bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Context-Aware P2P Over Opportunistic Networks
Authors: Conti Marco , Delmastro Franca , Passarella Andrea
Published: May 2011

Recently, the popularity of p2p computing paradigm has been increasing, especially in the mobile environments, due to the large use of mobile devices as tools to generate and share content among users. Several works have been proposed in ad hoc networks literature to optimize legacy p2p systems over a mobile environment, mainly relying on the necessity of a stable path between pairs of nodes wishing to communicate. However, in the last few years, resources limitations and high mobility of users have introduced a new networking paradigm characterized by intermittent connectivity and frequent partitioning: the opportunistic networks. In such a dynamic environment, where systems must exploit all communication opportunities to enable the users to get in touch and exchange data, the authors propose a novel definition of mobile p2p, which exploits context information to enhance distributed services. In addition, they present a Context-aware opportunistic File Sharing application as a practical example of an optimized p2p service over opportunistic networks.
Dynamic View Selection for OLAP
Authors: Michael Lawrence , Andrew Rau-Chaplin
Published: May 2011

In a data warehousing environment, aggregate views are often materialized in order to speed up aggregate queries of online analytical processing (OLAP). Due to the increasing size of data warehouses, it is often infeasible to materialize all views. View selection, the task of selecting a subset of views to materialize based on updates and expectations of the query load, is an important and challenging problem. In this article, we explore dynamic view selection in which the distribution of queries changes over time and the set of materialized views must be tuned by replacing some of the previously materialized views with new ones.
Overview of PAKDD Competition 2007
Authors: Junping Zhang , Guo-Zheng Li
Published: May 2011

The PAKDD Competition 2007 involved the problem of predicting customers’ propensity to take up a home loan when a collection of data from credit card users are provided. It is rather difficult to address the problem because 1) the data set is extremely imbalanced; 2) the features are mixture types; and 3) there are many missing values. This article gives an overview on the competition, mainly consisting of three parts: 1) The background of the database and some statistical results of participants are introduced; 2) An analysis from the viewpoint of data preparation, resampling/reweighting and ensemble learning employed by different participants is given; and 3) Finally, some business insights are highlighted.
Ranking Potential Customers Based on Group-Ensemble
Authors: Zhi-Zhuo Zhang , Qiong Chen , Shang-Fu Ke , Yi-Jun Wu , Fei Qi
Published: May 2011

Ranking potential customers has become an effective tool for company decision makers to design marketing strategies. The task of PAKDD competition 2007 is a cross-selling problem between credit card and home loan, which can also be treated as a ranking potential customers problem. This article proposes a 3-level ranking model, namely Group-Ensemble, to handle such kinds of problems. In our model, Bagging, RankBoost and Expending Regression Tree are applied to solve crucial data mining problems like data imbalance, missing value and time-variant distribution. The article verifies the model with data provided by PAKDD Competition 2007 and shows that Group-Ensemble can make selling strategy much more efficient.
Authority and Its Implementation in Enterprise Information Systems
Authors: Sharpanskykh Alexei
Published: May 2011

The concept of power is inherent in human organizations of any type. As power relations have important consequences for organizational viability and productivity, they should be explicitly represented in enterprise information systems (EISs). Although organization theory provides a rich and very diverse theoretical basis on organizational power, still most of the definitions for power-related concepts are too abstract, often vague and ambiguous to be directly implemented in EISs. To create a bridge between informal organization theories and automated EISs, this article proposes a formal logic-based specification language for representing power (in particular authority) relations. The use of the language is illustrated by considering authority structures of organizations of different types. Moreover, the article demonstrates how the formalized authority relations can be integrated into an EIS.
An Adaptive E-Commerce Architecture for Enterprise Information Exchange
Authors: Aklouf Youcef , Drias Habiba
Published: May 2011

This article contributes to the design of a generic framework for providing a new way to exchange information between enterprises. This concept is a well addressed in the context of B2B standards. Many organizations are increasingly searching for adopting these standards to automate data exchange. But the limit of such models resides in the fact that the content of exchange is defined in several formats which make their use difficult. To overcome this difficulty, we have explored the possibility to integrate new models for describing content involved in B2B transaction which represent a key issue. Our finding establishes the feasibility of integrating product models described by ontology with e-commerce standards especially at the business process level. This article presents a descriptive model allowing partners to exchange information with other organisations without modifying their Information System. The case study also indicates that our system is developed as a Service Oriented Architecture.
A Pedagogical Odyssey in Three-Dimensional Virtual Worlds
Authors: Stoerger Sharon
Published: May 2011

Schools based in the United States are trapped in a Henry Ford factory model of education that is focused on high-stakes testing. This model was effective when factories needed workers who possessed the same skill set. But the world has changed and societal demands on student learning have increased. Moreover, millions of students are failing to graduate from high school, which is a problem that continues to escalate. In an attempt to prepare students for work in the 21st century and to address the dropout crisis, educators are examining ways to integrate virtual worlds, including digital games, into the curriculum. This chapter begins by summarizing some of the theories that commonly frame the discussions about these worlds. Next an examination of the issues surrounding virtual worlds is presented. The concluding sections outline and describe the pedagogical mnemonic known as the “SECOND LIFE” model.
Utilization of Distance Education in Career and Technical Education (CTE) Teacher Education
Authors: Zirkle Chris , Fletcher Jr. Edward C.
Published: May 2011

Distance learning opportunities have rapidly burgeoned in educational environments across disciplines. The result of its growing use has been felt by the career and technical education (CTE) teacher education community. This chapter examines the literature and implications regarding the implementation of distance education in the delivery of CTE teacher preparation programs, along with the issues and challenges it brings. First, a brief historical account of distance education in institutes of higher education is provided. Secondly, a review of the research on distance education’s presence in (CTE) programs is discussed. Thirdly, future trends are articulated for CTE teacher educators, CTE teacher candidates, and CTE researchers.
Challenges of Training Motor Vehicle Mechanics for Changing World Contexts and Emergent Working Conditions
Authors: Kitainge Kisilu M.
Published: May 2011

This chapter is an extract from a study that examined how institute-based automotive training in the retail, service and repair (RS&R) sector could be made more responsive and effective to the changes in workplace demands and new technology. It dealt with the promotion of vocational relevance in the training of motor mechanics in the contexts of a changing world and emergent working conditions. It was an applied learning study that followed a comparative case study research design aimed at advancing reciprocal lessons between the two regions of Kenya and State of Victoria, Australia. The research was propelled by the fact that technology used in this area is now changing faster than at any other time in modern history and is impacting upon most of the human lifestyles. This chapter deals with a summary of the main issues that were researched. Specifically the chapter deals with relevance of institute-based automotive training, stakeholders’ involvement in programs development, and program transfer from one region to another: and learning for work and at workplace. It highlights the views if trainers, trainees and industry practitioners on equity in program development, relevance to workplace requirements and ownership of the automotive training programs. It was found that Australian trainers felt somehow sidelined in the program design while the Kenyan trainers complained of being left alone by relevant industry in the program development venture. None of these two cases produces optimal results since participation in program design should be equitably distributed among the stakeholders.
Technologies for Learning and Transfer
Authors: Lim Doo Hun , Yoon Seung Won , Park Sunyoung
Published: May 2011

Applying learning technologies to improve the current practices of CTE requires a more holistic view focusing not only the aspect of learning but also the transfer needs of CTE within educational institutions and private sector organizations. In an effort to address the need for using technology appropriately for CTE, we provide a conceptual framework that synthesizes the literature of learning technologies and learning transfer within CTE. This chapter has the following sections: (1) developing learning content for CTE; (2) learning frameworks and instructional strategies for learning transfer within CTE; (3) key considerations for utilizing learning technologies for CTE; and (4) future trends of CTE in using advanced learning technologies.
Speaking of Technology
Authors: Hernández-Gantes Victor M. , Blank William
Published: May 2011

Meeting the needs of English language learners (ELLs) in career and technical education (CTE) represents a growing challenge for all teachers in the field. The challenge is especially overwhelming given the widespread agreement that teachers are not well prepared to meet the needs of ELLs. The implications for schools and CTE teachers are discussed in connection to appropriate instruction for ELLs addressing language development considerations. The underlying premises of effective instruction aligned with contextual teaching and learning, relation to teaching practice in CTE programs, and the implications for using technology to facilitate ELLs’ learning are also examined.
Impact of E-Learning on Adult Education
Authors: Collins Royce Ann , Zacharakis Jeff
Published: May 2011

In the present consumer educational market, educational institutions are rapidly incorporating more online opportunities. The various issues that learners and instructors cope with are addressed from the literature and our adult students. The key issue is creating a quality learning experience for adult students. Not only does the instructor need to incorporate what we already know about adult learning, but they must also approach the course development with a constructivist mindset. The major force in creating a quality learning experience is the discussion generated. Instructors must assist students in creating their own knowledge and develop the ability to discuss in a virtual environment.
Understanding Group Interaction and Knowledge Building in Virtual Learning Environments
Authors: Lim Hwee Ling
Published: May 2011

With the rapid adoption of online learning and training, educators have drawn different conclusions regarding the viability of e-learning in supporting interactions that result in quality learning experiences and outcomes. This chapter describes several main online educational interaction models, highlights the Community of Inquiry model for contextualizing interaction from a sociocultural constructivist perspective and explains the characteristics of virtual learning communities. This chapter advances current understandings on online group learning processes with findings from a case study on distant students’ experiences during virtual synchronous tutorials. Quantitative and qualitative survey results are presented on student satisfaction with the development of their skills in computer-mediated communication, increased understanding of course content, and enhancement of their overall e-learning experience through collaborative group discussions. Finally, the implications of the findings for designing distance courses and virtual group learning activities are discussed, and recommendations offered to enhance student experiences of online group learning.
Career and Technical Education in Light of the No Child Left Behind Legislation
Authors: Fletcher Jr. Edward C. , Zirkle Chris
Published: May 2011

The No Child Left Behind Act of 2002 is considered to be the most comprehensive and highly scrutinized piece of educational legislation that has been enacted in history. With its focus on core academic content areas, the CTE community has desired to understand its impact on CTE programs. Based on a review of the recent literature on NCLB and CTE, this chapter examines the primary NCLB legislation provisions, presents the issues and challenges that have manifested as a result of the enactment of NCLB, investigates its impact on CTE, and assesses the coordination of NCLB and the new Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006. This chapter concludes with solutions and recommendations for further research.
Software Project and Quality Modelling Using Bayesian Networks
Authors: Fenton Norman , Hearty Peter , Neil Martin , Radlinski Lukasz
Published: May 2011

This chapter provides an introduction to the use of Bayesian Network (BN) models in Software Engineering. A short overview of the theory of BNs is included, together with an explanation of why BNs are ideally suited to dealing with the characteristics and shortcomings of typical software development environments. This theory is supplemented and illustrated using real world models that illustrate the advantages of BNs in dealing with uncertainty, causal reasoning and learning in the presence of limited data.
Digital Simulation in Teaching and Learning
Authors: Sidhu Manjit Singh , Baek Youngkyun
Published: May 2011

This chapter expands upon the definition of a simulation with two categories: experiential and symbolic. It discusses the interactive, experiential trend in digital teaching and learning, and the educational merits of simulations. This chapter tries to locate digital simulation’s position in these trends. In doing so, it explores the educational merits of digital simulation, discusses the learning mode of digital simulation, and outlines what digital simulation conveys to deliver educational contents. In addition, it will look at the characteristics and functions of digital simulation. Mainly this chapter focuses on how simulation is used for teaching and learning. It highlights simulation’s features to be effective for teaching and learning. It also introduces challenges to simulation to overcome its disadvantages. Several examples of digital simulation in teaching and learning are explored: They are “Max Trax, Strategy CoPilot, Virtual School, simSchool, simClass, Krucible”, and “Starry Night”. Lastly, this chapter seeks to forecast the future of teaching and learning with a focus on information technology and simulation by finding simulation’s role and contribution in learning context.
Strategic Decision Making in Global Supply Networks
Authors: Arisoy Ozlem , Bidanda Bopaya
Published: May 2011

Globalization has inexorably affected the economies of many nations in both the developed and developing world. As a consequence, national boundaries are becoming less important to the large, multinational corporations who now operate on a global scale. Corporate global networks range from short term outsourcing contracts to long term investments in developing countries that offer low cost operations and/or the promise of future market expansion. Today the Internet and high-speed data networks enable knowledge tasks to be completed practically anywhere in the world, allowing companies in the developed world to achieve cost savings or simply stay competitive enough to survive by shifting work offshore (Saunders, 2003; Schultz, 2004). As a result, an increasing shift of work to low-cost countries will continue for the foreseeable future.
Offshoring in the ICT Sector in Europe
Authors: Ruiz Ben Esther , Wieandt Michaela , Maletzky Martina
Published: May 2011

In the context of globalization and internationalization, offshoring processes in the ICT Industry have increased considerably in the software and service sector in recent years due to the cost saving strategies and market entry policies of ICT organizations. Through the heterogeneity of the European ICT sector a regionalization trend regarding host country selection for ICT offshore is, nevertheless, observable. Historical and cultural ties between host and home countries as well as related national stereotypes play an important role in the regionalization process. Moreover, due to favorable EU policies and regulations, off- and nearshoring within the European Union acquire an additional attractive character for some major European producers, such as, for example, Germany. Thus the Eastern European Member States, which already build out certain sectoral specialization in regard to ICT service provision, have benefited from direct foreign investments. Off- and nearshoring also imply risks and hidden costs linked to structural aspects in host countries as well as to the overestimation of cultural and historical nearness. In our chapter we discuss the trends of the internationalization process in the European ICT sector taking into account related risks in off- and nearshore processes. We argue, furthermore, that long-term cooperation and intercultural training, with the support of local and European institutions, should be considered to confrontin a better way the challenges of the internationalization of ICT in Europe.
Exploratory Study on Effective Control Structure in Global Business Process Sourcing
Authors: Kim Gyeung-min , Kim Saem-Yi
Published: May 2011

In an IT-intensive global business process sourcing (global BPS) project, the structure chosen to control knowledge transfer is critical. The objective of this study is to explore the effective control structure for knowledge transfer in IT-intensive global BPS project. The research methods used in this study are a case study and survey. First, a generic framework on the control structure for knowledge transfer is derived from extant literature. This framework is applied to a case analysis of a service provider in Mauritius. As a result of the case analysis, a model for control structure facilitating knowledge transfer in global BPS is derived. The model includes a social control mechanism, communication mechanism, project control mechanism as independent variables, and governance mechanism as a moderator variable. The degree of knowledge transfer and success of global BPS are used as dependent variables. The propositions describing the relationships between the variables are formulated. A total of 19 survey items were generated for these variables. As results of the survey, the model is revised and a set of more refined propositions are generated in the conclusion. Both service providers and clients can benefit from this study by focusing on control mechanisms that affect the knowledge transfer and BPS success.
Offshoring
Authors: Gupta Amar , Seshasai Satwik , Mukherji Sourav , Ganguly Auroop
Published: May 2011

The changing economic and labor conditions have motivated firms to outsource professional services activities to skilled personnel in less expensive labor markets. This offshoring phenomenon is studied from a political, economic, technological and strategic perspective. Next, an analytical model is developed for achieving strategic advantage from offshoring based on global partnerships. The model studies the impact of offshoring with respect to the complexity and strategic nature of the tasks and presents a decision strategy for obtaining value through offshoring of increasingly complex tasks. The result is an integrated “24-hour knowledge factory” that is based on a sustainable global model rather than a short term fiscal model. This 24-hour paradigm embodies the shift-style workforce that evolved for the manufacturing sector during the Industrial Revolution and relies on a set of critical success factors in the current environment. A case example is provided from IBM to illustrate these underlying critical success factors.
Planning for Information Systems Outsourcing
Authors: Agrawal Vijay , Carpenter Donald
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents an overview of the pertinent aspects of planning for the outsourcing of information systems projects. The first major section of the chapter presents a historical perspective on the evolution of information systems outsourcing practices so the reader can understand subsequent sections of the chapter in context. The next major portion of the chapter deals with the need to examine goals, strategies, core competencies, and critical success factors as well as presenting all the functional areas of information systems that are candidates to be outsourced. Also included are discussions of the need to perform cost/benefits analysis and to consider cultural and other factors. The concluding section deals with all the factors that should be examined in preparing and administering outsourcing contracts.
The Journey to new Lands
Authors: Chakrabarty Subrata
Published: May 2011

This chapter introduces a prescriptive conceptual framework from the practitioner’s perspective for the “offshore-insourcing” journey. In the decision phase of offshore-insourcing, we answer the questions “Why to insource from offshore?” “What to insource from offshore?,” and “Where to offshore?” In the implementation phase we answer the question “How to insource from offshore?” and describe the importance of evaluating outcomes. In the process of answering these questions, we discuss insourcing vs. outsourcing and the possible need for offshoring. We think of ways to select the IT functions that can be insourced from offshore, and also look at the popular offshore destinations. We discuss process of managing change, setting up the offshore center, recruiting IT professionals at offshore, and managing the IT professionals at onshore and offshore within the ambit of the global delivery model. Throughout the decision and implementation phases of offshore-insourcing, the focus is on the challenges related to managing IT personnel.
An Outsourcing Acceptance Model
Authors: Benamati John , Rajkumar T.M.
Published: May 2011

The use of outsourcing is expanding rapidly. This chapter empirically tests a model of application development outsourcing acceptance based on the technology acceptance model (TAM). TAM-suggested perceived usefulness and ease of use mediate the effects of other variables on users’ attitudes towards a technology. The model tested in this chapter suggests that perceived usefulness and ease of use of outsourcing mediate the effects of the external environment, prior outsourcing relationships, and risks on decision-makers’ attitude toward application development outsourcing. One hundred and sixty respondents to a survey sent to 3000 IT decision makers provided data to confirm the applicability of TAM and the influences of these external variables. Support for applying TAM in this alternative context was found. Three sub-dimensions of risk, project management, relationship, and employee risk emerged. Project management and employee risks along with prior relationships were found to significantly influence decision maker perceptions about application development outsourcing.
A Supplementary Framework for Evaluation of Integrated Logistics Service Provider
Authors: Lau Kwok Hung , Ma Wun Leong
Published: May 2011

As a result of globalization, supply chains of many large business organizations nowadays tend to cover wider geographic areas spanning across different countries and continents. The growth in length and complexity gradually replaces the traditional linear supply chains with extended supply networks comprising not only suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and end customers, but also service providers. With the increasing use of third-party logistics (3PL) providers by international firms seeking integrated logistics services, many global 3PL providers are forming partnerships with large corporations to take care of the latter’s logistics operations in different regions. The selection of the right 3PL provider for alliance is therefore paramount to the success of global supply chain management. This article investigates the significance of this subject and proposes a supplementary framework for evaluation of 3PL providers as global logistics partners for international firms. The framework focuses on the core competencies of 3PL providers and their abilities to attain economies of scale helping users achieve their outsourcing objectives.
Best Practice in Leveraging E-Business Technologies to Achieve Business Agility
Authors: Sabri Ehap
Published: May 2011

This chapter explains the best practice in implementing e-business Technologies to achieve business cost reduction and business agility. Many companies started to realize that gaining competitive advantage is no longer feasible by only managing their own organizations; it also requires getting involved in the management of all upstream supply organizations as well as the downstream network. E-business technologies present huge opportunities that are already being tapped by several companies and supply chains. Although the benefits of implementing e-business technologies are clear, enterprises struggle in integrating e-business technologies into supply- chain operations. The author illustrates the strategic and operational impact of e-business technologies on supply chains and explains the performance benefits and challenges firms should expect in implementing these technologies. Also, the author provides the best-practice framework in leveraging e-business applications to support process improvements in order to eliminate nonvalue- added activities and provide real-time visibility and velocity for the supply chain. Finally, this chapter presents the future trends of using e-business in transformation programs.
Why First-Level Call Center Technicians Need Knowledge Management Tools
Authors: Downing Joe
Published: May 2011

This chapter argues that first-level call center technicians are the new knowledge worker of the 21st century. As such, these technicians are ideal candidates for knowledge management tools. The objective of the chapter is to introduce these technicians to the IT community and, by way of a case study, show how decision tree-type help tools can increase technicians’ productivity. The chapter ends with recommendations for IT practitioners who are interesting in implementing these tools in their call center.
Web-Based Data Collection in China
Authors: Davison Robert , Li Yuan
Published: May 2011

Many large organizations are increasingly outsourcing their IT functions. Factors like lower costs, improved productivity, higher quality, higher customer satisfaction, and ability to focus on core areas are some of the benefits of outsourcing. However, there are many challenges and risks associated with IT outsourcing. In this article, we identify the main risk factors and best practices in global IT outsourcing. In addition, we delve into some important issues on IT outsourcing, particularly the challenges along with benefits. Finally, we present case studies of two Global 200 organizations and validate some of the claims made by previous researchers on IT outsourcing. This study will help the management to identify the risk factors and take the necessary remedial steps. Hence, this study is timely and relevant from both an academic and a practitioner’s perspective.
Telecommunication Management Protocols
Authors: Tarnay Katalin
Published: May 2011

In this chapter, the fundamentals of communication protocols are presented, and then a special application area, the telecommunications management is introduced. The main part of this chapter deals with the telecommunications management protocols. First, the model for Telecommunication Management Network is explained, and then the most widely used protocol, the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), is introduced. This is followed by a discussion on the open system management protocols and the mobile Internet management protocols for Authentication, Authorization and Accounting (AAA), their comparison and evaluation. Subsequently, the expected trends are presented. The conclusion part summarizes the content of this chapter emphasizing the main ideas.
Human Resources Outsourcing Strategies
Authors: Guilloux Veronique , Kalika Michel
Published: May 2011

Often, organizations externalize work activities and use employment intermediaries (consulting firms, temporary help agencies, contract companies (Nesheim, Olsen, & Kalleberg 2007). At a functional level, firms tend to externalize business as well so that boundaries of firms are extended. Historically production function, catering, cleaning, security, IT functions have been outsourced for several years. HR outsourcing is far more recent. Several elements will be discussed: HR outsourcing definition, typology, process management, and research perspectives on performance.
Offshoring in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: McCoy Jason , Sarx Johannes
Published: May 2011

Offshoring has been adopted as a tool for reducing costs and for gaining strategic advantages by financial services, software development, and other competitive industries. For a variety of reasons, the pharmaceutical industry has been slow to take advantage of the benefits that offshoring can provide. The purpose of this article is to explore the internal and exogenous factors motivating global pharmaceutical firms to increase and expand their sourcing activities. And, instead of discussing global sourcing in general, India has been analyzed as a unique and explanatory case study for this new, emerging trend. The reasons behind this decision include India’s position as a renowned global IT hub, the country’s “home grown” biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries, the numerous strategic partnerships and offshoring relationships between global and Indian firms, as well as its significant advances in IT and information management.
The Post-Offshoring IS Organization
Authors: King William
Published: May 2011

In the age in which many traditional IS functions will be taken over by offshore vendors or otherwise outsourced, attention needs to be paid to those functions that will increase in importance and/or need to be developed by IS departments if they are to be effective in this new environment. This article suggests a framework that may be judgmentally applied to IS activities in order to determine if they should be considered for offshoring/outsourcing. The results of applying the framework will be unique to each firm that uses it. However, in using that approach in more than 25 firms, the author has found that most firms will wish to retain a number of functions in-house. Fourteen such activities are discussed in three broad categories: “activities related to external relations,” “activities related to the development, customization, and implementation of systems” and “business and IS strategic activities.”
Building Trust in Globally Distributed Teams
Authors: Kotlarsky Julia , Oshri Ilan , van Fenema Paul C.
Published: May 2011

Smith and Blanck (2002) claim that “an effective team depends on open, effective communication, which in turn depends on trust among members. Thus, trust is the foundation, but it is also the very quality that is most difficult to build at a distance” (p.294). Trust is “the willingness of one person or group to relate to another in the belief that the other’s action will be beneficial rather than detrimental, even though this cannot be guaranteed” (Child, 2001, p.275).
Risk Management in Distributed IT Projects
Authors: Prikladnicki Rafael , Evaristo Roberto , Audy Jorge Luis Nicolas , Hideki Yamaguti Marcelo
Published: May 2011

Distributed IT projects exhibit certain features that make them fundamentally different from traditional co-located projects, not only involving additional steps and decisions, but also impacting the risk management process. The goal of this paper is to discuss these impacts and to suggest the development of an integrated risk management process taking into account site dispersion, time zone difference, and cultural boundaries not only at the operational, but also at the tactical and strategic level. We also report results of an exploratory case study conducted in a software development center (a Brazilian subsidiary of a U.S. corporation) in support of such a model, and conclude with a discussion of theoretical and practical implications of our work.
Establishing Performance Metrics for Managing the Outsourced MIS Project
Authors: Nasem Morgan Jeanette
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents the tactics and metrics an organization applies after having made a decision to use outsource providers. Tactics are used to define the nature and specifics of the outsourcing arrangement, as well as to select the contractual basis of the agreement. Organizations that elect to use providers geographically distant from the client site are cautioned to carefully evaluate capabilities, as well as legal and security issues related to external outsourcers. For these purposes, it is critical to align measures of performance compliance in the form of metrics on each MIS outsourcing relationship. When negotiating and establishing the terms of the outsourcing arrangement, management should ensure that appropriate performance metrics are identified and included, as well as flexibility for change is built in to the contract. This chapter addresses some of the methods, as well as some of the metrics that might be used in such contract agreements. The use of contracts and service level agreements are discussed, as well as in depth techniques for conducting validation and background checks on outsource suppliers. Sample outlines for service level agreement preparation and performance specifications are included for the practitioner.
The Power of Incentives in Decision Making
Authors: Ryan Geraldine , Shinnick Edward
Published: May 2011

The organisation of the workplace is evolving. In many industries, mass production by large, vertically integrated, hierarchically organised firms is being replaced with more flexible forms of both internal organisation and industrial structure (Brynjolfsson & Mendelson, 1993). Work is increasingly accomplished through networks of smaller, more focused enterprises. Added value is generated by ever-changing coalitions, where each member of a coalition specialises in its area of core competence and controls it through the use of strategic partnerships. The information systems (IS) revolution has had an enormous influence on how organisations are managed. Electronic access, communication, and decision support influence several managerial processes and systems including the nature and scope of managerial roles, organisational structure, strategic planning systems, budgeting, performance measurement and review, incentive compensation systems, and knowledge management.
Outsourcing in High-Tech Corporations
Authors: Pineiro Erik , Case Peter
Published: May 2011

Management has historically sought to restrict the options for manual workers to rebel by simplifying and limiting their jobs according to Tayloristic principles. The need for their experience and knowledge has been consciously minimized, having been relocated instead to supervisors and middle managers, working routines and machines. In high-tech industries, by contrast, the workers’ fundamental contribution to the enterprise is their very knowledge, offering other possibilities for rebellious activities or, at least, for rebellious plans. This chapter focuses on one of the common denominators in the exchanges among programmers, namely the concept of knowledge: how to get it, who has got it (and who hasn’t), what kinds are important and its role in their conflict with management.
Employee Turnover in the Business Process Outsourcing Industry in India
Authors: Ranganathan Aruna , Kuruvilla Sarosh
Published: May 2011

In this chapter, we explore the problem of high turnover in the high-tech BPO sector in India, where relatively well-educated employees are performing a variety of primarily low skill, low cost jobs. We highlight the various approaches employers are taking to solve the turnover problem. As we will argue, some of these strategies are fairly traditional, focusing on various instrumental incentives to promote employee retention, while some others are new and rather radical, particularly the articulation of an organizational and work culture tailor-made for the particular demographic profile of BPO employees: young, upper middle class, well-educated graduates. Based on anecdotal evidence and interviews with industry personnel, we sense some ambiguity regarding the effectiveness of these strategies. We argue that this ambiguity is a function of (a) the recent and rapid growth of the industry and the fact that firms are experimenting with a whole variety of retention strategies, and (b) the inability of firms to develop an integrated organizational culture that permits a focus on both longer term organizational performance, as well as retention.
Project Quality of Off-Shore Virtual Teams Engaged in Software Requirements Analysis
Authors: Nath Dhruv , Sridhar Varadharajan , Adya Monica , Malik Amit
Published: May 2011

The off-shore software development companies in countries such as India use a global delivery model in which initial requirement analysis phase of software projects get executed at client locations to leverage frequent and deep interaction between user and developer teams. Subsequent phases such as design, coding and testing are completed at off-shore locations. Emerging trends indicate an increasing interest in off-shoring even requirements analysis phase using computer mediated communication. We conducted an exploratory research study involving students from Management Development Institute (MDI), India and Marquette University (MU), U.S.A. to determine quality of such off-shored requirements analysis projects. Our findings suggest that project quality of teams engaged in pure off-shore mode is comparable to that of teams engaged in collocated mode. However, the effect of controls such as user project monitoring on the quality of off-shored projects needs to be studied further.
Offshoring Entertainment and Media to India
Authors: Schwender Alyssa D. , Leet Christopher J.M.
Published: May 2011

This chapter explores opportunities for the offshoring of assorted processes in the global entertainment and media industry. Currently, this industry is experiencing incredible growth, much of it spurred by the increased digitalization of media production around the world. The rise of digital technology, faster global connectivity, an increased quality of downloads have been the driving factors behind this growth. The filmed entertainment, recorded music, and television networks and distribution sectors of the industry will undergo major technological changes in the coming years. These changes will provide opportunities for entrepreneurs to enter the global media industry. Using venture funding, startups are utilizing offshoring concepts to create a more efficient cost-effective means of doing business. The Asia Pacific market is currently the fastest-growing region, with India leading the way with offshoring of film functions. The industry will see a change from large media conglomerates as the sole owners of all media to smaller companies offering services, in which they specialize, to these larger companies, as digital media makes it easily accessible around the globe.
Taking Information Systems Business Process Outsourcing Offshore
Authors: Beverakis Georgia , Dick Geoffrey , Cecez-Kecmanovic Dubravka
Published: May 2011

As Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) moves offshore and now includes Information Systems (IS) Processes, there is a need to consider a combination of the two. This article explores the factors that a multinational organisation considered when it “offshored” its IS business processes to lower-cost destinations. It focuses on determining the driving factors and challenges faced during the offshore sourcing project. A single, in-depth interpretive case study approach was used to explore this research topic. The results of this study show that the organisation under investigation was primarily driven to offshore its IS business processes in order to become more competitive in the marketplace. This was assisted by the organisation reducing its operational costs, and establishing a global presence in many lower-cost locations offshore. A model was developed, which illustrates the interrelationships that exist between these concepts.
The Governance Implications When it is Outsourced
Authors: Rouse Anne C.
Published: May 2011

This chapter considers the governance issues raised by the increasing use of external parties to supply IT resources (including packaged enterprise software). The chapter briefly reviews existing formal governance frameworks and their treatment of IT outsourcing, then introduces an analytical model for considering outsourcing benefits and risks. The chapter then goes on to highlight some strategic IT governance issues that become critical once a firm outsources a significant proportion of its IT services. The aim of the chapter is to alert decision makers to the fact that outsourcing IT incorporates residual risks even when widely recommended operational controls are implemented. It concludes that effective control processes are necessary, but not sufficient for good corporate governance and suggests that those responsible for corporate governance ensure that both operational and strategic governance issues are considered when IT is substantially outsourced.
Supplier Capabilities and eSourcing Relationships
Authors: Yadav Vanita , Jaiswal Mahadeo
Published: May 2011

The forces of globalization have influenced organizations to extend the concept of IT outsourcing to IT-intensive business process outsourcing (eSourcing). Most of the research on managing outsourcing relationships has focused either on legal contracts or on strategic partnerships. Advocating a different viewpoint, researchers like Rousseau (1995) found that in reality everyday working of contractual relationships was governed by individual’s subjective interpretation and was fundamentally psychological in nature. The objective of this paper is to posit a relationship step model which projects a vital relationship management capability plus psychological contract perspective for eSourcing. It incorporates the stance of relational contract, interorganizational relationship and psychological contract theories. Using the qualitative research paradigm, the research model is preliminarily explored with case studies of two eSourcing suppliers. The exploratory results of this research indicate that relationship management capability of suppliers is an important factor shaping the outsourcing value proposition.
Flexible Global Software Development(GSD)
Authors: Yadav Vanita , Adya Monica , Sridhar Varadharajan , Nath Dhruv
Published: May 2011

Globalization of software development has resulted in a rapid shift away from the traditional collocated, on-site development model, to the offshoring model. Emerging trends indicate an increasing interest in offshoring even in early phases like requirements analysis. Additionally, the flexibility offered by the agile development approach makes it attractive for adaptation in globally distributed software work. A question of significance then is what impacts the success of offshoring earlier phases, like requirements analysis, in a flexible and globally distributed environment? This article incorporates the stance of control theory to posit a research model that examines antecedent factors such as requirements change, facilitation by vendor and client site-coordinators, control, and computer-mediated communication. The impact of these factors on success of requirements analysis projects in a “flexible” global setting is tested using two quasi-experiments involving students from Management Development Institute, India and Marquette University, USA. Results indicate that formal modes of control significantly influence project success during requirements analysis. Further, facilitation by both client and vendor site coordinators positively impacts requirements analysis success.
Finding Information
Authors: Angelov Ivan , Menon Sathish , Douma Michael
Published: May 2011

This chapter outlines central findings from surveys that considered factors that drive online experience as expressed by the three different groups of subjects – nonprofit organizations and cities, web designers and firms, and the general public.
Point of Involvement, Purchase and Consumption
Authors: Burns Neal M.
Published: May 2011

Advertising effectiveness and its measurement has characteristically been a subject of concern and debate and with the availability and access of the Internet and digital technology the issue is still elusive and complex. This chapter provides a review of the measures that were frequently used to determine the audience that was impacted with traditional media resources as well as those media and message processes generally called new or “alternative” - in that they are different than the traditional electronic, print and out-of home that have been used by advertisers and their agencies for more than 100 years. The chapter reviews and discusses which measures are simply cost indices and which are measures of effectiveness. The emphasis reflects the interests of both those working in the field as practitioners as well as those involved in its research and instruction. In a profession in which decisions in the past were built upon cost per thousand (CPT or CPM), cost per point (CPP) and the challenges of ROI and share fight, the metrics for new media must be precisely defined, valid and reliable. Assessing advertising effectiveness is–as has been said–challenging. The need to inform, persuade and sell in a global marketplace with a technological base that incorporates all we have used in the past plus the networks and mobile delivery now available have already served to make this aspect of communication a compelling set of opportunities. Digital media and delivery are revolutionary and their impact will be profound. Ideally, the problems to be solved will bring those doing the research and those in practice closer than they have been in the past. The metrics to be developed and the narratives that will follow will reflect the ways in which we relate to products and services and to each other in the 21st Century.
Consumption and Marketing in A 3D Virtual Space
Authors: Tumbat Gulnur , Bennett Lisa M.
Published: May 2011

Second Life (SL) established itself in 2003 as a virtual world where people can create an alternate life as an avatar (www.secondlife.com). It provides a fertile ground for real-world businesses to market their products to a tech-savvy and brand-conscious group of potential consumers. The goal of this exploratory chapter is to gain an understanding about the SL experience for these consumers and provide examples of some of the marketing practices. The authors conclude that while SL does provide an alternative for businesses for building, maintaining, and extending their real world brand presence, it remains primarily as a 3-dimension (3-D) virtual social space for people to connect and communicate with like-minded others.