bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A multi‐attribute ranking method for bridge management
Authors: Abu Dabous Saleh , Alkass Sabah 
Published: May 2010

PurposeA bridge network is a major capital asset that requires continuing investment in order to maintain the network within acceptable limits of safety and serviceability. Ranking and prioritizing procedures have been widely used by several departments of transportation to select bridges for intervention and to distribute the available funds among competing projects. The available ranking and prioritizing procedures have various drawbacks, and an improved, rational ranking and prioritizing procedure is needed. The paper aims to address these issues.Design/methodology/approachThe requirements and characteristics of an innovative ranking and prioritizing method are identified during interviews with professionals involved in bridge management. Based on these requirements, multi‐attribute utility theory (MAUT) is selected to develop the method. A technique to develop utility functions based on the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) is discussed. A hierarchy structure that captures the decision‐making elements is presented. A case study is used to demonstrate the applicability and the validity of the proposed ranking method.FindingsThe research findings have identified the decision objectives and the criteria essential to rank and prioritize bridge projects, and these are included within a framework to rank and prioritize bridge projects while incorporating experts' input in the process.Practical implicationsThe proposed framework includes weights for the various objectives and recommends utility functions to evaluate the different attributes. In addition, the framework provides flexibility to adjust the weights and to modify the utility functions to reflect network‐specific characteristics. This method can be used by departments of transportation to rank bridges in a network, even incorporating conflicting criteria, and it can be integrated within an already implemented bridge management methodology.Originality/valueRanking and prioritizing projects are essential steps in bridge management. Current methods for ranking and prioritizing bridge projects are associated with various drawbacks. This paper proposes an innovative ranking method for bridge networks, based on MAUT. This theory provides flexibility for the decision makers in expressing their degree of satisfaction with each bridge attribute.
Suitability of procuring large public works by PPP in Hong Kong
Authors: Cheung Esther , Chan Albert P.C. , Kajewski Stephen 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (hereinafter referred to as Hong Kong) is an international leading commercial hub, particularly in Asia. In order to keep up its reputation a number of large public works projects have been considered. Public‐private partnership (PPP) has increasingly been suggested for these projects, but the suitability of using this procurement method in Hong Kong is yet to be studied empirically. The purpose of this paper is to specifically consider whether PPPs should be used to procure public works projects in Hong Kong by studying the attractive and negative factors for adopting PPP.Design/methodology/approachAs part of this study a questionnaire survey was conducted with industrial practitioners. The respondents were requested to rank the importance of 15 attractive factors and 13 negative factors for adopting PPP.FindingsThe results found that in general the top attractive factors ranked by respondents from Hong Kong were efficiency related: these included “Provide an integrated solution (for public infrastructure/services)”, “Facilitate creative and innovative approaches”, and “Solve the problem of public sector budget restraint”. It was found that Australian respondents also shared similar findings to those in Hong Kong, but the UK respondents showed a higher priority to those economic driven attractive factors. Also, the ranking of the attractive and negative factors for adopting PPP showed that on average the attractive factors were scored higher than the negative factors.Originality/valueThe results of this research have enabled a comparison of the attractive and negative factors for adopting PPP between three administrative systems. These findings have confirmed that PPP is a suitable means to procure large public projects, which are believed to be useful and interesting to PPP researchers and practitioners.
Technology implementation strategies for construction organisations
Authors: Henderson J.R. , Ruikar K. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to present an overview of the findings of a study aimed at investigating industry‐specific factors that influence the success of technology implementation in construction organisations. These include: the identification of a need, proposal procedures, benefit identification/evaluation, formulation of implementation strategies, implementation barriers, change management and overall implementation evaluation.Design/methodology/approachA semi‐structured interview‐based approach is adopted to identify the industry‐specific factors that influence the success of technology implementation in construction organisations. The findings are discussed and recommendations to industry for potential improvements are given.FindingsThe extent to which successful technology implementation can be achieved, ultimately depends on the degree to which changes are planned, managed and evaluated. Therefore, technology implementation within construction organisations is not so much a technological problem as it is a human behavioural one.Practical implicationsAs technology implementation ultimately consists of changes in practices being made, the fundamental issues regarding technology implementation strategies are well aligned with those of change management. As a result, it is vital that human behavioural and emotional issues are addressed if successful technology implementation is to be achieved.Originality/valueAn investigation into the industry‐specific factors which have resulted in the perception that the construction industry is lagging behind other industries in the uptake of new technologies.
Unlocking the mindsets of Government Affairs Managers
Authors: Barron Andrew 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the cultural dimensions of corporate political activity (CPA).Design/methodology/approachThe study uses a qualitative research design. Data collected from interviews conducted with the Brussels‐based Government Affairs Managers of French and British firms are analysed to examine the impact of national culture on their objectives and preferred political strategies.FindingsThe findings suggest possible relationships between the cultural dimensions elaborated by Hofstede and the different components of corporate political action: uncertainty avoidance can help explain managers' objectives when becoming politically active; the long‐term vs short‐term dimension can account for their general approaches to political activity; their level of participation in the political process can be explained by the individualism vs collectivism dimension; and their choices of specific lobbying tactics and techniques can be explained in terms of power distance.Practical implicationsAs firms increasingly interact with foreign rivals when seeking to influence policy outcomes, knowing that corporate political strategies are in part culturally grounded can help Government Affairs Managers to anticipate, respond to and act on the strategies pursued by firms socialised in other national cultures.Originality/valueWhile previous mainstream research into CPA is based largely on universal theories, the primary contribution of the paper is to introduce national culture as a variable to explain cross‐country differences in the types and processes of firms' political activities.
Performance assessment framework for supply chain partnership
Authors: Kim Dong‐Young , Kumar Vinod , Kumar Uma 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a framework for assessing the comprehensive performance of supply chain partnership (SCP).Design/methodology/approachUsing the literature review approach, the paper proposes a framework to assess the performance of SCP. The framework is based on the self‐assessment dimensions and approaches of the business excellence model developed by the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM). The proposed framework could be implemented not only in entire supply chains, but also in a dyadic relationship.FindingsIdentifying strengths and opportunities for improvement begins with assessing the level of SCP. The proposed framework focuses on assessing two dimensions of SCP – efforts and results – that will offer practitioners both balanced insights and valuable information. This framework also highlights assessment dimensions that could help qualified assessors to produce consistent judgments and evaluate multiple aspects of SCP. The framework includes practical indicators to help measure outcomes, such as cost efficiency and flexibility.Originality/valueThis paper sheds light on the assessment dimensions based on the EFQM model. Assessors can conduct an objective and standardized assessment using these multiple dimensions. This paper expands the traditional concept of SCP performance into both tangible and intangible performance by emphasizing output and outcome.
Measuring chain digitisation maturity: an assessment of Dutch retail branches
Authors: Plomp Marijn G.A. , Batenburg Ronald S. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a validated measurement model and typology for chain digitisation maturity, defined as the degree of interorganisational collaboration through ICT.Design/methodology/approachThrough a literature (meta) study, 22 existing maturity models are found and analysed, on the basis of which an integrated framework is developed. This framework is subsequently applied to interorganisational collaboration within the Dutch retail sector (i.e. retailers and their wholesalers, manufacturers, customers, and trade organisations). The measurement model is tested by determining the chain digitisation level of 24 different retail sub‐sectors (branches) through desk research, interviews, and surveys. Data are collected at the level of the branch, mainly through representatives of trade organisations.FindingsThe framework (i.e. measurement model) appears to be applicable to describing the Dutch retail sector and comparing its branches, providing both expected and new insights. The typology supports the vision of the combination of two dimensions: the level of technology and the level of organisation.Research limitations/implicationsThe framework has been applied to the (Dutch) retail sector only. It seems suitable for application to other sectors as well.Practical implicationsThe empirical application provides an extended view of the current situation of the (Dutch) retail sector with regard to chain digitisation. On this basis, a roadmap can be derived to support the adoption and deployment of chain digitisation among retail organisations.Originality/valueThe framework for chain digitisation and the derived typology are of value to the SCM research community, as they are specifically developed and tested at the level of interorganisational chains.
Electronic markets, data access and collaboration: relative value to performance in firm operations
Authors: Power Damien , Hanna Victoria , Singh Prakash J. , Samson Danny 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the direct and indirect effects of the use of electronic markets (e‐markets), access to online data and trading partner collaboration on operational performance.Design/methodology/approachThis study involved survey data from 233 Australian firms. Data were provided by members of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Australia, who reflected upon relevant practices and performances of their firms. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data.FindingsThe results show that whilst all three direct effects are non‐significant, when the indirect effects are taken into account, the total effects are significant in strength. This suggests that use of e‐markets, access to online data and collaboration with trading partners, when taken in isolation, are not as effective as could be expected. However, when these factors are implemented together, their value and impact becomes significant.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited to Australian firms.Practical implicationsThe results highlight that investments in information and communication technology must be deployed in an holistic manner, for example, by combining use of web‐based applications and market mechanisms with effective data sharing and collaboration, if they are to produce significant improvements in operations.Originality/valueWhile e‐markets may have been viewed as a mechanism for reducing the costs of inputs and/or as a new demand channel, this study establishes that more value can be extracted when this technology is viewed and exploited in a more strategic manner. E‐markets should be used in concert with access to data and collaboration with trading partners who are able to exploit the opportunities for mutual benefit.
Satisfaction with mentoring relationships: does gender identity matter?
Authors: Ortiz‐Walters Rowena , Eddleston Kimberly‐Ann , Simione Kathleen 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of gender identity on protégés' satisfaction with mentoring relationships. More specifically, it aims to investigate whether or not a protégé's feminine or masculine identity, by virtue of emphasizing different criteria, roles, and preferences, impacts his or her satisfaction with the performance of a mentor.Design/methodology/approachManagers and/or professionals, identified by in‐career MBA students at large universities in the East, completed surveys to assess relationship satisfaction as a mentoring outcome.FindingsThe results of this study indicate that masculine protégés, who strongly identify with their career roles, report being more satisfied with mentors who provide career development support. Conversely, feminine protégés, who measure career success using socio‐emotional‐based criteria, report being more satisfied with mentors who provide psychosocial support.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited in its generalizability due to the type of sample studied. The sample consisted of managers from a variety of male‐dominated occupations. In addition, since the data were self‐reported on a single survey, common method bias may also be an issue.Practical implicationsDespite limitations, the study implies that assessment of gender identity and related skills can provide organizations with more effective guidance and matching of mentors and protégés to maximize perceived satisfaction on the part of the protégé.Originality/valueAlthough many studies have investigated a variety of factors that affect mentoring, few have examined the influence of gender identity on the functioning of these relationships.
Communication management as a second‐order management function
Authors: Nothhaft Howard 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide young communication managers with a theoretical framework to better understand what they are doing.Design/methodology/approachThe paper combines theoretical reflections with empirical material from an observation study, a “shadowing study” of eight communication managers in German companies undertaken by the author.FindingsCommunication management is explained as a second‐order management function, i.e. a function which not only coordinates organizational performance by planning, organizing, controlling, but also institutionalizes certain concerns in the organization. Drawing on the shadowing study, the paper describes how communication managers “manage the management of others” by acting in certain roles, e.g. the missionary (not the guru), the agent of common sense (not the enforcer), the buck's stop (not the CEO's darling). Communication management, it is argued, is not predominantly concerned with power in the organizations, but with influence.Originality/valueBased on week‐long observations of eight experienced communication executives' everyday activities, the paper argues against concepts which implicitly or explicitly debase “soft”, “influence‐based” and “people‐oriented” approaches and portray “proper” communication management as “hard”, “power‐based” and “system‐oriented”.
PR professionals in France: an overview of the sector
Authors: Carayol Valérie 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to present different types of data derived from recent surveys of the academic and professional literature. It intends to provide an overall account of the situation of PR professionals in France with insight into their views and their work.Design/methodology/approachThe research question posed is: “What kinds of PR topics are being investigated and how is the professional sphere of PR regarded?”FindingsPR studies are mostly the work of professional organizations. Although numerous studies were conducted by the university sector during the early 1990s in conjunction with the strong development of the communications professional field, there has been a decrease in university studies on PR professionals since early 2000. Generally speaking, studies conducted by professionals are more often focused on skills and activities, whereas those conducted by academics are more often focused on communications professions, people, reasoning behind actions in practice, and skills turned into action.Originality/valueThe various issues underlying the studies examined confirm a growing interest in the working environment, including socio‐political expectations of PR professionals. Through these studies a new perspective of PR professionals as social engineers – versus technicians – seems to appear. In addition, the consideration of societal and social issues by professionals, may suggest that the profession is working to improve its legitimacy.
Challenges in transforming manufacturing organisations into product‐service providers
Authors: Martinez Veronica , Bastl Marko , Kingston Jennifer , Evans Stephen 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present challenges experienced by UK manufacturing companies undergoing a servitization journey to becoming product‐service providers.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses an exploratory single‐case study approach based on semi‐structured interviews, and archival data. A total of 22 senior managers were interviewed from the product‐service provider and its two suppliers, resulting in more than 400 pages of interview data. Data were analysed through an inductive research analysis by an emergent identification of patterns.FindingsThis research identifies critical and frequent challenges experienced by UK manufacturing companies undergoing a servitization journey to becoming product‐service system (PSS) providers. They are condensed into five pillars, which constitute the architecture of challenges in servitization. The architecture of challenges in servitization provides a full description of the strategy and operations of PSSs.Research limitations/implicationsThis is qualitative research based on a single case study. Given the nature of research design, the identified patterns cannot be used as a predictive tool.Practical implicationsThis research provides a framework to understand, analyse and plan the strategic transformations to more highly servitized organisational forms.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to knowledge with a new model called “the architecture of challenges in servitization”. This is the only model that explains the importance of the strategic, operational and social tests that organisations confront when adopting servitization strategies. If companies understand these challenges, they have the potential to create unique sets of values for a variety of stakeholders.
Service postponement
Authors: Yang Biao , Yang Ying , Williams Sharon 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe paper aims to explore the application of manufacturing postponement in a service setting.Design/methodology/approachIn elaborating on the many key differences between goods and services highlighted in the literature, it has been argued that postponement strategies developed in manufacturing have a potential for improving service performance. The authors then examine the implications of postponement for the service push‐pull boundary and the line of visibility.FindingsA focus on postponement at the service push‐pull boundary enables more activities to be performed in advance. Its benefits include reducing costs and shortening service delivery time. Postponement can also assist service providers in re‐locating the line of visibility to develop a more effective service operation.Originality/valueWhile the significant economic benefits of postponement have been documented in manufacturing companies, the literature has also mentioned the potential role of postponement in service. However, very little has been written with respect to the exploitation of the transferability and applicability of postponement to a service setting. In this paper, the authors have explored what value postponement might have to offer for service operations. The application of postponement has a potential for service performance akin to what is expected of a manufacturing organisation.
Process management in healthcare: investigating why it's easier said than done
Authors: Hellström Andreas , Lifvergren Svante , Quist Johan 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate what happens when a new management idea with manufacturing origin is implemented in a healthcare organization. In this paper, it is focussed on process management: what happens when the processes are highlighted, process owners are appointed and more power is allocated to the process dimension of the organization.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses the case of a hospital group in Sweden to investigate difficulties in implementing process management. The studied hospital group has been involved in systematic fundamental change to the system for nearly a decade. The research project was conducted using a collaborative management research approach in which academic researchers worked together with the development director.FindingsThe paper shows that the organization itself in many ways becomes an obstacle to the achievement of a process‐oriented management style. In the empirical story, voices from the healthcare staff reveal conflicts over organizing principles and structures such as budgeting and reimbursement systems – systems obviously built on a more functional view from an organizational perspective. It is not completely evident that the two alternative perspectives are able to co‐exist easily – managing them seems to be an advanced balancing act.Originality/valueThe paper provides an illustration of knowledge transfer from manufacturing to service industries. It focuses on the meeting between a Swedish healthcare organization and the idea of process management.