturing market knowledge and as a basis for strategic decision‐making in NEMs.

Originality/value

Network theory is posited as a key theoretical underpinning of core strategy formulation, decision‐making and implementation by professional services entering NEMs.
Prediction of erosion from steep mine waste slopes
Authors: Williams David John
Published: April 2007

The prediction of soil erosion by the action of water has been based largely on the universal soil loss equation and its variations, derived from data collected from agricultural land in the USA. Open pit mining creates waste rock or spoil dumps at the angle of repose of the material (typically 35° to 40°). Even after regrading these slopes, relatively steep slope angles will remain, typically steeper than 6° to 8°. Topsoiling is generally required to facilitate revegetation, but bare topsoil is particularly prone to erosion. Mine slopes are therefore quite unlike the agricultural slopes on which the predictive tools for erosion by water were based. The paper discusses the prediction of erosion from steep mine waste slopes in the light of some erosion data collected from laboratory flume and field studies for open pit coal and gold mining situations in Queensland, Australia. Alternative interpretations of the data are presented, which result in different trends when the data are extrapolated up to angle of repose slopes. The effectiveness of both coarse‐grained riprap on the surface and revegetation in limiting erosion are highlighted.
Renewable, non‐polluting energy
Authors: Bender A.E.
Published: April 2007

The growth of population is outstripping our ability to prevent
irreversible degradation of the natural environment and continued
poverty for much of the world. Discusses possible solutions to the
problem, including artificial photosynthesis which uses purely chemical
methods and can be carried out on barren lands. The aim of current
research is to devise chemical means of photolysis of water.
Supply Chain Management: The Logic of Supply Chains and Networks
Authors: Håkansson Håkan , Persson Göran
Published: April 2007

A major assumption in the supply chain management literature is that there is an economic rationale to the integration of processes across firm boundaries. In essence, it is assumed that there is a benefit in adapting and coordinating the activities carried out in sequence by the actors in the supply chain. The purpose of this paper is to further develop and evaluate this fundamental assumption. Based on a theoretical framework regarding interdependencies and the analysis of five different supply chains, it is proposed that there are theoretical as well as empirical reasons for enhancing the underlying logic of process integration in supply chain management to capture pooled and reciprocal interdependencies. It is argued, that by enhancing the logic, one might better understand how managers prioritize their firms' strategic actions and therefore also actual organizational behavior.
The Impact of Supply Chain Partnerships on Supplier Performance
Authors: Duffy Rachel , Fearne Andrew
Published: April 2007

In this paper, We present a framework of buyer‐supplier relationships used in an empirical study to investigate how the development of more collaborative relationships between UK retailers and fresh produce suppliers, affects the financial performance of suppliers. Relationships between key partnership characteristics and performance are described and empirically tested. In addition, multivariate analysis is used to identify the dimensions of buyer‐supplier relationships that make the greatest relative contribution to the explanation of the performance construct.
Aligning Distribution Center Operations to Supply Chain Strategy
Authors: Baker Peter
Published: April 2007

A major focus of modern day logistics is on achieving a higher level of responsiveness to marketplace demand, but with less inventory. Achieving the dual targets of lower cost and higher service has implications for every stage in the supply chain and in particular for distribution center operations. What is the extent to which organizations are adjusting their distribution center operations to match current supply chain concepts? Using a survey, roles that these facilities play are explored in order to determine the extent to which modern supply chain theory and distribution center operations are aligned.
Housebuilding Supply Chains: Remove Waste – Improve Value
Authors: Barker Ralph , Naim Mohamed M.
Published: April 2007

There is little published work regarding value and waste in UK housebuilding supply chains. In this paper, we review the current status of research in supply chains generally and housebuilding supply chains specifically. The “wastes” and “values” within housebuilding supply chains are identified and categorized and some key potential improvement methodologies are proposed. Starting from the concepts of “value” and “waste”, relevant supply chain models are evaluated and a case study is used to suggest improvements towards a more efficient housebuilding supply chain. Finally, we present a template for waste detection in housebuilding supply chains.
What Is the Right Supply Chain For Your Products?
Authors: Payne Tim , Peters Melvyn J.
Published: April 2007

In order to have a successful supply chain, in terms of total supply chain costs and service performance to the customer, companies need to match the type of products they are selling with the type of distribution channels delivering their products. To test this hypothesis a product supply characterization (PSC) model was developed and validated on the European operations of a US$15 billion case study company. The application of the PSC model to the case study company reveals significant value in matching specific product clusters with appropriate supply chain designs and that any mismatch represents supply chain under performance.
E‐commerce marketing strategies: an integrated framework and case analysis
Authors: Allen Eric , Fjermestad Jerry
Published: April 2007

Demonstrates the usefulness of the traditional marketing model in developing e‐commerce marketing strategies. Discusses four e‐commerce frameworks and integrates them with the traditional marketing model (product, price, promotion, and distribution) to develop a complete framework. Discusses how the e‐commerce strategies could be applied to a real company using the integrated model.
Planning for electronic commerce strategy: an explanatory study from the financial services sector
Authors: Bauer Christian , Colgan Joe
Published: April 2007

Focuses on Internet strategy and its place in corporate distribution strategy. The underlying purpose of the research is to review the relationship between the generic and Internet strategies of retail institutions in the financial services industry and thus determine whether there exists an alignment between them. The corporate strategy is conceptualised through Michael Porter’s generic strategies: differentiation, cost leadership and focus. For the Internet strategy, the three options translate into certain actions on the marketplace and in the adoption of specific information technologies. The technology analysis observes the frequency of OFX adoption among the sample population based on the published list of software vendors (Quicken and Microsoft). The pricing analysis is based on each financial institution’s retail transaction account price as calculated through a defined process using the fee structure of the account. The obtained data are then used for an empirical test for any relationships between the adoption of OFX transactional technology and pricing of retail transaction accounts.
Down with the internal customer
Authors: Guaspari John
Published: April 2007

The internal customer model has served well, but has many
limitations and drawbacks. It can only take one so far. Now, we must
change the model. It is time to let customer mean customer.
A new approach to the multiple objective facility layout problem
Authors: Sha D.Y. , Chen Chien‐Wen
Published: April 2007

This paper presents a new approach for combining the quantitative and qualitative objectives to resolve the facility layout problem. In previous studies, there are various approaches to generate solutions for the facility layout problem. Suboptimal solutions need to be considered for large layout problems since optimal algorithms are computationally infeasible. Therefore, it is important to set criteria to measure the quality of various solutions. In this paper, a new measure of solution quality, the probability of superiority, is offered for the determination of the probability that one layout is better than the others. An example is presented to illustrate our proposed approach.
Integration of rapid prototyping technology into FMS for agile manufacturing
Authors: Onuh S.O. , Hon K.K.B.
Published: April 2007

The problem of inaccuracies of models manufactured by layer manufacturing technology has greatly limited its intended level of exploitations especially in the down‐stream applications and integration into the FMS and CIM. The principles of cellular manufacturing together with various examples of its application and benefits are well documented. Increased competition combined with customer demand for quality, speed, product performance and lower costs are putting an ever‐greater burden on manufacturing. Not only do products need to be launched faster than ever, but also manufacturing needs to be flexible in rapidly retuning its facilities. The move to cellular manufacturing, TQM or CIM or other techniques alone is thus no longer enough. Instead, the challenge is increasingly one of compressing the time it takes to continually “re‐invent” the manufacturing system in order to meet the prevailing demands of the market place. This paper presents a comparative study on the effects of hatch patterns on stereolithography models using epoxy‐based resin in a CIM environment. A unique experimental investigation has been carried out with two new hatch patterns, Divergent Star‐weave, (DSW), and Diagonal Divergent Star‐weave (DDSW), which have significantly improved the stereolithography product quality, and reduced lead time thus yielding a significant tool in agile manufacturing.
Leadership, Hermeneutics and Empiricism
Authors: Davson‐Galle Peter
Published: April 2007

A recent article in this journal by John Smith and Joseph Blase
criticized empiricism as a theoretical base for theories of educational
leadership, suggested hermeneutics as a replacement host theory and
then, in its terms, advanced some views on leadership. Without rejecting
their thoughts concerning proper leadership, argues that much of what
they say is consistent not just with hermeneutics but with versions of
empiricism less “straw‐mannish” than the view they reject. Identifies
difficulties in the hermeneutical theories advanced by Smith and Blase
and advances an alternative philosophical framework for educational
leadership theory.
Taxation Allowances and Profiles:
Authors: Adair A.S. , Berry J.N. , McGreal W.S.
Published: April 2007

Examines fiscal measures as a means of stimulating commercial
development in inner city areas. Shows that the coupling together of
planning and regeneration issues with financial policy stimulates the
demand side by providing incentives to owner‐occupiers, investors and
lessees. Analyses taxation profiles to indicate the potential saving
available to the different actors and considers short‐term and
longer‐term impact on the market.
Financial Risk Sharing in New Zealand′s Residential Mortgage Market
Authors: Schuck Edward J.
Published: April 2007

Suggests that a form of modified variable rate mortgage (VRM) should be
the type of mortgage that is most attractive to the majority of
owner‐occupiers in New Zealand. VRMs are shown to be lenders′ choice of
mortgage because their traditional reliance on retail deposits and other
forms of short‐term finance necessitates that their assets be of similar
duration. In exchange for unilateral rate‐setting powers, lenders
compensate borrowers (to a degree) with relatively low administration
costs. Though it appears that the range of mortgage products available
in New Zealand is now too narrow, this is beginning to be rectified by
new products that offer more conservative borrowers the ability to
reduce risk. Finally, analysis of historic mortgage margins indicates
that there are differences between lenders. Solely on the basis of
rate‐setting practice, though no lender appears to have been able to
charge significantly higher margins than all of the other lenders, one
institution has offered significantly lower margins.
Is there a place for property in the multi‐asset portfolio?
Authors: Byrne Peter , Lee Stephen
Published: April 2007

Uses modern portfolio theory and a spreadsheet optimizer to make an
ex‐post examination of the strategic diversification effects of
including property in a multi‐asset portfolio, using UK appraisal‐based
(smoothed) data and several derived desmoothed series. Includes an
additional low‐risk asset (cash) to investigate whether property′s place
in the portfolio is maintained. In particular, considers the
significance of constraining assets to match typical institutional
portfolio levels. Concludes that previously supposed benefits of
including property are overstated. Property still has a place in an
institutional portfolio, but the analyses should not be based simply on
the use of appraisal or desmoothed data in a portfolio optimizer without
applying appropriate constraints.
Acquisition and disposal of corporate real estate: some UK evidence
Authors: Hiang Liow Kim
Published: April 2007

Examines property acquisition/disposal decisions of UK retailers
within the context of the financial objectives of the firm. Contrasts
the financial structure of a “net property disinvestor” with
that of a “net property acquirer” using both univariate
tests and logistic regression modelling. Evidence is consistent with the
growing emphasis that real‐estate strategies (which include acquisition
and disposal decisions) should be evaluated at the strategic level of a
non‐property company.
Relationship between land values and uses in Sydney′s central area
Authors: Whipple R.T.M.
Published: April 2007

Investigates and evaluates land use data and valuation in Sydney′s
central area. Proposes that, in order to make informed investment
decisions, there should be an understanding of the nature and
functioning of the physical environment in which funds are to be
committed. Investigates what things belong in an urban area. Concludes
with data related to how land is used. States that lowest land value and
floor level classes tend to be allocated to goods handling and
destinations for mass gatherings of people; highest land value and
floor‐level are allocated to business categories.
Cost‐effectiveness in the e‐grocery business
Authors: Kämäräinen Vesa , Småros Johanna , Holmström Jan , Jaakola Tomi
Published: April 2007

In the grocery business online start‐ups, e‐grocers, have in the last few years developed new business models to challenge the traditional bricks‐and‐mortar supermarkets. However, many of the big players in the e‐grocery business, such as Peapod and Webvan in the USA, still operate in the red. They have financed rapid growth by collecting hundreds of millions of dollars from investors. These huge investments have enabled the e‐grocers to enter the grocery market but, on the other hand, ineffective operations have used up capital on operating expenses. If the e‐grocers want to become serious challengers to the traditional bricks‐and‐mortar business, they need to cut operational costs dramatically and fast. This paper illustrates some basic principles for cutting operational costs in the e‐grocery business. The focus is on picking efficiency and order assembly costs. Solutions for achieving better picking efficiency are discussed. In addition, one detailed example of how a grocery distribution centre for efficient picking could be designed is presented.
The impact of Priceline.com on the grocery industry
Authors: Priluck Randi
Published: April 2007

Between November 1999 and September 2000, Priceline.com offered a new service in grocery stores in certain US cities, which allowed customers to shop for low prices online. The service required consumers to make bids on various items and then Priceline would tell them whether their bids were accepted. Consumers would then go to the grocery store to collect the actual items and use their Priceline.com card to pay at the register. The purpose of this paper is to discuss how this service affected members of the grocery marketing channel including: retail stores, manufacturers of packaged goods and consumers. The analysis suggests that the Priceline system could have altered the power structure of the grocery industry, had they been able to keep the cash draining service alive and had they cultivated the appropriate partnerships.
International airport influences on impulsive shopping: trait and normative approach
Authors: Omar Ogenyi , Kent Anthony
Published: April 2007

Airport shopping is characteristically related to airport environmental conditions. Although consumption‐related emotions have been studied with increasing frequency in consumer behaviour, issues concerning the evaluation of emotions leading to impulse purchasing and airport environment effect remain hidden in academic context. Airport shoppers tend to make impulse purchases, however, previous studies relating to impulse purchases did not have the shopper as an independent variable. This research paper presents conceptual and empirical evidence that airport shoppers’ self‐assessment (judgement) about the appropriateness of engaging in impulse shopping behaviour moderates the relationship between the airport influences on impulse shopping and consumers’ buying behaviours. The study found that the relationship between airport impulsive shopping and the related shopping behaviour is significant only when airport shoppers believe that acting on impulse is appropriate. This finding supports the proposition for moderating airport shoppers’ self‐evaluations.
Viewpoint: the decline and fall of Internet grocery retailers
Authors: Ring Lawrence J. , Tigert Douglas J.
Published: April 2007

Considers reasons for failure among pure play Internet grocery retailers. Notes that two factors seem to be significant. First, they did not achieve anything like a competitive advantage over the traditional “bricks and mortar” food retailers on those dimensions that drive the consumer store/channel choice process. Second, they did not develop a business model that reaches profitability, perhaps ever. They apparently did not foresee that total operating costs per customer were substantially higher for Internet grocery retailing than for “bricks and mortar” grocery stores, and that this new channel would have to charge consumers substantially more to reach breakeven operating levels. In fact, many pure play Internet grocers tried to price competitively against traditional food retailers and as a result, did not even cover variable costs. Hence, the more they sold, the more they lost. Eventually, they ran out of cash and were unable to raise additional monies in the market. Finally, there is some evidence that Internet grocers dramatically overestimated the size of the market for grocery shopping from the home. In the final analysis, pure play Internet grocer retailers appeared sexy and were hot for a short period of time because of the romance of the Internet. In fact, they were nothing more than fancy grocery delivery companies – which have never made money in the mass market and probably never will.
GSS and action research in the Hong Kong police
Authors: Davison Robert
Published: April 2007

Group support systems (GSS), designed primarily for meeting support, are being increasingly used for learning activities. In this paper action research is applied to explore how a GSS can enrich the training of police officers. A series of five sessions conducted over the course of five months provided substantial data that informed the research methodology, the learning experience of the officers and the relative value of GSS. The use of an AR philosophy enabled the facilitation of the sessions to be tailored so as to meet the on‐going needs of the officers in a precise and focused manner, with the result that their learning effectiveness increased as the sessions proceeded. A candid evaluation of both GSS and AR, as experienced in this context, is offered, while the issue of rigor in AR is examined.
The lodging industry’s contribution to Hong Kong’s gross domestic product
Authors: Chan Wilco W. , Lam Joseph C.
Published: April 2007

Focuses on the estimation of the contribution of the hotel industry to Hong Kong’s gross domestic product (GDP) and an analysis of the factors influencing the hotel industry’s recent and likely future contribution to the GDP. The investigation also covers a method of speeding up the calculation of the hotel industry’s contribution to GDP. It has been found that the hotel industry constituted about 1 per cent of the GDP, and the value added per capita in the hotel industry’s work force was close to the overall average. The research further estimates that the cumulative loss in the hotel industry’s GDP due to the recent Asian financial crisis and the 1997 handover issue has reached HK$28.8 billion. The adjusted short‐term forecast predicts that the value added contributed by the local hotel industry will be approximately HK$54,361 million by the year 2000.
The challenges and opportunities of franchising in China’s hotel industry
Authors: Pine Ray , Qiu Zhang Hanqin , Qi Pingshu
Published: April 2007

Franchising develops quickly in the hotel industry with the expansion and globalization of hotel chains, as it brings about advantages and sets up a very good leverage between two parties – franchisor and franchisee. Major multinational hotel corporations have entered China, but franchising is seldom used as a tool of expansion there. The continuous increase in tourism and the structural change in the hotel industry in China afford more opportunities for the growth of franchising operations and also of indigenous hotel chains. When franchising in this specific market, quality control, ownership, connection, business tradition and franchisor‐franchisee relationships should be examined carefully in order to ensure success. A full understanding of China’s peculiar social, cultural, economic and political context is essential for foreign companies, whilst existing and new indigenous companies require greater technical and operating expertise along with the necessary business acumen to operate hotel chains.
Labour flexibility in the hospitality industry: questioning the relevance of deregulation
Authors: Buultjens Jeremy , Howard Dennis
Published: April 2007

The search for labour flexibility has assumed great importance in most developed countries and has been the catalyst for the deregulation which has occurred, and continues to occur, in the Australian labour market. However, despite this, the question remains whether deregulation of the labour market in Australia is necessary for the attainment of flexibility since the empirical evidence is inconclusive. Industry representatives from the hospitality sector argue that a high degree of labour flexibility is a vital component in being able to meet market demands and achieve a competitive environment. Using data from a study of 435 registered clubs in the Australian state of NSW, areas of labour flexibility which these hospitality enterprises value are examined. Managers’ perceptions of the impact of awards and trade unions on the ability of the enterprises to achieve labour flexibility in a variety of areas are also examined. It was found that while there was a perception by managers that awards and trade unions did have a moderate to low impact or restriction on labour flexibility, the impact was not perceived to be as great as the proponents of deregulation would suggest. It is argued that registered clubs are choosing not to enter into formal enterprise bargaining because of this perceived low/moderate level of award and trade union impact on labour flexibility.
Female managers in Asian hotels: profile and career challenges
Authors: Li Lan , Wang Leung Roberta
Published: April 2007

The number of female managers in the hotel industry is increasing worldwide. What does it take for female hotel managers to succeed? Do they face different types of barriers between entry into management and upward mobility within management? This paper presents the general profile of female hotel managers in Singapore and examines barriers that may prevent middle‐level female managers from moving up to the executive positions. The findings suggested that female managers in Singapore hotels have “given up” some family life in order to get ahead. Whereas strong credentials and skills have proven to be important in female advancement into middle‐level management, they have not helped them to attain executive positions. An interesting finding is that the barriers to advancement for female managers are due to neither corporate practices nor policies, but rather seem to be a function of cultural and societal sanctions.
The BAA/GCU Scottish Ambassadors Program (2003‐2005)
Authors: Scott Bernadette
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to provide qualitative insight into a unique, collaborative project undertaken by BAA (Glasgow) and Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) over a three‐year period at Glasgow International Airport.

Design/methodology/approach

The qualitative case evidence is conceptualized within the parameters of current thoughts and practices in Learning and Employability in the contemporary HE sector. Primary data were gathered from 27 students who had engaged on the program and also from BAA operational management staff based at Glasgow Airport. Program management perspectives are provided in order to triangulate the perspectives of all stakeholders involved in the initiative.

Findings

This study underlines the increasing importance of such prestigious initiatives to contemporary learning experiences at tertiary level. The students reported a higher level of preparedness for working life from an early stage of their studies and although charged with operational challenges from both a program administration viewpoint and for the industrial partner, BAA proved to be supportive, responsive and flexible with both students and the university itself. Benefits for all three parties are tangible and celebrated with positive prospects for the industry in Scotland.

Originality/value

This paper represents case material from a unique HE/industrial collaboration with a major employer within a UK context.