bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The influence of total quality management (TQM) on operational flexibility in Jordanian hospitals
Authors: Naser Alolayyan Main , Anuar Mohd Ali Khairul , Idris Fazli 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe importance of total quality management (TQM) to organizational achievement and performance has been established by many studies. Nevertheless, studies on the implementation of TQM and its relationship to operational flexibility have been limited, particularly in the developing countries. The purpose of this paper is to address this gap by exploring the extent of the application of TQM and its influence on operational flexibility in Jordanian hospitals.Design/methodology/approachThe study covers both public (King Abdullah University Hospital) and private (Jordan Hospital and Medical Center) health care services. A survey was conducted using a quantitative approach where the researchers distributed 400 questionnaires to selected respondents. The response rate was 57 percent out of the total questionnaires distributed. TQM is an independent variable which consists of eight principles, namely, leadership, employee management, information analysis, training, customer focus, continuous improvement, process management, and supplier management was examined in relation to operational flexibility as a dependent variable which comprises external flexibility and internal robustness.FindingsThe findings reveal that there is a significant positive relationship between TQM and operational flexibility. The authors conclude that TQM practices significantly influence the intensity of operational flexibility in Jordanian hospitals.Originality/valueThe significant impact of TQM on operational flexibility has been argued to be positive. The value of the paper is that it points out the influence of TQM on operational flexibility in Jordanian hospitals in order to improve hospital performance and efficiency.
A survey on nature‐inspired metaphors for pervasive service ecosystems
Authors: Zambonelli Franco , Viroli Mirko 
Published: September 2011

PurposeEmerging pervasive computing scenarios require open service frameworks promoting situated and self‐adaptive behaviors, and supporting diversity in services and long‐term evolvability. This suggests adopting a nature‐inspired approach, where pervasive services are modeled and deployed as autonomous individuals in an ecosystem of other services, data sources, and pervasive devices. However, there are many possibly nature‐inspired metaphors that can be adopted, and choosing one may require a careful analysis of the pros and cons of the different metaphors. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the key requirements and desiderata for next generation pervasive computing services and associated infrastructures.Design/methodology/approachIn this paper, the authors introduce and critically analyze a number of natural metaphors that can be adopted to realize these concepts and survey relevant proposals in the area.FindingsThe key result of this survey is that a uniform reference architecture can be a useful guide when framing the challenges involved in the design and implementation of future self‐adaptive pervasive service ecosystems.Originality/valueThe survey in this paper, along with the proposed reference architecture, can be effective starting points towards the definition and implementation of general‐purpose nature‐inspired pervasive service ecosystems.
Towards an intelligent integrated language learning environment
Authors: Wahl Harald , Winiwarter Werner , Quirchmayr Gerald 
Published: September 2011

PurposeComputer‐assisted language learning (CALL) comes in many different flavors. The purpose of this paper is to focus on developing an integrated e‐learning environment that allows improving language skills in specific contexts. Integrated e‐learning environment means that it is a web‐based solution that performs language learning tasks using common working environments such as, for instance, web browsers or e‐mail clients. It should be accessible on different platforms, even on mobile devices. Natural language processing (NLP) forms the technological basis for developing such a learning framework. The use of NLP technologies, or in broader view artificial intelligence technologies, in CALL has also been dubbed intelligent CALL. The paper gives an overview of the state of the art in this area.Design/methodology/approachOn the one hand, the paper explains creation processes for NLP resources and gives an overview of language corpora. On the other hand, it describes existing NLP standards. Based on the authors' requirements, the paper gives special attention to the evaluation and comparison of toolkits that can suitably support the planned implementation. In consideration of the evaluation results, the authors give a closer look at the system architecture of the CALL platform. An outlook at the end points out necessary developments in e‐learning to keep in mind.FindingsBased on evaluation result, the authors have designed the framework architecture for the intelligent integrated CALL (iiCALL) system. A first prototype shows a web browser plug‐in communicating with the framework started in an Apache Tomcat server environment.Originality/valueThe paper presents an extended version of a paper that has been selected as one of the invited papers for journal special issue consideration at iiWAS2010. It focuses on the evaluation of several NLP toolkits which might be of importance for those who plan to integrate NLP technologies in their projects.
A recursive visual query language for XML data
Authors: Ykhlef Mourad 
Published: September 2011

PurposeeXtensible Markup Language (XML) data are data which are not necessarily constrained by a schema, XML is fast emerging as a standard for data representation and exchange on the world wide web, the ability to intelligently query XML data becomes increasingly important. Some XML graphical query languages for XML data have been proposed but they are either too complex or too limited in the power of expression and in their use. The purpose of this paper is to propose a recursive graphical query language for querying and restructuring XML data (RGQLX). The expressive power of RGQLX is comparable to Fixpoint. RGQLX language is a multi‐sorted graphical language integrating grouping, aggregate functions, nested queries and recursion.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology emphasizes on RGQLX's development which is base of G‐XML data model syntax to express a wide variety of XML queries, ranging from simple selection, to expressive data transformations involving grouping, aggregation and sorting. RGQLX allows users to express recursive visual queries in an elegant manner. RGQLX has an operational semantics based on the annotated XML, which serves to express queries and data trees in form of XML. The paper presents an algorithm to achieve the matching between data and query trees after translating a query tree into annotated XML.FindingsDeveloped and demonstrated were: a G‐XML model; recursive queries; annotated XML for the semantic operations and a matching algorithm.Research limitations/implicationsThe future research work on RGQLX language will be expanding it to include recursive aggregations.Practical implicationsThe algorithms/approaches proposed can be easily integrated in any commercial product to enhance the performance of XML query languages.Originality/valueThe proposed work integrates various novel techniques for XML query syntax/semantic into a single language with a suitable matching algorithm. The power of this proposal is in the class of Fixpoint queries.
Identifying commonalities in web content management system engineering
Authors: Souer Jurriaan , Joor Dirk‐Jan , Helms Remko , Brinkkemper Sjaak 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe main purpose of this paper is to improve a web content management system (WCMS) product line for future implementations by identifying software commonalities in WCMS‐based web applications. WCMS plays a central role in modern web application development: most large public and internal web sites are based on a WCMS foundation. If we can improve the implementation process, the effectiveness and efficiency of web application development will increase significantly.Design/methodology/approachThis research identifies reusable solutions from existing WCMS implementations using problem diagrams and structured goal modeling. From configurations were matched with atomic e‐business models by linking them to the strategic competencies through bottom‐up goal modeling. A designed method was constructed on how requirements can be elicited for WCMS implementations using goal modeling and problem frames.FindingsThe resulting method provides insight in relevant e‐business models and their relation to software product lines. Moreover, the approach is applied in a WCMS study which demonstrates its applicability.Practical implicationsThe practical implications of this research is twofold: WCMS developers now have a method to improve their product line based on e‐business models; and requirements engineers implementing WCMS can use this model to apply reusable software and prioritize requirements. Both will potentially have a large impact on the effectiveness of implementations since most web applications are developed with WCMS.Originality/valueThe paper presents a novel approach for efficient and effective identification of software commonalities. This research is part of the web engineering method that focuses on development of web applications based on WCMSs.
Dependency on smartphone and the impact on purchase behaviour
Authors: Hooi Ting Ding , Fong Lim Suet , Siuly Patanmacia Tanusina , Gie Low Ca , Chuan Ker Gay 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the effect of convenience, social needs and social influences on university students' dependency towards smartphones and the impact on future purchase behaviour in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachHypotheses were tested with a random and judgemental sampling (students who use smartphones only) of 358 university students using a face‐to‐face survey method. Structural equation modelling was used to test the hypotheses.FindingsThe results indicated that university students' dependency on smartphones is influenced by convenience, social needs and social influences and dependency is positively related with future purchase behaviour.Research limitations/implicationsResults of this study are limited by the absence of equal distribution across different races and culture of university students.Originality/valueThe domain of research, smartphones, is a new technology that is largely adopted and deserves investigation for future mobile market strategies. Although this research of smartphone dependency is limited to universities, this study contributes to the field by adding new investigation in this new target segment of smartphone users.
The influence of image consciousness, materialism and compulsive spending on credit card usage intentions among youth
Authors: Nga Joyce K.H. , Yong Lisa H.L. , Sellappan Rathakrishnan 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThis study aims to bridge the gap in the literature on consumer behaviours such as image consciousness, materialism and consumer spending on credit card usage intentions among Malaysian college students.Design/methodology/approachA purposive sampling design was employed using a sample of 191 business and management students at a private higher education institution in Subang Jaya, Malaysia. An anonymous survey questionnaire was administered to the students. Structural equation modeling was then used to determine the validity of the path diagram and model fit.FindingsThe findings of the study revealed that materialism is a partial mediator in the relationship between image consciousness and compulsive spending. The study also found that compulsive spending is not a mediator in the relationship between materialism and credit card usage intentions. However, compulsive spending does exert a sizable influence.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research is required to investigate whether family background has an impact on youth abilities to be more responsible and rational when undertaking more lavish lifestyles and credit.Practical implicationsThe implication of this study is that there needs to be more concerted efforts made in instilling credit card awareness and financial discipline among youth to avoid them falling into the debt trap at an early age.Originality/valueThis study highlighted the existence of the credit card debt problem which can inhibit Malaysia's vision to achieve a developed nation status in 2020.
A global culture of cool? Generation Y and their perception of coolness
Authors: Ferguson Shelagh 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThis paper seeks to explore whether the global market segment Generation Y shares a common perception of a specific consumption activity, namely bungy jumping, and how perceptions of cool operate around that.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative methodology is adopted, appropriate to the exploratory aims of the research, which utilises existing filmed interviews to elicit responses from other members of Generation Y. The research explores shared identification, meaning and knowledge of a specific consumption practice, namely commercial bungy jumping.FindingsThe actual form of consumption, bungy jumping was widely accepted as being “cool” but a global consensus on a “cool” consumer and their story could not be reached. The research concludes by proposing a hierarchy for the attribution of cool from one Generation Y member to another; thus extending theoretical discussion and knowledge by investigating an established concept in a specific context to illustrate the complex and uneven nature of cultural globalisation.Research limitations/implicationsThis research interprets global Generation Y culture from a small convenience sample from America, Ireland, Scotland and England, thus generating avenues for further research as discussed.Originality/valueThese findings have value for businesses that create consumption experiences for Generation Y customers and scholars seeking insight into the plural and complex function of cool.
Improving the uptake of the Australian Home Medicines Review (AHMR) through patient segmentation
Authors: White Lesley , Klinner Christiane , Cobelli Nicola 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the problems patients and caregivers have with using medicines appropriately, their desire for assistance with managing medications and their self‐perceived need for the Australian Home Medicines Review (AHMR).Design/methodology/approachA qualitative research study was conducted with eight semi‐structured focus groups, including a total of 50 HMR‐eligible patients and caregivers. Participants who were purposively sampled represented older males, older females, younger chronically ill patients, patients from Chinese and Arabic backgrounds and the general HMR target group.FindingsAccording to the types of medicine problems encountered by participants, their level of medicine understanding and their desire for assistance with using medicines, four distinct patient segments are identified and explicated: the heedless patient, the aware patient, the scrupulous patient and the self‐sufficient patient.Practical implicationsThe uptake of the HMR service can be effectively increased by direct‐to‐consumer HMR promotion that is tailored to the behaviors, needs, and desires of eligible patients and caregivers. The proposed segmentation model of HMR‐eligible consumers addresses these differences and can be used to inform health policy makers regarding a more effective promotion of the HMR service.Originality/valueThis is the first study to investigate how the HMR‐uptake could be increased, from the perspective of eligible patients and their caregivers.
Gain the most from your marketing spend on loyalty
Authors: Stephens Balakrishnan Melodena 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe paper aims to highlight common mistakes organizations make when designing loyalty programs and provides the reader some questions to ponder before spending money in the pursuit of loyalty. It is based on a review of 300 journal articles.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on a detailed review of literature, and the author's observation in researching loyalty over the last three years.FindingsLoyalty is of many types and the biggest mistake organizations make is thinking they all need attitudinal loyalty. This is not so and organizations should look at the industry, customers and more importantly their own goals before deciding how much money to spend.Originality/valueThe study prioritizes perceived value, satisfaction, behavioral loyalty and attitudinal loyalty in the context of the organizational goals and industry. It provides a simple process to relook ROI in loyalty programs.
Decision‐making styles of young Iranian consumers
Authors: Moosavi Kavkani Seyyed Ali , Seyedjavadain Seyedreza , Saadeghvaziri Faraz 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to define Iranian consumers' decision making styles.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative, non‐experimental, and descriptive‐analytic survey design was used in this study. The questionnaire statements were adapted from the instrument used by Sproles and Kendall. Like the study of Sproles and Kendall, the sample under consideration was made up of students. A convenience sample was drawn from students of two large universities (Tehran University and Azad University). A total of 650 questionnaires were distributed, and 600 of them were returned.FindingsThe results identified seven decision‐making styles: perfectionism consciousness, novelty and fashion consciousness, recreational and hedonistic consciousness, confused by over choice, impulsiveness and carelessness, price and value consciousness, and brand loyalty.Research limitations/implicationsThe limitation is that the sample used in this study was chosen from university students that may have resulted in sampling biases.Originality/valueConsidering previous studies showing that researchers have selected different populations and found different results. Also, it must be stressed that there is no research investigating Iranian consumer's decision making styles. Thus, this study added new empirical findings to the current body of knowledge through new evidences and also demonstrated new decision making style.
Predictors and outcomes of relationship quality: a guide for customer‐oriented strategies
Authors: Tohidinia Zahra , Haghighi Mohammad 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the influence of a number of factors on relationship quality and also study the impact of relationship quality on customer's behavioral intentions.Design/methodology/approachBased on prior studies we tried to develop a comprehensive model. The model covered different antecedents and consequences of relationship quality. Responses of a total of 217 key customers of a semi‐private bank were considered. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was then used to test the research model and hypotheses.FindingsThis research evaluated the impact of a series of potential factors on relationship quality. While trust, competency and commitment had a positive impact on relationship quality, communication and conflict handling did not show a significant relationship with this variable. Moreover relationship quality had a significant relationship with customer satisfaction. Furthermore, customer satisfaction had a positive impact on re‐purchase intentions, positive word‐of‐mouth and customer's positive feedback.Originality/valueWhile most studies have considered only the perquisites or the outcomes of relationship quality, this study has tried to provide a comprehensive understanding about both antecedents and consequences of relationship quality in one model. Since there was a lack of such research especially in countries with rather collective cultures like Iran, this paper can provide theoretical basis for future studies as well as practical implications for managers and practitioners.
Removing communication barriers at work
Authors: Madera Juan M. 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review the contribution made by this theme issue to the literature examining workforce diversity in the hospitality industry and methods that can be used to remediate communication barriers due to differences.Design/methodology/approachThis paper reviews some of the key contributions arising from this theme issue.FindingsThe summary highlights the research on workforce and diversity and communication barriers and discusses the implications of diversity for hospitality employers and researchers.Research limitations/implicationsDiversity is a modern day reality that brings challenges and opportunities to hospitality operators.Originality/valueThe research in this theme provides insight from both practitioner and academic perspectives as to how employers can remove communication barriers at the workplace.
Against the odds: researcher development in teaching‐focused HEIs
Authors: O'Byrne Carol 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the emergence of a “researcher” dimension in the academic professional identities of lecturers operating in the teaching‐focused Institute of Technology (IoT) sector of Irish higher education.Design/methodology/approachUsing Margaret S. Archer's social realist conceptualisation of the reflexive formation of personal and social identities as a theoretical lens, life history data from ten research‐active lecturers working in one of Ireland's 13 IoTs were analysed. The research aimed to understand both the factors that influence the development of “researcher” identities in this context and the nature of the identities that develop.FindingsThe analysis suggests that sectoral location acts as an obstacle to researcher development but that the restrictions at sectoral level can be counteracted by positive intervention at institutional level. Challenges created by lecturers' involuntary placement in schools and departments that may be home to a range of disparate disciplines can be resolved. This generally occurs through voluntary alignment with alternative collectivities that provide individuals with coherent conceptual homes. Lecturers can and do develop researcher identities in this context but what it means to be a researcher can vary from one individual to the next.Originality/valueThe study provides a valuable insight into the process by which individuals operating in teaching‐focused higher education institutions develop the researcher dimension of their academic professional identities. It should be of benefit to individuals striving to become researchers in similar contexts. Its conclusions may also be of value to institutions striving to develop research cultures and to encourage staff to become research‐active.