bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blending of iron and silicon carbide powders for producing metal matrix composites by laser sintering process
Authors: Krishnamurthy Srinivasa Cheekur , Suryanarayana Ramesh Chinnakurli , Prabhakar S.K.
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of blending time, SiC content and fill ratio on the homogeneity of iron‐silicon carbide powder mixture, blended in double‐cone blender; to evaluate density, microstructure and micro hardness of laser sintered iron and iron‐SiC specimens; and study the feasibility of building a complex iron‐SiC metal matrix composite (MMC) part by direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) process.

Design/methodology/approach

The morphology and particle size of iron and silicon carbide powders were evaluated. Nickel coating was carried out on silicon carbide particles. Blending of iron‐SiC powders were carried out in two phases in a double‐cone blending equipment. In the first phase, three tests were conducted with fill ratios (ratio of volume of conical blender to volume of powder mixture) of 1.68, 3.39, and 6.8 percent while iron‐SiC weight ratio was kept constant at 97:3. In the second phase, four tests were conducted with iron‐SiC weight ratios of 99:1, 98:2, 97:3, and 95:5 while keeping a constant fill ratio of 1.68 percent. In both the phases, blending was carried out for duration of 43 minutes. Homogeneity of the powder mixture was evaluated at different intervals of time by adopting sampling process. Sintering was carried out on iron and iron‐SiC powder mixture using DMLS machine at laser speed of 50, 75, 100, and 125 mm/s. Microstructure, density and micro hardness studies were carried out on the sintered specimens. A 3D model of a part with complex geometry was modeled using Unigraphics CAD/CAM software and prototype part was built by DMLS technology using the blended iron‐2 weight percent SiC powder.

Findings

A reduction in blending time was observed with increase in SiC content and decrease in fill ratio. Microstructure and micro hardness tests conducted on laser sintered iron‐silicon carbide specimens, reveal the homogeneity of blended powder. The density of the iron‐SiC composites sintered at a laser speed of 50 and 75 mm/s, decreased with increase in SiC content. Further, an increase in the micro hardness of iron‐SiC composites was observed with increase in SiC content and decrease in laser speed. Complex functional part was built by DMLS technology with out any supports.

Research limitations/implications

The experiments were conducted with standard blending equipment in which the speed is limited to 48 revolutions per minute only.

Originality/value

Meager information is available on blending of powders for producing MMCs by laser sintering process. The work presented in this paper will be a guideline for researchers to carry out further work in blending of powders for producing MMCs by rapid prototyping process.
Effect of height to width ratio on the dynamics of ultrasonic consolidation
Authors: Gibert James M. , Austin Eric M. , Fadel Georges
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the changing dynamics of the ultrasonic consolidation (UC) process due to changes in substrate geometry. Past research points to a limiting height to width ranging from 0.7 to 1.2 on build features.

Design/methodology/approach

Resonances of a build feature due to a change in geometry are examined and then a simple non‐linear dynamic model of the UC process is constructed that examines how the geometry change may influence the overall dynamics of the process. This simple model is used to provide estimates of how substrate geometry affects the differential motion at the bonding interface and the amount of energy emitted by friction change due to build height. The trends of changes in natural frequency, differential motion, and frictional energy are compared to experimental limits on build height.

Findings

The paper shows that, at the nominal build, dimensions of the feature the excitation caused by the UC approach two resonances in the feature. In addition trends in regions of changes of differential motion, force of friction, and frictional energy follow the experimental limit on build height.

Originality/value

This paper explores several aspects of the UC process not currently found in the current literature: examining the modal properties of build features, and a lumped parameter dynamic model to account for the changes in of the substrate geometry.
The tower nozzle solid freeform fabrication technique
Authors: Costa Lino , Rajput Deepak , Lansford Kathleen , Yue Wenqiang , Terekhov Alexander , Hofmeister William
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a simple, easy to implement powder delivery strategy for solid freeform fabrication (SFF) processing.

Design/methodology/approach

A specially designed “tower nozzle” located at the center of the processing area dispenses the feedstock powders continuously and uniformly onto the processing area, where powders accumulate progressively as a flat powder bed. During the dispensing, powders are selectively consolidated by melting and solidification using a laser beam which was scanned in a predefined pattern using a galvo‐mirror scan head.

Findings

Experiments performed with AISI H13 steel show that the tower nozzle powder delivery strategy is suitable for SFF processing.

Practical implications

Both powder delivery and laser consolidation are performed simultaneously and without interruption with simple apparatus. No powder delivery scrapers or rollers are used.

Originality/value

The main characteristics of a prototype tower nozzle and the typical processing conditions used to form thin wall AISI H13 steel shapes are presented.
A critical examination of the EO‐performance relationship
Authors: Andersén Jim
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically analyze the assertion that there is a statistical significant relationship between EO and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

In several publications it has been stated that there is a positive relationship between entrepreneurial orientation (EO) and the performance of a firm. These studies have generally used the same core references, and these seminal contributions are examined critically in this article. The EO‐performance relationship is also analyzed in an empirical study, consisting of 172 Swedish SMEs in the manufacturing sector.

Findings

The result of the literature review is that the notion of a positive EO‐performance relationship can be questioned. Earlier studies have neglected some important issues, mainly regarding the use of perceptual performance data, common method biases and survival biases. Some of the conclusions presented are supported by the empirical study.

Originality/value

The main point of this paper is to show that the relationship between EO and performance is more complicated than previous studies have implied. More care should be taken when generalizing the results of core references and scholars ought to have a more cautious approach when stating that there is a general correlation between EO and performance.
Entrepreneurial self‐efficacy and business start‐up: developing a multi‐dimensional definition
Authors: Drnovšek Mateja , Wincent Joakim , Cardon Melissa S.
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The aims of this paper are to: critically review and identify gaps in current literature on entrepreneurial self‐efficacy, provide a definition of entrepreneurial self‐efficacy that addresses some of those gaps, and explore the role of entrepreneurial self‐efficacy during the phases of a business start‐up process. The research seeks to define entrepreneurial self‐efficacy using three sources of dimensionality. The first includes the particular aspect of entrepreneurship to which self‐efficacy is applied, whether to business start‐up or business growth activities. The second sources of dimensionality refers to the content of self‐efficacy beliefs (task or outcome goal beliefs), and the third source to the valence of entrepreneurial self‐efficacy beliefs (positive or negative control beliefs).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors build from the origins and mechanisms of the self‐efficacy construct in social cognitive theory and a synthesis of that work with prior use of self‐efficacy in entrepreneurship to propose a definition of entrepreneurial self‐efficacy that is context specific and empirically testable.

Findings

Entrepreneurial self‐efficacy is best seen as a multidimensional construct made up of goal and control beliefs, and propositions for how these two different dimensions will play a role during phases in the process of starting‐up a new business are developed.

Research limitations/implications

A well‐defined entrepreneurial self‐efficacy construct has significant pedagogical payoffs given that entrepreneurship education should also focus on social‐cognitive, psycho‐cognitive and ethical perspectives of entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

The proposed multidimensional nature of self‐efficacy is original and unique in its contribution, and provides a conceptual foundation to understand how capabilities along different dimensions of entrepreneurial self‐efficacy are created and nurtured. This knowledge is useful for potential entrepreneurs as well as those who support them in the process.
The influence of the Portuguese environmental accounting standard on the environmental disclosures in the annual reports of large companies operating in Portugal
Authors: da Silva Monteiro Sónia Maria , Aibar Guzmán Beatriz
Published: June 2010

Purpose

This paper seeks to empirically examine the influence of the new Portuguese environmental accounting standard on the environmental information disclosed in the annual reports by a sample of large firms operating in Portugal during the period 2002‐2004.

Design/methodology/approach

The method used is the content analysis technique by developing an index (which consists of the 16 environmentally‐related disclosure items) in order to assess the presence of the environmental disclosures and their breadth (number of items disclosed).

Findings

The results indicate that, in spite of the fact that the level of environmental information disclosed during the period 2002‐2004 is low, the extent of environmental disclosure has increased, as well as the number of Portuguese companies that disclose environmental information. The change in environmental disclosure behaviour between 2002 and 2004 is certainly consistent with the idea that the new accounting standard is starting to have an impact.

Originality/value

The study adds to the international research on environmental disclosure by providing empirical data from a country, Portugal, where empirical evidence is still relatively limited. Moreover, the study provides empirical support for the contentions of other authors that mandatory reporting guidelines affect corporate reporting practices.
Green labels and sustainability reporting
Authors: Andrea Blengini Gian , Shields Deborah J.
Published: June 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of corporate sustainability reporting strategies and communication tools that are increasingly being adopted to foster green market outlets, with focus on the building materials supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

The suitability, feasibility, appropriateness, effectiveness, completeness and redundancy of some of the most common sustainability reporting tools such as Sustainability Reporting (SR), Sustainable Development Indicators (SDI) and Green labels based on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) were investigated.

Findings

Focusing on the present Italian situation and with emphasis on ornamental stones, ceramic tiles, cement and concrete producers, the interest and the response in the building materials supply chain are highlighted, pointing out strengths, weaknesses and future perspectives.

Practical implications

Green communication tools discussed in the paper can also be used to protect local markets against the unfair competition by those producers that can supply low price building products, but with much higher environmental externalities.

Originality/value

The paper can be considered as a contribution to support the European Commission's and Member States' policymakers which are pushing for instruments that will improve the sustainability of the building products supply chain. The findings can encourage those producers who are more aware of the environmental consequences of extractive and manufacturing activities and that are actively engaged in Sustainable Development.
Alternative drinking water supply in low‐income urban settlements using tankers
Authors: Appiah Obeng Peter , Dwamena‐Boateng Philip , Jardelle Ntiamoah‐Asare Doreen
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to verify claims that water supplied by operators of tanker trucks in Cape Coast does not meet quality standards recommended for human consumption, and to investigate the sources of any contamination.

Design/methodology/approach

Samples were collected from a water hydrant from which tanker operators draw water from the Ghana Water Company Limited distribution system in Cape Coast and a number of tankers sampled at random. Additional samples were taken from the premises of a patron of the tanker service and a regular customer of the Ghana Water Company Limited. All samples were subjected to physico‐chemical and bacteriological analyses and the results compared with the World Health Organization's guidelines for drinking water.

Findings

It was found out that water supplied by the tanker operators indeed failed to meet the World Health Organization's guidelines for some quality parameters as alleged by patrons of the service. The tanker‐supplied water was found to contain high levels of Escherichia coli, colour, turbidity and total iron. This was found to arise from the management of the water hydrant and the tankers by the Ghana Water Company Limited and the tanker operators respectively.

Originality/value

The study provides a basis for the set of actions that must be taken to safeguard public health and consumer confidence in drinking water supply using tankers as an emerging alternative to conventional water supply in urban centres of the developing world.
Biomass for transport, heat and electricity: scientific challenges
Authors: Dallemand J.F. , De Santi G. , Leip A. , Baxter D. , Rettenmaier N. , Ossenbrink H.
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to discuss some scientific challenges related to the production and use of biomass for transport, heat and electricity.

Design/methodology/approach

Specific attention is paid to the environmental assessment of liquid bio‐fuels for transport and to the discussion of causes of uncertainties in the assessment. Three main topics are taken as examples, in order to illustrate the complexity of environmental assessment of bio‐fuels and the difficulty in reducing uncertainties: agro‐environmental impact of bio‐ethanol (from sugar cane) in Brazil and bio‐diesel (from palm oil) in Malaysia. These two tropical countries were selected because of their role as leaders at world level and their strong export potential to the European Union), N2O (Nitrous Oxide) emissions related to crop cultivation for bio‐fuels and land use change; and GHG emissions and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of bio‐diesel from palm oil in Malaysia. These three topics are discussed and complemented by considerations about biomass conversion issues.

Findings

The quantification of the degree of the sustainability of the production and use of bio‐fuels for transport is to a large extent related to the choice of farming practices during the feedstock production and their corresponding environmental impact.

Practical implications

Recommendations are formulated so as to reduce scientific uncertainty, for example through the development of internationally‐agreed sustainability certification systems with corresponding verification measures, or further research on emissions and indirect land‐use change.

Originality/value

The value of the paper on bio‐energy research challenges is related to the combined analysis of European and tropical constraints in the field of biomass.
Does nationalization increase stakeholder democracy?
Authors: Scott Simeon
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the theory and practice of stakeholder democracy. After examining the liberal notion of representative democracy, the paper seeks to identify the democratic deficit associated with the shareholder and stakeholder approaches to corporate governance. Investigating stakeholder democracy in nationalized industries in both market‐ and state‐capitalist societies, the argument presented is that neither type of society has significantly increased stakeholder involvement in decision making.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a Hegelian dialectical approach to stakeholder democracy; relying on such modes of analysis as identifying internal contradictions.

Findings

The paper concludes that stakeholder democracy is both real and nominal in the political sphere, but restricted and contested in the private and public sectors in the economic sphere.

Practical implications

The paper calls for the setting‐up of democratic structures to oversee the production and distribution of the goods and services necessary for human wellbeing.

Originality/value

The paper investigates the relatively neglected topic of stakeholder democracy, using a Hegelian dialectical methodology. In the context of the 2007/2008 financial crisis and its recessionary aftermath, the paper calls for a radical re‐evaluation of corporate governance.
The geopolitics of currencies and the issue of monetary sovereignty
Authors: Mraović Branka
Published: June 2010

Purpose

This paper seeks to focus on the challenge posed by financial globalization before the traditional Westphalian model of monetary sovereignty, claiming that financial globalization of the world's markets leads to new forms of geopolitical rivalry among contemporary governments.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper sets the analytical framework for the study of a tripartite foundation of monetary sovereignty in money manager capitalism, consisting of currency associated with the instruments of its manipulation, which are the two largest independent macroeconomic players: the central bank and the state. This raises the issues of dual sovereignty in economy and the ways in which these entities use their sovereign powers on local and global levels.

Findings

Current growing interdependence of financial networks increases the number of choices in monetary issues and forces governments to make ever faster adjustments to the machinery of complex monetary instruments which not only facilitate transactions among very different and distant economies, but also obscure the transparency of decision making. The need to ensure, through the central bank's legislation, an independent status of central bankers with respect to politicians, implies that their work be effectively monitored by the public and the respective parliament.

Practical implications

The independence of central banks, which comprises goal independence, instrument independence and personal independence of the decision‐making body of a central bank, increases the accountability of central bankers and raises the issue of sanctions for their misbehavior.

Originality/value

Financial globalization has definitely raised the issue of redistribution of the authority of governments and non‐state agents. A clear hierarchy between currencies at the global level has dual consequences: first, it amplifies the unequal relationship between the leaders and the followers in global monetary circulation; second, global market forces ignore political borders and present a serious challenge for the monetary sovereignty of contemporary governments. Equally, the question of re‐formulation of the concept of a sovereign state is raised.
An investigation of Turkish small and medium‐sized enterprises online CSR communication
Authors: Dincer Caner , Dincer Banu
Published: June 2010

Purpose

This study, according to the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) communication and the technological revolution of the last decade, aims to investigate the online CSR communication of the SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the study's purpose and character, the data are collected from the websites of SMEs. The firms are chosen randomly from a database of a web portal for SMEs. The websites in the sample are examined in order to explore the nature and the extent of information on CSR activities and style of presentation.

Findings

The findings showed that the number of SMEs with CSR information on their websites is very low. The SMEs do not use the potential of their websites to their advantage in terms of the quantity and style. However, the study offers an overview of different CSR activities and communication styles of these activities.

Research limitations/implications

The research used a sample from an SME web portal database with the result that it makes it difficult to generalize the results but they are in coherence with the results of similar studies.

Practical implications

The study enriches the extant literature and provides future research areas as well as insights and basic principles for managerial use for better usage of the web. Online CSR activities that organizations may find interesting and hints to improve websites for a better style and image of good corporate citizenship are also discussed.

Originality/value

The study explores in the Turkish context the current situation of online CSR communication and shows that even the SMEs are increasingly concerned with communicating ethically and responsibly to the diversity of stakeholders through the web.
Identifying stakeholders' needs and constraints in adoption of ICT services in rural areas: the case of India
Authors: Narula Sapna A. , Arora Sabhyata
Published: June 2010

Purpose

Information and communication technologies can work wonders for the social as well as economic empowerment of rural people, when implemented successfully. This paper aims to explore and compare the functioning of two ICT models, one each in the public as well as the private sector, in a rural area of MP state in India, identify the usage of various services by stakeholders, i.e. farmers, study the existing need‐service gap and highlight constraints and challenges in the implementation of these models at the field level.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on both secondary and primary data. The case study method has been used for describing the two models and has been supplemented with the primary data collected in the form of structured questionnaires and interviews from respondents comprising both users/non‐users and kiosk operators respectively.

Findings

The study finds that there exists a need‐service gap in service delivery. The information services related to agriculture, i.e. agri input prices, markets arrivals and prices, weather information are valued most by the farmers followed by e‐governance services, health and education. Barriers to adoption of these technologies have also been discussed.

Practical implications

The research is case study‐based and also gives the results of a survey of beneficiaries; therefore it is very useful for managers, policymakers, implementers as well as academicians. The research provides implications for managers as well as policy makers to successfully implement the ICT models in India. Implications for future research are also discussed.

Originality/value

The novelty of the research lies in the context that no effort has been made so far to effect a comparison of ICT models. There is also very little literature available to identify the need‐service gap in this area. The study adds value to the knowledge in the field of ICTs for development and also opens new vistas of research.
Social dimension of sustainability in retail: case studies of small and medium Brazilian supermarkets
Authors: Marques Fábio , Sérgio Miranda Mendonça Paulo , José Chiappetta Jabbour Charbel
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The concept of sustainability is often viewed by organizational leaders as being abstract and difficult to apply in organizational reality. It is thus necessary to conduct more focused research to develop specific dimensions of the sustainability concept. In this context, the objective of this work is to analyze the social dimension of sustainability among supermarkets in Brazil.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a literature review and the development of a framework of social business variables, the study examined which practices small and medium Brazilian supermarkets have adopted to promote the social dimension of sustainability. These companies were examined with the goal of relating the actions of each organization to their social performance.

Findings

The study found that the Brazilian supermarkets in the sample group practise social responsibility focused on strict regulations and labor laws; these practices conformed with existing legislation but did not address the development of broader actions or social projects. The results show continuities and discontinuities in the adoption of social practices among organizations in order to meet the requirements of labor legislation. The authors found a lack of social projects and greater integration into the community in which each supermarket operates.

Originality/value

The study contributes to research on social responsibility in retail, with a specifically Brazilian focus.
Social responsibility of hospitals: an Indian context
Authors: Rohini R. , Mahadevappa B.
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the perceived responsibilities of five not‐for‐profit hospitals in Bangalore, India, towards society.

Design/methodology/approach

The method used is qualitative design with some quantitative elements. Data were collected through a survey of 79 physicians and 104 managers and other stakeholders of the hospitals.

Findings

The analysis reveals the existence of highly significant differences in the perception about workplace responsibilities between the doctors and other stakeholders. It also highlights the importance of top management involvement with various stakeholders in effectively carrying out the overall social responsibilities of the hospitals. It was found that the hospitals must take into account the social, cultural and financial characteristics of the patients while fulfilling societal obligations. Training needs, environmental impact audit and encouragement for employees to join local voluntary organizations are the immediate needs for improving the CSR activities of the hospitals.

Research limitations/implications

The study had a small sample and referred only to the perceptions of physicians/management personnel. Further studies should be done with larger samples, comparing different cohorts of stakeholders and, more importantly, patients/their carers.

Practical implications

The study draws attention to issues that emerge from the social responsibilities of healthcare organizations. Its findings provide new insights into the meaning of social responsibility in the healthcare sector in an Indian context from a stakeholder perspective.

Originality/value

The paper is based on an original study that addresses the current gap in the understanding of issues related to social responsibility by the various stakeholders of hospitals. It is particularly valuable for both the internal and external stakeholders of the healthcare organizations.
Recent developments in social and environmental accounting research
Authors: Eugénio Teresa , Costa Lourenço Isabel , Morais Ana Isabel
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The last years have witnessed a growth in interest in social and environmental questions. Many companies have developed environmental management and auditing systems and altered their social and environmental disclosure practices. These developments resulted in the growth of research focusing on the analysis of information disclosed by companies. The purpose of this study is to contribute a reflection on the papers that have been published on social and environmental accounting from 2000 to 2006.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review of the papers examining social and environmental matters published in selected accounting journals allows the identification of the key content issues, methodologies and research questions which have been predominant in the social environmental accounting research (SEAR) area. It also enables one to pin‐point areas for future research.

Findings

The content was examined and classified in four groups: social and environmental accounting systems; social and environmental disclosures; regulation impact; and relations among environmental disclosure and environmental performance. For each group, the research method; data origins and type of data; industry and country were identified. Almost all the studies are based on content analysis and interviews. Data are collected not only from the financial statements but also from other types of information disclosed by companies. In many cases, industry activities are selected carefully and most of the studies used data from the UK, Australia, and the USA.

Originality/value

The paper provides a contribution to the development of the SEAR area, exploring different views. It also helps schools to identify areas for future research.
Do stakeholder management strategy and salience influence corporate social responsibility in Indian companies?
Authors: Mishra Supriti , Suar Damodar
Published: June 2010

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether strategy towards primary stakeholders and their salience influence corporate social responsibility towards the corresponding stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through a questionnaire from 150 senior level managers including CEOs. The stakeholder management strategy, salience, and corporate social responsibility were assessed in the context of employees, customers, investors, community, natural environment, and suppliers.

Findings

The favorable strategy towards stakeholders increases the corresponding corporate social responsibility towards them. The salience of all stakeholder groups also enhances the corresponding corporate social responsibility. When salience and strategy are considered, the salience of a particular stakeholder group suppresses the effect of strategy fully or partially on corporate social responsibility.

Research limitations/implications

The salience of a stakeholder is a potent antecedent of corporate social responsibility compared with strategy towards that stakeholder.

Originality/value

A questionnaire is developed to assess corporate social responsibility in the Indian context, and the link between strategy, salience, and corporate social responsibility is established.
Achieving global supply‐chain competitiveness
Authors: Song Hua , Ranjan Chatterjee Samir
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of learning, trust, and innovation in the auto‐component industry in China. The paper traces the shifting parameters of achieving global competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

Research was conducted with 82 auto‐component manufacturing companies from the Yangtze River Delta region of China. Empirical studies relating to the level of trust in supply and level of learning orientation were conducted based on a conceptual model and a four‐part hypothesis.

Findings

The key findings of the research strengthens the argument that the auto‐component manufacturing sector has been noticeably moving away from the old “contract” and “catalogue” mindset to a mindset of “collaborative innovation.”

Practical implications

The paper has a significant practical implication not only for the auto‐component sector, but also for other industries where collaboration and trust are critical.

Originality/value

The authors have developed a number of implications from the findings of this research. It is becoming increasingly important to build a trusting network with designers and manufacturers in order to add value to dramatically shifting industry features.
Downsizing, ideology and contracts: a Chinese perspective
Authors: Zhao Jun , Rust Kathleen G. , McKinley William , Edwards John C.
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the effects of three managerial ideologies on the degree of employment contract breach perceived in connection with a downsizing.

Design/methodology/approach

Surveys were used to collect data from southwest China. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to explore the impact of three managerial ideologies on the perceived employment contract breach in connection with downsizing.

Findings

Results suggest that a strong belief in the ideology of market competition reduces an individual's perception that downsizing constitutes a breach of the employment contract between employer and employee. By contrast, a belief in employee worth has the opposite effect, strengthening the believer's perception that downsizing constitutes an employment contract breach. Belief in the third ideology, the ideology of shareholder interest, appears to have no influence on whether respondents perceived downsizing as an employment contract breach.

Practical implications

The results are important for understanding the way employees interpret common business practices like downsizing. Given the accumulation of enough confirmatory results, findings from studies like this paper might be used to inform the practice of management, which might result in a more satisfied and better performing workforce.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literatures on organizational downsizing and business ideologies. Specifically, it investigates ideological beliefs and their effects on perceptions of downsizing in a new arena – a country that is not used to the concepts of market competition and shareholder interest, and one that has only experienced large‐scale layoffs in very recent times. The view of the western business concepts such as psychological contract within the context of traditional Chinese philosophies and value systems provides in‐depth understanding of the challenges facing today's transitional economies such as China.
The savings crisis and China's future growth
Authors: Shoham Amir , Malul Miki , Rosenboim Mosi
Published: June 2010

Purpose

It is very important to understand the current (2007‐2009) economic crisis because it is the most severe since the Second World War and is having a tremendous impact on global and national economic environments. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to explain the main factors (savings attributes and cultural factors) that created the crisis and better understand which nations will gain in the post‐crisis era.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses descriptive data to explore the global, Chinese and US economic environments prior to the economic crisis. In addition, the paper used an econometric model in order to evaluate the impact of cultural variables on savings behavior.

Findings

The data lead us to one main conclusion: the crisis was created by major changes in global saving rates during the last two decades.

Originality/value

The paper makes two major contributions: first it describes the opportunity that the current international crisis creates for China. The opportunity is an outcome of the high saving rates in China, as compared to the lower saving rates in the western countries. Second it points out the gap in the current academic literature regarding savings, primarily the lack of research on the relationship between savings and culture.
The People's Republic of China, the ASEAN and Singapore
Authors: Choy William K.W. , Ramburuth Prem , Eng Adeline Lee Bee
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the need for international managers to rethink current managerial practices, especially the application of a universalistic approach in an international business context. A differentiated managerial approach is recommended to meet the challenges of a dynamic environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature review based on secondary data provides the analysis of the bilateral trade relationship between China and ASEAN. This paper cites the case of the China‐Singapore Suzhou Industrial Park project to illustrate the difficulties in international partnerships.

Findings

The findings highlight differences in business philosophies; differences in state bureaucracies and political viewpoints concerning business arrangements; socio‐cultural differences in values, and expectations of political and business leaders, and their people.

Research limitations/implications

The paper highlights the need for further research in Chinese managerial styles and knowledge.

Practical implications

The recommended differentiated management approach will allow international managers an alternative option in managing international teams and workforce diversity in cross border business partnerships.

Originality/value

The literature gap in this particular area of study presents an opportunity to explore new managerial approaches in international management practices.
Bridging strategic and operational issues for project business through managing trust
Authors: Gustafsson Magnus , Smyth Hedley , Ganskau Elena , Arhippainen Tomas
Published: June 2010

Purpose

Organisational trust is analysed through observation of operations or strategic prescription. The management and project management literature is largely prescriptive. The purpose of this paper is to examine the role and potential of strategic trust development and management to improve operations in the project business and enhance client satisfaction, analysing trust as social capital.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is supported by the method of and data gathered through CROL®: a process for managing business relationships and interfaces. The case in question focuses on over 30,000 customer relationships covering five years of global operations by companies in the project business.

Findings

The analysis focuses on the connection between self‐awareness, performance, improvement and the impact upon both relationships and financial performance – social capital in the “balance sheet”. The objective is to identify the extent to which trust management can help bridge the gap between prescriptive strategy and operations. Bridging this gap entails linking trust as social capital with organisational culture, operational systems and routines, and behaviours.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis shows the importance of self‐awareness in managing business relationships.

Practical implications

The paper outlines on a conceptual level how companies can manage trust and capture the value in business relationships.

Originality/value

The paper shows how companies through systematic forced reflection can manage trust in individual business relationships.
The cultural heterogeny of project firms and project teams
Authors: Auch Francesca , Smyth Hedley
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose this paper is to examine a prevailing assumption that the culture of organisations is homogenous. It explores the culture of one project organisation with multiple offices.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative questionnaire and qualitative research method of cultural immersion was used. The ethnographic Douglas grid‐group was used to filter the findings: isolate, competitive, hierarchical and egalitarian positions. Hofstede's dimensions were overlaid to enhance the analysis.

Findings

The research found distinct cultural differences in the same organisation. Competitive and hierarchical factors are found with some evidence of egalitarian behaviours. Regional cultural factors affected behaviour and organisational practices. Individuals actively negotiated dominant behaviours and cultural norms. The Hofstede dimensions are in evidence around roles and functions. The findings showed a stronger influence from the dominant social culture of the region than the organisational culture.

Research limitations/implications

Organisations cannot be assumed as homogeneous. The influence of the dominant social culture and competing cultural influences within organisation requires further analysis.

Practical implications

Generating a coherent organisational culture with aligned norms is a difficult management problem, especially for an organisation with multiple offices. Establishing consistent norms also poses challenges for the management of projects.

Originality/value

The tendency to assume cultural homogeneity requires closer attention in organisational research and practice. This paper employed a unique combination of methods to explore the issue. The primary contribution is a demonstration of the need for practitioners and researchers to pay more attention to the dynamic formation and effects of culture in organisations and for projects.
The integration of human relationships in capital development projects
Authors: Henry Ndoni Doubra , Elhag Taha M.S.
Published: June 2010

Purpose

Recent work on public private partnerships (PPP)/private finance initiatives (PFI) and on the construction industry has emphasised the importance of knowledge transfer, learning and innovation to improve the working processes and procedures of the industry. However, until recently all three have been researched separately. It is on this basis the research presents a theoretical proposition that “the integration of alliance principles through the formation of collaborative network; innovation, knowledge transfer and organisational learning can be enabled where there is coordination, cohesion, commitment, teamwork, clear vision, monitoring and governance structure for control, risks/reward sharing, efficient and effective communication strategy, learning and knowledge transfer strategy”.

Design/methodology/approach

The theory of social capital, social networks and inter‐organisational network was applied based on a network perspective to explain and aid specific attributes of PPP and PFI as a collaborative network to achieve the research objective. A case study research methodology was adopted to investigate the theoretical proposition.

Findings

The findings of this research illustrates that collaborative relationship is a crucial factor in contractual arrangements to enable cost savings, time savings and project quality. In addition, the challenges clients and contractors encounter in integrating innovation are as a result of project scope, project duration, affordability and project procurement strategy. Furthermore, the difficulties of knowledge transfer and learning is as a result of the disconnection between the team that closes the PFI deal and the team that implements the contract.

Originality/value

The paper suggests a network perspective to improve work relationships that helps to achieve predetermined common goals and to enhance project performance.
The importance of human skills in project management professional development
Authors: Alam M. , Gale A. , Brown M. , Khan A.I.
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insights into the importance of human skills in project management success and the apparent emphasis placed on this within the context of university education.

Design/methodology/approach

An investigation into the effectiveness of a British Project Management Professional Development Programme (PMPDP) case study is reported. Using as a benchmark, the core behavioural competencies outlined in the International Project Management Association (IPMA) International Competence Baseline version 3, the paper investigates the extent to which the knowledge gained from the PMPDP effects the behaviours of delegates and graduates. The soft skills of a control group are also explored.

Findings

The results deal with certain improvements in most of the behavioural competencies of delegates and graduates which the control group could not develop in the same way.

Research limitations/implications

The sample is drawn from the PMPDP consortium comprising companies from the UK aerospace, infrastructure, oil and gas, nuclear and information technology sectors. It would not be valid to generalise the effects of the case study programme on other industries (i.e. automobile, health, retail and insurance) without considering the unique character of that particular industry pertaining to the management of projects.

Practical implications

The research, by demonstrating the effectiveness of continuing professional development programmes, has significant implications for the UK organisations which are eagerly interested to know how their investments into project management education are benefiting the companies.

Originality/value

The link between education, competence development and corporate performance seems tenuous. This research, by spitting out the soft benefits of CPD programmes, reasonably contributes in providing businesses a case to justify training and education investments.
Assessment of liquidity management in Islamic banking industry
Authors: Ismal Rifki
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess liquidity risk management (LRM) practices in Indonesian Islamic banking industry during the period 2000‐2007.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper constructs the LRM index (100 scale) which is composed of individual index of asset side; liability side; LRM policies; and the overall LRM index.

Findings

The index produces a “good” grade for the liquidity management practices in the Indonesian Islamic banking industry, represented by three Islamic banks which capture 82 percent of the total market share of the industry. However, the breakdown of the index of every Islamic bank suggests various achievements.

Research limitations/implications

It is found that the practices of LRM are not optimal yet based on some considerations explained in this paper. Further progressive actions have to be taken by the regulators and all industry's players to improve the LRM practices.

Originality/value

To the best of the author's knowledge, this is the first paper trying to assess how good the LRM in Indonesian Islamic banking is.
Feminizing the boardroom
Authors: Shilton Jacqui , McGregor Judy , Tremaine Marianne
Published: June 2010

Purpose

Changes to government policy, deregulation and corporatization in New Zealand have influenced the number and status of women on boards of directors. Using company records, archival material and interviews, this paper seeks to examine gender equity on boards of directors in New Zealand and compare the progress of women on the boards of corporate companies in the private sector with those on crown company boards in the public sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper includes interview material from women who have successfully achieved directorships and examines the approaches they adopted. The paper uses company records and interviews to achieve this aim.

Findings

While increasing numbers of New Zealand women are entering the business arena, they continue to be underrepresented in the boardrooms and there exists a clear disparity between gender representation on the boards of crown and corporate companies with women being disadvantaged in the private sector.

Originality/value

The paper outlines some positive steps to assist women in the bid for corporate directorship, but suggests that the challenge of changing corporate and societal attitudes remains.