bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Are there barriers to independent non‐executive directors' effectiveness in performing their roles?
Authors: Azlan Annuar Hairul 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to ascertain whether non‐executive directors (NEDs) in Malaysian public listed companies (PLCs) may be facing certain barriers in the performance of their roles.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative approach, consisting of a series of interviews with board members, was chosen. The sampling frame was made as large as possible and for the purpose of this study, consisted of board members who sit on the main board of Malaysian‐owned PLCs.FindingsThe interviews revealed that a majority of the interviewees perceived that the barriers were either non‐existent or at least manageable. There were indications however that NEDs in small firms might face some of the problems suggested. The culture effect may also mediate their effectiveness in performing their roles. When there are barriers present, the most difficult problem faced by the NEDs concern time available to spend with the company.Research limitations/implicationsThis research utilized interviews. Generalizations may be an issue when interviews are used as the method of inquiry. Also, the sample is not random, as access to many directors depended on recommendations. In addition, respondents were consciously selected in order to obtain various board positions that include independent and non‐independent directors.Practical implicationsFindings from this research suggest that investors should not be overly concerned with their investments in Malaysian PLCs, as the NEDs are able to strongly discharge their responsibilities in overseeing executives' conduct and protecting investors' interest. The NEDs did not appear to face problems and hostilities from their host companies and it would be an added benefit to everyone concerned if they were able to more properly manage their time.Originality/valueThere is a lack of work on studying barriers to NEDs' effectiveness in developing countries, as previous work and literature reviews have been predominantly based upon the experience of Western economies.
The payoff of corporate portal usage in an academic institution
Authors: Al‐Busaidi Kamla Ali 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to empirically assess the payoffs of a corporate portal in an academic institution in Oman and its impacts on business processes and employees.Design/methodology/approachThe study included 100 employees, mostly instructors, in an academic institution. The questionnaire included indicators related to the portal usage, employees’ benefits (learning, adaptability and job satisfaction) and business processes’ benefits (effectiveness, efficiency and innovativeness) constructs. Data were analyzed by PLS‐Graph 3.0, a variance‐based structural equation modeling software.FindingsResults revealed that corporate portal has significant returns on employees’ learning, adaptability and job satisfaction, and business processes’ effectiveness, efficiency and innovation. All six hypotheses in this study were supported.Originality/valueThe paper provides empirical evidence for practitioners and researchers on the benefits of a corporate portal in an academic institution in Oman.
Macroeconomic factors influencing UK household loan losses
Authors: Dinh Minh T.H. , Mullineux Andrew W. , Muriu Peter 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of macroeconomic factors on secured and unsecured household loans from UK banks.Design/methodology/approachThe approach uses Vector auto‐regression models to test the relationship between macroeconomic factors such as interest rates, house prices, unemployment rates, disposable income and bank write‐offs to discern the main factors which could impact on banks' losses.FindingsThis paper identifies several macroeconomic factors that influence loan losses. The influence however depends on the type of arrears. Changes in house prices, interest rates and unemployment rates have a significant impact on secured loans. There is however, minimal impact on unsecured loans. Unemployment stands out as the major factor that influences both mortgage and credit card arrears. The estimated results show that the main factors impacting on credit cards are disposable income and unemployment rates, while changes in interest rates have no impact on credit card write‐offs.Originality/valueThis paper's value lies in providing methods by which commercial banks could manage household loans better by reducing the effects of macroeconomic factors.
The anomalies of evidence‐based medicine in psychiatry: time to rethink the basis of mental health practice
Authors: Thomas Philip , Bracken Pat , Timimi Sami 
Published: November 2012

PurposeEvidence‐based medicine (EBM) is a technical and scientific paradigm in clinical practice that has delivered major improvements in the outcome of care in medicine and surgery. However, its value in psychiatry is much less clear. The purpose of the paper is thus to examine its value by subjecting empirical evidence from EBM to a conceptual analysis using the philosophy of Thomas Kuhn.Design/methodology/approachThe authors examine evidence drawn from meta‐analyses of RCTs investigating the efficacy of specific treatments for depression in the form of antidepressant drugs and CBT. This shows that the non‐specific aspects of treatment, the placebo effect and the quality of the therapeutic alliance as seen by the patient, are more important in determining outcome than the specific elements (active drug, specific therapeutic elements of CBT).FindingsUsing the philosophy of Thomas Kuhn, it is shown that these non‐specific and non‐technical elements are anomalies that indicate that the technological paradigm in the treatment of depression is fundamentally flawed.Practical implicationsNon‐specific elements of mental health care are essential in fostering hope, trust and meaning. They constitute non‐technical factors that are central to the concept of caring, and vital for recovery, and which resonate strongly with the growth of survivor and user‐led systems of support for people who experience distress and madness. As such they pose a major challenge to scientific psychiatry and mental health services based in this. The analysis has major implications for the primacy of the natural sciences in the education and training of those involved in mental health work, and demonstrates the importance of an open debate about the value of the scientific imagination in mental health work.Social implicationsThis paper is important because it supports user‐led self‐defined notions and understandings of recovery, and does so using a philosophical conceptual analysis.Originality/valueThis conceptual analysis is highly original. To the authors' knowledge no one has subjected EBM to a detailed conceptual analysis using the ideas of Thomas Kuhn.
Factors affecting knowledge management success: the fit perspective
Authors: Chang Chun‐Ming , Hsu Meng‐Hsiang , Yen Chia‐Hui 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis study extends the viewpoint of “fit as holistic configurations” to explore how to use knowledge management (KM) processes and knowledge management system (KMS) capabilities appropriately according to the tasks characteristics subunits perform in an aerospace manufacturer. In this regard, the aim is to develop four theoretical ideal profiles of KM processes (socialization, externalization, combination, and internalization) and KMS capabilities (codification capability and network capability) for organizational subunits based on their task characteristics: focused, process‐oriented tasks; focused, content‐oriented tasks; broad, process‐oriented tasks; and focused, content‐oriented tasks.Design/methodology/approachThe empirical study was conducted at a knowledge intensive and engineering‐oriented aerospace company. Twelve functional subunits performing a variety of tasks were selected as the samples. The study employed qualitative and quantitative methods to understand the subunits' task attributes. The authors collected data from 12 subunits, and a total of 212 valid questionnaires were analyzed. PLS‐Graph was used to assess the relationships of the research model.FindingsThe empirical support for the argument that the fit among KM processes, KMS capabilities and task characteristics can improve KM performance. Results reveal that fit significantly affects knowledge satisfaction, knowledge quality and creativity for subunits performing focused, process‐oriented and broad, process‐oriented tasks.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings reflect the fact that individuals within organizational subunits should use the four KM processes of appropriate levels to generate new knowledge to accomplish their tasks.Originality/valueThe study uses a multidimensional and multi‐item approach to test the effect of factors on KM performance, and is the first to identify ideal profiles of KM process and KMS capability for different organizational subunits.
Performance improvement in hospitals: leveraging on knowledge asset dynamics through the introduction of an electronic medical record
Authors: Gastaldi Luca , Lettieri Emanuele , Corso Mariano , Masella Cristina 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis study seeks to further the current debate about how to systematically improve hospital performance by enhancing and balancing knowledge exploration and knowledge exploitation capabilities through the development of an electronic medical record (EMR).Design/methodology/approachThe study has an interpretative, inductive perspective, based on multiple and embedded case studies. Three large size Italian hospitals that have introduced an EMR were considered. Evidence was gathered by triangulating multiple sources of evidence.FindingsThree emergent strategies of EMR development are identified. Pros and cons of each strategy are stated and a set of propositions to be tested in further research are formulated. These results provide hospital managers and professionals with clearer guidelines about how to improve performance by implementing a tailored strategy to balance knowledge exploration and knowledge exploitation through the development of an EMR.Originality/valueMost of the literature on EMRs is focused on the benefits, the barriers and the enablers of their adoption. Little is understood about how hospital managers and professionals might leverage on the EMR to ambidextrously combine knowledge exploration and knowledge exploitation, and thus increase hospital performance. The study addresses this gap and offers original insights to advance both theory and practice.
Broadband impact on small business growth in Kentucky
Authors: Shideler David , Badasyan Narine 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe paper aims to examine the relationship between broadband availability and firm establishment growth rates by employment size and by industry to assess the impact of broadband on small business growth in Kentucky.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses a modified growth model as the theoretical foundation for empirical analysis.FindingsBroadband availability does increase growth in small and medium‐sized businesses. While broadband does tend to affect specific industries differently, the scope of the affects is limited to only a few industries: broadband encourages growth in small manufacturing firms, but discourages growth in financial services.Research limitations/implicationsThe scope of analysis is limited to the period of 2003‐2005, while some of the counties in Kentucky did not have sizable broadband deployment until 2005. Owing to the lack of data availability, the current research does not consider demand‐side factors, though several industries considered are likely to be demand‐driven rather than cost‐driven.Originality/valueUtilizing unique broadband saturation data for Kentucky counties, this study presents ex‐post analysis of the effect of broadband deployment on local economies.
Web 2.0 and micro‐businesses: an exploratory investigation
Authors: Barnes David , Clear Fintan , Dyerson Romano , Harindranath G. , Harris Lisa , Rae Alan 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe paper aims to report on an exploratory study into how small businesses use Web 2.0 information and communication technologies (ICT) to work collaboratively with other small businesses. The study had two aims: to investigate the benefits available from the use of Web 2.0 in small business collaborations, and to characterize the different types of such online collaborations.Design/methodology/approachThe research uses a qualitative case study methodology based on semi‐structured interviews with the owner‐managers of 12 UK‐based small companies in the business services sector who are early adopters of Web 2.0 technologies.FindingsBenefits from the use of Web 2.0 are categorized as lifestyle benefits, internal operational efficiency, enhanced capability, external communications and enhanced service offerings. A 2×2 framework is developed to categorize small business collaborations using the dimensions of the basis for inter‐organizational collaboration (control vs cooperation) and the level of Web 2.0 ICT use (simple vs sophisticated).Research limitations/implicationsA small number of firms of similar size, sector and location were studied, which limits generalizability. Nonetheless, the results offer a pointer to the likely future use of Web 2.0 tools by other small businesses.Practical implicationsThe research provides evidence of the attraction and potential of Web 2.0 for collaborations between small businesses.Originality/valueThe paper is one of the first to report on use of Web 2.0 ICT in collaborative working between small businesses. It will be of interest to those seeking a better understanding of the potential of Web 2.0 in the small business community.
The practical utility of using repertory grids with sexual offenders maintaining their innocence: a case study
Authors: Blagden Nicholas , Winder Belinda , Gregson Mick , Thorne Karen 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to highlight the practical utility of using repertory grids with sexual offenders in denial and to demonstrate through a case study how they can be used to bolster both initial assessment and psychological formulation.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses a single case study design and applies a repertory grid methodology, which is underpinned by personal construct psychology, to make sense of the case study. The analysis predominately focuses on the structure of the repertory grid.FindingsThe case study appeared to elicit factors that were of clinical utility and which could be used as tentative hypotheses for problem formulation and also seemed to point to an adequate starting point for intervention.Research limitations/implicationsThe use of the case study makes generalisation difficult and future research may benefit from more large‐scale research.Practical implicationsRather than subscribing to fatalist notions of deniers as untreatable, the paper argues that constructive work can be done with this population and that repertory grids can be one way to initially facilitate this process.Originality/valueCurrently “total deniers” are excluded from treatment and are seen as untreatable. It is argued here that this need not be the case and it is demonstrated how repertory grids can inform initial formulation with such offenders. Repertory grids have not been used with deniers before and this is an original feature of this research.
Integrating treatment for offenders with an intellectual disability and personality disorder
Authors: Taylor Jon , Morrissey Catrin 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the rationale for appropriate treatment for offenders with personality disorder and intellectual disability co‐morbid with intellectual disability (ID), and to describe a specific treatment model.Design/methodology/approachThe paper provides a narrative review of approaches to treatment for offenders with personality disorder and draws on the available research for the treatment of personality disordered offenders without ID as well as the treatment of offenders with ID.FindingsThe relevance and validity of the construct of personality disorder in intellectual disability is reviewed. Evidence from treatment of personality disorder in mainstream populations is summarized. A treatment model, which integrates adapted cognitive behavioural programmes with a social milieu approach, is then described. It is argued that this treatment model addresses the criminogenic, psychological and social needs of those with personality disorder and intellectual disability.Practical implicationsServices being developed for people with both intellectual disability and personality disorder should take account of the literature on treatment of mainstream personality disorder when developing treatment models.Originality/valueThere are few published papers concerning treatment approaches with offenders with intellectual disability and personality disorder. This descriptive paper will be of interest to clinicians working with such populations.
Business process outsourcing: a strategic review on Indian perspective
Authors: Panda Aruna Kumar 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to extend a conceptual understanding of business process outsourcing (BPO) and its prevailing practices in the background of the post‐liberalized economic scenario of India. Efforts have also been made to discuss the major work verticals of Indian ITES‐BPO industry, which further reveals the fact of its domain expertise and in‐time delivery of services in a pre‐determined standard with least possible cost that has made India a BPO hub. The later part of the study deals with an empirical SWOT‐analysis that highlights the key factors that have significant bearing to the very flourishment of this sunshine industry.Design/methodology/approachThe data collected for the analysis are secondary in nature and include various journals, periodicals, survey reports and on‐line business reports/news. The techniques like trend analysis and SWOT analysis in particular have been implemented for the purpose of study.FindingsThe paper found that in addition to the growth of traditional industries, patronization of this emerging sector is also a high necessity, looking at its socio‐economic contribution to the society on one hand and considerable amount of employment creation and income generation capabilities for the bright mass of the country that restrict “brain drain”, on the other hand.Originality/valueThe paper describes, analyses and critiques the outsourcing industry in India with reference to a core theory base. It is expected to be helpful in stimulating the analytical mind of the researchers and industry practitioner of the area for scientific decision making and furthering the research on this particular aspect of business.
An MDA‐based framework for collaborative business process modelling
Authors: Bouchbout Khoutir , Akoka Jacky , Alimazighi Zaia 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis paper aims to present a new approach for developing a framework based on a model driven architecture (MDA) for the modelling of technology‐independent collaborative processes.Design/methodology/approachThe paper suggests a new collaborative process modelling approach based on an MDA and a metamodelling technique. The research method, based on the design science approach, was started by identifying the characteristics of the collaborative processes, which distinguish them from the classical intraorganizational ones. Then, the generic collaborative business process (CBP) modelling framework is developed based on MDA approach and definition of a set of transformation rules through three layers: business, process, and technical. After that, the core component of the framework was the proposition of a generic CBP metamodel at PIM/MDA level. The specific collaboration participant's business processes (expressed as BPMN model) are generated from the generic CBP model represented as an UML2 Profile activity diagram, which is compliant to CBP metamodel. Finally, as proof‐of‐concept, the architecture of an Eclipse‐based open development platform is developed implementing an e‐Procurement collaborative process.FindingsThe proposed framework for CBP modelling and the generic CBP metamodel contribute towards a more efficient methodology and have consequences for BPM‐related collaboration, facilitating the B2B processes modelling and implementation. In order to demonstrate and evaluate the practical applicability of the framework, the architecture of an Eclipse‐based open development platform is developed implementing a collaborative business application on the basis of an e‐Procurement use case.Research limitations/implicationsThere is a need to focus future research efforts on the improvement of the semi‐automatic transformation phase from public to private processes which needs human intervention by adding a suitable interfaces at both sides of the B2B interaction. In addition, the problem of semantic heterogeneities regarding the partner's business process elements (business documents, activity/task names) should be tackled by developing an approach that uses ontology.Practical implicationsBusiness processes developers find a B2B technology‐independent solution for implementing and using interorganizational information systems.Originality/valueThe paper provides a framework that enables the CBP modelling and integrates a generic CBP metamodel. Currently, to the best of the authors' knowledge, such a generic metamodel and his instantiation have not so far been developed.
Understanding perceived service quality and satisfaction
Authors: Jaber Hossain Muhammad , Islam Anwarul 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe study measures perceived service quality (PSQ) associated with user satisfaction of Dhaka University Library (DUL). To identify the service quality users’ needs and expectations were initially identified. Users’ perceptions of current services were also identified, from which current perceived service performance was identified.Design/methodology/approachA modified SERVQUAL instrument was used to survey DUL users. User responses for minimum, expected, and perceived services were calculated. A gap analysis was done to measure the PSQ that reveals two types of service gaps, i.e. positive gap provides quality services, and negative gap indicates the service shortfall. Users’ satisfaction level was also identified. In both cases (assessment of PSQ and satisfaction), “ME” (minimum service level) was used as common comparison standard.FindingsThe outcome of the study shows that “library hours” is the only service item which got the exclusive acceptance and ensured optimum satisfaction of the users, while other items fall short of meeting the user's need.Research limitations/implicationsThe present study only identified different problematic areas of DU library services.Originality/valueVery few attempts have been made to measure the service quality offered by Dhaka University library in Bangladesh. It is hoped that this study will trigger more research on understanding perceived service quality and satisfaction.