bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Regression modelling of risk impacts on construction cost flow forecast
Authors: Odeyinka Henry , Lowe John , Kaka Ammar 
Published: November 2012

PurposeSignificant risk factors inherent in construction cost flow forecast were identified in this study. The aim of this paper is to develop regression models to assess the impacts of the identified risks on the baseline forecast at the in‐progress stage of construction.Design/methodology/approachTwo stages were involved in data collection. The first was a structured questionnaire survey administered on 370 UK contractors to identify significant risk factors inherent in cost flow forecast. The second stage was the collection of forecast and actual cost flow data from 55 case study projects. Variations between these pair of data sets were measured at 30 per cent, 50 per cent, 70 per cent and 100 per cent completion periods. Respondents were then requested to score on a Likert type scale, the extent of occurrence of the significant risk factors in the case study projects. This pair of data sets were used in regression modelling.FindingsSignificant risk factors were identified from the questionnaire survey analysis as: changes to initial design, variation to works, production target slippage, delay in agreeing variation/dayworks and delay in settling claims among others. Using the identified significant risk factors and the periodic variability measurements, multiple linear regression models were developed. The models were promising in that they helped to establish the fact that the phenomenon under consideration could be modelled. They also provided some insights in explaining the observed variability between the baseline cost flow forecast and actual cost flow based on risk impacts.Research limitations/implicationsThe developed models showed a promising level of accuracy but also indicated that the phenomenon under consideration is not strictly linear and may need to explore some other form of modelling.Practical implicationsThe developed models provide invaluable information to the construction contractors regarding the likely impacts of significant risk variables on cost flow baseline forecast at different stages of construction so that a pro active risk response can be put in place.Originality/valueThis study makes an original contribution of providing a modelling insight into the phenomenon of how risks inherent in construction could impact the baseline cost flow forecast at different stages of construction. The information is invaluable in making pro active risk response.
The potential of artificial neural networks in mass appraisal: the case revisited
Authors: McCluskey William , Davis Peadar , Haran Martin , McCord Michael , McIlhatton David 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to investigate the comparative performance of an artificial neural network (ANN) and several multiple regression techniques in terms of their predictive accuracy and capability of being used within the mass appraisal industry.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology first tested that the data set had neglected non‐linearity which suggested that a non‐linear modelling technique should be applied. Given the capability of ANNs to model non‐linear data, this technique was used along with an OLS regression model (baseline model) and two non‐linear multiple regression techniques. In addition, the models were evaluated in terms of predictive accuracy and their capability of use within the mass appraisal environment.FindingsPrevious studies which have compared the predictive performance of an ANN model against multiple regression techniques are inconclusive. Having superior predictive capability is important but equally important is whether the technique can be successfully employed for the mass appraisal of residential property. This research found that a non‐linear regression model had higher predictive accuracy than the ANN. Also the output of the ANN was not sufficiently transparent to provide an unambiguous appraisal model upon which predicted values could be defended against objections.Research limitations/implicationsThe research provides an informative view as to the efficacy of ANN methodology within the real estate field. A number of issues have been raised on the applicability of ANN models within the mass appraisal environment.Practical implicationsThis work demonstrates that ANNs whilst useful as a predictive tool have a limited practical role for the assessment of residential property values for property tax purposes.Originality/valueThe work has taken forward the debate on the usefulness of ANN techniques within the mass appraisal environment.
Knowledge management in SMEs: a literature review
Authors: Durst Susanne , Runar Edvardsson Ingi 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to review research on knowledge management in small and medium‐sized enterprises to identify gaps in the current body of knowledge, which justify future research directions.Design/methodology/approachThe study consists of a systematic review of 36‐refereed empirical articles on knowledge management and small and medium‐sized enterprises.FindingsThe areas of knowledge management implementation, knowledge management perception, and knowledge transfer are relatively well researched topics; whereas those of knowledge identification, knowledge storage/retention and knowledge utilisation are poorly understood. Given the prevalence of small and medium‐sized enterprises there is a strong need for more research on this important topic. The future research directions proposed by the authors may help to develop a greater understanding of knowledge management in small and medium‐sized enterprises.Research limitations/implicationsBy only using the ProQuest database this study may not have allowed a complete coverage of all empirical articles in the field of knowledge management in small and medium‐sized enterprises. Yet, it is believed that the findings provide a valuable understanding of the current situation in this research field. The study proposes a number of future research directions, which may stimulate more intensive research in this important field.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors' knowledge, no systematic literature review on this topic has previously been published in academic journals.
Using storytelling to elicit tacit knowledge from SMEs
Authors: Whyte Grafton , Classen Selwyn 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis paper seeks to report on research investigating storytelling as a means of eliciting tacit knowledge from retiring subject matter experts (SMEs) within a large South African organisation.Design/methodology/approachIn total, 64 stories were collected over a 12‐month period covering a varied range of technical disciplines and were analysed using grounded theory principles combined with expert reviews.FindingsDespite the diverse nature of the stories they were able to be coded and categorised into 21 knowledge management constructs which were further refined by expert review down to 14 final constructs.Research limitations/implicationsThe main limitation of this study is the generalisability of the findings, which may be limited by the fact the study was conducted in one large South African organisation.Practical implicationsA common language is a key prerequisite for sharing knowledge. Every discipline within an organisation has its own language by which it communicates with insiders; this is particularly true of the ICT field. Through the common language of KM, tacit knowledge from SMEs can be elicited and classified for future access by people of all levels within the organisation.Originality/valueTo the authors' knowledge this is the first attempt at classifying organisational stories using a knowledge management (KM) frame. The work presented in this paper is a step towards a KM taxonomy of organisational stories.
Knowledge‐based perspectives of innovation and performance improvement in health care
Authors: Lerro Antonio 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis editorial of the special issue of Measuring Business Excellence is devoted to introduce and discuss a knowledge‐based perspective of innovation and performance improvement in health care (HC).Design/methodology/approachThe approaches, evidences and insights discussed in this introduction are based on the discussion of the topics of the conference “International Forum on Knowledge Assets Dynamics” organised in June 2012 in Matera, Italy. After a brief analysis of the importance of the HC for research and practice related to the reform of HC sector that encompassed most OECD countries in the last 15 years and the diffusion of the new public management philosophy, the article presents a rationale explaining the roots and the meanings of a knowledge‐based perspective of innovation and performance improvement in HC. The model of the innovation cycle is introduced and discussed. Finally, the article provides an overview of the papers of the special issue.FindingsAt the conference, leading experts discussed the importance of identifying and managing new key‐value drivers in order to face emergent competitive scenarios, and research and management practices for addressing complexity, uncertainty and changes of today's business landscape. This article as well as all the contributions to the special issue provide useful implications both for research and practice. In particular they support the analysis about the resources, the assets, the processes, the factors and the contingency conditions playing a role in determining the improvement of the innovative capacity and consequently the global performance of the HC organisations.Originality/valueThis article – and the contributions to the special issue – deal with different aspects which are important in the discussion about how fostering innovation and performance improvement in HC organisations exploiting knowledge‐based factors. The articles also deal with the approaches, tools, methods and techniques that disentangle the mechanisms by which different knowledge‐based factors, separately or interdependently, contribute to improve HC organisations' innovation dynamics and organisational performance.
Managing the knowledge interdependence with electronic medical record
Authors: Reina Rocco , Cristofaro Concetta , Lacroce Assunta , Ventura Marzia 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe aim of the paper is the study of information systems as mechanisms to manage existing and widespread knowledge in health care organizations; this is a platform that supports the processes of communication and knowledge sharing. The paper seeks to focus on the electronic medical record (EMR) as a tool to manage the integration of knowledge and operational information among health care through the coordination of the interdependencies.Design/methodology/approachThe paper develops a methodology characterized by a mixed theoretical and analyzing the key documents on the context and literature on health information systems and an empirical part based on the use of semi‐structured interviews and questionnaires to the working group responsible for the project “medical records”.FindingsThe contributions of research can be found in the descriptive analysis obtained by the process of implementation of integrated medical records (IMRs) within the structures investigated. This can lead to highlight possible areas for improvement in the management of the construction and operation of the EMR.Originality/valueThe originality lies in the possibility of verifying the conditions of effective integration of knowledge to manage health problems, through the use of IMR as a mechanism for additional information. Possible value added is the description and encoding of knowledge available within the health departments.
A process‐based operational framework for sustainability reporting in SMEs
Authors: Arena Marika , Azzone Giovanni 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe paper aims to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in overcoming the difficulties they encounter in initiating sustainability reporting, proposing a “general” process for identifying a standard set of key sustainability indicators, that is specifically tailored on SMEs characteristics.Design/methodology/approachThe paper moves from the analysis of the existing international frameworks for sustainability reporting, and it discusses the main motivations whereby they are hardly applicable for SMEs. Then, it proposes a theoretical approach, which derives the set of key sustainability indicators starting from GRI, but explicitly considering SMEs specificities.FindingsThe paper presents and discusses the application of the proposed approach to a network of Italian steel SMEs.Practical implicationsThe approach proposed can support SMEs to face the problems they face in implementing sustainability reporting (resource and capability constraints and lack of operative instruments to support them), helping them to derive financial benefits arising from more sustainable choices.Originality/valueContrary to most existing international reporting guidance, this work does not seek to identify a set of general purpose key sustainability indicators (KSIs). Instead, the paper sets out a “general” process for obtaining a standard set of KSIs for use by any promoting organisation, whether a public administration seeking to reinforce sustainability strategies, or a trade association looking to support proactive SMEs.
Marketing for survival: a comparative case study of SME software firms
Authors: Parry Sara , Jones Rosalind , Rowley Jenny , Kupiec‐Teahan Beata 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis study seeks to explore the success and failure of two similar small software technology firms from a marketing perspective. Using a dyadic approach, the research aims to compare the degree of customer orientation and innovativeness exhibited in both firms and to understand contributing factors for success and failure.Design/methodology/approachA two‐case comparative case study was employed as the primary method of investigation. Participant‐observation in both firms and 22 semi‐structured interviews with owner‐managers, employees and customers provided a holistic approach to how these firms perceived and prioritised marketing and innovation.FindingsThere is a need for small software firms to strike a balance between customer orientation and innovativeness in order to survive. In terms of customer orientation, the findings show that it is not only related to customer contacts and relationships, but is also about delivering on the promise. The small firm's ability to achieve this is highly dependent on managerial style, communication between the firms and their customers, business planning, market research, promotion and firm culture.Practical implicationsThe benefits of this study, which demonstrates the stark contrast between successful and unsuccessful behaviour, can act as a useful guide for small to medium‐sized enterprise (SME) managers who often have technical but less managerial competencies.Originality/valueThis is a unique study comparing two software SMEs, particularly one which failed and one which succeeded under similar conditions, thus illustrating good practice by contrasting with bad practice. It also contributes to the literature on how SMEs conduct marketing in the software industry and how to secure small firm sustainability and growth in developing regions.
“TOXIC” workplaces: the negative interface between the physical and social environments
Authors: Too Linda , Harvey Michael 
Published: November 2012

PurposeToxic real estate has been used as a negative phrase to describe non‐performing assets on a firm's balance sheet. Today there is another form of “TOXIC” real estate that needs management's attention, i.e. physical workplaces that are harmful to employees on a day‐in and day‐out basis. Particularly when productivity of workforce is now central to business competitiveness, it is timely to explore the interface between physical and social environments as many of the social/psychological impacts on employees have not been recognized or calibrated. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the links between physical workplace and social behaviour.Design/methodology/approachIn this conceptual paper, current literature relating to corporate real estate and environmental psychology are reviewed to investigate the links between physical workplace and social behaviour. The findings are synthesised to present a framework for understanding the cause of toxicity in the workplace and a self‐auditing preventive strategy.FindingsThis article argued that there is a link between physical workplace and the social behaviour of employees. Arising from toxic workplaces, two dysfunctional social behaviours are highlighted, i.e. bullying and destructive leadership. The paper then presents a logical plan to monitor and remediate these “TOXIC” conditions in the physical environment.Originality/valueThis paper is original in its angle to which social behaviour is juxtaposed against physical environment. In particular, by examining the negative interface, it informs managers of the risks to avoid and therefore identifies the baseline for which the physical workplace must be managed. It also makes a practical contribution by its development of a self‐auditing framework to avoid toxic workplaces.
Innovation: case study among wood, energy and medical firms
Authors: Madrigal‐Sánchez Johanna , Quesada‐Pineda Henry 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a best innovation practices framework analyzing the innovation process in firms from the most innovative and the less innovative sectors.Design/methodology/approachThis case study uses an intense review of literature in the field of innovation practices inside organizations. The field work is based in direct observation of innovation practices intended to identify and select those practices that lead to successful implementation of the innovation process in the participating firms.FindingsThe study recognizes the need of innovation as a tool for sustainable growth for firms. The article also describes the current process used by US government and organizations to measure innovation and presents a list of innovation best practices that have been recognized by each participating firm as key practices to develop innovation.Research limitations/implicationsThe framework allows a combination of practices from different industries however it has been studied in specific firms and a larger exploratory/explanatory process should be conducted to generalize the findings.Practical implicationsThis paper offers practical insights about practices associated with the innovation process inside firms.Originality/valueThe study aims to develop a best innovation practices framework to be used by the less innovative sectors in order to become successful in the innovation development. These best innovation practices are identified from the most innovative sectors in the country.
Service recovery: a method for assessing performance
Authors: Battaglia Daniel , Borchardt Miriam , Afonso Sellitto Miguel , Medeiros Pereira Giancarlo 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe aim of this study is to propose a method for assessing the service recovery performance of a manufacturing company with value‐added services. Service recovery performance is assessed by an index with value ranges from 0 to 100 percent.Design/methodology/approachA tree‐like structure was built to represent service recovery. This structure was weighted according to the degrees of each dimension's relative importance using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method. After construction, the dimensions were evaluated by considering how much they were applied during the process; the service recovery index and the gaps between importance and application were determined. The method was tested in a multinational manufacturing company and in two buyer companies.FindingsIt was possible to identify the most important service recovery dimensions from the perspective of a manufacturing company (“speed of recovery”, followed by “empowerment”) and the respective degree of application according to the buyers; the gaps between importance and application were determined, and a set of suggestions for the service recovery process was made.Practical implicationsThe proposed method can be adapted for other companies, including those in other industries. Analysis of the degree of the application of the dimensions of recovery can be extended to other customers, which allows for the measurement of service recovery performance.Originality/valueThe recovery service is an organisational process relevant to manufacturing enterprises with value‐added services, which require measurement of their performance. The authors found no other references to a method that allows organisations to assess their performance in relation to recovery dimensions.
Case study analysis of Six Sigma implementation in service organisations
Authors: Chakraborty Ayon , Chuan Tan Kay 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe aim of this research is to explore the implementation of Six Sigma in service organisations. The focus of the investigation is on identifying critical success factors (CSFs), critical‐to quality (CTQ) characteristics, tools and techniques and key performance indicators (KPIs), and also to understand the issues emerging from the implementation process.Design/methodology/approachExploratory empirical evidence is provided through four in‐depth case studies of organisations mainly in Singapore. They include a hospital, a public service organisation, a consultancy service and a hotel.FindingsThe major findings include an understanding about the suitability of Six Sigma implementation in service organisations. Management support and team member support emerged as primary success factors. The CTQs include time and cost, while use of soft tools instead of rigorous statistical tools are preferred by service organisations. At the project level, KPIs are understood more as CTQs. Additionally; various interesting practical difficulties emerged from the case studies.Research limitations/implicationsA main limitation of this study is the small number of organisations studied and that are mainly from a single geographical location. Furthermore, the exploratory nature of the study demands rigorous in‐depth studies. The practical difficulties identified will have major implications for managers. The framework including the CSFs, CTQs, KPIs, and tools and techniques, will be a useful guide for both practitioners and academicians.Originality/valueThere are limited studies about Six Sigma implementation in service organisations. This paper provides a framework and a paradigm shift from viewing its implementation through a manufacturing lens.