bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Organizational adoption of new service development tools
Authors: Jin Dayu , Chai Kah‐Hin , Tan Kay‐Chuan 
Published: May 2012

PurposeA number of new service development (NSD) tools have been proposed to facilitate NSD processes. Despite the proved values, NSD tools are not used frequently. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the usage pattern of NSD tools and to identify the factors that influence their adoption.Design/methodology/approachBy integrating the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and the literature on organizational adoption of innovation, a framework was developed. Empirical data from financial institutions in Singapore and Taiwan were collected. Partial least squares was used to test the model comprising both reflective and formative constructs.FindingsThe framework shows satisfactory predictive power. Attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behaviour control are significantly related to behaviour intention. Perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use are antecedents of attitude. Competitive pressure influences subjective norm. Perceived behaviour control is determined by compatibility and resource commitment.Research limitations/implicationsTPB can be applied at the firm level by treating the opinion of managers as the proxy of that of the organization. Findings are limited to the small sample size and a focus on only financial services.Practical implicationsOnly a small group of NSD tools are used frequently in the firms surveyed. Service firms should pay more attention to the tools available and the factors associated with their adoption.Originality/valueThe paper identifies factors worth noticing when researchers and practitioners develop and implement NSD tools. Also, the data confirmed the appropriateness of the extension of TPB to predict organizational adoption behaviour.
A structural equation model of TQM, market orientation and service quality
Authors: Lam Siew‐Yong , Lee Voon‐Hsien , Ooi Keng‐Boon , Phusavat Kongkiti 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between total quality management (TQM), market orientation and service quality in the Malaysian service industry.Design/methodology/approachData from 150 service firms were collected. Structural equation modeling was employed in this study to examine the associations between TQM, market orientation and service quality.FindingsThis study provides empirical evidence and confirms findings obtained from previous studies that TQM has a positive and significant relationship with both market orientation and service quality. Moreover, it was discovered that market orientation is also significantly related to service quality.Research limitations/implicationsThis research study implies that if firms are not able to comprehend the importance of TQM dimensions, by which the different dimensions of it can influence a firm's performance, they may not succeed in harvesting the full value of market orientation and service quality. Meanwhile, the findings may guide the service practitioners to understand the importance of TQM in their managerial actions in enhancing market orientation and service quality, which serves as a sound foundation for building a distinguished point of differentiation in their services.Originality/valuePast researchers have not looked into the tri‐dimensional relationship between TQM, market orientation and service quality and hence research is to be called for in this area. The paper provides practitioners with useful guidelines on the appropriate TQM practices to be implemented so that market orientation and the quality of service can be enhanced, creating superior value to the customers in a unique way, which subsequently improves a firm's competitiveness.
Application of He's homotopy perturbation method for multi‐dimensional fractional Helmholtz equation
Authors: Gupta Praveen Kumar , Yildirim A. , Rai K.N. 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThis purpose of this paper is to find the approximate analytical solutions of a multidimensional partial differential equation such as Helmholtz equation with space fractional derivatives α,β,γ (1<α,β,γ≤2). The fractional derivatives are described in the Caputo sense.Design/methodology/approachBy using initial values, the explicit solutions of the equation are solved with powerful mathematical tools such as He's homotopy perturbation method (HPM).FindingsThis result reveals that the HPM demonstrates the effectiveness, validity, potentiality and reliability of the method in reality and gives the exact solution.Originality/valueThe most important part of this method is to introduce a homotopy parameter (p), which takes values from [0,1]. When p=0, the equation usually reduces to a sufficiently initial form, which normally admits a rather simple solution. When p→1, the system goes through a sequence of deformations, the solution for each of which is close to that at the previous stage of deformation. Here, we also discuss the approximate analytical solution of multidimensional fractional Helmholtz equation.
Analytical upstream collocation solution of a quadratically forced steady‐state convection‐diffusion equation
Authors: Brill Stephen , Smith Eric 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the analytical solution to the Hermite collocation discretization of a quadratically forced steady‐state convection‐diffusion equation in one spatial dimension with constant coefficients, defined on a uniform mesh, with Dirichlet boundary conditions. To improve the accuracy of the method “upstream weighting” of the convective term is used in an optimal way. The authors also provide a method to determine where the forcing function should be optimally sampled. Computational examples are given, which support and illustrate the theory of the optimal sampling of the convective and forcing term.Design/methodology/approachThe authors: extend previously published results (which dealt only with the case of linear forcing) to the case of quadratic forcing; prove the theorem that governs the quadratic case; and then illustrate the results of the theorem using computational examples.FindingsThe algorithm developed for the quadratic case dramatically decreases the error (i.e. the difference between the continuous and numerical solutions).Research limitations/implicationsBecause the methodology successfully extends the linear case to the quadratic case, it is hoped that the method can, indeed, be extended further to more general cases. It is true, however, that the level of complexity rose significantly from the linear case to the quadratic case.Practical implicationsHermite collocation can be used in an optimal way to solve differential equations, especially convection‐diffusion equations.Originality/valueSince convection‐dominated convection‐diffusion equations are difficult to solve numerically, the results in this paper make a valuable contribution to research in this field.
An inverse problem in estimation of interfacial heat transfer coefficient during two‐dimensional solidification of Al 5%Wt‐Si based on PSO
Authors: Dousti P. , Ranjbar A.A. , Famouri M. , Ghaderi A. 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to estimate interfacial heat transfer coefficient (IHTC) in a two‐dimensional solidification based on the particle swarm optimization (PSO) method.Design/methodology/approachThe proposed numerical technique is based on the PSO combined with finite different method (FDM) to simultaneously estimate heat transfer coefficient in the metal‐mold interface. In this paper, simulated (noisy and filtered) temperatures are used instead of experimental data. The estimated temperatures are obtained from the direct numerical solution (FDM) of the two‐dimensional solidification model and PSO is applied to minimize a least squares objective function containing estimated and simulated (noisy and filtered) temperatures.FindingsThe accuracy and capability of the PSO are assessed by comparing the estimated and the pre‐selected heat transfer coefficients. The results show that the measurement errors do not considerably affect the accuracy of the estimates. In other words, the proposed method provides a practical and confident prediction in simultaneously estimating the IHTCs.Research limitations/implicationsFuture approaches should find the optimal design of case study and then apply the proposed method to achieve the best results.Practical implicationsApplications of the results and the presented method in this paper can be of value in practical applications in parameter estimation for estimating the IHTCS.Originality/valueAn inverse estimation of IHTC in a two‐dimensional solidification has been made based on PSO algorithm for a practical case of Al 5% Wt‐Si.
Numerical and analytical approaches to MHD Jeffery‐Hamel flow in a porous channel
Authors: Bararnia H. , Ganji Z.Z. , Ganji D.D. , Moghimi S.M. 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThe main purpose of the work is to demonstrate the eligibility of the methods applied and to have the more reliable and user friendly approaches to find the solution of the applicable governing equations such as of the MHD flow.Design/methodology/approachThe numerical and semi analytical methods have been applied to solve the governing equations. The reliability of the methods is also approved by a comparison made between the results obtained and the results of the former studies performed using the other numerical approach.FindingsThe reliability of the methods are approved, so that the method could be used to discuss more in depth arguments on the different profiles of the solution.Originality/valueIt could be considered as a first endeavor to use the solution of the MHD Jeffery Hamel flow using this kind of numerical method along with the semi analytical approach.
Factors affecting success of political marketing: a Jordanian electorate point of view
Authors: Salim Khatib Fahed 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThis study aims to examine basic factors that may influence success of political marketing.Design/methodology/approachDrawing on relevant literature, the author empirically tested the relationship between study variables on a sample of 650 Jordanian respondents.FindingsThe findings indicate that market segmentation and targeting, candidate positioning and building strong image (to candidate and party) have a positive and significant effect on the success of political marketing. The study findings indicate that candidate/party image exerted the strongest effect on the success of political marketing. Results showed also that conducting efficient market research and adopting a market‐oriented strategy had no influence on the success of political marketing.Originality/valueThese findings have significant implications for both Jordanian candidates and parties that may be taken into consideration when developing their political campaigns.
Service quality assessment in central blood bank: blood donors’ perspective
Authors: Al‐Zubaidi Hassan , Al‐Asousi Dalal 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to assess the service quality of central blood bank from blood donors’ perspective.Design/methodology/approachData were collected by empirical study in a central blood bank. The instrument captured 354 blood donors’ using a SERVQUAL questionnaire. The study looked at perception and expectation levels of blood donors. After that, the gap five scores were determined.FindingsThe paper finds that, for the blood donors, gap (five) scores are all positive implying that the blood donors’ tend to be satisfied.Practical implicationsBased on the results, central blood bank management may consider measures in order to diagnose, analyze, and identify opportunities of improvements of service quality.Originality/valueThis study attempts to explore the relatively less explored area of measuring service quality of a central blood bank from blood donors’ perspectives through implementation of the SERVQUAL model.
Towards a policy model for strengthening the accounting and auditing profession in a fragmented regulatory context
Authors: Khalifa Rihab 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to contribute to the development of a policy model for the accounting and auditing profession that fits the current fragmented regulatory context of the UAE and GCC, and could help accountancy to become a cornerstone of an improved corporate governance regime. This paper aims to focus on the features of accountancy within the UAE and GCC, and develop some suggestions for a regional model.Design/methodology/approachThis is a qualitative paper. Data for this paper were collected via in‐depth interviews with partners in Big Four audit firms in the UAE, accounting academics, and accounting students at the UAEU. Valuable primary sources of data were also web sites and publications from official organizations. A short survey was also administered to students.FindingsIn summary, accountancy's regulatory context in the UAE has remained fragmented. The state has taken the lead role, regulating in some detail the affairs of audit firms. The fragmented regulatory context of accounting and auditing in the UAE has allowed the Big Four to import their global quality assurance systems into the UAE, hiring mainly auditors with foreign examined qualifications. This may present advantages for the policy objective “internationalisation of the UAE economy”. It may, however, be regarded as suboptimal for the policy objectives “localisation of the accountancy profession to support the growth and development of local (family) businesses” and “Emiratisation of the accountancy profession”.Research limitations/implicationsIt is suggested that the possible shape of a stronger UAE‐based accountancy profession be investigated in more detail and its suggested positive effects for specific, relevant UAE policies be put to the test. More interviews with other relevant institutions and local accountants would have enriched understanding of the profession.Practical implicationsUnderstanding the financial regulatory context of UAE is crucial for the understanding and further development of the profession. The Big Four firms have a key role to play in orchestrating efforts towards further professional development.Social implicationsSmall and medium‐sized practitioners need to be supported by a clearer regulatory context, which allows them to exist alongside the Big Four.Originality/valueThe paper presents empirical and qualitative evidence about the regulatory context of the UAE.
The Egyptian tax system reforms, investment and tax evasion (2004‐2008)
Authors: Ahmed Aly Abdel‐Mowla Somaya 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThis study aims to evaluate effects of tax system reforms on tax obstacles to investment in Egypt and tax evasion. It also aims to analyze differences in burden of tax obstacles and extent of tax evasion among different types of enterprises after applying tax reforms.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses data from Productivity and Investment Climate Surveys 2004 and 2008. A number of indices are constructed to measure incidence and severity of tax obstacles. Two indicators are constructed to estimate incidence and extent of tax evasion. The study adopts a descriptive analytical comparative approach to evaluate changes and differences in severity of tax obstacles, and their effects.FindingsThe results obtained show that tax reforms have resulted in a significant decrease in severity of tax obstacles. However, they are still major obstacles. The overall decrease hides differences in the burden of these obstacles. Reforms were not enough to address needs of small enterprises. The extent of tax evasion decreased. However, it is still a problem as tax obstacles are still major obstacles.Research limitations/implicationsThere is a need for more detailed data about problems enterprises face in each phase of interaction with tax administrators and managers’ suggested solutions.Originality/valueThe study evaluates the actual effects of a major economic reform, on the microeconomic level during an important period rather than exploring enterprises’ expectations. The results show that there is a need for more reforms targeting small enterprises.
Ethnic female business owners: more female or more ethnic entrepreneurs
Authors: Piperopoulos Panagiotis 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThe primary objective of this study is to attempt to answer the question, even with a limited sample of interviewees, if ethnic female entrepreneurs are behaving more as “female” or more as “ethnic” entrepreneurs.Design/methodology/approachThis paper presents empirical data from a face‐to‐face interview type research conducted in the regions of Attica and Central Macedonia, Greece. The study involved conducting face‐to‐face interviews with 15 founders of ethnic minority businesses (EMBs), between May and June 2009.FindingsThe results suggest that ethnic female entrepreneurs may share some common characteristics with their ethnic male entrepreneurial colleagues but ethnic women's unique qualities, characteristics, motivations, background and business views distinguish them from their male ethnic counterparts bringing forth more their femininity rather than their ethnicity.Originality/valueThis paper presents the results of the first‐ever research on ethnic female entrepreneurs in Greece. It examines the influences and the factors that facilitate ethnic female entrepreneurs' decision to become self‐employed and their experiences of entrepreneurship. It discerns in which economic sectors they develop occupational niches and investigates how strong is family participation and support in their businesses. Last but not least this research brings forth the balance between domestic and business responsibilities and how much support from governmental initiatives, policies and training programs they receive.
Gender and work‐life balance: a phenomenological study of women entrepreneurs in Pakistan
Authors: Rehman Sumaira , Azam Roomi Muhammad 
Published: May 2012

PurposeIncreased participation of women in the labor force creates challenges for them to balance work and family obligations. The situation becomes more complicated in patriarchal societies such as Pakistan due to women's stereotypical domestic roles, religious prescriptions as well as cultural norms and values. This study aims to explore different influencing factors on women's work and family roles in the unique Pakistani socio‐economic and cultural environment.Design/methodology/approachBased on the interpretive phenomenological approach (IPA), this study explores different influencing factors on women's work and family roles in the unique Pakistani socio‐economic and cultural environment. The methodology helped to analyse data about challenges faced by women entrepreneurs to achieve work‐life balance as well as to have an insight about some of the techniques and effective strategies they use to balance work and family obligation.FindingsThe results show that among other motivational drivers to start their own businesses, achieving work‐life balance is one of the most significant ones. Their own businesses give them flexibility, control and freedom to juggle with their family and social responsibilities. Lack of sufficient time, gender bias, social and cultural norms as well as family responsibilities are the most significant challenges women face to achieve balance in a patriarchal Islamic society. Strategic planning, organising and delegating are the most effective strategies women use to cope with competing roles of work and family.Originality/valueThis ground‐breaking work in Pakistan on women entrepreneurs' work‐life balance may also inspire other women who want to start their entrepreneurial career.
Factors impacting international entrepreneurship in Malaysia
Authors: Julian Craig C. , Ahmed Zafar U. 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThis article aims to analyze factors impacting international entrepreneurship in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachInterviews were conducted with 71 firms, both in the manufacturing sector and the service sector, across the 12 states of Malaysia.FindingsThe interviews revealed the reasons these firms internationalised, key success factors, and the barriers to internationalisation including export market attractiveness, government policy, foreign practices being incompatible with domestic business and adapting to foreign market needs.Research limitations/implicationsDue to a lack of resources, firms from West Malaysia were not contacted. West Malaysian firms may well possess characteristics concerning the barriers to internationalisation that are unique to their region.Practical implicationsThis article provides insight into the perceptions and decision‐making processes of Malaysian entrepreneurs with regard to the barriers to internationalisation, thereby making a contribution to international business knowledge in a relatively unknown region of the world.Originality/valueThe study findings and interviews showed that in order to encourage and to be successful in international business, government policy must play an active role in promoting, assisting and helping Malaysian firms in terms of financing, training, technology and the offer of lucrative tax concessions so that the domestic firms would be encouraged to engage in international business.
The internationalisation of small games development firms: evidence from Poland and Hungary
Authors: Cunningham Isobel , Loane Sharon , Ibbotson Pat 
Published: May 2012

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the internationalisation strategies of small games development firms from Poland and Hungary.Design/methodology/approachThis enquiry adopts a qualitative approach, whereby firms were identified from online searches, and secondary information was sought on each firm prior to in‐depth interview, in order to highlight the issues relating to internationalisation/growth.FindingsThe paper provides evidence that small games development firms undertake rapid internationalisation, despite resource constraints. Firms were founded by teams of entrepreneurs who unlike many other international entrepreneurs, did not have a priori experience, sometimes moving from being hobbyists into commercial operations. These often exist in a pre‐natal phase some years before formal incorporation, an important phase when many of the resources required are sourced. The findings show only partial support for RBV, as these firms were acquiring and controlling resources from their environment on a freelance and low commitment basis. The authors speculate that these firms display dynamic capabilities of the highest order in order to do so.Research/limitations/implicationsThis enquiry adds to understanding of the (international) growth strategies of small games development firms, and gives insight into how they access dynamic capabilities. However, the number of firms investigated is small and from two Eastern European countries, therefore further larger scale research should be undertaken.Originality/valueBased on this exploration new insights are developed with regard to an under researched sector, and how such firms undertake rapid internationational growth, despite being particularly resource constrained. In particular, the entrpreneurs in these firms have little experience and creatively acquire and control resources in order to grow rapidly. The authors speculate that they display advanced dynamic capabilities.