bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The dual value of honesty among Russians in selected former Soviet countries
Authors: Vadi Maaja , Jaakson Krista 
Published: January 2011

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to analyse the factors associated with the perception of the value honesty among Russian organisational members from selected former Soviet countries: Russia, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.Design/methodology/approachUsing the Rokeach Value Survey, the respondents were asked to rank their own values and to speculate on how their co‐workers would rank the same values. The following analysis focused on the importance of honesty, its concurrence with speculations about co‐workers, the impact of other personal values and socio‐demographic characteristics.FindingsOne of the most important findings of this study is that value honesty is amongst the most important values for Russians, while the importance of this value was not similar for Russians living in Russia and the Baltic States. Value consensus tells us the most about how important honesty is for the focal person. Results also reveal that other personal values, namely, family security, comfortable life, imaginative, capable and broad minded help to predict the assessment of honesty.Research limitations/implicationsThe results of the study imply that societal influence prevails over cultural influence when the importance honesty is assessed among Russians. Also, we show that individually, value honesty is socially construed and can therefore be manipulated via changing his/her perception of social consensus rather than directly.Originality/valueThe originality of the paper lies in the focusing on the Russians living in different countries of former Soviet Union by analysing the importance of value honesty which plays a role in business and societal culture.
Variation in communication satisfaction of academic staff in universities in Yemen depending on national culture
Authors: Mohammed Al‐Nashmi Murad , Syd Abdul Rahman Hj. Syd Zin Hj. 
Published: January 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to provide an assessment of communication practices in universities in Yemen. The paper also gives further insight into the relationship between national culture (NC) and communication satisfaction (CS) of multicultural teams at universities.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a quantitative research design and used quantitative instruments to collect data from 338 faculty members from different countries including professors, associate professors, assistant professors, teachers, and tutors working at four universities in Yemen. Data were collected using the CS questionnaire and the Value Survey Module.FindingsThe analysis of the data shows that the CS levels among the academic staff vary according to the nationality. In addition, analysis of the data revealed that there is a significant relationship between CS factors and NC dimensions.Originality/valueThis research provides valuable insight into the faculty members' development and performance. It may assist the multicultural academic staff to be able to help, improve working relationships, and understanding of intercultural communication which help them to reach a CS.
The impact of institutional processes, social networks, and culture on diffusion of global work values in multinational organizations
Authors: Rosenblatt Valerie 
Published: January 2011

PurposePrevious research has documented emergence of global work values and an important function of multinational organizations (MNOs) in their diffusion. However, studies on the processes supporting the diffusion of global work values have been limited. This study seeks to conceptually explore the roles of institutional mechanisms and moderating functions of social network structures and cultural values in diffusion of global work values within the context of MNOs.Design/methodology/approachAdopting a multilevel approach and grounding the arguments in the neo‐institutional framework, this work synthesizes cross‐cultural research with organizational theory research to present a conceptual model of the diffusion of global work values in the context of MNOs.FindingsIt is proposed that the level of diffusion of global work values by members of MNOs is positively related to the level of institutionalization of these values within and between MNOs by means of regulative and normative institutional processes. The arguments also suggest that regulative and normative institutional processes are likely to diffuse global work values more efficiently among members of MNOs with collectivistic value orientations and tight dense social networks with closures.Practical implicationsThe findings may be useful for managers looking to implement global corporate culture and values programs, searching for the right mechanisms to diffuse values among units with certain cultural backgrounds, social network structures and institutional contexts.Originality/valueThis paper combines diverse research streams to elaborate on the dynamic interfaces of global work values diffusion and lays groundwork for future empirical investigations.
Developing a supply chain performance tool for SMEs in Thailand
Authors: Banomyong Ruth , Supatn Nucharee 
Published: January 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to present a supply chain performance assessment tool that measures the performance of key supply chain activities of a firm under different performance dimensions.Design/methodology/approachThe tool was developed based on an extensive literature review. The nine key internal supply chain activities, as proposed by Grant et al. in 2006, constituted the backbone of the assessment framework, while performance was measured based on three dimensions: cost, time, and reliability. The tool was pilot‐tested on 44 local SMEs. The results were then compared with existing performance benchmark as well as within the benchmarked group itself and a high performing Thai multinational in order to see whether the developed tool could identify performance gaps in the trial group.FindingsThe results obtained from the tool provide a description of a firm's internal supply chain activity. The utilised supply chain performance framework can isolate each individual supply chain activity. The results are therefore precise enough for firms to identify individual areas of strengths and weaknesses. The tool is relatively simple and easy to use and understand.Research limitations/implicationsLimitation is related to the availability of the required assessment data. The availability of data is a reflection of systematic data collection and storage procedures of the respondent firms.Originality/valueThe tool was developed on clearly defined theoretical foundations. The three dimensions of cost, time and reliability can balance both financial and non‐financial characteristics of supply chain performance. The data required are simple and objective.
Multimodal supply chains: iron ore from Australia to China
Authors: Beresford Anthony , Pettit Stephen , Liu Yukuan 
Published: January 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to analyse available multimodal transport route variations for iron ore shipments from northwest Australia to northeast China, focusing on a major iron and steel manufacturer.Design/methodology/approachThe research is focused on a case study and uses an established cost model as a framework, for the first time, in the context of heavy bulk cargo shipments. Field interviews and a questionnaire form the principal methods of primary data collection. The characteristics of bulk iron ore transport flow are analysed against traditional criteria and an appraisal of the transport infrastructure in north east China is made, considering both road and rail options, and various possible combinations for transport being evaluated. All factors affecting modal choice in the region are examined, including cargo volume, weight, and value, transport distance, transit time, transport costs and schedule reliability.FindingsThe volumes of iron ore moved are large, with a high weight‐to‐volume ratio, and shipments are regular. The research initially confirms that sea and rail transport combinations are the most appropriate for the movement of iron ore. However, where rail transport corridors are congested, provided that the transport distances are not too great, road haulage appears to be an effective substitute and the most competitive multimodal transport route, at least in the short to medium term, is found to be a rail‐sea‐road combination via Port Bayuquan in China.Research limitations/implicationsThe research focuses on the delivery of iron ore to one major steel manufacturer in northeast China; so findings may not be transferable to other companies or circumstances.Practical implicationsThe paper first demonstrates that, for heavy, high volume cargoes concentration of flows on to one corridor, perhaps under the control of one service provider, maximises scale economies, but works against competition and route/mode choice. Second, it demonstrates that, for long haul shipments of iron ore, port variations and modal differences for inland transport yield only marginal differences in overall logistics costs.Originality/valueAn assessment of high volume/heavy/low value cargoes such as iron ore has not previously been undertaken using this cost model. This paper therefore provides an original analysis of such supply chains.
Supply chain management in an uncertain economic climate: a UK perspective
Authors: Ross Andrew 
Published: January 2011

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to consider whether the benefits that construction organisations achieve by adopting a supply chain management approach to their specialist partners outweigh those that are derived from a market‐driven approach.Design/methodology/approachThis editorial adopts a transaction economics perspective to evaluate the external environment facing contracting organisations within the UK, especially as a result of the recent economic downturn. One of the consequences of the reduced demand for construction work is that clients now prefer a market‐based approach to the procurement of their contractors; this assertion is supported by analysis of recently published survey data on client procurement approaches and price and cost data.FindingsThe transactional economic implications of these changes to the supplier/contractor relationship are presented for discussion. The research implications of this indicate that further empirical data is required on: the economic benefits of supply chain management, how the benefits are derived from the different sub markets that exist in construction, and the influence the external economic environment has upon the contractor/subcontractor transaction interface.Originality/valueThis work seeks to encourage researchers to empiricise the theoretical constructs of new institutional economics in line with the dynamics of the subcontracting/supplier market. In doing so, a better understanding of the economic factors that can influence the bilateral dependencies that exist between large and small organisations may result.
Success factors for the implementation of web‐based construction project management systems
Authors: Nitithamyong Pollaphat , Skibniewski Mirosław J. 
Published: January 2011

PurposeAcademics and practitioners anticipated that web‐based project management systems (WPMSs) would enhance and revolutionise the way in which construction‐related organisations conduct business. However, widespread adoption and effective use have not reached expected levels partly because of a lack of comprehensive understanding on how to implement WPMSs avoiding pitfalls and failure. This paper aims to investigate the rationale behind WPMS performance deviations in order to suggest ways to effectively employ WPMSs in construction projects.Design/methodology/approachThree project‐level case studies were undertaken representing a highly successful, a moderately successful, and an unsuccessful WPMS implementation. For each case, WPMS implementation and operational issues were examined, followed by a detailed investigation on the key factors affecting the WPMS application. The findings from the three case studies were then compared and analysed.FindingsThe case studies reveal a clear pattern related to WPMS performance in relation to a number of issues. Following this pattern, the study identifies “basic” requirements as well as “important” and “key” factors for a successful WPMS implementation. The conclusions from the case studies suggest ways in which construction project teams can reap greater benefits from using WPMSs in their work.Originality/valueThe findings reported herein will benefit construction practitioners by guiding them to more productive ways of utilising and managing WPMSs, thereby promoting widespread acceptance of such systems in the industry.
Applying and developing health service theory: an empirical study into clinical governance
Authors: Greenfield David , Nugus Peter , Fairbrother Greg , Milne Jacqueline , Debono Deborah 
Published: January 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to examine an organisation's enactment of clinical governance through applying and advancing a theoretical model.Design/methodology/approachThe research site was a large organisation within an autonomous jurisdiction. The study focused on one organisational division. There were nine interviews and 15 focus groups (118 participants). Ethnographic observations totalled 60.5 hours. Document analysis was conducted with organisational reports and website. Data were examined against the model's four attributes and 24 elements, and used to conduct an organisational culture analysis.FindingsAnalysis showed that a majority of elements, 17 of 24, were strongly identifiable. The remainder were identifiable but not strongly so. Analysis suggested two additions to the model: the inclusion of two elements to an existing attribute and a new attribute and defining elements. This showed that the organisation was working towards, but not yet having achieved, a positive quality and safety culture. In particular, a schism in understanding between managers and frontline staff was noted.Research limitations/implicationsThe study empirically applied and refined a health service theory. The new model, the “clinical governance practice model”, can be broadly applied, and can continue to be developed to expand the evidence base for the field.Practical implicationsSubstantively, the study accounts for differences in managerial and frontline staff actions in applying clinical governance. Investigations to understand and identify strategies to bridge the differences are required.Originality/valueThe study is an original application and refinement of a health service theory. The study identifies that the interpretation of clinical governance, whilst different in different places, gives rise to similar disagreements.
Physical healthcare for people with serious mental illness
Authors: Ratcliffe Tom , Dabin Sam , Barker Peter 
Published: January 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to design and implement an audit of physical health monitoring for patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder in primary care.Design/methodology/approachEvidence‐based criteria for physical health monitoring were developed from current clinical guidelines. Physical health monitoring of 128 patients with a diagnosis of either schizophrenia or bipolar disorder was audited against these criteria in two urban GP practices.FindingsThe number of patients whose smoking history, alcohol consumption history, blood pressure and body mass index had been recorded in the preceding 15 months varied significantly by practice, whilst recording of blood cholesterol and diabetes status did not. Patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia were significantly more likely to have had a diabetes status recorded in the preceding 15 months compared to patients with bipolar disorder.Research limitations/implicationsStandards for compliance with audit criteria need to be debated and agreed with stakeholders. Further research is needed into how physical healthcare services can effectively engage patients with serious mental illness.Practical implicationsAudit of physical health monitoring in primary care is feasible and could be used to identify shortcomings in physical healthcare for people with serious mental illness. Inviting patients on practices' mental health registers for cardiovascular risk screening should be considered.Social implicationsRegular audit of physical health monitoring in people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder may help ensure equitable healthcare delivery for patients with serious mental illness.Originality/valueThis paper presents an audit methodology that primary care trusts and general practitioners can use to assess how effectively the physical health of people with serious mental illness is being monitored.
Section 136 assessments in Trafford Borough of Manchester
Authors: Tanveer Sadiq Khurram , Moghal Akbar , Mahadun Prem 
Published: January 2011

PurposeThe aim of this study is to ascertain a trend of the section 136 assessments over a period of time and compare it with the standards laid down by the code of practice.Design/methodology/approachThe study looks at trends over a period of eight months since the opening of the section 136 services. The demographic details such as age, gender, and ethnicity were recorded. The other variables recorded include reason for using section 136, the place of assessment, time of referral, total time of assessment, the assessors undertaking the assessment, outcome of referral, whether the patient was under the influence of alcohol and suffered any concomitant physical problems and whether the police were present during the assessmentFindingsA total of 45 assessments were undertaken under section 136 of the Mental Health Act. The majority (93.3 percent) of the assessments were done in section 136 suite. Threats to self harm (35.5 percent) was the most common reason of detention. Mood disorders were the commonest diagnosis (22.2 percent each). A total of 17 (37.8 percent) of the patients detained were admitted to the inpatient units.Research limitations/implicationsIt was noticed that rate of section 136 assessments decreased over months after an initial surge. It was also noted that the conversion rate of admissions was low which raises questions about the rightful use of section 136 detentions.Practical implicationsIt will be interesting to conduct future studies to find out the reasons for the surge in the use of section 136 detentions when a new service is set up for the same. It also need to be noted that the conversion rate was low which raises the appropriateness of section 136 detentions, together with the finding that one‐third of the detained patients had a discharge diagnosis of alcohol and drug problems raises the possibility whether section 136 is overused among this group.Originality/valuePreviously studies have been conducted regarding the section 136 assessments but this study monitors all the variables identified, to be monitored, by the code of practice.
Determining quality of public health care services in rural India
Authors: Narang Ritu 
Published: January 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to measure the perception of patients towards quality of services in public health care centres in rural India.Design/methodology/approachA 23‐item scale that tested well for reliability and construct validity was employed for the study. Mixed sampling technique was employed to select the sample. A total of 500 respondents from Eastern, Western and Central regions of Uttar Pradesh were surveyed.FindingsThe survey instrument had an overall Cronbach's alpha value of 0.96 and was able to discern differences across various socio‐demographic characteristics of the respondents. The opinions of the respondents towards health care quality were not very favourable. Negative scores were obtained on items, “availability of adequate medical equipments” and “availability of doctors for women”. Education, gender and income were found to be significantly associated with user perception.Research limitations/implicationsThe current study was limited to measuring the perceived quality of health care services in public centres only. Moreover, as the study was confined to the state of Uttar Pradesh so caution has to be exercised in making generalisations for the entire nation.Practical implicationsValuable insights into the quality of services at public health care centres in rural India have been provided by the study.Originality/valueKnowledge about the patients' perception towards health care quality is one of the most important steps towards introducing reforms in the health care sector. Identification of areas that require immediate improvement in public health care centres provides valuable guidance to the policy makers who can devise suitable strategies to make these centres more sensitive and responsible to the needs of the rural population. This can lead to restoration of faith in public health care centres and subsequently their increased consumption.
Community of CompetenceTM
Authors: Smith Elizabeth A. , Mireles Matthew C. 
Published: January 2011

PurposeThe paper aims to propose that Community of CompetenceTM (C of C), as a catalyst for change, can foster and accelerate a paradigm shift in how longstanding, complex problems in health care are perceived, interpreted, and resolved. When multiple stakeholders within a C of C share a common or superordinate goal, group productivity increases as more effective and efficient use is made of human and material resources.Design/methodology/approachThe authors used the logical step‐by‐step process of systems thinking to see the whole picture, from beginning to end. Continuously cycling trial solutions back through the entire system improved the depth and breadth of results. Participants in each of the three ongoing projects used the safety and welfare of patients, the only true customers of health care, as a superordinate goal. This sole focus expedited and clarified decision making and provided valuable information on best practices for use in improving the safety and overall quality of patient‐centered care.FindingsResults of anecdotal, observational, and documented findings validated the decision to continue using patient safety and patient welfare as the common, unifying superordinate goal in health care. The flexible structure and competency‐based, interactive work environment of C of C support networking and sharing of unique competencies and knowledge to guide a focused, streamlined problem‐solving processes.Originality/valueC of C has been used for more than seven years to analyze high‐priority healthcare problems and to create comprehensive, realistic solutions. When members of a proven competence identify a superordinate goal, collaborate and openly share tacit and explicit knowledge, the efficiency, effectiveness, and quality of solutions increase.