bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Making consultants earn their keep
Authors: Jackson Stuart E. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThis article discusses the use of consultants in helping set business strategy. Starting with the perspective that many consultants end up not delivering good value for companies seeking help with their strategy, this article considers some of the causes of unfulfilled expectations and what companies can do to get better value from consultants when they need external support.Design/methodology/approachThe author draws lessons from his own experience with hundreds of strategy consulting engagements and from interviews with other consultants and senior corporate executives who have extensive experience of strategy consulting projects.FindingsFindings and recommendations are divided into four categories: defining the project; selecting a firm; managing the process; and getting value after the consultants have left.Originality/valueThe key message of this article is that use business consultants can be a valuable addition to the range of resources available to executives with responsibility for business strategy. Executives need to be realistic about where and how consultants can add most value. They also need to recognize that achieving success from consulting projects is a shared responsibility, requiring diligent efforts from the consultant but also close attention from the corporation to ensure appropriate project scoping, firm selection, process monitoring and outcomes management.
Nailing strategic jello to the wall
Authors: Marren Patrick 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThis column aims to examine the meaning of the word “strategy,” and how it has evolved.Design/methodology/approachOpinion column.FindingsThis column attempts to survey various definitions of the word “strategy” to see what is meant by it. Definition of “strategy” is difficult because strategy is always something that is applied within a context of competition and change.Originality/valueExamines first principles of “business strategy” in a way that most of us are unconscious of normally.
S&P 500 index inclusion announcements: does the S&P committee tell us something new?
Authors: Hrazdil Karel 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to directly examine the information hypothesis of S&P 500 index inclusion announcements by investigating the degree to which information beyond Standard & Poor's eight stated criteria enters the inclusion decision.Design/methodology/approachIsolating a sample of S&P 500 additions and their eligible candidates during 1987‐2004, this paper employs logistic analysis that identifies factors ex post beyond the stated criteria that help distinguish the type of information that influences the final selection decision and that is arguably priced at the inclusion announcements.FindingsThe evidence indicates that, when choosing among new S&P 500 candidates, the S&P's committee relies primarily on publicly available information related to enterprise risk and historical performance. Material, private insight into future value‐relevant information plays at most a small part in the selection.Research limitations/implicationsThe results suggest that index additions convey limited new information about added firms. Studies analysing index additions should start with the presumption that index inclusion announcements are information‐free events, and focus on the consequences of index inclusions such as liquidity, awareness or arbitrage risk, in their relation to index premia.Originality/valueThe results indicate that the previous evidence supporting the information hypothesis using the S&P 500 inclusions is not compelling.
Dividend policy, signalling and free cash flow: an integrated approach
Authors: Fairchild Richard 
Published: May 2010

PurposeScholars have examined the importance of a firm's dividend policy through two competing paradigms: the signalling hypothesis and the free cash‐flow hypothesis. It has been argued that our understanding of dividend policy is hindered by the lack of a model that integrates the two hypotheses. The purpose of this paper is to address this by developing a theoretical dividend model that combines the signalling and free cash‐flow motives. The objective of the analysis is to shed light on the complex relationship between dividend policy, managerial incentives and firm value.Design/methodology/approachIn order to consider the complex nature of dividend policy, a dividend signalling game is developed, in which managers possess more information than investors about the quality of the firm (asymmetric information), and may invest in value‐reducing projects (moral hazard). Hence, the model combines signalling and free cash‐flow motives for dividends. Furthermore, managerial communication and reputation effects are incorporated into the model.FindingsOf particular interest is the case where a firm may need to cut dividends in order to invest in a new value‐creating project, but where the firm will be punished by the market, since investors are behaviourally conditioned to believe that dividend cuts are bad news. This may result in firms refusing to cut dividends, hence passing up good projects. This paper demonstrates that managerial communication to investors about the reasons for the dividend cut, supported by managerial reputation effects, may mitigate this problem. Real world examples are provided to illustrate the complexity of dividend policy.Originality/valueThis work has been inspired by, and develops that of Fuller and Thakor, and Fuller and Blau, which considers the signalling and free cash‐flow motives for dividends. Whereas those authors consider the case where firms only have new negative net present value (NPV) projects available (so that dividend increases provide unambiguously positive signals to the market in both the signalling and free cash‐flow cases), in this paper's model, the signals may be ambiguous, since firms may need to cut dividends to take positive NPV projects. Hence, the model assists in understanding the complexity of dividend policy.
The Turing test and artistic creativity
Authors: Boden Margaret A. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to consider the Turing test (TT) in relation to artistic creativity.Design/methodology/approachConsiders the TT in the domain of art rather than the usual context. Examines the TT in music and gives examples that involve exploratory creativity.FindingsThe TT for computer art has been passed “behaviourally” already occasionally, at a world class level. Where non‐interactive examples (such as AARON and Emmy) are concerned, the test has been passed in a relatively strong form.Research limitations/implicationsRaises the problem concerning the concept of creativity which is closely linked in most people's minds with the concept of art. There may be no such thing as computer art because there is no such thing as computer creativity. These arguments are examined and questioned.Practical implicationsThis paper produces a discussion, which bears upon the relevance of the TT to artistic creativity and computer artworks and also in relation to musical creativity.Originality/valueProvides further discussion about the imitation game in the context of computational creativity.
New researches and developments
Authors: Rudall B.H. , Mann C.J.H. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to review current research and developments with particular reference to new research and development initiatives.Design/methodology/approachA general review and survey of selected research and development topics is given, and some of the new challenges and applications of future technologies are considered.FindingsThe paper illustrates the multi‐ and trans‐disciplinary natures of studies in cybernetics, systems and management science, with a view to further research and development activity.Practical implicationsThe choice of reviews provides an awareness of current trends in these areas of endeavour.Originality/valueThe reviews are selected from a global database and give a studied assessment of current research and development initiatives.
More on anti‐spam, history of chess, Russ Ackoff
Authors: Andrew Alex M. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review a recent electronic publication on the menace of spam and, related to previous work, look at the dangers the internet holds for children. A valuable source of information on history of chess is reviewed and the death of Prof. Russell Ackoff in Philadelphia is reported, with links to sources of obituaries and further details.Design/methodology/approachThe aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.FindingsThe data on spam indicate, the nature and extent of the problem it presents. Chess is shown to have deeper historical roots than is widely known. With the death of Russ Ackoff another major figure has disappeared from the scene.Practical implicationsThe review of means of combating spam is of undoubted value, as is the mention of a means of seeking police help over internet abuse affecting children. The review of history of chess should be a valuable reference where the game is discussed in an AI context.Originality/valueIt is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.
Social mechanisms in organizations: awakened from their Sarcophagi
Authors: Johannessen Jon‐Arild 
Published: May 2010

PurposeIn order to explain a phenomenon/problem, some of the mechanisms which elicit the phenomenon/problem must be clarified, since: “a goal of scientific research is to uncover reality beneath appearance”. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the following issue: how can social mechanisms be examined from a systemic point of view?Design/methodology/approachThe paper investigates, at an abstract level, what is meant by social mechanisms in social systems in Part 1. Social mechanisms and various explanation models are investigated in Part 2, using the systemic approach.FindingsHowever well‐functioning the models developed, this procedure will not have developed a theory of the phenomenon. For that purpose, explanations at a more basic level than the model is able to disclose, will be necessary. The empirical causal model says something about the strength in the relation between the variables and can be used in practice in order to change certain variables to facilitate the desired change in the system.Originality/valueThe paper usefully shows that, if possible, explanations at a more basic level would be desirable; but not necessary for the application of insights in practical contexts. By this, the paper has stated that a theory can be desirable, but not necessary, in order to develop, e.g. innovative organisations. Models and social mechanisms, on the other hand, are necessary to organise knowledge for the purpose of use in practical contexts.
Product gender perceptions and antecedents of product gender congruence
Authors: Fugate Douglas L. , Phillips Joanna 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to replicate and extend earlier work on product gender perceptions.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology tested six hypotheses, using nearly 500 respondents. The hypotheses were investigated using a survey approach with validated scales. Likert‐type data were analyzed using appropriate statistical measures.FindingsAnalysis of the data demonstrated that product gendering is still prevalent. In addition, males were more likely than females to purchase gender‐congruent products; that individuals with a greater desire for product‐self‐congruence used products as a form of self‐concept; that individuals reared in non‐traditional households were less focused on gender congruence; that less traditional individuals were less focused on gender congruence; and that those who sought gender congruence were more likely to seek gender cues in the marketing mix.Research limitations/implicationsThe product selection was based on a previous study and the sample was non‐random. Both of these decisions could be questioned.Practical implicationsThese research results will allow one to understand whether social change during the past decade has altered product gender perceptions and to explore the degree to which consumers seek congruence between their own gender orientations and perceived product gender. This knowledge could be very important to consumer goods marketers making product design and promotional decisions.Originality/valueThe paper examines gender congruence in a maturing Generation Y, a generation second in size only to the Baby Boomers and one of significant market importance. It also provides the first substantive new data on this subject in over a decade.
Product attachment and satisfaction: understanding consumers' post‐purchase behavior
Authors: Mugge Ruth , Schifferstein Hendrik N.J. , Schoormans Jan P.L. 
Published: May 2010

PurposePast research on consumers' post‐purchase behavior has focused on understanding satisfaction. However, the consumer‐product relationship is much broader. This paper aims to deal with another aspect of post‐purchase behavior: the emotional bond consumers experience with their durables during ownership. The paper contributes to the literature on this topic by testing a conceptual model of product attachment and its relationships with satisfaction, and the determinants: utility, appearance, and memories.Design/methodology/approachTwo experiments are presented in which the product categories photo cameras and mobile phones were used as stimuli to test the conceptual model.FindingsResults show that the product's utility and its appearance positively affect both product attachment and satisfaction. For both product attachment and satisfaction, the pleasure elicited mediates the effects of utility and appearance. Only for product attachment, the presence of memories serves as an additional determinant that also moderates the effects of utility and appearance. Importantly, satisfaction has no direct effect on product attachment.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to the lack of knowledge concerning consumers' post‐purchase behavior by exploring the relationships between product attachment and satisfaction.
The cause manifesto
Authors: Ferguson Rick , Goldman Sharon M. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThis paper seeks to encourage loyalty marketers to embrace cause‐related marketing.Design/methodology/approachThe paper explores companies which have used or are using cause‐related marketing, from McDonald's 1984‐established Ronald McDonald House to the newer LIVESTRONG campaign, and examines which programs’ successes, failures and consumer reactions.FindingsAccording to the 2008 Edelman goodpurpose study, 63 percent of consumers think companies spend too much on marketing and advertising and should set aside more for a “good cause”. Even during a recession, the study adds, 80 percent of global consumers think it is still important that brands and companies set aside money for a social purpose. A recent survey of 9,000 consumers worldwide by Boston Consulting Group indicates that, despite the economic downturn, buying green products remains a priority – a majority of respondents in all countries expressed a willingness to pay a premium of 5 percent or more for green products, and 73 percent considered it important that companies have good environmental records.Practical implicationsToday, cause marketing is more than just a trend – it is an imperative. What began as a simple way to build brand affinity has become a consumer expectation in an era in which sustainable and ethical consumer choices are more important than ever before. And within that framework, loyalty marketing tactics are at the heart of creative innovation.Originality/valueThe paper presents exclusive interviews with representatives from some of the largest marketing firms in the industry today and offers tangible tips and tools to utilize in the real world marketing plans.
Gender and leadership styles in single‐sex academic institutions
Authors: Taleb Hanan M. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate the relationship between gender and female leadership styles in a single‐sex academic institution in Saudi Arabia.Design/methodology/approachEssentially, a qualitative research approach that utilised a single case‐study methodology was adopted. As part of this research, seven in‐depth semi‐structured interviews were conducted with senior managers of the all‐women's Saudi academic institution.FindingsEvidence suggests that the interviewed female leaders of Manar College are inclined to adopt stereotypical attributes of feminine qualities of leadership. They also tend to prefer a democratic, interpersonally‐oriented and transformational style rather than autocratic, task‐oriented or transactional style of leadership. In essence their leadership styles seem to agree – to a large extent – with the mainstream view on women's ways of leading.Research limitations/implicationsDespite the depth and richness of collected data, this research – as with all case studies – suffers from a limited ability to generalise the findings due to small sample size. It could thus be of interest for future quantitative‐based research to test the findings and propositions of this research on a representative set of single‐sex academic institutions in order to determine whether their leaders are trapped in stereotyped visions of leadership.Originality/valueVarious studies have examined the relationship between gender and leadership styles in educational establishments. In this regard, the paper argues the need and relevance of considering single‐sex academic institutions, a perspective that has not yet received sufficient attention in the educational leadership literature.
Using informal classroom observations to improve instruction
Authors: Ing Marsha 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to describe the variability of principals' classroom observations across schools and to relate classroom observations to the schools' instructional climate. This helps identify the conditions under which classroom observations effectively improve instruction in some schools and not in other schools.Design/methodology/approachData for the study are from surveys from principals (n=319) and teachers (n=15,818) matched to administrative data on principals and schools. Data are analyzed using factor analysis, latent class analysis, and regression.FindingsThere is no evidence that the frequency, duration, or instructional focus of classroom observations varies across schools with different student demographic characteristics or student performance levels. There is also no evidence that the frequency or duration of conducting classroom observations relates to the instructional climate of the school. However, there is evidence that conducting observations with a focus on instructional improvement relates to the instructional climate of the school after controlling for school and principal characteristics. These findings suggest variability in the implementation of classroom observations.Originality/valueThe paper provides useful information to guide the preparation and support of principals in order to use classroom observations most effectively for improving instructional opportunities.
Relationships in reform: the role of teachers' social networks
Authors: Daly Alan J. , Moolenaar Nienke M. , Bolivar Jose M. , Burke Peggy 
Published: May 2010

PurposeScholars have focused their attention on systemic reform as a way to support instructional coherence. These efforts are often layered on to existing social relationships between school staff that are rarely taken into account when enacting reform. Social network theory posits that the structure of social relationships may influence the direction, speed, and depth of organizational change and therefore may provide valuable insights in the social forces that may support or constrain reform efforts. This study aims to discuss this issue.Design/methodology/approachThis mixed‐methods exploratory case study examined five schools within one under‐performing school district as it enacted a system‐wide reform. Quantitative survey data were collected to assess social networks and teacher work perception of five schools enacting the reform. Qualitative data were gathered through individual interviews from educators within representative grade levels as a way to better understand the diffusion and implementation of the reform.FindingsDespite being enacted as a system‐wide reform effort, the results suggest significant variance within and between schools in terms of reform‐related social networks. These networks were significantly related to the uptake, depth, and spread of the change. Densely connected grade levels were also associated with more interactions focused on teaching and learning and an increased sense of grade level efficacy.Practical implicationsThe findings underline the importance of attending to relational linkages as a complementary strategy to the technical emphasis of reform efforts, as social networks were found to significantly facilitate or constrain reform efforts. Implications and recommendations are offered for leadership, policy and practice that may support the design and implementation of reforms, which may ultimately increase student performance.Originality/valueThe study makes a unique contribution to the reform literature by drawing on social network theory as a way to understand efforts at reform. The work suggests that the informal social linkages on which reform is layered may support or constrain the depth of reform.
Understanding patrons' participation in activities at entertainment malls
Authors: Lotz Sherry L. , Eastlick Mary Ann , Mishra Anubha , Shim Soyeon 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to apply concepts from “flow” paradigm to examine factors contributing to participation in entertainment and shopping activities at, and future patronage intent toward, entertainment shopping malls.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 342 consumers via mall intercepts conducted at two major entertainment shopping malls located in major metropolitan areas in the US states of Arizona and California. A self‐administered questionnaire was provided to subjects to complete while shopping at the mall. Data analysis was conducted using standard error of mean.FindingsSupporting flow theory, results suggest that future mall patronage intention is most directly influenced by participation in mall entertainment activities followed by shopping activities. Entertainment and shopping participation are indirectly and positively influenced by patrons' intrinsic motivations, freedom of choice to patronize the mall, and perceptions of challenges and skills in participating in mall activities through their effects on mood states.Research limitations/implicationsResults demonstrated that mall patrons do experience “flow‐like” mood states which influence activity levels in pursuing both mall entertainment and shopping. A study limitation included the focus on one mood state which pointed toward a need to investigate other mood states of mall shoppers.Originality/valueThis paper examines four antecedents, derived from flow theory, that may influence entertainment mall patrons' flow‐type mood states which, in turn, may drive their participation in mall shopping and entertainment activities.