bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ethics among peers: file sharing on the internet between openness and precaution
Authors: Pagallo U. 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe paper suggests overcoming the polarization of today's debate on peer‐to‐peer (P2P) systems by defining a fair balance between the principle of precaution and the principle of openness. Threats arising from these file sharing applications‐systems should not be a pretext to limit freedom of research, speech or the right “freely to participate in the cultural life of the community”, as granted by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights from 1948. The paper aims to take sides in today's debate.Design/methodology/approachThe paper adopts an interdisciplinary approach, including network theory, law and ethics. The method draws on both theoretical and empirical material so as to stress the paradox of the principle of precaution applied to P2P systems and why the burden of proof should fall on the party proposing that one refrain from action.FindingsCensors and opponents of P2P systems who propose to apply the principle of precaution to this case deny the premise upon which that principle rests. “Levels of evidence” required by the precautionary principle show that – in many cases in which the outcomes of technology are ignored – another principle is needed for orienting action, namely, the principle of openness.Social implicationsAlarm about how P2P systems undermine crucial elements of the societies often led to the ban of this technology. The paper illustrates why it should not be the case: rather than shutting these networks down, they should be further developed.Originality/valueThe paper provides the comprehensive picture of a far too often fragmented debate.
The normative structure of information and its communication
Authors: Howlett Spence Edward 
Published: April 2010

PurposeBeginning with the initial premise that the internet has a global character, the purpose of this paper is to argue that the normative evaluation of digital information on the internet necessitates an evaluative model that is itself universal and global in character. To this end, the paper aims to demonstrate and support a universal model for the normative evaluation of information on the internet.Design/methodology/approachThe design and application of a dual normative model of information show how such a model commits all disseminators of information to universal epistemological and ethical norms.FindingsBased on the dual normative characterization of information, the paper demonstrates that information and internet information specifically, have an inherent normative structure that commits its disseminators to certain mandatory epistemological and ethical commitments; and that the negligent or purposeful abuse of information in violation of those commitments is also a violation of universal rights to freedom and wellbeing to which all agents are entitled by virtue of being agents, and in particular informational agents.Research limitations/implicationsOwing to space constraints it is impractical to provide in this paper a detailed account of how the argument for informational universal rights can deal with other competing moral obligations.Originality/valueThe findings based on an innovative dual normative model of information demonstrate and support the initial thesis of the paper, namely, that the dissemination of internet information due to its global nature commits all informational agents to universal epistemological and ethical principles.
Customer relationship management information systems (CRM‐IS) and the realisation of moral agency
Authors: Bull Christopher , Adam Alison 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine how the design of characteristics and use of practices incorporated in customer relationship management information systems (CRM‐IS) impact on the expression and realisation of moral agency within organisations.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on the findings from an in‐depth UK case study of a CRM‐IS implementation.FindingsThe paper finds that some characteristics and practices within CRM‐IS can restrict the expression and realisation of moral agency in organisational life, resulting in a number of problems. For a greater consideration of MacIntyre's virtue ethics approach in order to respond to such challenges is argued.Originality/valueThe paper offers a relatively rare insight into the significance of the ethical issues arising from the organisational use of CRM‐IS and strategies. The paper should be of interest to managers, computer professionals and academics.
Web accessibility: an introduction and ethical implications
Authors: Peters Cara , Bradbard David A. 
Published: April 2010

PurposeWeb accessibility is the practice of making web sites accessible to people, such as the disabled, who are using more than just traditional web browsers to access the internet. The purpose of this paper is twofold: to overview web accessibility and to highlight the ethics of web accessibility from a managerial perspective.Design/methodology/approachTo that end, this paper reviews related literature, highlights relevant public policy, discusses web accessibility from a systems development perspective, and concludes with a discussion of web accessibility with respect to different ethical theories.FindingsThe findings take the form of a tutorial that highlights how to address web accessibility projects. The findings also examine web accessibility projects as they relate to well‐known ethical theories. Additionally, the findings also incorporate ethical opinions from web designers who have completed web accessibility projects in the past.Originality/valueThe paper makes several contributions to the existing literatures on web accessibility and ethics. An important contribution is that the paper is the first tutorial on web accessibility that also examines the topic through the lens of ethical theories. In addition to the tutorial, the paper reports on the opinions of web designers who have worked on web accessibility projects in the past.
Human resource development (HRD) for performance management
Authors: Raj Adhikari Dev 
Published: April 2010

PurposeA firm's competitiveness depends on its capacity to manage performance and improve the development of the skills and competencies of employees – creating a learning environment. Although the Nepalese economy has embraced an open market policy and is attempting to join the global market, competitive advantage is being hindered by a failure to address human resource development (HRD) and by poor performance management (PM) practices. This paper seeks to address this issue.Design/methodology/approachThe research article raises three research questions: What is the concept of PM – how does it relate to HRD? What is the PM and HRD context and what are the associated issues in Nepalese organizations? and How could new structure and roles improve HRD for PM? In order to answer these research questions Anglo‐Saxon and Nepalese literature is reviewed.FindingsIn order to manage PM in Nepalese organizations a clear link between organizational objectives and outcomes should be established by developing a human capital base in organizations. HRD professionals help to integrate HRD functions and organizational objectives by creating a learning environment.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is not survey‐based and thus information is largely collected from published literature rather than perceptions of employees, management and labour unions and the authenticity of the prescribed four‐column‐model is yet to be tested.Originality/valueA four‐column model comprising HRD and PM context, PM issues, HRD issues, and the new HRD structure and functions is developed and can be used as a framework for undertaking future research. This framework is the main contribution of the paper.
Managing advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) implementation in manufacturing SMEs
Authors: Fulton Matthew , Hon Bernard 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe a new methodology for implementing leading edge technology into “design and manufacture” companies, for them to gain a competitive advantage, integrate the supply chain and improve company performance and intangible assets.Design/methodology/approachA seven‐stage process is applied to 73 SMEs, which involves identifying suitable companies, capability mapping, designing bespoke solutions, sourcing, funding, implementing new technology and training, followed by formal capability reviews. Informal guidance is offered throughout the process to increase confidence in new systems and reduce transitional performance gaps.FindingsThe success rate was very high; companies often experienced a positive step change in performance and income, with notable increases in confidence and customer perceptions. The methodology was embraced by the companies, resulting in very few dropouts.Research limitations/implicationsA long‐term study is needed to review company performance over an extended period.Practical implicationsProviding free independent expert advice on the benefits of technological adaptation, specifically the advantages/disadvantages of candidate advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) systems, assists SMEs in gaining sufficient confidence to implement new technology, especially when the requirements of all stakeholders are taken into consideration. Training at an appropriate level coupled with mentoring is necessary to gain the maximum benefits from new systems.Social implicationsFunding initiatives can benefit from increased participating company performance by supplying leading edge technology and mentoring in addition to training and supplier agnostic advice.Originality/valueThe paper was able to assess the effects on business processes and income from technological adaptation using real time feedback from participating companies.
Enhancing long‐term worker productivity and performance
Authors: Westover Jonathan H. , Westover Andrew R. , Westover L. Alan 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to explore key work domains that impact worker job satisfaction and organizational commitment, which in turn impact long‐term worker productivity and performance.Design/methodology/approachThe paper utilizes factor analysis, ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analysis, and basic descriptive statistics (Pearson Correlations, standard deviations, means) to explore the relationship between job satisfaction and organizational commitment and 17 unique work domains.FindingsSurvey data confirm 17 statistically valid and reliable work domains that are relevant to understanding worker job satisfaction and organizational commitment. Additionally, OLS regression results produce highly explanatory models of worker motivation and job satisfaction.Research limitations/implicationsThe main limitation of the research is the lack of generalizability of the findings – that it represents data from just one organization, not a sampling of organizations. While the statistical results are highly significant and demonstrate a high level of validity and reliability in the measures, research findings can only tentatively be applied to other organizations.Practical implicationsIn an increasingly competitive global market, more and more organizations have to ask the difficult question, “How can we get more out of our employees?” However, although there are diverse “quick‐fix” methods of achieving rather short‐term gains in worker productivity and performance, long‐term and enduring improvement requires a strengthening and spreading of core organizational values and beliefs that help to create a high engagement and achievement organizational culture.Originality/valueThe main contribution of this paper is the development of 17 unique and highly statistically reliable and valid work domains relevant to organizational commitment and job satisfaction. Additionally, the new “passion” domain is found to be particularly predictive of worker job satisfaction and organizational commitment.
Consumer purchase process improvements in e‐tailing operations
Authors: Kumar Sameer , Hudson Brett , Lowry Josie 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe advent of the internet has dramatically changed the retail landscape. Online purchases have been increasing annually for the past several years, yet only account for 6 percent of total purchases. With the potential for growth being relatively unlimited, many online businesses have been created, and conventional stores are questioning whether their current brick and mortar business model will continue to be successful. The operational processes of online companies are difficult to formulate, as evidenced by their high failure rates. The purpose of this paper is to examine one online business, Bellacor, to determine whether there are operational efficiencies to be gained, that errors can be reduced and whether they are operating in conjunction with customers' expectations.Design/methodology/approachThe design methodology used involved an examination of Bellacor's service blueprint, implementing the Six Sigma DMAIC cycle, developing cause‐and‐effect diagrams and creating poka‐yokes to modify the existing service blueprint to improve the operational process.FindingsThe “improve” phase of the DMAIC cycle produced several poka‐yokes to overcome numerous failures in the current service blueprint. It is the authors' opinions that implementing the new proposed blueprint will likely result in improved customer service, improved delivery tracking, fewer errors and a better overall experience for the customer.Research limitations/implicationsThe main limitations of the survey surrounded the time frame allotted to complete the study. Had more time and resources been available, a more robust survey could have been created and additional order data could have been gathered.Practical implicationsWith a better experience for the customer and improved accuracy throughout the process, profits will improve. There is considerable market share available for a successful operation and management needs to continually revisit the current process to ensure that it is as efficient and customer‐friendly as possible.Originality/valueThe value of the study goes beyond Bellacor as a successful online business. The study attempts to lay the groundwork for what is successful and needed by today's consumer. Lessons and procedures learned in the paper can be translated to any company with a similar business model.
Managing reputation equity
Authors: Klaas Jagersma Pieter 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe article aims to elaborate on the importance of “managing reputation equity” in the banking industry.Design/methodology/approachThis article has been derived in part from the reputation improvement plans of investment banks and in part from the author's own experience as a non‐executive director.FindingsThe most critical and strategic asset a bank possesses is its reputation. A “reputation improvement plan” is a critical document for the board of directors. In practice, reputation improvement plans vary enormously in terms of structure, format and content. This article summarizes what content should ideally be included. Furthermore, it is important to remember that reputation improvement planning is just one component of the process – the other components are implementing the plan, monitoring progress and auditing the reputation's situation. And, although the focus is often on the document, it is the process of drafting, discussing, agreeing and using it that is important. The document facilitates discussion and decision making and can then be used as a guide to action.Practical implicationsThe process of producing a “reputation improvement plan” forces management to think through the issues related to a particular reputation and how to address them. The document itself summarizes the reputation's competitive position and guides the implementation of strategic initiatives. In banks (such as Goldman Sachs) that the board of directors with significant input from stakeholders (for instance, important customers), revised in a series of iterations with management before being agreed, and linked to other functional plans (e.g. operations, sales plans etc.) ensuring that all the bank's activities are focused on achieving common goals. A successful reputation improvement plan and program will only occur when at least the following combined forces are effective: a vision of something better (a clear target embedded in a plan) and a few practical first steps to achieve (to launch the process). Reputation is not a gift, but really hard work.Originality/valueReputational capital is a vital strategic resource. Reputations reflect a bank's relative success in fulfilling the expectations of multiple stakeholders. They are crucial because they “work” for banks. Therefore, establishing a great reputation is a key element of organizational strategy. Banks will become increasingly focused on managing their reputations over the next decade. The article is about unlocking the value of reputation through reputation improvement planning.
Problem‐based leadership: nurturing managers during turbulent times
Authors: Yeo Roland K. , Gold Jeff 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe paper explores problem‐based learning (PBL) as a useful methodology in leadership development during turbulent times. It identifies several pertinent action points for managers to lead through problems while understanding their capacity to empower themselves and others to face challenges at work.Design/methodology/approachBroad concepts of PBL are used to distil the characteristics of this methodology and how they might be applicable to leadership development. An actual case of PBL in leadership education and training is employed to illustrate the processes of problem solving and reflective action‐taking.FindingsWhen confronted by problems, managers should adopt a learning‐oriented mindset and draw on the strengths of others to generate immediate solutions for experimentation. In doing so, they need to accept failure as a prerequisite for creative tensions to be generated and applied in messy circumstances. Until they think out of the box, they will continue to solve problems in tried‐and‐tested ways obstructing the emergence of revolutionary solutions.Practical implicationsIn order for managers to make an impact on organizational process and improvement, they need to focus on the action and learn components of PBL. They should be given the space to listen to their own “voice” and internalize the “voice” of others through reflection and dialogue. They should also be recognized for their courage and boldness in confronting problems even if more problems are generated in the process. It is facing the goliath that managers truly grow to become real leaders.Originality/valueAlthough the concept of PBL has been around for a long while, its applicability to leadership development has not been sufficiently explored in both theory and practice. This paper brings another dimension to the common idea of problem solving where solution seeking is not an end it itself. At best, it is a means to discovering the potential of true leadership in those whose mindset is focused on learning and reflective decision‐making.
Analysis of the innovation strategy of technical‐intensive industries: scenario analysis viewpoint
Authors: Chang Hung‐Fan 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this study is the analysis of innovation in technology‐intensive industry strategy, by applying scenario analysis (SA) to master the development of the market information and competitive environment. This study will utilize the technical development of the Sony video tape recorder (VTR) as a case study, and then provide more adequate decision information on the technical development strategy (TDS) planning process.Design/methodology/approachScenario analysis (SA) strategy assessment model will construct a future technical development model based on current data. The forecasting model of the cycle period is applied to future market technical innovation. Therefore, applying SA in this study can effectively connect historical information to the analysis of technology development.FindingsThis study used the Sony VTR TDS as a case study that provides a strategy assessment model in a technology‐intensive industry for technical development strategy planning as the basis of decision‐making to aid technical forecasting. Result found that the R&D department is the core lifeline for the development of a company, and TDS is affected by the orientation of customer demand with impact on the development of TLC to form the cycle period of uncertainty.Originality/valueThis model applied the properties of TDS assessment to grasp the development trend in the market, and it can enable the R&D department to integrate technical push and market demands pull. In turn, this results in a gain in the competitive edge for technical innovation through a combination of strategies and regulations.
Getting the customer interested in your innovation: role of distribution and promotion strategies
Authors: Sikdar Arijit , Vel Prakash 
Published: April 2010

PurposeAll innovations launched in the market do not necessarily enjoy the returns they deserve. The purpose of the paper is to explore the role played by distribution and promotion in enhancing the value of an innovation in the customer's perception. The paper concludes with practical implications for managers in planning and controlling new product launches.Design/methodology/approachThe literature surrounding successes and failures of new product launches are reviewed to evaluate the importance of distribution and promotion as capabilities critical for enhancing the value of an innovation from the perspective of the customer. Innovations are conceptualized according to the strength of the distribution and promotion capabilities that support the innovation. Suitable strategies to enhance the promotion and distribution capabilities supporting an innovation are proposed in order to enhance the competitive advantage of an innovation.FindingsThe paper has conceptualized the positioning of an innovation's value based on the strength of “market support” and “user mindspace position” capabilities supporting the innovation. Based on the position of an innovation's value, specific strategies to augment the distribution and promotion capabilities are identified for enhancing an innovation's value.Practical implicationsInnovations per se do not influence a positive evaluation by the consumer unless adequately supported by marketing efforts. A key implication of this paper is the need to focus attention on marketing efforts to enhance the value of an innovation in the consumer's evaluation process.Originality/valueThe paper provides the marketer a unique perspective to analyze an innovation's value from the customer's viewpoint based on the nature of marketing efforts employed.