bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Degrees of fit? Matching in the graduate labour market
Authors: Chillas Shiona 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to examine matching in the graduate labour market (GLM) in order to understand how expansion of higher education is perceived and translated in practice.Design/methodology/approachThe article uses meritocracy and credentialism as frames of reference to explain the role of educational certification in systems of social structuring. Correspondingly, qualifications may function as signals, screens or proxies. Qualitative evidence, drawing on 40 interviews with graduates, employers and educators gives insights on access requirements, recruitment and selection and transfer of knowledge and skills, in three graduate occupations: chartered accountants; active schools co‐ordinators; and risk managers.FindingsFindings suggest that expanding graduate numbers has produced altered patterns of closure. Employers use the availability of relevant degrees to limit applications, define jurisdictional boundaries and exclude the less, or inappropriately qualified. Yet correspondence between degree and occupation cannot necessarily be read off by a connected degree.Practical implicationsCloser connections between degree and occupation imply labour market segmentation although this requires further evidence in other occupations.Originality/valueSupply‐side policy interventions are countered by strategic use of graduates. The paper explores issues of relevance to policymakers, employers, educators and graduates and will be of interest to those in the field.
Bullying and harassment: a case of success?
Authors: Pate Judy , Beaumont Phillip 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to examine an attempt by an organisation to address the significant problem of bullying and harassment. In doing so the paper particularly centres on the question of how the relative success of bullying and harassment policies might be measured.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on a quantitative longitudinal study of a single organisation.FindingsThe findings revealed that there was a significant reduction in perceptions of bullying in the organisation. The level of trust in senior management, however, was not enhanced as a result of the success.Research limitations/implicationsThe study emphasises the need for further research on measuring the outcomes of bullying and harassment policies and also work is required to further the understanding of trust between senior management and their workforce.Practical implicationsThe paper highlights the importance, and difficulties, in assessing the success of policies such as bullying and harassment. In many respects this paper contains a mixed message for senior managers. Employees may acknowledge the impact of management actions on reducing the level of bullying and harassment but was not associated with a noticeable improvement of trust in senior management.Originality/valueThere is a plethora of literature on understanding the complexities and effects of workplace bullying. The literature, however, is relatively silent on the issue of measuring success of a policy and this paper seeks to contribute discussion on the subject.
Temporary agency workers and their psychological contracts
Authors: Svensson Sven , Wolvén Lars‐Erik 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe aim of this article is to test the assumption that both management and co‐workers constitute multiple contract constituencies, as advocated for in recent research on psychological contracts. It also aims to test the theory of cognitive schemas as predictors of psychological contract development. Finally, it aims to examine the validity of the relational subscale of psychological contracts.Design/methodology/approachData were collected through three survey studies in different workplaces, areas and settings and were analyzed through Fisher's exact test, principal component analysis and hierarchical regression analysis.FindingsThe results supported the notion of multiple contract constituencies. Partial support was found for the theory of cognitive schemas and their influence on psychological contract development. The study also revealed new sub‐dimensions of the psychological contract, here called “Fellowship” and “Challenge/Development”. These new sub‐dimensions respond differently to predictors that, according to psychological contract theory, are supposed to generate similar effects.Research limitations/implicationsSince the findings of this study call into question some of the earlier research: it would be desirable to study psychological contracts, using a multiple foci approach, with a greater, random, sample.Practical implicationsThe results indicate a need to draw further attention to the role of the co‐workers in the integration of agency staff in client companies.Originality/valueSince no previous study has tested the notion of co‐workers as constituencies of the psychological contract, these empirical results will challenge much previous research on the concept of psychological contracts.
A mixed qualitative‐quantitative‐ participatory methodology
Authors: Munyua Hilda , Stilwell Christine 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to understand the agricultural knowledge and information systems (AKIS) of small‐scale farmers in Kirinyaga district, Kenya by identifying the key agricultural actors, establishing the information needs of farmers and how they access, share and exchange agricultural knowledge and information.Design/methodology/approachThe study adopts a triangulation of qualitative, quantitative and participatory methodologies and methods for sampling, data collection and data analysis. The methods combine Relaxed Appraisal of Agricultural Knowledge Systems (RAAKS) and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), focus group discussions with farmers groups, observation and analysis of secondary data. The sense‐making methodology is used an alternative approach to study information behaviour, while the soft systems methodology is used to link up the different activities by diverse agricultural actors.FindingsRicher and deeper data are collected through mixed methodologies and methods. The study identifies more than 100 active information and knowledge providers in Kirinyaga district, with extension emerging as the most important source of information. However, linkages between the various actors and farmers are weak. In particular, the findings of the study demonstrate that the AKIS of small‐scale farmers is location specific and varies with the enterprise(s) produced.Research limitations/implicationsTriangulation of methods is expensive hence the study is limited to only one district in Kenya. The paper suggests further research into ways of strengthening and formalising linkages between key actors.Practical implicationsThe study points to the need to strengthen and formalise linkages between farmers and extensionists, private sector, media, farmers' groups, civil society organisations, researchers, educators and microfinance institutions.Social implicationsThe study findings could inform policy development and reforms in agriculture, extension services and help to improve linkages and the flow of agricultural information and knowledge. Consequently, this would translate to improved farming methods and increased agricultural productivity.Originality/valueThe study contributes empirical data that builds on to the existing body of knowledge on AKIS among small‐scale farmers. The paper presents a useful mix of methods (RAAKS, PRA, focus group discussions and observation) for studying the management of agricultural knowledge and information.
Use of open access journals in biomedicine in Greece
Authors: Vlachaki Assimina , Urquhart Christine 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this research project is to explore the impact of open access initiatives on biomedical research scientific publishing and scholarly communication in Greece.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents the preliminary findings from a longitudinal study that uses bibliometrics, questionnaire surveys and interviews to examine knowledge, awareness and attitudes towards open access.FindingsOpen access models vary considerably. The bibliometric research indicates that Greek biomedical publication is increasing, but that coverage of Greek medical journals in databases such as MEDLINE is decreasing. The picture is mixed with some evidence of open access journals (published in English) from Greek publishing bases. Awareness of open access among Greek biomedical scientists in date was comparatively low (58 per cent aware, n=70).Research limitations/implicationsSeveral Greek medical journals are published in English, and it is difficult to track the authorship for Greek researchers publishing in English language journals published elsewhere. Findings are preliminary as this is a longitudinal survey.Social implicationsOpen access initiatives may privilege researchers from the English speaking world – or those in low income countries. Researchers from countries not in those categories may face unrecognised disadvantages in making their research visible.Originality/valueThis is the only study of Greek biomedical publishing, and comparisons are being made with similar studies of Spanish biomedical publishing.
Knowledge creation and flow in agriculture
Authors: Zakaria Sohaimi , Nagata Haruki 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe motivation for this paper emanates from the continuous success and sustainability of the Japanese agriculture, most remarkably in its technical sense. The agricultural extension services have traditionally been regarded as a bridge between research laboratories and farmers, hence, the purpose of this paper is to explore the preferences and roles played by extension advisors in relation to knowledge creation and sharing among the advisors, farmers, and other stakeholders.Design/methodology/approachData are collected through interviews with 11 principal and senior extension advisors and a consultant from different prefectures and organizations as well as questionnaires from 135 extension advisors in the Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.FindingsResults show that the Japanese agricultural agencies are actively involved in facilitating an integrated knowledge creation and sharing initiatives within their organizations. On the other hand, the extension advisors, as intermediaries and catalysts, are the key links between farmers and the relevant agencies in terms of providing personalized and need‐based information for decision making by all parties concerned.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research may be conducted by other agro‐based economies and organizations with regards to creating, sharing, and streamlining knowledge towards achieving organizational objectives.Originality/valueThe findings of this paper have provided some insights on how knowledge is created and shared within a strategic sector of the economy and this could serve as an initial framework for leaders to create opportunities and space for such activities to be effectively carried out in their organizations.
Digitizing library resources for new modes of information use in Uganda
Authors: Byamugisha Helen M. 
Published: December 2009

PurposePeople have become increasingly dependent on digital information and the internet as a medium for gaining and exchanging information. However, despite promising developments, numerous challenges that are related to digital content and collection, interoperability, standards, knowledge organization systems, users and usability, legal, organizational and social issues, staff education, infrastructure, language barrier, and technology remain. This paper aims to address these issues.Design/methodology/approachThis paper investigates the challenges to digital collection and content in Uganda.FindingsThis paper concludes that digital libraries are a key technology especially for developing countries.Originality/valueDigital libraries can assist human development by providing a non‐commercial mechanism for distributing humanitarian information on topics such as health, agriculture, nutrition, hygiene, sanitation, water supply, and many other areas ranging from disaster relief to medical education. The paper recommends that adapting quickly to new digital technology is vital for success.
The creation and development of a multi‐disciplinary research center in an academic library
Authors: Welsh Teresa S. 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine formal and informal communication and documentation related to the creation and development of the Katrina Research Center (KRC) including its mission, vision, organizational structure, funding, collection development, community outreach, research, and educational activities.Design/methodology/approachThis paper takes the form of a qualitative case study.FindingsRecurrent themes identified in the study include multi‐disciplinary affiliation of KRC faculty and staff; cooperation and resource‐sharing with other university departments and faculty; and networking with community groups such as local historical societies, public schools, and libraries.Practical implicationsThe documentation of the creation and development of the KRC can be useful as a model for other research centers and/or subject repositories affiliated with academic libraries.Originality/valueThe documentation and examination of factors related to a multi‐disciplinary research center and subject repository can form the basis for further, more comprehensive studies.
Reflective writing: a management skill
Authors: Anne Sen Barbara 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze students' reflective writing in terms of identifiable outcomes and explore students' thoughts on reflection and reflective writing as a process.Design/methodology/approachA mixed methods approach is taken with a qualitative analysis of 116 written reflections from MA Librarianship studying management over an eight‐month period. A quantitative statistical analysis assesses the relationships between reflective writing and a number of possible outcomes identified from the literature.FindingsA significant relationship is found between seven of eight outcomes tested; academic learning, the need for self‐development, actual self‐development, critical review, awareness of ones' own mental functions, decision making and empowerment and emancipation. There is some evidence of a relationship between non‐academic learning and reflective writing, but it is not significant. A number of themes emerged from the reflective writings regarding reflection itself, with students seeing reflection as a positive activity, with benefits for the individual, groups and in the workplace, and identifying reflection as a skill that can be practiced and developed.Practical implicationsReflection and reflective writing as a management skill has potential benefits for personal and professional development and improving work‐based practice.Originality/valueThis paper differs from the previous literature in presenting statistical evidence to confirm the relationships between reflective writing and a range of potential outcomes.
The MetaOPAC Azalai Italiano (MAI): geography and evolution of Italian online catalogues
Authors: De Robbio Antonella , Barazia Caterina , Rossi Paola , Mezzetto Micaela 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to consider and discuss some data about the evolution of Italian Online Public Access Catalogues (OPACs) in the last decade and the possibility to search them cumulatively through the MetaOPAC Azalai Italiano (MAI). Scholars all over the world are interested in Italian OPACs due to the treasures and the historical documents owned by Italian libraries.Design/methodology/approachAfter a brief introduction on union and virtual catalogues, with special attention to the Italian scenario, Italian OPACs are illustrated with a rich amount of data about their usage, their geographical distribution, and their growth. All data are available on the web and have been collected in the time through the analysis of log files and the database of the Italian OPACs.FindingsThe evolution of Italian OPACs suggests new developments of MAI, such as extension of search to some contents of digital libraries. These are studied and, as far as allowed by the available human resources, progressively adopted in order to improve the quality of the metasearch.Research limitations/implicationsAs this tool has no exact parallels in other countries, this paper mainly adopts a descriptive and heuristic approach, rather than evaluating MAI in comparison with other services.Originality/valueAlthough a wide amount of literature on MAI is available, only a few papers are in English. This paper then aims to increase the knowledge of MAI for a broadest group of non‐Italian readers.
The relationships among organizational performance, environmental uncertainty, and employees' perceptions of CEO charisma
Authors: Bacha Eliane 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to examine the relationships among organizational performance, environmental uncertainty and employees' perceptions of CEO charisma.Design/methodology/approachA mail questionnaire survey was sent to alumni of a French business school working in firms at various hierarchal levels. A sample of 100 French firms was collected.FindingsThe results of the study show that CEOs who were perceived by the employees to be energetic leaders have an influence on organizational performance independently of the moderating effect of environmental uncertainty.Research limitations/implicationsThe majority of the firms in the sample are big. It would be useful to replicate the findings across a sample of firms where small, medium and big are presented proportionally. Also, it would be interesting to study the organizational performance by using objective measures.Practical implicationsThe research reveals that organizational performance depends on CEO charisma. Firms should take into account the personality of CEOs, especially the trait to be energetic, when recruiting them.Originality/valueThe paper displays the impact of different traits of CEO personality, as perceived by employees, on the organizational performance of French firms.
Assessing the ethics of implementing performance appraisal systems
Authors: Sillup George P. , Klimberg Ronald 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to try to understand better whether performance appraisal (PA) helps performance evaluators (PEs) to manage more effectively and meet employees' expectations in US‐based corporations.Design/methodology/approachA 54‐item research instrument was developed and implemented using structured interviews with 54 PEs, who worked at five US‐based corporations (Aetna Insurance, IBM, Johnson & Johnson, Valspar, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals). Responses were statistically analyzed with descriptive statistics and decision trees.FindingsTime dedicated to implementing PA was the most important factor leading to ethical issues. PEs with the highest educational levels and most experience spent the least amount of time (1.86 vs 3.19 hours) implementing PA. Most PEs (79.6 percent) solicited feedback about employees' performance from employees' peers but 20 percent did not. Additionally, not a single PE had PA as a specific objective, making it difficult to sequester time necessary for PA. Older PEs felt PA helped them manage more effectively and PEs who were Black or White and from Marketing/Sales were most favorable about meeting employees' PA expectations. There were no remarkable differences among PA systems at the five corporations, e.g. 360‐degree training.Research limitations/implicationsStructured interviews required delicate interaction due to sensitivity about the US economy and resulting layoffs within interviewees' corporations.Practical implicationsPEs, particularly older managers with higher educational levels, should have a PA objective and be held accountable to it to ensure that they dedicate time necessary to complete PA in the way the PA system intends.Originality/valueThe paper provides insight about PA within the US corporate setting and will be highly interesting to those in that field.
Parameters of managerial effectiveness
Authors: Analoui Farhad , Ahmed Abdulla A. , Kakabadse Nada 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThis paper seeks to report on the findings of a recent study which explores the ways/factors which influence and/or determine the effectiveness of the senior management in the Muscat Municipality, Oman, by assessing the perception of senior managers concerning the influences (parameters) on their effectiveness.Design/methodology/approachThe research has utilized a combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Analoui's model of “eight parameters for effectiveness” has been used as a basis to explore the awareness, perceptions, skills, organizational standards, motivation, degree of demands and constraints, and the presence of choices and opportunities for effectiveness.FindingsAnaloui's model of “managerial effectiveness” is applicable to the public sector in Oman. Senior managers are aware of their own effectiveness and better understanding of their effectiveness requires paying attention to the identified parameters and contexts in which they perform their tasks. Unfortunately, little attention has been paid to their management development.Practical implicationsIt is suggested that senior managers should be enabled: to communicate effectively with other people; to manage their own time and use it effectively; to make decisions/resolve problems; and to lead and motivate employees effectively at work. The reward system needs revising and a learning environment ought to be established to foster transformational leadership.Originality/valueThis first time study contributes to the present stock of knowledge and understanding of the subject by contextualising the concept of “managerial effectiveness” in Oman's public sector.
Examining the link between Islamic work ethic and innovation capability
Authors: Kumar Naresh , Che Rose Raduan 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present an in‐depth analysis of the Islamic work ethic (IWE) and its influence on innovation capability in the public sector.Design/methodology/approachThe foundations of IWE and innovation capability were assessed using a validated questionnaire. A total of 472 employees from the Malaysian public sector participated in the survey.FindingsThe empirical results indicate that the IWE is highly adapted in the public sector. In addition, the respondents collectively declared that the innovation strength in the Malaysian public sector is mounting. The IWE measure was found to be significant with moderate correlation and positive relationship with the innovation capability scale.Research limitations/implicationsWhile the study was confined to the Malaysian public sector, it has considerable implications for the development of an optimistic workforce in other regions and across sectors.Practical implicationsAn understanding of the commitment of the workforce to the IWE and its consequences for innovativeness facilitates HR professionals in designing and implementing change initiatives.Originality/valueIn response to the substantial need to examine IWE and workplace outcomes in a non‐Western environment, therefore, the paper embraces the extent to which IWE sways innovation capability in the public sector. Both scholars and practitioners will find the study valuable.