bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
When Arab‐expatriate relations work well
Authors: Neal Mark 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to document and analyze the case of a public sector organization in the Gulf region, in which Arab‐expatriate relations worked well and sustained a positive and high‐performing organizational climate.Design/methodology/approachThe research employed an embedded ethnographic approach to produce a case analysis of expatriate‐local work relations.FindingsThe study found that although there may be multiple sources of difference and potential conflict between Arab locals and expatriates in the workplace, there are circumstances where the effects of such divisions are neutralized, and a positive work environment is sustained. The paper identifies the key sources of division, and social cohesion, and shows how – in this case – these factors interacted so that the negative impact of cultural difference was neutralized, and good working relations were achieved.Originality/valueThe paper is new in two respects. It is the first ethnographic study of Arab‐expatriate work relations in a public sector organization in Oman. It is also the first paper to identify, and distinguish between, the factors emphasizing alterity between Arab and expatriate workers, and those encouraging social cohesion.
Female Emirati graduates and the multicultural, mixed gender workplace
Authors: Bennett Hadyn , Wright Norman S. 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine differences in team‐related behaviours, skills, attitudes and values on the part of female Arab students with different educational experiences.Design/methodology/approachA survey instrument was administered to two female Arab student groupings: one from a single‐gender, single‐nationality university (n=77), the second from a co‐educational, mixed nationality university (n=41). Based on a literature review, respondents were asked to recall their most recent team experience and respond to a number of items relating to team member demographics, team performance and individual team‐related behaviours and attitudes.FindingsThe findings show significant differences between the two groups in relation to individual behaviours and attitudes to teamwork, and in reports of team performance. Those students working in homogenous teams reported healthier levels of team performance, and a more positive attitude to working in teams. However, they were also found to be significantly more likely to engage in behaviours detrimental to effective team functioning, such as hiding true voice and changing views to accommodate the team, and expressed lower preference for working in heterogeneous teams.Practical implicationsGiven the multi‐cultural and mixed gender nature of (much of) the workplace within the Gulf region, and government policy aimed at increasing the number of females active in the workforce, the observed differences in team behaviours and attitudes have implications for both education policy and the development of teamworking skills, and workplace management, in terms of employee recruitment, selection and placement, socialisation and training.Originality/valueFemales are playing an increasing role in the workforce of many Arab nations. However, to date little research has been carried out into the work‐related values and attitudes of Arab females. This is especially so in the area of working in multi‐cultural and mixed gender teams. The present paper helps address this gap.
An exploratory study of the effects of diversity dimensions and intervening variables on attitudes to diversity
Authors: Khan Tariq M. , Clear Fintan , Al‐Kaabi Ahmed , Pezeshki Vahid 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the increasingly important area of diversity management in multicultural settings. This paper examines several private organizations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as illustrative examples of the challenges facing global organizations seeking to utilise a hugely diverse labour force. The objective of the investigation is to shed more light on the intervening variables that connect diversity dimensions to personal attitudes on diversity.Design/methodology/approachA total of 406 employees from ten organizations operating in the UAE were selected based on their length of service and contract type. These participants completed questionnaires as a means of determining their attitudes towards diversity in the workplace. The data were subjected to principal component analysis from which a regression model was derived that associates intervening variables identified from the study with personal attitudes to diversity.FindingsThree intervening variables (components) are found: commitment to the organization, frustration in the work environment and perceptions of respect and fairness. These are found to be correlated to personal attitudes to diversity in the workplace. Furthermore, location is found to be a differentiating factor in the context of commitment to the organization, with Dubai employees being more committed than those in Abu Dhabi – hence, both emirates expressed different views on diversity in the workplace.Research limitations/implicationsEnsuring reliability of responses on such a sensitive topic, gaining access to a representative set of participant organizations and insufficient literature on related issues all impinged on the research investigation. The research has relevance to managers tasked with overseeing multicultural teams and human resource (HR) issues related to personal well‐being in the workplace.Originality/valueThe identification of intervening variables is an under‐researched area that now can take direction from the results of this investigation. Practitioners will have a better understanding of how to achieve more positive attitudes to diversity and thus, improve group dynamics in the workplace by targeting these intervening variables in HR policies.
On aircraft scheduled maintenance program development
Authors: Ahmadi Alireza , Söderholm Peter , Kumar Uday 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present issues and challenges of scheduled maintenance task development within the maintenance review board (MRB) process, and to find potential areas of improvement in the application of the MSG‐3 methodology for aircraft systems.Design/methodology/approachThe issues and challenges as well as potential areas of improvement have been identified through a constructive review that consists of two parts. The first part is a benchmarking between the Maintenance Steering Group (MSG‐3) methodology and other established and documented versions of reliability‐centred maintenance (RCM). This benchmarking focuses on the MSG‐3 methodology and compares it with some RCM standards to identify differences and thereby find ways to facilitate the application of MSG‐3. The second part includes a discussion about methodologies and tools that can support different steps of the MSG‐3 methodology within the framework of the MRB process.FindingsThe MSG‐3 methodology is closely related to the RCM methodology, in which the anticipated consequences of failure are considered for risk evaluation. However, MSG‐3 considers neither environmental effects of failures nor operational consequences of hidden failures. Furthermore, in MSG‐3, the operational check (failure‐finding inspection) is given priority before all other tasks, whereas in RCM it is considered as a default action, where there is no other applicable and effective option. While RCM allows cost‐effectiveness analysis for all failures that have no safety consequences, MSG‐3 just allows it for failures with economic consequences. A maintenance program that is established through the MRB process fulfils the requirements of continuous airworthiness, but there is no foundation to claim that it is the optimal or the most effective program from an operator's point‐of‐view. The major challenge when striving to achieve a more effective maintenance program within the MRB process is to acquire supporting methodologies and tools for adequate risk analysis, for optimal interval assignments, and for selection of the most effective maintenance task.Originality/valueThe paper presents a critical review of existing aircraft scheduled maintenance program development methodologies, and demonstrates the differences between MSG‐3 and other RCM methodologies.
Optimal preventive maintenance and replacement schedules with variable improvement factor
Authors: Moghaddam Kamran S. , Usher John S. 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThis paper seeks to develop and present a new mathematical formulation to determine the optimal preventive maintenance and replacement schedule of a system.Design/methodology/approachThe paper divides the maintenance‐planning horizon into discrete and equally‐sized intervals and in each period decide on one of three possible actions: maintain the system, replace the system, or do nothing. Each decision carries a specific cost and affects the failure pattern of the system. The paper models the cases of minimizing total cost subject to a constraint on system reliability, and maximizing the system reliability subject to a budgetary constraint on total cost. The paper presents a new mathematical function to model an improvement factor based on the ratio of maintenance and repair costs, and show how it outperforms fixed improvement factor models by analyzing the effectiveness in terms of cost and reliability of the system.FindingsOptimal decisions in each period over a planning horizon are sought such that the objectives and the requirements of the system can be achieved.Practical implicationsThe developed mathematical models for this improvement factor can be used in theoretical and practical situations.Originality/valueThe presented models are effective decision tools that find the optimal solution of the preventive maintenance and replacement scheduling problem.
A comparative study of maintenance data classification based on neural networks, logistic regression and support vector machines
Authors: Raza Jawad , Liyanage Jayantha P. , Al Atat Hassan , Lee Jay 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to compare the effectiveness of different analytical approaches, namely artificial neural networks, logistic regression and support vector machines to assess the health of a strainer located at the suction side of the pump.Design/methodology/approachData used for simulation included exemplars from clean (represented by datasets after cleaning the suction strainer) and faulty conditions (represented by datasets prior to cleaning the suction strainer). The same datasets were used for modeling in order to compare how different techniques perform when fed with the same information.FindingsPrincipal component analysis‐based artificial neural networks proved to be better than other techniques in classifying maintenance datasets and predicting flow resistance from a clogged suction strainer.Originality/valueThe work highlights the comparative effectiveness of three predictive analytical techniques in classifying real plant data from a suction strainer. This will provide an opportunity for maintenance experts to see the effectiveness of different techniques as well as revealing valuable information about the relationship between the condition of the suction strainer and the overall performance of the pump.
The optimal system for series systems with mixed standby components
Authors: Salah EL‐Sherbeny M. 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThe main objective of this paper is to study the optimal system for series systems with mixed standby (including cold standby, warm standby and hot standby) components.Design/methodology/approachThe paper deals with the reliability and availability characteristics of four different series system configurations. The failure time of the operative, hot standby and warm standby are assumed to be exponentially distributed with parameters λ, λ, and α respectively. The repair time distribution of each server is also exponentially distributed with parameter μ.FindingsThe mean time to failure, MTTFi, and the steady‐state availability Ai(∞) for four configurations are examined and comparisons made. For all four configurations, the configurations are ranked based on: MTTFi, Ai(∞), and Ci/Bi where Bi is either MTTFi or Ai(∞). Obviously, the system with height MTTFi and Ai(∞), do not need frequent maintenance, i.e. less maintenance.Originality/valueNumerical results for the cost/benefit measure have been obtained for all configurations. It is interesting to note first that the optimal configuration using the cost/MTTFi measure is configuration 4. Next the optimal configuration using the cost/Ai(∞) measure is configuration 2.
Making the global economy more sustainable
Authors: Löscher Peter 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThis paper seeks to discuss the sustainability of the global economy.Design/methodology/approachThe approach takes the form of a discursive narrative based on practitioner experience.FindingsIt was found that a sustainable economy can be encouraged by thinking in terms of green innovation.Originality/valueThe paper offers original insight into the direction of a major global technology corporation.
Responding to the crisis: redefining corporate value
Authors: Berthon Bruno 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThis submission aims to set out a new conception of value creation. In examining the impact of the downturn on notions of business success, and contemplating potential scenarios for new measures of corporate value, it is proposed to examine the implications for business in adapting to the new economy.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on Accenture's unrivalled access to business leaders around the world, both through work with leading multinational companies and a survey of over 800 global CEOs conducted on behalf of the United Nations Global Compact – the largest CEO study on sustainability to date.FindingsIn the wake of the financial crisis, significant implications are seen for conceptions of corporate value creation. In examining four potential scenarios for the development of the new economy, it was found that changing notions of business success will demand new capabilities for companies. New skills will be required in creating, measuring and communicating value, from the mechanics of performance management and complex negotiations with stakeholders, often utilising new technologies (such as social networking).Originality/valueThe paper, based on extensive conversations with an unprecedented set of leading global CEOs, posits a new conception of value creation for business in the new economy. By examining the forces shaping businesses' response to societal demands, there are set out some of the ways in which business could respond – and some of the capabilities that will be required to make the transition to a new era of sustainability.
Stakeholder governance: how stakeholders influence corporate decision making
Authors: Spitzeck Heiko , Hansen Erik G. 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to explore how stakeholders are voluntarily granted influence in corporate decision making.Design/methodology/approachThe stakeholder governance practices of 46 companies were explored in a multiple comparative case analysis, drawing on publicly available sources.FindingsThe research finds that stakeholders are granted a voice regarding operational, managerial as well as strategic issues. The power granted to stakeholders varies from non‐participation to co‐decision making. The majority of engagements found are a combination of low power and low scope of participation, which are limited in their potential to align the views of those inside and outside the corporate boundaries.Research limitations/implicationsThe data used in this research relied on publicly available sources, such as company reports, articles and web sites.Practical implicationsBy seeing an array of different stakeholder governance mechanisms managers can reflect on their own approach to stakeholders and see how other companies use stakeholder engagement for scenario planning and innovation.Originality/valueThe paper is the first to empirically analyse a broad range of companies regarding their voluntary stakeholder engagement mechanisms. This design allows the creation of a heuristic for stakeholder governance as well as for identifying clusters.
Stakeholder cohesion, innovation, and competitive advantage
Authors: Minoja Mario , Zollo Maurizio , Coda Vittorio 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the limits of stakeholder governance and to contribute a better comprehension of the relationships between corporate social performance (CSP) and corporate financial performance (CFP) through the development of a dynamic model that links together innovation and change, stakeholder cohesion, and competitive advantage.Design/methodology/approachThe approach takes the form of theory building through the development of eight testable propositions.FindingsStakeholder cohesion may have a “dark side” to the extent that it results in inertia and resistance to change, thus reducing propensity to innovation and change. The latter, in turn, are vital for both competitive advantage and stakeholder cohesion itself. Therefore, propensity to innovation and change is the pivotal variable that helps to explain the complex, non‐linear, often inextricable relationships between CSP and CFP. Furthermore, external (environmental dynamism) and internal (firm culture) variables moderate, respectively, the impact of innovation and change on firm performance and the impact of firm performance on its propensity to innovation and change.Originality/valueThe paper represents a first attempt to use system dynamics to improve the comprehension of the relationships between CSP and CFP and, from a practical point of view, to interpret the economic crisis as a consequence of a too high level of stakeholder cohesion.
The impact of the crisis on corporate responsibility: the case of UN global compact participants in the USA
Authors: Arevalo Jorge A. , Aravind Deepa 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThis paper seeks to understand what impact the current economic and financial crisis has had on the business and non‐business sector's corporate responsibility (CR) efforts, as well as to describe the critical obstacles being reported to such efforts. It proposes to do this by examining one key CSR initiative, namely, the United Nations Global Compact (GC).Design/methodology/approachA two‐part empirical investigation was conducted on a sample of GC participants (US signatories). The first method comprises a comprehensive survey completed mainly by company CEOs. The second approach involves content analysis of CEO statements (extracted from CSR reports – fiscal years 2007‐2009), which describe new strategies for managing under challenging economic and financial times.FindingsIt was found that the CSR efforts of participants of the GC that have integrated their CSR into their policies, programs, performance, and goals, and those with lesser conformity with the active principles of the GC will be affected more by the economic crisis. The paper also reports on the challenges, opportunities, and new strategies for managing during the downturn.Research limitations/implicationsWhile the study focuses on a relatively small sample of CSR‐driven organizations, it is shared with a framework that investigates CSR initiatives in distress and suggest anchors for future research.Originality/valueTo the best of one's knowledge, this research is the first effort to understand the implications of the current economic crisis on the CSR initiatives of GC participants in the USA. In addition to investigating the practical concerns of managers in times of crisis, our research questions the role of the initiative itself in dealing with these concerns.
Outsourcing governance: Fairtrade's message for C21 global governance
Authors: Blowfield Mick , Dolan Catherine 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThis paper seeks to bring together ethical governance theory and empirical findings to examine the shifting nature of governance in global value chains, and the implications of this shift for mainstream companies. In particular, it aims to examine one of the more mature models of ethical value chain governance, Fairtrade, and how this is being used by business.Design/methodology/approachInformation is derived from a longitudinal study of multi‐stakeholder co‐governance in Kenya and the UK, and an analysis of the literature on similar co‐governance models.FindingsThe paper shows that mainstream companies are looking to multi‐stakeholder models not only to protect their reputation, but as a way of governing ethical dimensions of their value chains. However, rather than a form of co‐governance, it has become a way of outsourcing governance, enabling companies to strengthen their public credibility, while simultaneously transferring an especially difficult element of modern value chain governance to organizations enjoying high consumer trust. Yet, primary data suggest that these governance systems are not delivering the benefits promised, at least at the producer level.Practical implicationsBy outsourcing governance to initiatives with dubious credibility in this way, companies may seem at risk. However, the mismatch between the promise and delivery of Fairtrade does not seem to be affecting consumer confidence and, until it does, companies may continue to benefit from the halo effect of being a Fairtrade ally. But there are also opportunities for companies to use Fairtrade's weaknesses to make the value chain a better avenue for delivering ethical governance, with implications for similar co‐governance models.Originality/valueThe study draws on one of the very few pieces of longitudinal field research on the impacts of Fairtrade. It approaches Fairtrade from a governance rather than reputations perspective, and emphasizes the implications for mainstream business rather than the co‐governance movement.
Collaborative Governance 2.0
Authors: Rasche Andreas 
Published: August 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to explore how existing collaborative governance arrangements in the context of corporate responsibility (e.g. the Global Reporting Initiative and Social Accountability 8000) need to collaborate more directly in order to enhance their impact. The objective of this paper is twofold: primarily, to explore existing and potential linkages between multi‐stakeholder standards; but, at the same time, to explore the potential for standard convergence.Design/methodology/approachThe paper follows a conceptual approach that is supported by a variety of case examples. First, the nature and benefits as well as shortcomings of multi‐stakeholder standards are explored. Second, a categorization scheme for the availability of such standards is developed. Third, linkages between the different standard categories are explored and discussed. Last but not least, the paper outlines practical implications.FindingsA variety of linkages between existing multi‐stakeholder standards exist. These linkages need to be strengthened, as the market for corporate responsibility is unlikely to support a great variety of partly competing and overlapping initiatives.Originality/valueThe paper offers a structured discussion of potential linkages between multi‐stakeholder standards and thus complements the literature where such initiatives are discussed (usually without much mention of linkages). Practitioners will find the discussion useful to explore how their participation in a variety of initiatives can be better coordinated.