bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Filling the vacuum? Non‐union employee voice in the Auckland hotel industry
Authors: Haynes Peter
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To examine non‐union channels of employee voice in the Auckland hotel industry over ten years in order to determine the efficacy of non‐union employee representation in a lightly unionised service sector context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on a longitudinal study of employment relations in the Auckland hotel industry. Interview and archival data were collected in three waves between 1993 and 2003. A case study of a single hotel illustrates the analysis.

Findings

A majority of the hotels studied have adopted and continue to develop an array of non‐union voice channels. While hotel management retain their traditional decision‐making prerogatives and worker influence is constrained, there is evidence that interest in developing non‐union voice channels to gauge employees’ concerns and interests at work is valued by management, albeit for instrumental reasons.

Research limitations/implications

Major limitations include the lack of employee data and sample composition: large hotels in one region only. Further research, incorporating data on employee attitudes and perceptions, is required in order to understand employees’ expectations and desires for influence at work and the reasons for any perceived efficacy.

Originality/value

This study shows that, contrary to the dominant view that they are of little or no value, non‐union voice channels may provide workers in a non‐union setting with a measure of influence that would otherwise be denied.
Managing community in Hong Kong – the political economy perspective
Authors: Hin Li Ling
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To examine how an incomplete and biased legal/regulatory framework governing the allocation of property rights within a residential community in Hong Kong blocks the natural choice of a market contractual arrangement for the governance of the community as well as the management services.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper applies an institutional economic framework to examine the rationale of adopting different governance structures for different types of assets. A detailed case study is examined based on this framework and the governance structure of this community is analysed and the rationale behind the chosen structure is examined accordingly.

Findings

It is found that a unified governance structure has been adopted in this community, not by the residents in the community, but by the developer who has a controlling share of property rights and vested interests on the undeveloped part of the community.

Research limitations/implications

The case study, though detailed, limits to one community, which itself is very unique in the physical environment. In the future, different communities should be compared under different management models to examine the effect of developers' vested interests in the community and the governance structure, and how would a fair delineation mechanism of property rights will provide a more efficient management model for the community.

Practical implications

It is suggested that an overall examination of the way property rights are delineated in Hong Kong is needed to protect the rights of individual property owners, so that a fairer and more efficient system can be in place.

Originality/value

This paper argues that the choice of governance structure in a residential community under some special socio‐political environments is also facilitated by the legal/regulatory framework delineating property rights.
Optimal placement of sensors for contaminant detection based on detailed 3D CFD simulations
Authors: Löhner Rainald , Camelli Fernando
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Develop a method for the optimal placement of sensors in order to detect the largest number of contaminant release scenarios with the minimum amount of sensors.

Design/methodology/approach

The method considers the general sensor placement problem. Assuming a given number of sensors, every release scenario leads to a sensor input. The data recorded from all the possible release scenarios at all possible sensor locations allow the identification of the best or optimal sensor locations. Clearly, if only one sensor is to be placed, it should be at the location that recorded the highest number of releases. This argument can be used recursively by removing from further consideration all releases already recorded by sensors previously placed.

Findings

The method developed works well. Examples showing the effect of different wind conditions and release locations demonstrate the effectiveness of the procedure.

Practical implications

The method can be used to design sensor systems for cities, subway stations, stadiums, concert halls, high value residential areas, etc.

Originality/value

The method is general, and can be used with other physics‐based models (puff, mass‐conservation, RANS, etc.). The investigation also shows that first‐principles CFD models have matured sufficiently to be run in a timely manner on PCs, opening the way to optimization based on detailed physics.
Determination of optimal switching angles in the Dual‐Euler method based on round‐off error models
Authors: Yoon Sugjoon , Kong Ji‐young , Lee Kyung‐tae , Hwang Ho‐yeon
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Optimal switching angles are investigated for minimizing accumulated numerical errors when the dual‐Euler method is used in the simulation of angular rotation.

Design/methodology/approach

First, round‐off errors are theoretically modeled with a simplified mathematical representation of rotation. Round‐off errors take critical roles in the vicinity of indefinite points because they cause major numerical inaccuracy in very large numerical values represented with limited binary numbers. Optimal switching angles of (±π/4, ±3π/4) are derived and numerically examined. With a more practical and severe rotational model, the switching angles are numerically tested.

Findings

In conclusion, switching pitch angles of (±π/4, ±3π/4) yield near minimum numerical errors in angular parameters of pitch, yaw, and roll if truncation errors are not dominant by using high‐order integration algorithms and small step sizes. It is also noticed that accumulated numerical errors increase dramatically if pitch and roll angles are switched beyond the optimal angles with a little margin.

Originality/value

Optimal switching angles in the dual‐Euler method are identified based on the truncation error analysis. The mechanism of accumulated numerical errors in the dual‐Euler method, which depends on switching angles, is also revealed.
An empirical analysis of lead benchmarking and performance measurement
Authors: Anderson Karen , McAdam Rodney
Published: April 2005

Purpose

This aim of this paper is to explore the understanding and use of lead benchmarking and performance measurement as a possible means of achieving increased organisational change.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical research methodology is used to survey 800 UK organisations, with 157 responses, in relation to their approach to lead benchmarking and performance measurement. A working definition of lead benchmarking and performance measurement is developed within the paper.

Findings

The findings indicate that new lead, forward looking, predictive benchmarks will need to be developed to support lead benchmarking and performance measurement activities. Furthermore, it was found that currently larger organisations are more likely to adopt these practices, with considerable variation across organisational sectors.

Originality/value

Focuses on ensuring that benchmarking and performance measurement remain at the leading edge of organisational change rather than becoming adhoc business improvement initiatives.
Idea generation through computer‐mediated communication
Authors: Pissarra João , Jesuino Jorge C.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Brainstorming is a well‐known group process for generating new ideas and stimulating creativity. Important as well as robust findings have been achieved in determining which factors contribute most to facilitating or hindering the group's ideas productivity. Research aimed at comparing face‐to‐face (FTF) with computer‐mediated communication (CMC) led to the conclusion that this latter shared with the nominal group technique the advantages of avoiding either the blocking effect or the identification of the source. More recently, attention has turned to the possible effects of group support system (GSS) in the mediating cognitive processes of generating new ideas. The present study aims to examine the effects of the type of tool and of the anonymity condition on the quality, quantity and diversity of the generated ideas, as well as on group members' satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Uses a 2 × 2 factorial design combining two different GSS tools (topic commenter vs EBS) with anonymity versus non‐anonymity.

Findings

It was found that anonymity generated more satisfaction among the group members. A marginal effect on satisfaction was also found to be related with the type of tools. Contrary to expectations, the EBS tool was not found to generate greater diversity of ideas. An interesting finding not anticipated was the impact of technology on the flow of ideas and on the emergence of new conceptual categories, probably due to alternative strategies of task structuring.

Research limitations/implications

The use of students as subjects, and the running of the experimental work in a scholarly context, could have contributed to the elimination of fears and to freeing the participants from any inhibition in the anonymity conditions. Within an organisational context with higher social stratification, such anonymous procedures could have significant outcomes. Future research will have to examine whether this effect is relevant to other types of topics and other populations. Another aspect that it is important to re‐examine is the effect of anonymity on the emergence of minority ideas, which could stimulate innovation.

Practical implications

The type and characteristics of tools were shown to be a decisive factor in the participants' satisfaction, in the communication process and in the idea generation and clustering processes. Although tenuous, this set of data could mean that the characteristics of the tools interfere with the cognitive mechanisms present in the brainstorming technique.

Originality/value

Examines the effect of the technology and anonymity in ideas generation within a group context on the satisfaction of the participants.
An empirical investigation of the importance of cost‐plus pricing
Authors: Guilding Chris , Drury Colin , Tayles Mike
Published: April 2005

Purpose

This paper has two specific objectives: to appraise the relative importance of cost‐plus pricing and to develop and test hypotheses concerned with contingent factors that might affect the degree of importance attached to cost‐plus pricing.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected via a mailed survey of UK and Australian companies. Tests were applied and non‐response bias was not a threat to the validity of the findings.

Findings

A relatively high degree of importance attached to cost‐plus pricing is noted, although there appears to be a substantial number of companies that use cost‐plus pricing for a relatively small sub‐set of products and services. Companies confronted by high competition intensity attach relatively high degrees of importance to cost‐plus pricing and manufacturing companies attach a relatively low degree of importance to cost‐plus pricing.

Originality/value

The paper makes a contribution, given that only two empirical studies with a specific focus on cost‐plus pricing were revealed in a literature search covering the last two decades. Additionally, little has been done to investigate the contingent factors affecting the application of cost‐plus pricing. The significant role played by competition intensity in connection with accounting system design is observed to be one of the more enduring relationships uncovered by management accounting research. But a somewhat perplexing aspect of this study concerns the failure to find a statistically significant positive relationship between company size and cost‐plus pricing.
Budget practices case studies
Authors: Fruitticher Lee , Stroud Nancy , Laster Jennifer , Yakhou Mehenna
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Aims to describe budgeting processes in health care, education, and insurance business.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was undertaken, using an interview approach, to expose tactical budgeting matters and behaviors of some central Georgia businesses.

Findings

The study shows that budgets are used in different degrees and for different purposes across different industries.

Research limitations/implications

A more comprehensive, comparative study would be a worthwhile undertaking to provide an in‐depth analysis of issues involved in the budgeting process across industries.

Practical implications

The study provides examples of practical steps involved in the budgeting process.

Originality/value

The study provides evidence of the extent to which theoretical concepts are applied in practice.
The use of performance measures as an integral part of an entity's strategic plan
Authors: Hass Susan , Burnaby Priscilla , Bierstaker James L.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to gain an understanding of the multiple ways companies are using performance measures throughout the organization in the areas of strategic planning, monitoring operations, and evaluation of employees work and satisfaction with the company and suppliers.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was developed and distributed to internal auditors to gather information on how their companies used performance measures.

Findings

The results suggest that most companies tend to have an internal focus when using performance measures and place less value on benchmarking with competitors and suppliers.

Originality/value

Based on the results of the survey, performance measures are used throughout the organization for numerous reasons from the determination of whether strategic goals are being met to evaluation of suppliers.
A forensic examination of the causal mechanisms of rework in a structural steel supply chain
Authors: Love Peter E.D. , Edwards David J. , Smith Jim
Published: April 2005

Purpose

This paper aims to take a forensic approach to identify the causal mechanisms of rework in a structural steel supply chain. Rework is an area that has received limited attention, yet it is a major contributor to time and cost overruns in projects. Design/methodology/approach – The research uses an interpretative case study approach to gain an understanding about how and why rework occurred. To determine the causal variables of rework the traditional scientific concept of causality founded on the mono‐causal model in the physical and biological sciences was subject to subtle changes, and adapted to a social context as construction projects are essentially complex social systems. In this instance causality was not considered to be linear, proportional or incremental, but multi‐dimensional whereby each factor is interrelated and multi‐causal in nature. Findings – The findings reveal that the cause of rework in this case was poor information flow and the absence of a quality focus. This was exacerbated by the sequential procurement process and fixed power structure of the contract, and as a consequence poor decision‐making, communication, integration and co‐ordination were experienced. Practical implications – The research has highlighted the need to re‐design the structure of supply chains in construction projects, especially if information and communication technologies are to be effectively used. A conceptual model was developed from the case study findings to illustrate the interconnectedness of factors affecting rework. This model can be used by organisations for reducing the incidence of rework. Originality/value – The research has identified key variables that can contribute to the incidence of rework in projects. A pragmatic model for reducing the incidence of rework is proposed. The model that is propagated will be of use to practitioners and researchers working within project environments.
The unhappy shopper, a retail experience: exploring fashion, fit and affordability
Authors: Otieno Rose , Harrow Chris , Lea‐Greenwood Gaynor
Published: April 2005

Purpose

This paper explores fashion availability, fit and affordability in the UK stores especially for those women who wear size 16 and over; and examines their satisfaction/dissatisfaction with the retail experience.

Design/methodology/approach

The satisfaction of customer needs remains a fundamental tenet of marketing theory, research and application. This survey was an exploratory study into satisfaction/dissatisfaction with the fashion provision and shopping environments for women in the UK. A questionnaire solicited the views of 250 women thereby enabling the researchers to gauge consumers' views on sizing, fit and fashion availability, perception of current offers, pricing and shopping environments.

Findings

A large percentage of females, particularly those who wear size 16 and over, are dissatisfied with retail environments, fashion and sizing provision among major UK market players. While most women shopped from the high street and department stores, the larger woman had great difficulty in finding well‐fitting fashionable clothing in general, and with certain categories being most problematic. Respondents' views would appear to contradict previously accepted wisdom that clothing consumption activity is leisure and pleasure orientated; many negative experiences prevailed leaving them unhappy and disenfranchised.

Research limitations/implications

The findings presented are the views of women's experiences in one city in the UK. Future research could include a wider sample from more cities.

Practical implications

Marketers should be aware of the need for affordable fashions for larger women. Lack of appropriate sizes is a major source of dissatisfaction. This creates negative emotions in terms of: merchandise choice, visual merchandising, store environment, sales personnel attitude, pricing policies and promotional activities. These factors are the very foundations of consumer satisfaction and the evidence of consumer dissatisfaction resulting in avoidance behaviour should be particularly worrying for retailers, given that they are operating in an increasingly competitive and saturated fashion environment.

Originality/value

This paper provides an initial indication of what creates consumer satisfaction or dissatisfaction about fashion, fit, affordability and retail environments in the UK particularly among larger women. This paper shows areas of specific concern for marketers.
Over qualified and under experienced
Authors: Raybould Mike , Wilkins Hugh
Published: April 2005

Purpose

This paper sets out to report on research that investigated hospitality managers' expectations of graduate skills and compared those expectations with student perceptions of what hospitality managers value.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopted a generic skills framework and data were collected through a sample survey of 850 Australian hospitality managers and 211 undergraduate hospitality management students.

Findings

Managers rated skills associated with interpersonal, problem solving, and self‐management skill domains as most important while students appeared to have realistic perceptions of the skills that managers value when recruiting hospitality graduates. The most substantial areas of disagreement came in those skills associated with the conceptual and analytical domain. Industry managers tended to discount the skills in this domain relative to students.

Research limitations/implications

The sample of managers used in this study were predominantly of Australian nationality and, in an increasingly global hospitality labor market, there may be some benefit in repeating this study with managers from different cultural backgrounds.

Practical implications

A number of strategies are proposed in the paper for bridging the expectation gaps and ensuring better learning outcomes for students and industry stakeholders.

Originality/value

In adopting the generic skills framework this research presents an alternative to previous studies that have used a management competencies framework. As such, it is of more immediate value to those responsible for designing undergraduate hospitality management curriculum who need to ensure that programs meet academic standards as well as industry and student expectations regarding the skill sets needed in the workplace.
Are travellers satisfied with Malaysian hotels?
Authors: Poon Wai‐Ching , Lock‐Teng Low Kevin
Published: April 2005

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the factors that measure different satisfaction levels between the Asian and Western travellers during their stay in hotels in Malaysia. The paper also seeks to analyse the importance of the tangible and intangible factors in the hotel industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The research questions are utilised to measure the differences between Asian and Western perception of hotel attributes. A questionnaire with five‐point Likert scale is applied to measure customer satisfaction. Data is analysed using SPSS software by employing factor analysis, multiple regression, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA).

Findings

Results indicate that there are significant differences between Asian and Western evaluations of hotel quality, with clear indication that satisfaction levels Malaysian hotels were higher among Western travellers than the Asian travellers. Both Asian and Western travellers perceive hospitality as an influential factor in determining the overall satisfaction level.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of the study is that the sample is taken only from travellers who are leaving Malaysia by plane. Future research can be carried out on the travellers arriving at and depart from Malaysia using different mode of transportations.

Practical implications

For practitioners, it is worth noting that Asian travellers are exclusively concerned with the value for money services, while Western travellers regard security and safety, and food and beverage as important factors for them to stay in the hotels or revisit the country.

Originality/value

Malaysia is an emerging market for tourism industry and the information obtained from the travellers can be utilised to enhance a much more efficient marketing strategy in the hotel industry. This paper contains material relevant to education as well as to the tourism industry, and implementable solutions are sufficiently well suggested.
Family values
Authors: Ingram Hadyn
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Aims to suggest how characteristics of the idealized nuclear family may provide some lessons for the improved practice of hospitality management.

Design/methodology/approach

Explores the origin and nature of the family as a social unit and the benefits experienced by its members and society. Relates this background to a fictional case study, “The Halcyon Hotel”.

Findings

Concludes that in a world where family values seem to be in decline, the concept of the idealized nuclear family could be readily transferred to the practice of hospitality management for improved teamworking and overall operational improvement.

Originality/value

Compares the characteristics of the extended domestic family with the corporate “family” in terms of roles and responsibilities.
Towards a new interpretation of “hospitality”
Authors: O'Connor Daniel
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Aims to discover a truer meaning of genuine hospitality, addressing the issue of whether or not a better understanding can help to steer the hospitality industry in the right direction in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

Examines “hospitableness” and the extent to which this is a human characteristic that is innate and/or can be nurtured and developed. Presents a literature review and offers recommendations

Findings

It is suggested that the most practical way for achieving this goal is to investigate the history and origins of hospitality. Only once an understanding of hospitality's origins and its place in human nature is achieved can one expect to discover what hospitality means today, and more importantly what it will mean to those entering the industry in the future..

Originality/value

Makes recommendations as to how measures of hospitableness might be used in the staff recruitment process and considers personality characteristics and linkages with service delivery.
Supply chain logistics initiatives
Authors: Cavinato Joseph L.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Intends to provide insights from observaions of field practices and initiatives from researchers in supply chain logistics seeking contexts and inspiration for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

Describes supply chain logistics practices and initiatives perceived positions and impacts (2003‐2004), based on interviews with protagonists of 19 major practices/initiatives in the field.

Findings

The 19 are divided into three groups: new, wide adoption, and traditional. New refers to strategic, high revenue/growth, wide adoption refers to the normal maturing process, whilst traditional refers to commodity, as in business impact. As companies progress in their initiatives from new to wide adoption to traditional, finds that resarch opportunities develop differently.

Originality/value

Adds value to the original editorial (IJPDLM, Vol. 34 No. 1, 2004), which noted five general categories of research.
In pursuit of pleasure: health education as a means of facilitating the “health journey” of young people
Authors: Whitehead Dean
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To highlight recently emerging issues and discussions related to the “health journey” of young people, and how health education interventions may be best applied in light of these.

Design/methodology/approach

A general review of the “health journey” phenomena in young people is explored.

Findings

Many health education interventions involving young people target emotive issues such as illicit drug‐taking or sexual promiscuity and are often aimed at reducing the prevalence of health‐damaging behaviours primarily through the provision of health‐related information. It is well known and accepted by many, however, that “limited” health education methods are often ineffective, and may lead to more problems than they resolve. This is particularly so where the interventions seek to deny the individual the health‐related experiences that may serve as an integral part of that person's “health journey”. Recently emerging literature highlights counter‐behaviours initiated by young people, in defiance of any imposed health education intervention.

Practical implications

Where health educators do intervene, it is recommended that this is as an adjunct to assisting the individual in their attempts to enjoy as safe a health journey as possible – and not merely to deny the journey.

Originality/value

Highlights the fact that health educators need to use a range of strategies and “mind‐sets” when working with young people and dealing with “health journey” issues.
Nutrition students enhance school health education
Authors: Cotugna Nancy , Vickery Connie E.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The purpose of the Nutrition Education Students and Teachers (NEST) project was to develop a model of collaboration between University of Delaware dietetics students and elementary teachers to promote nutrition education in the classroom.

Design/methodology/approach

Junior and senior level students in a nutrition education course developed nutrition lessons with input from the school teachers on using age‐ and developmentally‐appropriate methods. Actual presentations to 55 elementary children were conducted in a health/science fair format. Written evaluations were completed by all involved in the project.

Findings

The university students developed competency in teaching skills, the elementary school pupils gained nutrition knowledge and skills, and the classroom teachers were provided with valuable curriculum materials for future use. The project was rated as successful by students, teachers, the school children, and nutrition instructors. This demonstrated an innovative method to teach nutrition education principles to university students with a threefold outcome.

Practical implications

Healthy eating behaviors need to be built in childhood, and schools are an ideal setting for nutrition education. However, resources are often limited. University professors should consider the use of live audiences for the development of teaching skills rather than the typical model of having students present to one another in their own classroom setting. Schools should consider the contribution that university students might make to their teaching programmes.

Originality/value

The paper describes an unusual, and cost‐effective, method of health education, of value to the teaching about dietetics, and to other areas of health education.
Just how far can healthy schools go?
Authors: Noble Colin , Robson Claire
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To explore the current development of the Healthy Schools movement in England, and to suggest some ways forward.

Design/methodology/approach

The editorial suggests that the Healthy Schools movement is now well established in England, and used by the UK government as the vehicle to transmit health‐related initiatives, e.g. the drive against obesity. It is intended to be in all schools by 2009.

Findings

It is important that this movement does not turn into a “one size fits all/checklist” approach, but that the whole school approach is maintained, which gives schools the ability to tailor their project to their own circumstances and achieve widespread ownership. It is also important that the health that is promoted is not just physical, but includes emotional, social and community health. In time it may make radical changes to the nature and purpose of schooling, especially if it joins with the extended school movement to bring about community change.

Practical implications

Useful reminders to those developing healthy school/health‐promoting school approaches to bear in mind the key principles of taking a whole school perspective, ensuring ownership and responsiveness to particular needs, looking at mental and social as well as physical health, and including the role of the school in its community.

Originality/value

Learning some key principles from a country which has gone a long way to develop its healthy school approach.
The biometric technologies business case: a systematic approach
Authors: Riley Richard A. , Franke Kleist Virginia
Published: April 2005

Purpose

This paper aims to assist readers to develop a compelling business case, including quantifiable and non‐quantifiable costs and benefits, for the deployment of biometric technologies in information systems to enhance corporate security for access control, identification and verification applications.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the strengths and weaknesses of leading biometric technologies, while commenting on their practical applicability in real world implementations. In addition, the paper develops a process for ensuring that the best biometric applications are chosen, considering both the technology and related business issues.

Findings

The paper suggests that biometrics must be carefully selected to achieve a good fit to the security problem, giving examples of how a good fit might be evaluated by the user. The one‐time and recurring charges associated with the typical biometric implementation are evaluated, arguing that these costs must be offset by a formal risk evaluation. The paper presents a user's guide for sensible implementation evaluations. Finally, the paper emphasizes that the use of biometrics in systems security implementations is one tool among many, and must thus be viewed as only part of an overall information security management infrastructure.

Originality/value

In order to select biometric technologies, buyers must choose solutions to business problems, solutions that demonstrate that the biometric makes sense from a cost‐benefit and business perspective. This paper, in a step‐by‐step manner, walks readers through the decision‐making process and assists them in making compelling business arguments for biometric applications.
An automated framework for managing security vulnerabilities
Authors: Al‐Ayed A. , Furnell S.M. , Zhao D. , Dowland P.S.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

This paper aims to look at unpatched software which represents a significant problem for internet‐based systems, with a myriad malware incidents and hacker exploits taking advantage of vulnerable targets. Unfortunately, vulnerability management is a non‐trivial task, and is complicated by an increasing number of vulnerabilities and the workload implications associated with handling the associated security advisories and updates.

Design/methodology/approach

As a step towards addressing the problem, this paper presents an automated framework that is designed to provide a vendor‐independent means of vulnerability notification and rectification for system administrators.

Findings

In the proposed framework, incoming vulnerability advisory messages may be obtained from multiple sources, and then filtered and prioritised according to the specific requirements of the target environment (as determined by the security administrator). In addition to notification management, the framework provides an automated facility for the download and deployment of any associated patches. The framework has been implemented in prototype form, with particular focus on the notification manager.

Originality/value

This paper presents an automated framework, providing a valuable and comprehensive solution for managing vulnerabilities in terms of notification and rectification systems.
Broad sensory branding
Authors: Lindstrom Martin
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this research paper is to reveal data that have emerged from an extensive study into the relationship between the five senses and brands.

Design/methodology/approach

Research was conducted by the global market research agency, Millward Brown. A team of 60 researchers undertook a quantitative and qualitative study in 13 countries over an 18‐month period. The study set out to determine the role senses play in how one selects brands.

Findings

Results revealed that 99 percent of all brand communication currently focuses on only two of the senses – sight and sound. Emotional connections are effectively made with a synergy of all five senses, and as such those brands that are communicating from a multi‐sensory brand platform have the greatest likelihood of forming emotional connections between consumers and their product.

Originality/value

The paper uses case studies from global brands to illustrate the effectiveness of messages that incorporate as many senses as possible.
Hispanic versus Anglo male dominance in purchase decisions
Authors: Ogden Denise T.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Aims to determine whether the level of acculturation experienced by Hispanics influences purchase decisions (brand, location, paint color) of household paint.

Design/methodology/approach

A telephone survey was conducted to determine the extent to which husbands influenced the purchase of household paint. Hispanic and Anglo responses were compared. Additional data were collected to determine the level of acculturation of the consumer.

Findings

The findings indicate no difference between Hispanic and Anglo patterns. There was also no difference between Hispanics high in acculturation (HHIA) and Hispanics low in acculturation (HLIA) in male dominance of purchase decisions.

Research limitations/implications

One of the limitations of the study deals with the newest immigrants. Those Hispanics who have recently immigrated may not have an established address or telephone number, so this group may not be adequately represented.

Practical implications

In determining influence for paint‐related products, gender may be a better segmentation factor than level of acculturation.

Originality/value

The results of this study are contrary to prior research. Perhaps, as suggested by Belch and Willis, men are losing their influence in purchase decisions owing to the internal changes that have occurred over time in US families. A strong contribution that this study makes to the current consumer acculturation research is that one should not make general statements about Hispanics and the acculturation process.
Names, brands, branding: beyond the signs, symbols, products and services
Authors: Jevons Colin
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The paper aims to stimulate discussion of what branding actually is, does and maybe should do.

Design/methodology/approach

A reflective essay is presented which briefly outlines the history of meanings of branding leading to speculation about future meanings.

Findings

The paper finds that the term “brand” is now used extensively in previously unimaginable areas, yet the common examples and textbooks seem to be inexorably linked to little beyond the brand management of products or for‐profit consumer services.

Practical implications

With this piece, the Journal of Product & Brand Management starts a new section that aims to bring discussion beyond products brand management – taking thinking about brands beyond the current conventions.

Originality/value

This paper provides a detailed call to action for academics and practitioners interested in exploring possible futures of branding thought.
Framing a price bundle: the case of “buy/get” offers
Authors: Raghubir Priya
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The underlying thesis of this paper is that consumers will infer that the costs of production of a product that is offered free are low, and this will reduce the price they are willing to pay for the product when it is a stand‐alone offering.

Design/methodology/approach

Two laboratory experiments examine how consumers respond to products that have been offered as “free gifts with purchase” of another product.

Findings

Study 1 shows, that when an economically identical offer is framed as a joint bundle (Buy X and Y for $), compared with when it is framed as a “Buy one, get one free” offer, consumers are willing to pay less for the product offered “free.” Study 2 shows that, when a product is given away “free,” then consumers are willing to pay less for it as a stand‐alone product, especially when the original promotional offer does not include the price of the free gift.

Research limitations/implications

Results imply that the design and communication of consumer promotions affect the price consumers are willing to pay for a product.

Practical implications

Managerial implications for the design and communication of consumer promotions are discussed.

Originality/value

The paper adds to the growing body of research that shows that a price promotion has more than just an economic effect; it also has an informational effect through which it affects consumer responses.
E‐tail and retail reference price effects
Authors: Hardesty David M. , Suter Tracy A.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The focus and intended contribution of this research are to understand better how retailers should strategically present external reference price information varying in the context from which it originates (online vs bricks and mortar).

Design/methodology/approach

A two reference price environment (online e‐tail, bricks‐and‐mortar retail) × two external reference price ($252.99, low; $379.99, high) between subjects experimental design with a single control condition was employed.

Findings

Results from an experimental study provide empirical support, suggesting that consumers expect to pay less in online e‐tail settings than bricks‐and‐mortar retail settings. Additionally, results suggest that bricks‐and‐mortar retail external reference prices influence consumer e‐tail price expectations, price fairness, and satisfaction perceptions more than online e‐tail external reference prices when reference prices are high. When external reference prices are low, both online e‐tail and bricks‐and‐mortar retail external reference prices are equally effective.

Research limitations/implications

Price setters should use bricks‐and‐mortar external reference prices when the external reference price is high, as consumers are impacted positively by these reference prices.

Practical implications

The research results suggest a time to use bricks‐and‐mortar external reference prices and suggest that online external reference prices have similar impact regardless of the size of the external reference price.

Originality/value

This research is the first of its kind to evaluate the impact of the context of the reference price on consumer evaluations.
The futures agenda of the future CEO
Authors: Buchen Irving H.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To shape a futures agenda for future executives.

Design/methodology/approach

Identifies and examines five future leadership foci: globality, technology, talent development and retention, innovation, and professional development and training.

Findings

The position of CEO needs to be reinvented and to move in the direction of hybrid competencies.

Originality/value

All future executives will have to be futurists and learning leaders.
Powering the world with nuclear energy – past, present, and inevitable future
Authors: Baker Schaffer Marvin
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The article aims to explore the potential for pebble‐bed high‐temperature gas reactor (HTGR) technology to meet possible future energy shortages.

Design/methodology/approach

The historical evolution of nuclear power is reviewed followed by empirical data that demonstrate the finite nature of oil and gas reserves. The characteristics of HTGR technology are then explored.

Findings

A pebble‐bed HTGR ameliorates nuclear waste disposal issues, does not disgorge large quantities of excess heat, is terrorist‐resistant, solves persistent problems concerning weapon proliferation, and is inherently safe.

Originality/value

The article makes the case for the US Department of Energy to take the lead in demonstrating a pebble‐bed HTGR plant to overcome industry reluctance to invest in this technology.
Voice over internet protocol (VoIP) development and public policy implications
Authors: Meisel John B. , Needles Michael
Published: April 2005

Purpose

In the context of a current regulatory proceeding in the USA, the purpose of the paper is to argue for utilization of a new analytical framework to govern the regulation of the rapidly growing voice over internet protocol (VoIP) technology. Specifically, the paper recommends replacement of the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) existing vertical regulatory structure with a new conceptual paradigm, a layered or horizontal model that more closely mirrors the structure of internet communications.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper briefly traces the evolution of the FCC's current regulatory structure and its previous treatment of internet telephony. Current petitions by individual telecommunications companies before the FCC and the agency's notice of proposed rulemaking on VoIP are analyzed and business and economic implications of VoIP are discussed.

Findings

The paper finds that utilization of a layered model enables policy makers to target regulation to specific sources of market power in the access layer and to attainment of social objectives such as wiretapping, while allowing free market competition to govern competitive layers of internet communications.

Practical implications

Regulatory policy in a world of VoIP technology must change. The FCC's old way of regulating in a world where individual communication services are linked to specific technologies must be replaced in the new internet world of converging services.

Originality/value

The paper builds on previous research outlining the layered model and applies this new conceptual framework to the current issues raised in the FCC rulemaking. The paper intends to provide guidance to telecommunications regulators.
The prospects for 3G in the USA: the view from Europe
Authors: Curwen Peter
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The article aims to review the history of 3G in the USA from the differing perspectives of the government, regulators and network operators, with the narrative based around the various spectrum bands that have been proposed for 3G at various times during the past decade.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study of the background to the development of advanced mobile data services in the USA is written from the perspective of someone familiar with the somewhat different processes evident so far in Europe. Contrasting the USA with Europe is of particular interest because it is the USA, perhaps surprisingly, that is suffering due to a somewhat laisse‐faire attitude to spectrum allocation in the past, whereas the elements of dirigisme in Europe have at least produced consistency, even if progress has been slow.

Findings

What is revealed is a not untypical story of the authorities trying to unwind decisions which seemed to be perfectly sensible at the time when they were taken, but have been overtaken by events (including new technologies) and hence are currently decidedly sub‐optimal. As ever, vested interests do not intend to make concessions without being paid off handsomely.

Originality/value

As things stand, 3G is a reality provided that it reuses existing 2G spectrum bands, but that does not present a blueprint for the future if the USA does not wish to be left behind.
Developing a cultural perspective on ERP
Authors: Boersma Kees , Kingma Sytze
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To develop an analytical framework through which the organizational cultural dimension of enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementations can be analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is primarily based on a review of the literature.

Findings

ERP is an enterprise system that offers, to a certain extent, standard business solutions. This standardization is reinforced by two processes: ERP systems are generally implemented by intermediary IT organizations, mediating between the development of ERP‐standard software packages and specific business domains of application; and ERP systems integrate complex networks of production divisions, suppliers and customers.

Originality/value

In this paper, ERP itself is presented as problematic, laying heavy burdens on organizations – ERP is a demanding technology. While in some cases recognizing the mutual shaping of technology and organization, research into ERP mainly addresses the economic‐technological rationality of ERP (i.e. matters of effectiveness and efficiency). We want to supplement and complement this perspective with a cultural approach. How do individuals in organizations define and experience ERP‐standards? How and to what extent are management and working positions redefined in the process of developing and implementing ERP? In the paper, we highlight three perspectives from which ERP systems can be experienced, defined and analyzed. These perspectives are specified as the “constitution” of ERP, ERP as a “condition” of organizations, and the (unintended) “consequences” of ERP.