bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Statics and dynamics of hierarchy
Authors: Korn Janos 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe how ordered pairs representing related objects in static state are used to create hierarchical structures yielding rapidly increasing choices of complex objects to be selected by objects in their environment and how “purposive systems” evolve for the production of such structures.Design/methodology/approachBasic notions transcending discipline boundaries and natural language formalised into one‐ and two‐place sentences are suggested as related constituents of complexity and hierarchy, the “systemic view”. This leads into sets of ordered pairs and sequences of qualified predicate logic statements forming dynamics of systems.FindingsHierarchies in general can be expressed as ordered pairs. An analytical method for showing how ordered pairs are organised into progressively more complex structures of objects and “products” with increased chances of being selected by environmental objects in evolution or design. Correspondingly, groups of purposive systems operating according to algorithms are needed for the production of products or their evolution is left to chance.Research limitations/implicationsThe approach uses natural language as the primary model transformed into a formal language for reasoning about outcomes of scenarios with inanimate and animate components with predominantly qualitative properties, emotions and will. The desirability of such an approach, although it matches the generality of the systemic view, needs to be debated.Practical implicationsOnce past the test of acceptability and software development, the approach can be used as part of “design methodology” for the design of “systems and products” in the context of human activity and technical scenarios.Originality/valueThe formal language exhibits properties, relations and interactions or impressions of objects of great diversity and variety. It exhibits the effects of these constituents on the production of outcomes based on semantic and mathematical relationships; it is widely applicable and may facilitate the appreciation of how “related objects evolve”.
Review of data, text and web mining software
Authors: Zhang Qingyu , Segall Richard S. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review and compare selected software for data mining, text mining (TM), and web mining that are not available as free open‐source software.Design/methodology/approachSelected softwares are compared with their common and unique features. The software for data mining are SAS® Enterprise Miner™, Megaputer PolyAnalyst® 5.0, NeuralWare Predict®, and BioDiscovery GeneSight®. The software for TM are CompareSuite, SAS® Text Miner, TextAnalyst, VisualText, Megaputer PolyAnalyst® 5.0, and WordStat. The software for web mining are Megaputer PolyAnalyst®, SPSS Clementine®, ClickTracks, and QL2.FindingsThis paper discusses and compares the existing features, characteristics, and algorithms of selected software for data mining, TM, and web mining, respectively. These softwares are also applied to available data sets.Research limitations/implicationsThe limitations are the inclusion of selected software and datasets rather than considering the entire realm of these. This review could be used as a framework for comparing other data, text, and web mining software.Practical implicationsThis paper can be helpful for an organization or individual when choosing proper software to meet their mining needs.Originality/valueEach of the software selected for this research has its own unique characteristics, properties, and algorithms. No other paper compares these selected softwares both visually and descriptively for all the three types of data, text, and web mining.
Parallelization of an ant‐based clustering approach
Authors: Gemici Gunes Ozlem , Sima Uyar A. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to propose parallelization of a successful sequential ant‐based clustering algorithm (SABCA) to increase time performance.Design/methodology/approachA SABCA is parallelized through the chosen parallelization library MPI. Parallelization is performed in two stages. In the first stage, data to be clustered are divided among processors. After the sequential ant‐based approach running on each processor clusters the data assigned to it, the resulting clusters are merged in the second stage. The merging is also performed through the same ant‐based technique. The experimental analysis focuses on whether the implemented parallel ant‐based clustering method leads to a better time performance than its fully sequential version or not. Since the aim of this paper is to speedup the time consuming, but otherwise successful, ant‐based clustering method, no extra steps are taken to improve the clustering solution. Tests are executed using 2 and 4 processors on selected sample datasets. Results are analyzed through commonly used cluster validity indices and parallelization performance metrices.FindingsAs a result of the experiments, it is seen that the proposed algorithm performs better based on time measurements and parallelization performance metrices; as expected, it does not improve the clustering quality based on the cluster validity indices. Furthermore, the communication cost is very small compared to other ant‐based clustering parallelization techniques proposed so far.Research limitations/implicationsThe use of MPI for the parallelization step has been very effective. Also, the proposed parallelization technique is quite successful in increasing time performance; however, as a future study, improvements to clustering quality can be made in the final step where the partially clustered data are merged.Practical implicationsThe results in literature show that ant‐based clustering techniques are successful; however, their high‐time complexity prohibit their effective use in practical applications. Through this low‐communication‐cost parallelization technique, this limitation may be overcome.Originality/valueA new parallelization approach to ant‐based clustering is proposed. The proposed approach does not decrease clustering performance while it increases time performance. Also, another major contribution of this paper is the fact that the communication costs required for parallelization is lower than the previously proposed parallel ant‐based techniques.
How do involvement and product knowledge affect the relationship between intangibility and perceived risk for brands and product categories?
Authors: Laroche Michel , Vinhal Nepomuceno Marcelo , Richard Marie‐Odile 
Published: May 2010

PurposeIntangibility has long been studied in marketing, especially its physical aspect. This paper seeks to verify whether a branding strategy is efficient in reducing the risk perceived by customers.Design/methodology/approachA sample of university students answered the measurements considering both perspectives (brands and product categories). The paper uses a three‐dimensional approach of intangibility and explores its relationships with evaluation difficulty (ED) and perceived risk (PR). These relationships were tested in two different perspectives: brands and product categories.FindingsTwo analyses were made to test the hypotheses which were generally supported. Several relationships between the variables were found, but three should be highlighted. First, it was shown that brands are more mentally intangible than product categories, which may lead to a difficulty to evaluate. Second, it was found that evaluation difficulty increases the perceived risk in the product category perspective. Third, it was found that higher involvement generates a stronger relationship between evaluation difficulty and perceived risk for the product category perspective.Practical implicationsTheoretical and managerial implications to the literature are discussed along with examples of how managers could use the findings.Originality/valueThe research incorporates prior knowledge and involvement as moderating variables of the proposed framework and reinforces their relevance to the field. The results not only show the importance of branding, but also support the argument of considering evaluation difficulty in future research.
Creating technology‐based merchandising ideas for hair coloring through weak signals, concept optimization and mind‐set segmentation
Authors: Gabay Gillie , Flores Laurent , Moskowitz Howard , Maier Andrea 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to demonstrate a concept‐response segmentation used to identify different customer “mind‐sets”. Based on this segmentation, in a merchandising situation, one can interact with the customer to identify the segment to which the customer belongs and in turn offer the proper product and merchandising.Design/methodology/approachThe study deals with the creation of new hair products, using both ideation by brand Delphi™ and by experimental design of ideas with conjoint measurement (IdeaMap.Net). It ends with the creation of a merchandising product for hair coloring based on concept segmentation. First the internet was used to facilitate the acquisition and prioritization of new ideas. Then the experimental design of ideas was used to identify which perform well in the body of test concepts.FindingsThree segments were identified: Segment 1 (54 percent) wants easy to use, high technology, and reliable products. Segment 2 (25 percent) wants to give, and get information about themselves, with respect to hair coloring. Furthermore, they want to make information giving/getting a process, not simply a rapid 1‐2‐3 affair. Segment 3 (21 percent) wants results. They want information, primarily what the product will do for them, what it delivers.Research limitations/implicationsThe innovative research deals with the creation of “new to the world” product ideas and the segmentation of respondents into different groups, based on their mind‐sets.Practical implicationsThe segmentation results provide the manufacturer and the trade with an opportunity to fine‐tune the development of the new product and its merchandising. One of the recurring questions, however, is how to find these segments in the population? Data mining works by searching for assignment rules that put people into the segments based on a decision rule. The variables used by the decision rule come from external information about the respondent, which the respondent may have provided previously, or patterns of purchases that the individual may have made over time. The objective is to increase the chances of correctly classifying a new individual as a member of one of the three segments, and by so doing present the prospect with a better offer, whether an improved product or shopping experience.Originality/valueThe study deals with the creation of new hair products, using both ideation by brand Delphi™ and by experimental design of ideas with conjoint measurement (IdeaMap.Net). This is a discussion towards high tech in merchandising haircoloring products. It examines new opportunities for development.
Translating barriers into potential improvements: the case of new healthy seafood product development
Authors: Altintzoglou Themistoklis , Birch Hansen Karina , Valsdottir Thora , Øyvind Odland Jon , Martinsdóttir Emilía , Brunsø Karen , Luten Joop 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe aim of this study is to explore potential barriers to seafood consumption by young adults and the parents of young children. Knowledge of these barriers will be used to assist the development of new seafood product concepts that fulfil the needs of consumers.Design/methodology/approachTo gather this information, 28 infrequent consumers of seafood participated in three semi‐structured two‐hour focus group discussions in Denmark, Norway, and Iceland. The results were then linked to the Stage‐Gate model for consumer‐based new product development (NPD).FindingsThe participants thought of seafood as either healthy or convenient, although there were concerns about the amount of effort required to prepare it. These concerns resulted in an expression of their need for products that are attractive, healthy, palatable, and convenient. In particular, the newly developed products should be accompanied by clear advice on preparation methods and materials. An increase in seafood availability coupled with lower prices would encourage these consumers to add seafood to their diet.Research limitations/implicationsPurchase‐point‐marketing and habitual behaviour were found to implicitly skew planned behaviour.Practical implicationsInputs for NPD related to convenience, attractiveness, quality, trustworthiness, knowledge and requirements about seafood preparation are discussed.Originality/valueThe present study combines qualitative methods to lead to practical input for NPD focusing on overcoming the barriers that keep consumers from choosing existing healthy seafood products. The importance of the consumers' confidence in their ability to successfully prepare a seafood meal was revealed and can be used in Stage‐Gate based NPD.
The importance of brand equity on purchasing consumer durables: an analysis of home air‐conditioning systems
Authors: Seitz Victoria , Razzouk Nabil , Wells David Michael 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to show manufacturers and dealers of residential air‐conditioning systems how to raise the equity of their brands, enabling them to sell more premium systems and increase their revenues and profit margins.Design/methodology/approachFor such products the consumer decision‐making process is complex and high involvement, and most purchasers are unacquainted with brands. A self‐administered survey was developed to assess which attributes were most important to consumers, to what degree brand influenced the price they would pay, and where they searched for product information, as well as demographic characteristics.FindingsIn total, 140 homeowners showed that reliability, serviceability and energy‐saving features were the attributes consumers desired most. Brand name communicated quality to them, but was not an important choice criterion. However, consumers were willing to pay more for an air‐conditioner with a reputation for quality. Results also indicated that consumers searched for product information from friends and family, manufacturers' websites and brochures, but not from the Yellow Pages or through salespeople. However, dealers were highly influential during the decision‐making process by helping consumers to refine their choice criteria and choose systems that satisfied their end goals.Practical implicationsIf consumers were better informed about the important attributes of a particular brand (reliability, serviceability and energy efficiency), they would be willing to pay more for it. To raise brand awareness, HVAC manufacturers should use broadcast media that include television and radio frequently and seasonally, and supplement them with outdoor or print to gain brand awareness and knowledge, thus increasing the likelihood that brand becomes a criterion in the decision‐making process. All advertising and promotion should steer consumers to the manufacturers' website, which should be filled with home‐owner‐oriented information about the features and, most importantly, the benefits of the brand. Manufacturers can raise brand equity among consumers through comparative executions that spell out the positive attributes of their system versus other brands. This will differentiate their brand(s) from competitors, and position themselves differently in the minds of consumers.Originality/valueThe study showed that brand name was not an important criterion in the consumer decision‐making process for purchasing replacement residential air‐conditioning (HVAC) systems. Since consumers are not knowledgeable about air‐conditioning brands, they assume homogeneity and shop for price.
Determinants of US consumer mobile shopping services adoption: implications for designing mobile shopping services
Authors: Yang Kiseol 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine critical determinants of US consumers' intentions to use mobile shopping services and to provide implications for retailers and mobile marketers in order to offer mobile shopping services that meet consumers' quality expectations.Design/methodology/approachA sample of 400 mobile services users drawn from a purchased consumer panel participated in an online survey. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model was adapted and incorporated with attitude and hedonic performance expectancy. Two steps of structural equation modeling were used to validate the measurement model and test the hypothesized relationships.FindingsThe study found that utilitarian and hedonic performance expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions are critical determinants of US consumers' intentions to use mobile shopping services. Effort expectancy is a driving factor affecting utilitarian and hedonic performance expectancy of mobile shopping services. Further, the study found that the hedonic or entertainment aspect of mobile shopping services is the most critical driver of US consumers' intentions to use mobile shopping services.Originality/valueThe results of the study provide implications for retailers and mobile marketers in designing mobile shopping services based on an understanding of consumers' perceptions of new shopping capabilities.
Letters to my late dog: who's watching information quality?
Authors: Horne Dan 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe outcomes of data‐driven marketing are presumed to be superior but those outcomes are partly dependent on data inputs that are accurate. This paper sets out to highlight problems associated with poor data quality.Design/methodology/approachThe name of the author's dog was substituted for that of the author on a single data collection form. Over a period of 15 years, the direct mail sent to the author's dog was collected and categorized.FindingsOver a 15‐year period, both reasonable and unexplainable changes in the content of the marketing effort were found. Analysis showed some consistency but, over time, offers began to appear which showed that the database representation of the “individual” had taken on an interesting life of its own.Originality/valueData are the fuel that drives the direct marketing engine. Yet that engine can sputter ineffectively if the fuel quality is inferior. Poor data contain inaccuracies which limit the efficacy and increase the costs of direct marketing efforts. The issue of the data quality needs to be addressed by those who utilize personal data in their efforts to target and communicate with consumers.
Higher education reform in Germany
Authors: Winkel Olaf 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide information about the current reform of higher education in Germany, which can be described as German reading of the Bologna process, about the problems and deficits occurring in this area, and about ways to correct unwelcome developments.Design/methodology/approachThe paper starts with a review of appropriate programmatic documents, on the one hand, and of the results of relevant empirical studies on the other. On this basis deficits and risks of the German higher education policy are identified and feasible solutions discussed.FindingsThe overloading of the Bologna process with political ambitions, which no longer have a lot in common with the fundamental thoughts formed at a European level, leads in Germany to unwelcome and counter‐productive effects. One of them is that the space for cross‐border activities for learners and lecturers is not expanding but diminishing.Practical implicationsIn Germany, it seems to be time to give up the priority of national aims in the area of higher education policy and bring the basic idea of the Bologna declaration back to the fore. For that purpose various course corrections are required.Originality/valueThe paper is among the first to evaluate the effects resulting from the German reading of the Bologna process and to make out the need for action from a comprehensive point of view.
The clash of evaluations
Authors: Brauckmann Stefan , Pashiardis Petros 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe main purpose of this paper is to examine more closely the tension between, on the one hand, forms of internal school improvement based on internal evaluation measures and, on the other hand, control and legitimisation needs grounded on external evaluation measures.Design/methodology/approachThe clash of these forms of evaluation is at the core of the paper, dealing in particular with the changing evaluation systems in the Cypriot education system. Therefore, the case study approach is utilised here. More specifically, the case of Cyprus is used as a system under transition in order to move from a primarily teacher inspection system, which is externally driven, to a combination of a teacher/school inspection system, which is based on both external and internal processes and is directed at both formative and summative evaluation processes.FindingsIt is asserted that the new proposed appraisal system for Cyprus addresses the deficiencies of the current evaluation system and generally aims at achieving a balance between external and internal processes. Finally, the conditions for the acceptance and successful implementation of new evaluation systems are described.Originality/valueThe results of the study constitute a rich setting of future developments for Cyprus schools with regard to important issues such as school accountability, school improvement, teacher evaluation, internal school evaluation and external inspection, through the proposed appraisal system. Therefore, the paper provides an important source of information for those who have the responsibility of creating educational policy and planning for the years to come in the area of teacher appraisal.
Support personnel in schools: characteristics and importance
Authors: Conley Sharon , Gould Jewell , Levine Harriet 
Published: May 2010

PurposeDespite the critical role of support personnel in education, the literature about their supervision has been less than informative. In an effort to provide additional guidance to school leaders seeking to improve the supervision of such personnel, the purpose of this paper is to examine and compare three distinct groups of support personnel: school custodians/janitors, school secretaries, and paraprofessionals in special education.Design/methodology/approachThe paper begins with two analyses. One is that of the general importance of the role of support personnel in public schools in the USA. The other consists of a brief argument as to why the literature about the supervision of support personnel has not been overly informative. The paper proceeds with descriptions of three distinct support personnel groups.FindingsThe examination of three support personnel groups highlights the visibility of the school custodian/janitor, the multi‐dimensional responsibilities of the school secretary, and the background of the paraprofessional in special education.Research limitations/implicationsA comparison of three distinct groups of support personnel has implications for their training, compensation and scheduling, and work design and supervision.Originality/valueThe paper content offers an information‐rich and multi‐faceted view of support personnel in schools, with implications for their overall supervision and the importance of their contribution to the organization.