bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Product range management: a case study of supply chain operations in the European grocery industry
Authors: Holmström Jan
Published: July 2002

A particular problem for European suppliers to the grocery trade is the requirement for country or region specific product variants. A large number of local variants dramatically reduces the supply chain performance of a European supplier in the smaller markets. Focuses on the issue of product range management in European supply chain operations and its role in achieving efficient consumer response in the many regional markets within the EU. Discusses the importance for supply chain management of well‐defined roles for the product range in different markets and for different customers. Assesses the supply chain performance of a European supplier from the perspective of a regional market. Presents some alternative tactics for achieving the strategic goal of continuous supply in small regional markets.
Strategic account management in the new procurement environment
Authors: McGinnis Frank , McCarty Lisa
Published: July 2002

Describes the changes which are taking place in the procurement environment and the steps which suppliers need to take in order to adapt. Inventory is increasingly being pushed back up the supply chain and suppliers face higher service expectations, against which they are frequently measured by their customers. The authors predict that rationalisation of the supply base will continue, increasing the importance of large accounts for suppliers. Managing these accounts will require a change in the way sales teams realign their selling approaches to better match customer procurement strategies.
Supply chain management: the case of a UK baker preserving the identity of Canadian milling wheat
Authors: Kennett Julie , Fulton Murray , Molder Pauline , Brooks Harvey
Published: July 2002

This paper examines bread wheat quality and its effect on vertical co‐ordination in the wheat supply chain. Wheat quality is defined by many different characteristics, which poses limitations on the effectiveness of industry grading schemes in meeting the quality needs of end‐users. Consequently, individual processors may have an incentive to segregate wheat based on their own quality specifications. The costs and benefits of wheat segregation are analysed using a simple economic model, and illustrated with a case study of supply chain management taken from the UK bread industry. Warburtons Ltd procures bread wheat varieties with specific intrinsic quality attributes from Canada using identity preserved supply contracts. The paper concludes that the benefits of wheat quality control will encourage millers and bakers to develop closer vertical linkages with wheat suppliers in the future.
“Measuring the unmeasurable” ‐ measuring and improving performance in the supply chain
Authors: van Hoek Remko I.
Published: July 2002

The supply chain concept fundamentally changes the nature of organizations; control is no longer based on direct ownership and control, but rather based on integration across interfaces between functions and companies. This has consequences for the measurement of performance. Traditional measurement approaches may have to be abolished and a supply chain measurement system developed. Traditional performance measures may limit the possibilities to optimize supply chains as management does not “see” supply chain wide areas for improvement. This note raises issues critical to measuring supply chain performance. A new measurement approach should lead the way for supply chain competitiveness and should direct management attention to areas for supply chain optimization. A preliminary framework for measuring unmeasurable performance is developed.
Standardisation of crates: lessons from the Versfust (Freshcrate) project
Authors: Koehorst Hans , de Vries Henk , Wubben Emiel
Published: July 2002

The large‐scale introduction of a new packaging concept requires co‐ordination in two areas: organisational co‐ordination is necessary (negotiations between the parties involved), as well as technical co‐ordination (technical specifications). These aspects are analysed in this paper on the basis of standardisation and strategic management literature. The theory is illustrated using the successful introduction in The Netherlands of the Versfust (Freshcrate): a standard crate for the distribution of fresh food products. A systematic approach to standard packaging is both desirable and possible, as emerges from literature and from the Freshcrate product.
The ultimate consultant: building long‐term, exceptional value client relationships
Authors: Stumpf Stephen A. , Longman Robert A.
Published: July 2002

With the leading management consultancies all seeking to have “partner” relationships with leading institutions and global organizations, what will distinguish great relationships from ones that end in blood‐letting? Theories and best practices abound; collectively they may provide useful guidance for a consultant’s professional development and career success.
Expatriate management “best practices” in Canadian MNCs: a multiple case study
Authors: Leiba O’Sullivan Sharon , Appelbaum Steven H. , Abikhzer Corinne
Published: July 2002

Provides an in‐depth description of the expatriate management practices of four Canadian multinationals in order to determine how closely Canadian practices correspond to the “best practices” described in the international HRM (IHRM) literature. Toward that end, reviews the IHRM literature. A qualitative study design was employed, in the form of a holistic multiple case study with four Canadian MNCs. Results indicated that, contrary to trends noted in the literature, the Canadian firms studied do not neglect expatriate management practices, although they do not fully implement such practices either – at least not to the extent advocated in the literature. The key explanation put forth is the lack of any systematic evaluation of these practices, which might have enabled shortcomings to be more readily recognized. The other key finding was that the participating firms relied extensively on expatriates to be proactive in managing various aspects of their own careers. Discusses implications.
What you know and who you know: “successful” women’s experiences of accessing board positions
Authors: Sheridan Alison
Published: July 2002

While women have continued to increase their representation in the paid workforce, their representation in the most senior ranks of management in Australia remains very low. In this paper, the backgrounds and experiences of women board members of publicly‐listed companies in Australia are explored to identify the factors they perceive as important to their nomination and selection to boards. It seems that these “successful” women have overcome the resistance to including women on boards by not only being well‐educated and able to demonstrate a strong track record in their field to be nominated to a board position, but also having valuable business contacts. For women seeking to access this most privileged level of management, the importance of networks should not be overlooked.
Using job search portfolios in an uncertain labour market
Authors: Kimeldorf Martin
Published: July 2002

Discusses today’s changing work patterns where permanent, secure jobs are giving way to a life of contract and temporary forms of employment and numerous job changes. Suggests that a portfolio better fits the increasingly portable nature of employment than does a résumé. Outlines items to be included in a professional portfolio which will aid in coping with changes in employment.
Beyond technical competence: honesty and integrity
Authors: Scarnati James T.
Published: July 2002

Discusses honesty and integrity as the basic principle of leadership. Defines quality leadership as a process beyond technical competence. Successful leaders continually demonstrate honesty and integrity as an essential element of their professional fabric; a lack of commitment to the principle renders all other skills meaningless. Depicts honesty and integrity as essential elements of human behaviour that promote and support quality relationships. Defines honesty and integrity in the context of building trust and maintaining credibility. Provides a sound philosophy that increases the probability for long‐term success and professional fulfilment. Includes quotes from contemporary and historical leaders.
“Employee ‐ develop yourself!” Experiences of self‐directed learners
Authors: Margaret Stansfield Lynda
Published: July 2002

Describes the experiences of participants in a self‐directed manager development programme. Qualitative data was collected from questionnaires administered at two points, one mid‐semester and the other at the end of the semester, over two years, in order to elicit information about the issues and drawbacks which were important to the students when engaged in self‐directed and experiential learning. The study was designed to examine participant views and thoughts in three main areas: the aspects of the approach they found most useful; the aspects they found least useful; and ideas about improvements to the programme or how things could be done differently from their own perspective. Reports the main findings which included a majority view that self‐directed approaches are more demanding than traditional approaches but worthwhile, leading to “deep” rather than “surface” learning. Sheds important light on the subjective experience of independent learning, which will be of interest to academics and organizations alike.
Graduates’ perceptions of transferable personal skills and future career preparation in the UK
Authors: Nabi Ghulam R. , Bagley David
Published: July 2002

A sample of 1996 undergraduate students from the University of Central Lancashire were surveyed soon after graduation. Responses were obtained from 143 graduates of the University from an initial census of 315 (45 per cent) drawn from six departments. Although the initial purpose of the survey was to assess the usefulness of survey methodology as a means of assessing graduates’ skills development, the research also addressed a number of key questions relating to the importance and quality of graduates’ generic transferable skills and competencies. Basic findings in terms of skills development are threefold: (a) graduates tend to rate the importance of particular skills more highly than their own ability in those skills, (b) graduates tend to rate their level of ability lowest in IT skills and highest in their ability to work without supervision, and (c) that there are possible differences between the views of males and females. The research has implications for undergraduates, employers and careers advisers. Furthermore, academic departments facing teaching quality assessment might find that this approach offers useful evidence for their self assessment.
Reframing leadership pedagogy through model and theory building
Authors: Mello Jeffrey A.
Published: July 2002

This paper provides an overview of leadership theories, and their development which forms the basis for a penetrating, effective course assignment on leadership which meets four specific, identified, demanding objectives. Students are allowed to gain insights related to not only the complexities of leadership dynamics but also the processes of constructing behavioral models as well as multicultural and multinational perspectives on leadership. The paper describes the assignment and provides insights as to how to operationalize it in the learning environment to obtain optimal outcomes of learning objectives.
Simon’s story: an intimate history of career change
Authors: Perren Lew , Morland Richard
Published: July 2002

Simon’s story is presented here; it tells of his change from his familiar world as a claims manager to an ambiguous world of consultants and projects. Simon recounts a kaleidoscope of emotions as his life is thrown into turmoil. In career terms it could be argued that Simon started and finished as a claims manager and therefore little in fact changed during the story. This would miss the fundamental changes in Simon from a motivated, confident and capable manager to timid and confused employee. Internally Simon was changed, externally no one noticed. A causal network is used to trace the patterns of connection through Simon’s narrative. This reveals his way of making sense of his experiences and allows his ontology of management and career to be explored. This leads on to a discussion of management implications.
Re‐conceptualizing career change: a career development perspective
Authors: Grzeda Maurice M.
Published: July 2002

In addressing environmentally induced career change, the career development practitioner is better informed by a career development model than more traditional approaches. The model was tested with Canadian managers and professionals whose positions had been eliminated. Simple regression analysis revealed that career resilience was positively related to three of five job facets that served as indicators of career change. The findings lend support to career development practitioners who strive to build career resilience among employees. Along with organizational advantages already documented, individuals who develop career resilience will be better equipped to face the inevitable prospect of changing careers in the future.
Going “portfolio”: making sense of changing careers
Authors: Mallon Mary
Published: July 2002

The demise of the traditional career is widely heralded as is its replacement by more fluid and individual career choices. This paper reports on an exploratory investigation of the transition of ex‐NHS managers from managerial careers to portfolio careers. Drawing inductively on interviews with 25 managers, the paper indicates that individuals draw on a number of permeating themes to make sense of their career given the transition they have made: the “real career”; “no going back”; “values and integrity”; “development”; and “consolidation”. The paper argues that more such research is needed to explore the diverse sense making schemes drawn on by individuals experiencing career change.
An examination of the convergence and divergence of internal and external allegations of misconduct filed against police officers
Authors: Michelle Lersch Kim , Mieczkowski Tom
Published: July 2002

The use of citizen complaints as a valid and reliable measure of actual police behavior has often been criticized. It is the purpose of this study to validate the use of externally generated citizen allegations of misconduct as an indicator of police malpractice by comparing the occurrence of internally generated complaints. Using both the internal and external complaints of misconduct that have been filed with the internal affairs office of a large police agency in the Southeast as a database, this manuscript will explore for possible similarities in the identity of the accused officers, officer characteristics, and types of complaints.
Local security management
Authors: Virta Sirpa
Published: July 2002

Anglo‐American community policing has been implemented in Finland since 1996 but there has been a long tradition of the community policing style, called the village police, since the 1960s. The police enjoy a great deal of public confidence, the welfare society has been stable, with no significant social divisions and rather low crime, and therefore there have been no urgent needs or pressures for policing reform. Both the adoption and the implementation of the community policing strategy have been a part of wider public sector modernization, including the service orientation, improved efficiency and responsibility. This paper is based on two process evaluation studies; “The implementation of community policing in Finland – a management of change approach” (2000) and “Local security networks and safety planning – a case of Tampere” (2001). The implementation process has been one of learning by doing. There was a shift in thinking and practice in 1999 when community policing was seen more as a dynamic development process and means rather than a model and a goal, as before. Community policing policy in Finland prioritizes strategic partnerships, networks and local safety planning, and it is re‐named as local policing or local security management. A process evaluation of local networking and safety planning (Tampere) shows that several factors contribute to the successful process of partnership formation, networking and collaboration.
Will any woman do?
Authors: Jordan Jan
Published: July 2002

Assumptions are often made that women police officers will respond more sympathetically to rape complainants than their male colleagues. In the research study presented here, 48 women complainants of rape and sexual assault expressed their views of the extent to which they considered the gender of the interviewing officer to be important and commented on the ways in which the men and women involved with their case interacted with them. The results showed that, overall, genderper sewas not the determining factor of complainant satisfaction. Professionalism, warmth and sensitivity were the qualities most desired and these were not exclusively associated with gender. This suggests that not only is it possible for some male officers to be sensitive victim interviewers, but also that being female does not automatically denote possession of the key attributes required for victim interviewing. Some rape complainants, however, expressed a strong preference for women officers. This places the onus on the police not simply to provide a woman officer – the “any woman will do” scenario – but to ensure the availability of trained and experienced women and men officers.
The small‐town police department
Authors: Falcone David N. , Wells L. Edward , Weisheit Ralph A.
Published: July 2002

This conceptual article focuses on the small‐town municipal‐level police department, as a distinctive model within the mosaic of US policing. As an example of the success of a low‐tech, nonmilitarized, open systems model, the small‐town police department stands in stark contrast to its urban counterpart. As a result of its affinity towards generalization as opposed to specialization, the small‐town department has higher crime clearance rates and is organizationally receptive to the demands and requirements of community‐oriented policing. The small‐town police department’s absence of “professionalism” and militarism is key to its community connectedness, the foundation of its efficacy.
Citizen ratings of the importance of community policing activities
Authors: Webb Vincent J. , Katz Charles M.
Published: July 2002

Presents findings from a community survey of citizens who rated the importance of a variety of police practices commonly associated with community policing. Findings show that citizens give lower ratings to preventive community policing activities that are usually thought of as having an indirect effect on crime, and they give the highest ratings to proactive enforcement activities. Estimates several different regression models in order to detect systematic differences in patterns of ratings: gender has the most consistent effect across the different models. Discusses the need for studies that include cross‐community comparisons.
The Northern York County Police consolidation experience
Authors: Krimmel John T.
Published: July 2002

Employs a quasi‐experimental design to assess the operational costs and benefits of a consolidated department. Northern York County Police Department, the experimental group, was consolidated in 1972. Uses a comparison group consisting of eight police departments in a contiguous county in rural Pennsylvania to compare the outcome variables. Finds that whereas reducing costs may be the expected benefit of consolidation other benefits such as more opportunity for training and the use of specialized units were evident.
Poland: “the police are not the public and the public are not the police”
Authors: Haberfeld Maria R.
Published: July 2002

In the fall of 1989 Poland was the first Eastern European country to free itself from Soviet domination. One of the strongest arms of the communist regime was the Militia, also called the Civic Militia. The main objective of this organization was not strict law enforcement, service, nor emergency response. Despite the initial goal of crime fighting, in reality, the Militia closely cooperated with the Security Bureau and in effect served the role of political police, aiming and targeting political opposition to the communist regime. Presents a study which aimed to analyze the difficult transformation police organizations face in the Eastern European bloc, and the impact of this transformation on the public’s perception of the new police role within the framework of police‐community relations. Owing to the scarcity of information available from the local law enforcement agencies the study largely relied on journalistic sources. Recognizes the limitation of such an analysis and presents the findings and conclusions accordingly.
Burglary victims and the response of the police
Authors: Mawby R.I. , Gorgenyi I.
Published: July 2002

Reports on a survey of burglary victims in Hungary, focusing on both their experiences of the crime and their perceptions of the way the police handled the incident. Using police records as a sampling frame, interviews were conducted with 207 victims in Miskolc, one of the largest cities in the country. The impact of the burglaries on victims was considerable. However help from specialist agencies were negligable among our sample. The extent to which the “new” police provide a service to crime victims is thus doubly important. Analysis suggested that victims were generally positive towards the police, felt police services had improved in recent years, and saw the police as relatively sympathetic towards victims. Victims were considerably more positive in their evaluations than were similar victims in Poland. The reasons for this are unclear but may be related to both police‐related differences and wider differences, such as whether or not victims are insured. What is clear, though, is that marked contrasts are emerging between different countries in transition, and these need to be further assessed in future research.
Investigating stolen vehicle dump sites
Authors: Krimmel John T. , Mele Marie
Published: July 2002

Interrupted time series methodology (ARIMA) is utilized to assess the effectiveness of a police initiated stolen vehicle investigative task force. Police from four municipalities in two New Jersey counties created a multi‐jurisdictional task force in response to growing incidents of auto thefts in downtown (urban) areas. The task force uses a unique investigative approach where they focus their investigations on the vehicle recovery site. Police theorize that vehicle thieves abandon their stolen vehicles close to home or near the location of their next target.
Comparing campus and municipal police: the human resource dimension
Authors: Bromley Max L. , Reaves Brian A.
Published: July 2002

At present there is little comparative information available regarding campus and municipal police agencies and their personnel. Therefore, the purpose of the present study is to examine the similarities and differences between municipal and campus police agencies with respect to various human resource characteristics and policies. The following research question guided the analysis: how do municipal and campus police agencies compare regarding the following human resource characteristics and policies: the proportion of sworn personnel, gender and race of sworn officers, salaries and benefits, educational requirements, levels of training required, drug testing policies and the extent of collective bargaining/unionization. The database is nationwide in scope. The findings of this study support the general notion that city and campus police departments are similar at least with respect to the human resource characteristics identified. Many campus departments have advanced well beyond the watchman era of campus policing. In a number of human resource areas such as use of civilians, education and training requirements, the campus police have progressed very well based on the comparisons made.
Police stress: does department size matter?
Authors: Weber Brooks Laure , Leeper Piquero Nicole
Published: July 2002

The present research involves surveying police officers from ten police departments (N = 2,316) to determine if the size of the agency affects police stress ratings. Nine stress scales, as well as demographic and police career variables, were examined to identify possible relationships. Administrative stress was ranked as the most stressful, regardless of agency size, however, officers from larger police departments did report higher stress ratings on some scales. Policy implications are discussed.
Senior Australian law enforcement leadership under examination
Authors: Densten Iain L.
Published: July 2002

This study compares leadership behaviors of senior Australian police officers with leadership norms established by Bass and Avolio (1990). A sample of 480 senior officers recorded the frequency of transformational leadership, transactional leadership, and non‐leadership behaviors of their leaders, using the multifactor leadership questionnaire. The leadership outcomes of extra effort, effectiveness, and satisfaction were also recorded. Comparisons of leadership behavior mean scores identified that leaders of senior Australian law enforcement officers used significantly less transformational leadership in comparison with the norm. The transactional leadership behavior of management‐by‐exception was the most frequently observed and was used significantly more than the norm. Management‐by‐exception represents leadership behavior that occurs only when the status quo has been broken. As a type of transactional leadership, management‐by‐exception relies on motivating followers by highlighting follower self‐interest, rather than developing followers. Implications for law enforcement organizations and leadership development are discussed.
Value change among police officers at a time of organizational reform: a follow‐up study using Rokeach values
Authors: Zhao Jihong , He Ni , Lovrich Nicholas P.
Published: July 2002

This paper examines evidence of value change among police officers in a medium‐sized police department which has been selected as a demonstration site for community‐oriented policing (COP). Relying primarily upon two survey data collections with a period of three years’ separation, the aim of this paper is to provide a follow‐up to a previously published article in this journal to investigate two issues. First, was there a change in the value orientations among police officers between 1993 and 1996?; and second, was any change noted favorable to the COP organizational culture that the department is attempting to promote? The primary findings of this paper strongly suggest that the value orientations among police officers did indeed change over this time period. However, the direction of the change noted may not be consistent with the goal of enhancing COP organizational culture. These findings help explain how the institutionalization of COP is properly seen as a very difficult, long‐term task facing American police today.
Locally oriented crime prevention and the “partnership approach”
Authors: Goris Peter , Walters Reece
Published: July 2002

Why have multi‐agency or “partnership” approaches to crime prevention and community safety been reported internationally with unfavorable results? Can groups and individuals from disparate government and non‐government sectors work together to reduce or prevent crime? This article will address these and other questions by using developments in Belgium as its case study. In 1992, Belgium launched its “safety and crime prevention contracts”, a series of locally based crime prevention initiatives which have attempted to contract federal, regional and local governments to a range of social and police oriented crime prevention endeavors. Traces the development of the Belgian crime prevention contracts and examines the difficulties experienced with “multi‐agency crime prevention” and suggests that much of the political rhetoric in Belgium calling for local, community and intersectorial “partnerships” has, like several other countries including England and Wales, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, lacked clear practical expression. However, some promising initiatives indicate that this prevention approach may be capable of producing effective crime prevention and community safety outcomes. Further research is needed to describe these initiatives and analyze the conditions under which they are developed.
Can mental training help to improve shooting accuracy?
Authors: Couture Roger T. , Singh Mohan , Lee Wayne , Chahal Paul , Wankel Leonard , Oseen Margaret , Wheeler Gary
Published: July 2002

The study investigated the effects of two mental training strategies separately and combined on subjects’ shooting performance following an endurance march. Further, the study examined the suitability of a ten‐session training programme for the police force. On Trial 1, following a three hour march, 44 subjects shot 25 rounds. Subjects were then randomly assigned to four groups (biofeedback, relaxation, combined biofeedback and relaxation and control). After two weeks of mental training, subjects performed both tasks again on Trial 2. A repeated two‐way ANOVA indicated a significant improvement (p < 0.01) in shooting accuracy by the combined group. Suitability for this mental training programme was strongly supported by the experimental groups (71 per cent to 80 per cent). Subjects were generally better able to relax and focus. They were also more aware of their body and their physiological control. Results are discussed in light of potential benefits for cognitive strategies in precision tasks following endurance activities.
A framework for developing evaluation capacity in health care settings
Authors: Brazil Kevin
Published: July 2002

The purpose of this paper is to provide a framework for developing an effective evaluation practice within health care settings. Three features are reviewed; capacity building, the application of evaluation to program activities and the utilization of evaluation recommendations. First, the organizational elements required to establish effective evaluation practice are reviewed emphasizing that an organization’s capacity for evaluation develops over time and in stages. Second, a comprehensive evaluation framework is presented which demonstrates how evaluation practice can be applied to all aspects of a program’s life cycle, thus promoting the scope of evidence‐based decision making within an organization. Finally, factors which influence the adoption of evaluation recommendations by decision makers is reviewed accompanied by strategies to promote the utilization of evaluation recommendations in organization decision making.
Lung cancer: occurrence and new possibilities for detection
Authors: McCrae K.C. , Shaw R.A. , Mantsch H.H. , Thliveris J.A. , Das R.M. , Ahmed K. , Scott J.E.
Published: July 2002

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. Physical and chemical agents such as tobacco smoke are the leading cause of various lung cancers. The intrinsic heterogeneity of normal lung tissue may be affected in different ways, giving rise to different types of lung cancers classified as either small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) or non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Adenocarcinoma, a NSCLC, accounts for 40 percent of all lung cancer cases and the incidence is increasing worldwide, especially among women. The survival rate and prognosis is poorest for adenocarcinoma. Therefore, diagnosis at the earliest stage (Stage I, localized) is critical for increasing survival rates of those suffering from lung cancer. However, many factors affect early diagnosis including the variable natural growth of tumors plus technological and human factors associated with manipulation of tissue samples and interpretation of results. This article reviews potential problems associated with diagnosing lung cancer and considers future directions of diagnostic technology.
The competitive advantage of organizational learning
Authors: Appelbaum Steven H. , Gallagher John
Published: July 2002

Aims to understand how training and communication help an organization to learn and gain a competitive advantage. Explores the link between training, communication and measurement with individual and organizational learning by conducting a specific qualitative analysis looking for insights into how the concepts sometimes work and how they fail. Also touches on the general themes that have shaken management and employees over the last 15 years as they struggle to survive and prosper in the global village, and compares this concept with ideas that have been prevalent in organizations since the early 1970s. The objective is to understand how organizations can tap their intangible assets and increase their value to the organization, the individual who holds the knowledge and the society that benefits from a healthy economy.
The knowledge harvest: ensuring you reap what you sow
Authors: Christie Anne , Sandelands Eric
Published: July 2002

Considers how systemization of the action learning process combined with implementing solutions company‐wide will greatly enhance results. Focuses on knowledge created by International Management Centres Association (IMCA) and Canadian School of Management (CSM) Action Learning programmes. Looks at how “Enterprise Schools of Management” can harvest and disseminate knowledge and in particular at IMCA’s Published Learning initiative. Routinely publishing research may enhance learning and bring together theory and practice to provide workable solutions.
Configuring the corporate university – managing a portfolio of thinking schools
Authors: Dealtry Richard
Published: July 2002

Reflects on the journey so far into the exploration and understanding of the potential of the corporate university concept as a real‐time business development platform. Challenges whether the many and diverse “schools of thinking” that are shaping the intellectual architecture of corporate universities and are innovating new processes of intellectual development, are in fact functionally constrained ‐‐ simply window dressing of existing functions, or are engaged in retro‐ego trips. Identifies the main development connections between the corporate university concept and the developmental thinking domains of intellect, organisation and business. Examines where blockages are taking place in its evolution and puts forward a thinking schools integrator process methodology as a basis for moving forward into a more complete articulation of the concept. A constructivist methodology is summarised, introducing the idea of well‐considered choice for the integration of diverse developmental “schools of thinking” to determine a comprehensive “configuration school of thinking”. Suggests the first phase of an approach into how the emergent paradigm can be managed, to unfold a bespoke corporate university architecture.
Do our employees understand what we write?
Authors: Nale Robert D. , Rauch Dennis A. , Barr Peter B.
Published: July 2002

States that the workplace is becoming an increasingly stern taskmaster in its demands for literate employees. However, employees may be moving in the opposite direction, resulting in a so‐called “literacy gap”. To make progress towards eliminating this gap, it is necessary, first, to investigate the extent of the problem, or whether there truly is a problem. This is the purpose of this exploratory study, which seeks to focus on the identification of the problem. Using various readability indices, the study examines examples of a typical organization’s reading expectations in terms of grade and difficulty levels. Representative samples from high school textbooks are examined to ascertain the existence of a reading level gap. Three particular readability indices are selected for use. The methodology utilized involves the transcription of selected pieces of both job‐ and education‐specific literature. Each piece is analysed using the readability indices, with resulting measurements of readability providing some indication of the assumed educational level of the reader.
A new approach to business writing
Authors: Egan Michael
Published: July 2002

Business writing can be effectively taught and created using examples drawn from the best modern literature and by borrowing analytical tools from the theory and practice of practical criticism. Looks at examples from Michener, Hemingway, Faulkner and Steinbeck to demonstrate this.
From individual learning to project team learning and innovation: a structured approach
Authors: Barker Martin , Neailey Kevin
Published: July 2002

An element frequently missing from organisations is that of team learning. While recognised as critical, attempts to capture and apply team learning often result in only partial success. This paper (based on work carried out within a major UK automotive manufacturer) explains a methodology for capturing team learning that brings together the contribution of individuals into a team context while maintaining a focus throughout the process on the need for innovative change.
The study and practice of leadership
Authors: Newman Victor , Chaharbaghi Kazem
Published: July 2002

The usefulness of the literature is questioned in terms of influencing and transmitting leadership behaviour. The limitations of literature as a literary form are exposed. It is shown that leadership can only be experienced and not acted nor emulated in the form of an artificial behaviour. By examining the consumers of leadership literature, it is demonstrated that the providers are satisfying their wants. Any weaknesses in the medium and the failure of developing a leadership technology are acceptable to the consumers. It is shown that identity, technology and leadership are strongly interrelated and that the new form of leadership which is evolving in the emerging era of discontinuous change emphasises identity creation.
Knowledge work teams and groupware technology: learning from Seagate’s experience
Authors: Shani A.B. (Rami) , Sena James A. , Stebbins Michael W.
Published: July 2002

The goal of boosting creativity and productivity in knowledge‐based teams is shared by managers in technology‐oriented companies and industries. In this paper, we assess the nature of team performance and creativity in the context of computer‐supported technology. A field study of a Seagate Software project team provided the basis for the examination of four sub‐ teams’ overall functioning and creativity. Factors considered included technology support, team member relationships, decision making, performance and meeting deadlines, attention to quality, and innovation and creativity. Results varied, revealing less reliance on computer‐aided support and more on social support. Creativity was recognized and supported, but at times hampered.
The senses and memory of a firm – implications of autopoiesis theory for knowledge management
Authors: Maula Marjatta
Published: July 2002

Firms can be regarded as autopoietic systems that continuously reproduce themselves. This paper regards the firm itself as an autopoietic entity. This approach helps identify: the “sensory function” (“interactive openness”) that enables the continual co‐evolution with the environment; and “memory function” (“self‐referentiality”, “organisational closure”) that enables the firm’s effective functioning. The integration of these two functions helps utilise the major knowledge flows and facilitates the firm’s continual learning and renewal in its changing business environment. The analysis of case companies that represent the management consulting industry indicates that very different firms can be described as autopoietic, self‐producing systems. The case firms have built sophisticated, interconnected organisational solutions and information and communication systems to support interactive openness and self‐referentiality. Aligning the two major knowledge functions and flows with other organisational solutions helps build successful and sustainable knowledge management solutions that support the firm’s continuous renewal.
Assessing unqualified in‐service teacher training in Brazil using knowledge management theory: a case study
Authors: Joia Luiz Antonio
Published: July 2002

Knowledge management has been largely used and applied within for‐profit organisations. However, knowledge management is a managerial tool that can also be used to assess the knowledge creation and flow within social initiatives. Presents the Proformação program, analysing it as a case study and using the knowledge management theory to assess it. The proformação program aims to train in‐service unqualified teachers in the Brazilian K‐12 public schools, so as to give them skills and expertise to develop their mission better. Most of these teachers are located in the poorest Brazilian regions, mainly in the rural areas, so the project is based both on distance training and mentoring approach. Along with a more consolidated and traditional model used for a descriptive case study, addresses an innovative way of assessing knowledge creation and transmission, based on the “knowledge spiral” and the SECI methodology. Finally, the main purpose of this case study is to subsidize policy‐makers so as to understand better how to deploy huge training endeavours successfully, avoiding the pitfalls and drawbacks inherent in these kind of initiatives and understanding how to manage better the knowledge creation and flow among the involved players.
An adaptive framework for knowledge work
Authors: Syed Jaffer R.
Published: July 2002

This paper characterizes the complexity of a knowledge worker’s environment in today’s business enterprise. This environment, with its ever‐changing landscape of tasks, processes, tools, and technologies, is making prohibitive demands on the knowledge worker’s time and attention. To aid in the successful navigation of this complex environment, we present a complexity‐based model of the knowledge worker’s behavior entailing cognitive as well as structural practices. Viewing knowledge work in the context of interactions ‐ among users and the company’s and external resources ‐ we propose that a company’s knowledge management efforts should employ technologies that facilitate these interactions by reducing the time and attention requirements for its workforce. We introduce a set of knowledge techniques and tools, and agent‐based architectures, and show how they can be integrated to create a framework that is flexible, evolvable and adaptable to the user’s needs. When the interactions are facilitated and increased, such a system has potential to exhibit efficiency, coordination and innovation as an “emergent” outcome.
On‐line communities: helping them form and grow
Authors: Cothrel Joseph , Williams Ruth L.
Published: July 2002

The rise of e‐mail and other computer‐based communication technologies has enabled members of global organizations to collaborate and exchange information to an uprecedented degree. The term “on‐line community” (OLC), coined in the early days of computer networking, is now being applied to groups of employees with common professional goals and interests who seek to add value by extending themselves virtually. However, the performance of these corporate OLCs has not always kept pace with their lofty aspiration. To find out why, Arthur Andersen’s Next Generation Research Group, in cooperation with Anheuser‐Busch, The Mutual Group, and Shell US, studied 15 very different OLCs. Among the questions we sought to answer were: how successful are OLCs in achieving their state purpose? What distinguishes a truly successful OLC? What are some pitfalls that everyone is encountering? This article presents findings and lessons learned from our in‐depth interviews with the organizers of these virtual groups.
Get knetted: network behaviour in the new economy
Authors: Palmer Joy , Richards Ian
Published: July 2002

Knowledge networks, knets, will be the predominant form for successful companies in the twenty‐first century. The enabler for knets is network behaviour. This is a focus on social wiring that is necessary to unleash the collective intelligence from connected, multiple nodes. This paper provides a first view of network behaviour. The results are based on the responses to a web‐based network quiz from more than 130 people in various organisations across the world. It shows that people believe in network behaviour but appear to be encumbered by current organisational forms. The risk for those who cannot develop network behaviour is isolation, caused by the even deeper social fragmentation created by unilateral technological progress.
Organisational factors and knowledge management within large marketing departments: an empirical study
Authors: Bennett Roger , Gabriel Helen
Published: July 2002

One hundred and seventy‐nine heads of sales or direct marketing departments in large UK companies across five industry sectors completed mail questionnaires concerning the knowledge management (KM) practices employed by their firms. The extents of the KM systems operating within sample enterprises were analysed with respect to each company’s use of teamwork, level of bureaucracy and centralisation of decision making, innovativeness, and ability to cope with change. Respondents’ views on the contributions of KM to marketing management were also examined.
Trends in EFQM criterion weights; the case of Denmark 1998‐2001
Authors: Eskildsen Jacob K. , Kristensen Kai , Jørn Juhl Hans
Published: July 2002

This paper examines the criterion weights of the EFQM excellence model. More and more research indicates that the official criterion weights from EFQM do not correspond with the way companies are working. This, of course, raises the question whether or not it makes any sense to compare companies according to an arbitrary weight structure, which has never been empirically tested? In this paper the criterion weights are estimated through the use of a factor scores regression based on confirmatory factor analysis of a number of bootstrapped samples. This estimation procedure is applied on data collected among Danish companies which responded to a self‐assessment questionnaire covering the EFQM excellence model in each of the years 1998‐2001. The overall conclusions are that the allocation of weights is fairly stable for most of the criteria except for one. The weight allocated to “People results” is significantly lower in 2001 than in 1999 and 1998.
Management styles in industrial R&D organisations
Authors: Cavone Andrea , Chiesa Vittorio , Manzini Raffaella
Published: July 2002

This paper aims to understand whether there are different styles of organisation and management of industrial R&D activities. Recent cases of re‐organisation of R&D activities within firms suggest that: R&D activities tend to be carried out in different units of the same organisation and often in different locations, and there seem to be inter‐industry differences among R&D processes. This paper attempts to explore whether and how a certain managerial/organisational style relates to the type of the R&D process (which varies from industry to industry) and to the different nature of the R&D activities. It also identifies the key characteristics of the R&D organisation and the strategic management of technology, associated with each style. The analysis is based upon an empirical study of 19 multinationals operating in various industrial sectors. A classification of the types of R&D process is adopted and the key characteristics of R&D management and organisation in each R&D type are described and discussed.