bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The impact on urban distribution operations of upstream supply chain constraints
Authors: Browne Michael , Gomez Mireia 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate and quantify the impact of delivery restrictions on costs and environmental performance for a distribution operation.Design/methodology/approachData were gathered from a company and several scenarios with varying delivery restrictions were investigated.FindingsThe results show significant reductions in cost and environmental impacts are achieved when restrictions are relaxed. However, the research also highlighted the importance of adopting a supply chain (SC) approach to the removal of restrictions and the need for public/private sector cooperation.Research limitations/implicationsThe case study is based on one company only. However, the company performs many trips each day to many different customers.Practical implicationsThe paper provides insight into the scope for change in the SC decision‐making processes in order to reduce environmental impacts (and identifies limitations).Originality/valueThe paper is a contribution to better understanding the importance of logistics decisions and not only transport when considering urban freight problems.
Simulation of goods delivery process
Authors: Boussier Jean‐Marie , Cucu Tatiana , Ion Luminita , Breuil Dominique 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThis paper claims that the parking policy is one of the most obvious tools for reducing traffic congestion, pollutant emissions and conflicts between transportation network users. The purpose of this paper is to propose and implement a strategy, via a simulation tool, for the sharing of parking places between light cars and vans for goods delivery.Design/methodology/approachTemporal and spatial dynamic booking of on‐street parking places is described by using the multi‐agent paradigm. Main agents concerned by the sharing of parking places, their rules and interactions are implemented. Behavioral models and learning process of cognitive agents based on stated preferences collected beside the network users are designed for capturing multi‐agent interactions.FindingsBy coupling a 2D traffic simulation tool and the Copert III methodology, it is possible to simulate the traffic and environmental consequences of several scenarios for different infrastructures, occupancy rate of the places reserved for goods delivery and durations of the delivery process.Research limitations/implicationsSeveral points are under development: a 3D environment will capture with more realism the behavior of agents in a larger spatial scale and in real time. The behavioral models will be designed by stated preferences obtained from surveys containing questions coupled with pictures of possible scenarios.Practical implicationsApplied in a real context, the sharing of parking places strategy shows benefits for traffic and for the environment. A decision maker can use this strategy for simulating scenarios, in the context of an urban area in particular.Originality/valueThe paper demonstrates how a simulation tool based on strategy of parking place sharing can satisfy constraints of transportation network users.
Technology foresight in Korea: a review of recent government exercises
Authors: Hwang JiHo , Kim YoungJun , Son Soekho , Han Jongmin 
Published: October 2011

PurposeAccurate and timely foresight of future trends and changes in science and technology (S&T) is a key to national competitiveness. The purpose of this paper is to describe recent technological foresight conducted by the Technology Foresight Center at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Evaluation and Planning. The authors also address current issues and problems encountered in the process of technology foresight (TF) in Korea.Design/methodology/approachThe authors used TF methodologies which included bibliometrics, expert panels, SWOT analysis, and conferences/seminars.FindingsThe authors derived 20 future issues and 40 future needs in S&T from the five areas of global mega trends; then 200 future technologies were suggested with a time horizon of 40 years, from 2010 to 2050, for solving those future issues and needs. Finally, the authors suggested outlooks for technological development in the years 2020 and 2050.Research limitations/implicationsIt is time to evaluate Korean TF exercises which were started 15 years ago. The evaluation of TF will help guide TF and inform policy and decision makers.Practical implicationsThe findings can help policy makers shape future governmental S&T policy in Korea. The final result of this work was applied to the second S&T Framework Plan in Korea, in which 90 technologies were identified as national key technologies for the next five years, from 2008 to 2012.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors' knowledge, there are no studies suggesting not only future technologies based on solving future issues and needs but also outlooks for technology development in the years 2020 and 2050.
Dynamic competition: a look at firms in theFortuneGlobal 500
Authors: Sledge Sally 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an analysis of factors that impact global competitiveness for firms in theFortuneGlobal 500.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses regression analysis to investigate the relationship between relevant competitiveness factors and firm performance forFortuneGlobal 500 firms, using the time period 1995‐2009.FindingsThe composition of firms on the list has changed over the timeframe. The results indicate that headquarters location and globalization are key indicators of firm performance. Other factors such as chief executive officer tenure have a lesser impact on firm performance.Research limitations/implicationsThe timeframe of the study may have impacted the findings. The study included only large firms and thus the findings may not hold for smaller or medium‐sized firms. Additional follow‐up studies are planned.Practical implicationsManagers can identify factors associated with global competitiveness from the paper and pursue those factors in their business strategies.Originality/valueThis study replicates other studies that analyze the relationship between firm situational factors and firm performance. However, this study uses a unique sample, theFortuneGlobal 500, over a 15‐year period.
The exceptional performance strategies of Emirate Airlines
Authors: Nataraja Sundaram , Al‐Aali Abdulrahman 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the strategies and competitive advantages of Emirate Airlines that have led to exceptional performance while the overall airline industry globally has faced multibillion‐dollar losses in 2009.Design/methodology/approachThe authors' professional experience, extensive literature review, and personal communications with selected personnel of Emirate Airlines on the subject provided the foundation for this research.FindingsAs the global business environment becomes increasingly competitive, the airline industry has also had to respond to the current business scenario, while facing devastating falling demands, shattered consumer confidence, and collapsing yields. However, in 2009, Emirate Airlines reported phenomenal growth and astounding profits while their rivals faced agonizing losses. This paper explores and examines the competitive advantage of Emirate Airlines. The major finding is that the formulation and implementation of appropriate strategies has led to the exceptional performance, profitability, and success of Emirate Airlines.Practical implicationsThe competitive strategies – such as operational strategies, generic strategies, intensive strategies, and diversification strategies – can be helpful for firms to gain a competitive advantage over their rivals. Also, the ability to leverage, innovate, and pioneer new ideas, as well as a visionary management team, are essential for exceptional performance of an organization.Originality/valueThe paper provides a model for strategically managing the performance of an aspiring firm, even though the entire industry is facing distressing circumstances.
Sales force impact on B‐to‐B brand equity: conceptual framework and empirical test
Authors: Baumgarth Carsten , Binckebanck Lars 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to develop and empirically test a conceptual framework explaining the influence of the sales force on brand equity relative to the product and promotion elements of the marketing mix, in the context of business‐to‐business marketing.Design/methodology/approachSix research hypotheses, relating to the effects of four key drivers of B‐to‐B brand equity identified in a review of the relevant literature, were empirically tested with a sample of 201 respondents in B‐to‐B firms in Germany, using partial least squares analysis.FindingsThe results confirm the high relevance of the sales force to the building and maintenance of a strong B‐to‐B brand. The most important driver of brand equity in this environment is the salesperson's behaviour, followed in sequence by his or her personality, product quality and non‐personal marketing communications.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample size permits only a general analysis and conclusions. The choice of PLS analysis and formative scales limits the rigorousness of scale and model evaluation. The decision to interview one manager per company may have introduced informant bias.Practical implicationsThe study identifies controllable variables that are critical to the effective management of a B‐to‐B brand and offers an alternative approach to the measurement of brand equity in B‐to‐B marketing.Originality/valueThis is the first study to test the widely claimed influence of the sales force on B‐to‐B brand equity empirically, developing a simple but powerful framework to integrate sales management and brand management in this context.
The predictive ability of corporate narrative disclosures: Australian evidence
Authors: Smith Malcolm , Dong Yinan , Ren Yun 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between narrative disclosures and corporate performance based on Australian evidence. In particular it builds a model which discriminates between good and poor performing companies based on their corporate narratives.Design/methodology/approachA sample of Australian manufacturing companies is classified into two groups based on earnings per share (EPS) movement between 2008 and 2009. A content analysis of their discretionary narrative disclosures is used to classify and predict group membership.FindingsThis study finds that the word‐based variables based on discretionary disclosures are significantly correlated with corporate performance. Word‐based variables can successfully classify companies between “good” performers and “poor” performers with an accuracy of 86 percent.Research limitations/implicationsThe relatively small sample size, for Australian manufacturing companies, limits both the predictive ability of the model and its generalisability elsewhere.Practical implicationsThe findings of the paper demonstrate that certain keywords, notably the use of “high/highest” and “dividends” are significantly and positively associated with superior performance.Originality/valueThe study builds a classification model for continuing Australian companies, whereas prior research focuses on UK and US companies and is based on a healthy/failed distinction.
The impact of independent directors and independent audit committees on earnings quality reported by Indonesian firms
Authors: Siagian Ferdinand T. , Tresnaningsih Elok 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate whether independent directors and audit committees that are chaired by an independent director as required by the Jakarta Stock Exchange (JSX) affect the quality of reported earnings.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses both total discretionary accruals (DA) and earnings response coefficient (ERC) as the proxies for earnings quality. It runs multivariate regressions to examine the improvements in earnings quality after the firms meet the JSX requirements.FindingsIt is found that both DA and ERC improve significantly after firms acquire independent directors and independent audit committees. Lower DA occurs in the first and second years after the firms meet the JSX requirements. There is an improvement in ERC in the first years after firms meeting the requirements.Research limitations/implicationsThe results suggest that independent directors and audit committees do improve earnings quality.Originality/valueThis is the first paper that compares the quality of earnings before and after firms acquire independent directors and independent audit committees. This methodology allows us to examine the impact of meeting JSX independence requirements on earnings quality. The findings contribute to the literature by showing the importance of having independent directors and an independent audit committee in order to improve earnings quality. These findings are specifically important for the capital market regulatory bodies, the shareholders, and the boards of directors, and for other users of financial reports in general.
The effects of changes in competition, technology and strategy on organizational performance in small and medium manufacturing companies
Authors: Zainun Tuanmat Tuan , Smith Malcolm 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThis study aims to examine how the relationship among competitive environment, manufacturing technology and organisational strategy affect organisational performance.Design/methodology/approachUsing a contingency approach, this study investigates the changes in competitive environment, manufacturing technology and organisational strategy in small and medium Malaysian manufacturing companies. The data is collected using a mailed questionnaire survey of manufacturing companies in the Klang Valley.FindingsResults of the study show that the majority of responding companies have recognised changes in their competitive business environment and advanced manufacturing technology, which have impacted on organisational strategic behaviour. Structural equation modelling shows positive relationships among competitive environment, manufacturing technology and organisational strategy, with a positive impact on performance.Research limitations/implicationsThese outcomes provide useful insights into our knowledge of how organisational change has taken place in small and medium companies.Practical implicationsThe study provides useful guidelines to small and medium sized companies facing changes to their business environment.Originality/valueThe study makes an incremental contribution to the existing organisational change literature for SMEs in developing countries.
Changes in management accounting practices in Malaysia
Authors: Zainun Tuanmat Tuan , Smith Malcolm 
Published: October 2011

PurposeMalaysia has moved towards global competitiveness. As an important contributor to the Malaysian economy, this change makes manufacturing companies in Malaysia need to ensure that their business operation and management cope with the current changes. To do this they need to reconsider their existing management accounting practices more than ever. Therefore, this study is carried out to determine how changes in management accounting practices in Malaysian manufacturing companies took place in response to a changing business environment and the effect of changes on performance.Design/methodology/approachA structured questionnaire survey is used to collect the data from various manufacturing companies in Malaysia. The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturer Directory is used as a sampling frame.FindingsThe results show that the level of changes in management accounting practices increased over the five year period from 2003 to 2007. The changes mostly occurred through the introduction of new practices, replacement of existing practices and modification of the way existing practices were used. Findings in this study also reveal that there are no significant differences in management accounting practices among local and foreign companies, or between small and medium, and large companies. This study also support previous research in terms of the positive relationship between changes in management accounting practices and performance.Originality/valueTaken together this research outcome has contributed to the existing management accounting change literature especially in a developing economy setting.
Separating the wheat from the chaff – a taxonomy of open innovation
Authors: Duarte Vanessa , Sarkar Soumodip 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe main objective of this paper is to shed light on the confusion of terminologies related to open innovation through the development of an open innovation taxonomy. By analyzing published case studies using numerical taxonomy methods, it proposes a taxonomic classification of open innovation.Design/methodology/approachEarlier work on firm collaboration and concepts related to open innovation in order to understand the main motivations, and conditions behind open innovation‐like strategies is first to be reviewed in this paper. It then proceeds to collect and systematically analyze 20 published case studies, and using numerical taxonomy methods it produces a taxonomic classification of open innovation. As a first approach to taxonomy on open innovation strategies, the UPGMA methodology used seems very promising. The taxonomy of open innovation developed here can also be used as a decision‐making tool through the comparison of open innovation strategies inherent in the taxonomy.FindingsThrough the numerical taxonomy analysis the paper has been able to objectively create groups of similar cases, and strategies therein. This paper is able to draw some interesting conclusions by identifying two general strategies of collaboration ‐ a free revealing “democratic” strategy and a formal collaboration strategy. The first involves a proliferation of partners whose technical and creative skills are specific to the industry and the source of knowledge, and where the degree of interaction plays an important role. The second broad strategy of cooperation is linked to more formal collaboration, generally firm‐firm collaboration; in this group a large focus on markets features, especially technological intensity, was found.Originality/valueThis paper adds objectivity to the research of different open innovation strategies by using a method developed in the natural sciences. Based on a systematic review of literature, the paper was able to identify key characters describing features and come up with a taxonomy of open innovation, which goes a significant way towards making sense of the plethora of terminology related to open innovation. Key features of different open innovation strategies are also revealed.
Strategic application of outbound open innovation
Authors: Kutvonen Antero 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the strategic dimension of outbound open innovation (OOI) with a focus on identifying strategic objectives for exploiting knowledge externally. It reviews the literature, presents a list of strategic objectives, and introduces a novel categorization.Design/methodology/approachA literature review of works combining strategy, and OOI lead to conceptualizing an array of strategic benefits including novel concepts. The review focuses on the empirical observations reported by previous research.FindingsThis paper presents the most comprehensive description of strategic objectives that may be pursued by OOI, with several case examples. Objectives are classified to six categories: gaining access to new knowledge, multiplication of own technologies, learning from knowledge transfer, controlling technological trajectories, external exploitation as a core business model and exerting control over the market environment.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper limits itself to discussing the non‐monetary objectives and incentives for engaging in outbound OI, or in other words, the potential that outbound OI has in creating strategic business opportunities.Practical implicationsFor the manager, acknowledging the external opportunities for a firm's knowledge assets allows shifting from “just profit” externalization to a more strategic control over the company's future and its environment.Originality/valueWhereas the common viewpoint in connecting between strategy and OOI is to minimize the negative impact, while retaining monetary benefits, this paper views OOI as an enabler of further strategic mobility and flexibility. The categorized list of strategic objectives also includes some novel additions to current understanding.
From the cradle – to beyond the grave?
Authors: Gilbert Peter 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to describe the content and import of a conference held in partnership between Staffordshire University and The National Spirituality and Mental Health Forum on the importance of considering life in the context of human mortality, and the meaning and purpose of our lives. It was one of a series of conferences on the theme of health and multi‐belief systems; other conferences were on mental health and civic regeneration. A fourth conference is planned for 2012 on dementia and beliefs.Design/methodology/approachThe conference and its format, including case studies is placed within the intense debate concerning the meaning of life in the context of death and what might be beyond “the grave”. With this conversation, and the issue of assisted dying becoming more prevalent, it was felt important to bring into the paper not just philosophical writings but examples from novels and “popular culture” which highlight the intensity of the dialogue.FindingsConsidering the perspectives of a variety of major belief systems assists in relating to and caring for the increasing diversity of older people and their carers when the ultimate challenge of dying is being faced.Practical implicationsAs the discourse around assisted dying, belief systems and dignity come more to the fore, staff in health and social care will need time to discuss what are crucial issues for those they serve.Originality/valueAs religion and other belief systems come back into focus, partly through equalities legislation and increased demographic diversity, the Staffordshire University/National Spirituality and Mental Health Forum conference series has been an innovative way of meeting this renewed need.