bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An analysis of a benchmarking initiative to help government entities to learn from best practices – the “Dubai We Learn” initiative
Authors: Mann Robin , Adebanjo Dotun , Abbas Ahmed , El Kahlout Zeyad Mohammad , Al Nuseirat Ahmad Abdullah , Al Neaimi Hazza Khalfan 
Published: May 2020

Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the mechanisms for managing coordinated benchmarking projects and the outcomes achieved from such coordination. While there have been many independent benchmarking studies comparing the practices and performance of public sector organisations, there has been little research on initiatives that involve coordinating multiple benchmarking projects within public sector organisations or report on the practices implemented and results from benchmarking projects. This research will be of interest to centralised authorities wishing to encourage and assist multiple organisations in undertaking benchmarking projects.

Design/methodology/approach
The study adopts a case study methodology. Data were collected on the coordinating mechanisms and the experiences of the individual organisations over a one-year period.

Findings
The findings show successful results (financial and non-financial) across all 13 benchmarking projects, thus indicating the success of a coordinated approach to managing multiple projects. The study concluded by recommending a six-stage process for coordinating multiple benchmarking projects.

Originality/value
This research gives new insights into the application and benefits from benchmarking because of the open access the research team had to the “Dubai We Learn” initiative. To the authors’ knowledge the research was unique in being able to report accurately on the outcome of 13 benchmarking projects with all projects using the TRADE benchmarking methodology.
Management strategies for supply risk dependencies: empirical evidence from the gulf region
Authors: Al-Balushi Zainab , Durugbo Christopher M. 
Published: May 2020

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to propose a conceptual model for managing supply risk (SR) dependencies in regional supply networks (SNs). Grounded on resource dependency theory (RDT), the research conceptualises the management of SR as buffering and bridging strategies that enable organisations to redefine their SN to cope with SR and as a three-stage transformation mechanism.Design/methodology/approachFour supply failure case studies from the aluminium and the oil and gas industries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region inductively provide empirical insights for a revised conceptual framing. Within and cross case analysis on transcribed semi-structured interviews with 11 SN managers focus on the SRs and dependencies associated with the supply failures and an abstraction of risk management (RM) strategies for coping with these failures.FindingsThe analysis finds that underpinning ‘second-order’ buffering and bridging strategies from RDT are four main ‘first-order’ RM strategies: unit independency, organisational adaptation, network reconfiguration and environmental acceptance. These RM strategies are due to controllability and predictability levels that influence investment in RM and reflect the locations for implementing RM practices, i.e. the business unit, the organisation, the SN and the environment.Originality/valueThe article contributes to research through the conceptual framework of SR dependencies and unique insights on SR management within the GCC region. Practically, the research is novel in offering strategic directions for RM evaluations and investments that reflect the controllability and predictability of risk incidents. Such evaluations are potentially valuable in orchestrating regional SNs, for managing GCC companies in global supply chains, and for strategic decisions to expand or outsource to the GCC region.
Human capital and export performance of small and medium enterprises in Pakistan
Authors: Mubarik Muhammad Shujaat , Devadason Evelyn S. , Govindaraju Chandran 
Published: May 2020

PurposeThis study examines the influence of human capital, overall and by dimensions, on the export performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector of Pakistan. The study also investigates the role of absorptive capacity in the relationship between human capital dimensions and export performance.Design/methodology/approachData from 586 manufacturing sector SMEs were collected for analysis. The study applied covariance-based structural equation modeling (SEM) to estimate the hypothesized relationships.FindingsAs a whole, human capital was found to exert a direct and indirect impact on export performance, particularly for the medium-sized firms and for firms with medium to high levels of export intensities. Nevertheless, not all dimensions of human capital mattered for export performance. Education and training were found to pose the greatest influence on export performance of those firms.Research limitations/implicationsThe results suggest that when devising appropriate policies for SMEs, the impact of different dimensions of human capital need to be considered for addressing challenges related to the internationalization of firms. In short, developing the right human capital is essential for SMEs to compete at the international level.Originality/valueUnlike previous studies, this study decomposed the influence of different dimensions of human capital on export performance and assessed the mediating role of absorptive capacity. The study is also among the pioneering studies in SMEs sector of Pakistan to analyze the role of absorptive capacity in the relationship between various dimensions of human capital and export performance.Peer reviewThe peer review history for this article is available at:https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-03-2019-0198
Predictors of fossil fuel taxation attitudes across post-communist and other Europe
Authors: Sivonen Jukka 
Published: May 2020

PurposeThis study examines how the effects of three predictors, namely left–right political orientation, generalized trust and political trust, on fossil fuel taxation attitudes vary between post-communist and other European countries.Design/methodology/approachBy using European Social Survey (ESS) Round 8 data and ordinary least squares (OLS) regression, this paper studied the effects of the hypothesized predictors on fossil fuel taxation attitudes across post-communist and other European countries. The countries were analyzed both in group and individually.FindingsThe results showed that stronger left-wing orientation, higher generalized trust and higher political trust predict more support for fossil fuel taxation at the country group level in both post-communist and other Europe. However, the effects were generally speaking less consistent and significant in the countries of the post-communist Europe. By and large, the effect of political trust was the most significant and universal.Originality/valueThe findings contribute to the understanding how left–right political orientation and generalized trust have somewhat distinct effects on fossil fuel taxation attitudes in different European country contexts, while the effect of political trust is more universal across the continent.
The INCITE model of policy development for the creative industries: the case of Vietnam
Authors: Gasparin Marta , Quinn Martin 
Published: May 2020

PurposeThis paper develops a new model of policy development for the creative industries in a transitional economy setting. These sectors could potentially make a significant contribution to the continuing growth of the Vietnamese economy; however, they are currently held back by a lack of policies designed to support themDesign/methodology/approachThe paper uses data collected from a mixed-methods study of the creative and cultural sectors in Vietnam. The paper combines quantitative results from a mapping project with ethnographic observations and several qualitative interviews to identify the policy needs of the sector.FindingsThe paper develops the INCITE model of policy development composed of four parts: education and human resources, infrastructure, intellectual property rights and freedom of speech.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to our understanding of the kinds of policies needed to support the creative industries by exploring their development in an economy transitioning from a state planned economy to a market-driven one.
Effect of debt tax benefits on corporate pension funding and risk-taking
Authors: Omori Kozo , Kitamura Tomoki 
Published: May 2020

PurposeThis study theoretically investigates the impacts of tax benefits on funding level and risk-taking of a corporate defined benefit (DB) pension plan.Design/methodology/approachThe present value of the future tax benefits is maximized while the stockholders determine the funding level and investment risk-taking in DB plans. As a feature of DB plans, this study considers pension benefits to be pre-determined. Further, the pension beneficiary has a priority over the sponsor company's creditors for the pension reserve fund. These are seldom considered in previous studies.FindingsIt is desirable to decrease the funding level of DB plans to increase tax benefits. This is because the effect of tax exemption for the pension fund's investment income is eliminated by the change in the contribution arising from the investment's result. The optimal investment risk-taking depends on the funding level.Originality/valueThe impact of tax benefits on decision-making for DB plans is significantly different from that stated by previous studies, that is, an increase in pension funds will reduce the corporate debt. To explain corporate behavior, this study's results—derived from the essential feature of DB plans, which could not have been included in previous studies—should be considered.
The impact of changes in cash flow statement items on audit fees: evidence from Iran
Authors: Salehi Mahdi , BehrouziYekta Masoumeh , Rezaei Ranjbar Hossein 
Published: May 2020

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to determine whether the incremental difference between the actual level of cash from the optimal amount (excess and insufficient cash) to the abnormal amount of cash (abnormal positive and negative changes in cash) leads to an increase in audit fees.Design/methodology/approachTo investigate the main purpose of this study, first, the authors, respectively, estimate the optimal cash flow and the normal (optimal) changes in cash by Oler and Picconi (2014) and Bates, Kahle and Stulz (2009) models for each period. In this regard, financial information of 116 companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange is selected during the period 2011-2016.FindingsThe results of this investigation indicate that holding an excessive amount of cash than optimal size and audit fees are negatively associated. Moreover, it is documented that abnormal changes in cash flow and audit fees are not significantly associated.Originality/valueThe outcomes of the current study contribute to providing an accurate estimation to determine audit fees in emerging markets.
Cloud manufacturing: a myth or future of global manufacturing?
Authors: Aziz Muhammad Haris , Qamar Summyia , Khasawneh Mohammad T. , Saha Chanchal 
Published: May 2020

PurposeCloud manufacturing (CMfg) has emerged as a service-oriented paradigm that enables modularization and on-demand servitization of resources in the context of manufacturing. The plethora of studies on CMfg has led the authors to investigate its implementation, as most of the literature is theoretical or simulation-based. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the reality of the CMfg concept in terms of adoption.Design/methodology/approachA tri-theoretic model is developed using the technology adoption model, diffusion of innovation and technology-organization-environment for hypotheses development. Data are collected from 218 US manufacturers. The data analysis approaches are partial least squares structural equation modeling, while data visualization is done to further analysis.FindingsThe study shows that most of the US manufacturers are reluctant to adopt the CMfg. Further, the statistical findings imply that competitive pressure, top management support, compatibility and trialability play a vital role in its adoption. The success of the CMfg adoption relies on the implementation of the pre-installation stage and the top management decisions.Practical implicationsFor practitioners, the study provides insight on how to supervise the CMfg platform implementation to improve the adoption process. For researchers and academicians, the significance of trialability provides a wide range of research topics on developing the CMfg trials and models.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the concerns of manufacturers about the pros and cons of the CMfg adoption, as this topic has not been given due attention in the literature. This will help to align future research directions according to market concerns and mitigating the factors that are hindering its adoption.
Establishing and promoting an institutional repository and research information management system
Authors: Sweeper Darren , Ramsden Karen 
Published: May 2020

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to share the experiences and to highlight lessons learned from the establishment of the institutional repository (IR) while collaborating in a state-wide initiative to showcase the scholarly output of New Jersey researchers.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors discuss how they used the case study method to collaborate with multiple stakeholders from across their university to establish an IR to support the University’s vision plan.

Findings
The authors found through strong relationship building and consistent outreach that they could launch a successful IR while enhancing the scholarly profile of their university faculty.

Originality/value
The authors contend that they have not exceeded the up to 20% overlap is okay according to Emerald’s originality policy.
Overcoming challenges in service user involvement in an older people’s mental health service
Authors: Smith Sophie , Abbas Maria , Zegarra Ariane 
Published: May 2020

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to describe how an older people’s mental health service involves service users in research and service improvement projects, the value of this work and the ways in which barriers to user-led research have been approached and handled.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors conducted a reflective review of their experiences of running “ResearchNet”, a group aimed at putting service users’ perspectives at the heart of service improvement projects, which benefits from and develops its members’ related skills. The authors explore overcoming barriers to service user involvement in research.

Findings
This paper identified the following key elements that enabled ResearchNet to overcome barriers which might be found in service user–led research: recruitment processes; identifying research projects; building confidence, sustaining motivation and overcoming setbacks; developing service user’s research skills; keeping multiple views in mind; involving people with dementia; being responsive to group members’ needs; and keeping the group safe.

Practical implications
Oxleas National Health Service is currently looking at integrating with the quality improvement team to provide further structure and training to group members.

Originality/value
This paper explores an under-represented area of research – service user inclusion in older adult mental health research and service improvement. It provides much needed clinical implications for clinicians seeking to increase clients’ involvement in research and service development projects.
Investigation on microstructures, mechanical and wear properties of Al 390/ZrO2 composite materials fabricated by P/M method
Authors: S Karthikeyan , R Karunanithi , Ghosh Ashoke 
Published: May 2020

PurposeAluminium is the most proficiently and commonly used metal due to its desirable physical, chemical and mechanical properties. When Aluminium reinforced with hard ceramic particles, shows increased strength and good corrosion resistant and wear resistant qualities. In the present investigation, A390 + X vol. % Zro2 (X = 5, 10 and 15) composites have been fabricated through P/M technique.Design/methodology/approachAfter that the microstructural properties are tested by scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis wear test is performed using pin-on-disc machine.FindingsThe wear conditions of applied load 30N and sliding velocity 1 m/s and track distance 1000m was followed. A390 + 15% Zro2 of surface of the composites unveiled greater hardness when compared with A390 alloy.Originality/valueA390 + 15% Zro2 exhibited superior wear resistance than that of the matrix alloy. Thus the material proves as an excellent solution for applications that requires high wear resistance.
The moderating effect of information technology capabilities on the relationship between marketing mix and corporate entrepreneurship
Authors: Ghezali Fatima , Boudi Abdessamad 
Published: May 2020

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between marketing mix (MM), information technology capabilities (ITCAP) and corporate entrepreneurship (CE). Additionally, the study has attempted to address the moderating influence of ITCAP on MM–CE relationship.

Design/methodology/approach
To achieve the objectives of the study, data was collected from managers working in the upper and middle departments in some major Algerian banks. To test the hypotheses of the study, simple regression and PROCESS macro with moderated multiple regression were used.

Findings
The results of the study revealed that the MM and ITCAP positively affect entrepreneurship, and the ITCAP of banks and their interaction with the MM contributed positively to promoting entrepreneurship for companies through the moderate influence of ITCAP on the relationship between the MM and CE.

Research limitations/implications
It is very difficult to present the generalization of the results of this study because some of the major banks mainly drove the study sample. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the proposed propositions further.

Practical implications
The results of the study suggested that policymakers in the banking sector in Algeria seriously consider developing the MM for its direct role in the CE. Specifically, the moderate role of ITCAP indicated that an effective alignment of the bank’s ITCAP with elements of the MM could enhance the entrepreneurship position of the bank. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the importance of these factors to foster entrepreneurship in the services sector.

Originality/value
The role of MM in CE has been overlooked in the extant literature, especially in the emerging economies. In addition, this study extends the body of knowledge through evaluating the moderating role of ITCAP using the effect of interaction in PROCESS macro with moderated multiple regression for path analysis.
Factors affecting satisfaction and loyalty to online group buying
Authors: Garcia Jorge Mazza , Freire Otávio Bandeira De Lamônica , Santos Eduardo Biagi Almeida , Andrade Josmar 
Published: May 2020

PurposeIn 2008, a phenomenon emerged in online retail that attracted the attention of many people, creating a new virtual model of commerce. This phenomenon was called online group buying and arrived in Brazil in 2010. The purpose of this study was to identify the factors that affect satisfaction and loyalty to group buying sites.Design/methodology/approachThrough structural equation modeling, the relationships between the attractiveness of discount rates, service quality, popularity, online brand image, antecedent word of mouth (WOM), creativity and trust in relation to consumer general satisfaction, declared loyalty, repurchase intention and positive WOM were observed. A total of 727 valid questionnaires were collected from online group buyers to test the 11 hypotheses proposed in this study.FindingsThe main contribution of this study was that it identified the strong influence of service quality, popularity and online brand image on consumer general satisfaction, and the influence of service quality, trust and general satisfaction on repurchase intention. It also identified the influence of trust, creativity and general satisfaction on declared loyalty, and finally, the influence of trust and general satisfaction on positive WOM.Research limitations/implicationsBecause of the extensive and robust model, other statistical interactions among the constructs were gauged. It is possible that new structures and paths for alternative models can be proposed in the future with the inclusion of new relationships not analyzed in the present study. Furthermore, future studies should consider testing the generated model in other countries, as the particular features of collective purchasing in Brazil should be taken into account.Practical implicationsIn addition to being concerned with the attractiveness of discounts, marketing managers of group buying sites should concentrate their efforts on strengthening perceived quality, image, trust and the creativity of the site to ensure customer loyalty.Social implicationsThe online group buying business model that was established in Brazil differs significantly from the American and European models. As many online group buying studies have been conducted in these markets, Brazilian consumers will enjoy substantial gains in the quality of the service provided by collective purchasing sites through the development of actions that focus on improving the factors that affect these consumers.Originality/valueThe originality of this study lies in the development of a single model that tests a set of factors gauged separately in other studies related to online purchase behavior in a broader perspective.
Effect of conventional degumming methods on Eri silk fibers produced in Kenya
Authors: Oduor Edison Omollo , Ciera Lucy Wanjiru , Adolkar Vijay , Pido Odoch 
Published: May 2020

PurposeThis paper aims to determine the best conventional degumming technique for use by rural farmers practicing Eri silk fiber production in Kenya.Design/methodology/approachThree conventional silk degumming methods (water, soap and alkali) were analyzed under the factors, namely, time, pressure and degumming media, following the multilevel factorial design of experiments. The effect of variables on degumming weight loss was determined. The effects of the conventional degumming methods that produced complete sericin removal on chemical structure, surface morphology, thermal properties, crystallinity and fiber strength on Eri silk fibers produced in Kenya were then determined. The optimal degumming condition was then evaluated.FindingsSoap and water degumming led to incomplete sericin removal. Alkali degumming media had the most effect, especially when pressure cooked at 103 kPa. Increasing time during alkali degumming beyond 30 min did not to have any major difference on degumming loss (atp0.05). There were no major changes in chemical and thermal properties after degumming. However, the tensile strength and elongation deteriorated especially on alkali medium. Decreasing degumming time in alkali medium from 120 min to 30 min reduced the strength loss from 45% to 33%. Optimal degumming was found to be in an alkali media at 103 kPa for 30 min.Originality/valueThere is very little information available on Eri silk fibers produced in Kenya. Results of this study provide an optimized conventional degumming procedure suitable for small scale farmers in rural areas practicing Eri silk fiber production.