bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Outsourcing as a change management tool in libraries and documentation centers
Authors: Lloret Romero Nuria 
Published: May 2011

PurposeOutsourcing is a tool that has been used in companies for decades. However, it has taken much longer for this tool to be implemented in libraries and documentation centers, especially since they are eminently public entities at an international level. The use of such services has increased in recent years and has been especially heightened by the economic crisis in all areas of the aforementioned centers. However, it is important to understand the basis of this type of tool in order to look beyond the fiscal and economic benefits and attempt to see the possibilities provided by the use of these types of services for improving the dynamics of organizations and even creating new professional profiles within the organization itself This study aims to address this issue.Design/methodology/approachThe outsourcing of services need not always lead to a loss of know‐how, and when working from the heart of the organization it is a tool that can even be used to support a culture of change and the revitalization of organizations less likely to change.FindingsThe technological, economic and sociological challenges of the information society are demanding the development of new ways to manage human resources in organizations, ways that allow for a greater degree of flexibility leading to innovation and the strengthening of competitiveness. Consequently, there is a need to adapt to the demands of society with services that in many cases are not performed by the entity itself due to a lack of specialized resources within the organization.Originality/valueMany organizations and especially public institutions do not renew their staff regularly, and thus it is possible to encounter organizations where the average age of the employees has increased as the entity has got older. Although such entities are acknowledged for their prestige and experience, there is a clear lack of new ways of thinking which would enable the organization to advance, above all in technological areas where innovation and change are extremely transient. Therefore, a mixed staff is needed, where the knowledge of the organization and processes held by employees who have been with the company since its foundation is combined with the new knowledge and ways of understanding processes held by new recruits. This leads directly to a change in the values of the organization, since the incorporation of new ideas in process management and the incorporation of technologies, allowing for a more cooperative environment, can end up creating an organizational culture with renewed values, always safeguarding the initial core values of the organization and including the new values generated from the incorporation of new ways of working.
Implementation of a multi‐brand strategy in action sports
Authors: Giannoulakis Chrysostomos , Apostolopoulou Artemisia 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe present study aims to explore the efforts of a core action sports company (Board Sports Company (BSC)) to employ a multi‐brand strategy and to focus on the identity and reach of the seven distinct brands operated under the parent company. The study seeks to identify benefits and limitations of the multi‐brand strategy, as seen by company employees.Design/methodology/approachIn a single‐case design study approach, a global, private action sports company, recognized as a leader in authentic action sports footwear and apparel, was selected for study. Data were collected via in‐depth interviews with key company employees and an extensive review of secondary sources.FindingsThe adoption of a multi‐brand strategy with the operation of seven distinct brands has allowed BSC to expand to mainstream audiences, while strengthening its core target markets. Through aggressive consumer segmentation practices and the strategic utilization of a variety of distribution outlets, BSC remains competitive in a highly antagonistic business environment.Practical implicationsPossibly the greatest benefit of a multi‐brand strategy is a company's ability to diversify, while minimizing the risk of transferring potentially harmful associations among its brands. Thus, BSC has expanded its reach into the mainstream through new sports, product lines, distribution channels, and target audiences. Simultaneously, the organization has guarded the perception of authenticity of its core brands.Originality/valueThe study extends the understanding of the management of sport brands by moving beyond collegiate and professional sport organizations to focus on an athletic wear and equipment brand. It also offers insight to sport organizations that might consider expansion via the adoption of a multi‐brand strategy.
Regularities in the consumption of a subscription service
Authors: Lee Richard , Rungie Cam , Wright Malcolm 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purchase distribution of consumer packaged goods has been extensively modelled by the negative binomial distribution (NBD). As the characteristics of packaged goods differ from those of subscription services, the latter may be a boundary condition for NBD. In this study, the authors aim to test whether NBD extends to a subscription service. Also, NBD assumes non‐heterogeneous purchase behaviour. The authors determine whether augmenting the model with a covariate (customer tenure) to account for consumer heterogeneity will produce a better fitting model.Design/methodology/approachPhase 1 fitted a base NBD model using a random set (n=1,546) of mobile‐telecommunication consumption (monthly billed amount). Phase 2 extended the base model by incorporating customer tenure as a covariate, and re‐fitting the model.FindingsNBD does apply to subscription markets. Also, accounting for heterogeneity in customer tenure produces a better model fit, and shows that with increasing tenure individual consumption declines but total consumption increases due to fewer light buyers.Research limitations/implicationsThe NBD fit suggests that mobile‐telecommunication consumption is habitual, and casts doubt on the effectiveness of marketing programs such as loyalty programs to spur the consumption. The fit also establishes that NBD can serve as a benchmark against which the effects of marketing actions can be evaluated. A potential limitation is the continuous, rather than discrete, nature of the service consumption data.Originality/valueBy extending NBD's boundary condition, this study further attests to the model's robustness in modelling purchase behaviour. It illustrates the technique of augmenting the model with marketing covariates to improve model fits.
Customer‐based brand equity, equity drivers, and customer loyalty in the supermarket industry
Authors: Allaway Arthur W. , Huddleston Patricia , Whipple Judith , Ellinger Alexander E. 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to measure consumer‐based brand equity in the supermarket industry and to identify the strategy drivers associated with levels of brand equity for consumers' typically patronized supermarkets.Design/methodology/approachA nine state survey of consumers was conducted to provide brand equity ratings of 22 national, regional, and specialty supermarket brands.FindingsFactor analysis yields two brand equity outcome dimensions and eight brand equity drivers. A large proportion of consumers clearly have strong feelings about the supermarkets they patronize, and that effort expended in keeping customers, service level, and product quality and assortment appear to be basic requirements for achieving high levels of consumer‐based brand equity. The top supermarket brands typically score highly on at least one other key driver of equity. Supermarket brands that use formal loyalty programs to drive patronage in general have lower levels of customer‐based brand equity.Research limitations/implicationsSelection of designated supermarkets was limited by spatial distribution in the geographic area. The sample is more affluent and educated than the general US population.Practical implicationsAs retailers search for ways to compete more effectively for consumer dollars and loyalty, they need to explore in more detail the customer‐based brand equity and the drivers of customer equity associated with their retail brands.Originality/valueThis paper is the first to link consumer‐based brand equity and the supermarket branding efforts that drive it for specific retail brands. In an industry with numerous choices in nearly all market areas and low switching costs, successful branding can translate into emotional commitment, shopping loyalty, and even person‐to‐person promotion of the brand to others.
Customers' comparative loyalty to retail and manufacturer brands
Authors: Allen Broyles S. , Ross Robert H. , Davis Donna , Leingpibul Thaweephan 
Published: May 2011

PurposeOwing to the increasing market presence and financial success of retail brands, this study seeks to examine the comparative influence of manufacturer brands and retail brands on customers' purchase behaviors.Design/methodology/approachThe survey was administered to 1,120 samples (of which 200 were returned), with data analyzed using structural equation modeling to test the study's hypotheses.FindingsThe study revealed that customers' loyalty to retail brand(s) has greater influence on their purchase behavior than manufacturer brand(s). It also revealed that attitude toward store brands directly influences one's propensity to switch to retail brands, and mediates relationships between loyalty to manufacturer/retail brands and one's propensity to switch to retail brand(s).Research limitations/implicationsOnly one type of retailer was employed in the study. The samples are individuals that have either purchased an item(s) from the retailer, or have at least visited one of their retail sites. The samples had relatively high disposable incomes.Practicable implicationsThe study found that retailers may need dissimilar marketing strategies for customers loyal to manufacturer brands and customers loyal to retail brands.Originality/valueThe study provides new and empirical insight into the ongoing debate of the comparative importance of manufacturer and retail brands.
Can brand identity predict brand extensions' success or failure?
Authors: Viot Catherine 
Published: May 2011

PurposeBrand extension strategies have become widespread since the early 1980s. However, a large proportion of brand extensions still fail, suggesting the need for methodologies that produce better predictions of success or failure of new products launched with a well‐known brand name. Although the symbolic fit between established brand names and brand extensions is considered as one of the most important determinants of brand extension success or failure, managers need more accurate tools to determine, from a symbolic point‐of‐view, which brand extensions are consistent with their brand. This paper proposes to use Kapferer's brand identity prism to define more acceptable brand extensions.Design/methodology/approachTwo studies were conducted. A first study aimed at developing a brand identity inventory (BII). In a second study, the BII's ability to predict brand extensions' success or failure was tested.FindingsThe second order structure of Kapferer's brand identity prism is confirmed. The paper then demonstrates that brand identity is useful to better predict acceptance of brand extensions.Research limitations/implicationsIn prior research, perceived fit was estimated by mono‐item measures or by few brand associations. Brand identity provides a more accurate estimation of the fit that can rely on attributes related to brand personality and brand values – the personal dimension of brand identity – or associations related to relationships and users' image – the social dimension of brand identity.Originality/valueThe findings can help managers to determine more consistent brand extensions when brands are already stretched.
Self‐monitoring, dining companions and the usage of alternative currencies
Authors: “Sunny” Hu Hsin‐Hui , Parsa H.G. 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to understand the effects of self‐monitoring, dining companions and industry segments on the usage of alternate currencies while dining out.Design/methodology/approachAn experimental design using frequent consumers of restaurant services is being used with a scenario approach with a sample size of 471.FindingsResults indicate that self‐monitoring has significant impact on consumers' choice for alternate currencies. In addition, the type of dining companion (boss vs friend vs alone) has significant affect on usage of alternate currencies. Industry segments were not found be a significant factor in making usage of alternate currencies. For high self‐monitoring individuals, the preferences for currency usages are more likely influenced by the image delivered by the currency than for low self‐monitors. Consumers who dine with a friend or alone are more likely to prefer to pay with frequent usage points‐only (as opposed to dollars‐only) than consumers who dine with the boss. This result indicates that the dining companion is an important determinant in preferring the alternative currency, frequent usage points. Since frequent usage points are a signal of price discount, consumers do not want to make an impression of “being cheap” on the higher‐status dining companion (e.g. boss) by using frequent usage points for their dining experiences. On the other hand, if consumers dine with a friend or alone, they are more likely to reap the financial rewards of paying with frequent usage points without regard to the impression it creates.Research limitations/implicationsThese findings have significant implications for the restaurants marketers and managers. Implementation of frequent diners program may be affected significantly by self‐monitoring characteristics and nature of dining companions.Originality/valueThis study extends the understanding of individual differences associated with currency preference by examining the effects of self‐monitoring and impression management on consumer preferences for currency usage. Identifying the characteristics of consumers using the different currency options is critical for the foodservice industry.
Pricing for a credence good: an exploratory analysis
Authors: Nagler Matthew G. , Kronenberg Fredi , Kennelly Edward J. , Jiang Bei 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the role of observable product characteristics and label wording in consumers' valuations for credence goods, products for which key characteristics may not be fully evaluated even after purchase. The objective is to draw conclusions with relevance to pricing policy.Design/methodology/approachHedonic price equations are estimated for a dietary supplement called black cohosh, taken by women for relief from menopausal symptoms.FindingsConsumers respond in expected ways to label words that directly indicate product characteristics: for example, paying more for a product labeled as suitable for vegetarians. But surprising results occur for some nonspecific label words (e.g. “guaranteed” is associated with lower prices), suggesting that consumers view these words as indirect signals with respect to unobservable qualities. Additionally, consumers pay more for packages containing more units (e.g. tablets) even when the time supply of product is held constant; this outcome is consistent with the notion that sheer quantity reassures consumers about value and could indicate a reaction to uncertainty in the overall value proposition.Research limitations/implicationsThe study relies on list prices in place of transacted prices, so consumers' true valuations may not be reflected with complete accuracy. The study should be repeated in the future using scanner data on actual product transactions.Practical implicationsThe indirect signals transmitted by label words and other observable attributes play a key role in consumers' valuations for credence goods, and so are highly relevant to pricing strategy.Originality/valuePrevious studies have considered willingness‐to‐pay for label‐indicated credence qualities, but have not looked at the role of indirect signals/indicators.
The indirect effects of PMS design on Malaysian service firms' characteristics and performance
Authors: Mohd Amir Amizawati 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to gain deeper understanding of whether a fit between the organizational characteristics and PMS design may enhance organizational performance. This study presents evidence on PMS attributes and use as intervening variables on the relationships between service firms' characteristics and performance in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachThe issues were tested using a mixed method approach with the collection of survey questionnaires and a series of post‐survey interviews. Stronger emphasis was placed on a quantitative approach as the objective was to develop generalized PMS findings in the service sector.FindingsFindings indicate that the attributes and use of PMS have significant indirect effects on the relationships between the differentiation strategy, environmental competitiveness and organizational performance for both professional and mass services. Additionally the interpretation of the interviews underlines the complementing roles of each of the design elements in building an effective PMS.Originality/valueThe evidence removes the traditional assumption that accounting formal control is only applicable to mass service firms. Instead, the findings show that PMS design of professional service firms is not much different from that of mass services.
Corporate governance and post‐bankruptcy reorganisation performance
Authors: Chitnomrath Thanida , Evans Robert , Christopher Theo 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThis research seeks to investigate the role of key corporate governance mechanisms in determining a firm's post‐bankruptcy performance following reorganisation.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on agency theory and uses a unique sample of 111 filing companies whose reorganisation plans have been confirmed by the Thai Central Bankruptcy Court during the period 1999‐2002.FindingsThe results indicate that monitoring and incentive mechanisms are significant determinants of a firm's post‐bankruptcy performance. The key monitoring mechanism is ownership concentration, measured by shares held by the largest shareholder, whereas the critical incentive mechanisms are cash compensation and percentage of common shares held by the plan administrator. The results indicate that these mechanisms can mitigate agency problems in previously insolvent companies and increase post‐bankruptcy performance over a three year period.Originality/valueThe study is timely given that many organisations are facing rebuilding programs following the impact of the global financial crisis. Prior research in Thailand and elsewhere has not measured bankruptcy reorganisation outcomes in terms of the difference of actual financial performance to predicted performance and in relation to the governance factors of the reorganisation process. Neither has this aspect been considered within an agency theory framework. This provides a unique opportunity to consider these variables based on the theoretical framework of agency theory and to evaluate the importance of governance mechanisms in reorganisation proceedings.
Insights on the diversity of financial ratios communication
Authors: Aripin Norhani , Tower Greg , Taylor Grantley 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the extent of financial ratio communication from an agency theory perspective.Design/methodology/approachAn empirical positivist approach is utilised to explore the predictors of disclosure within the 2007 annual reports of 300 Australian listed companies.FindingsOverall, the extent of financial ratio disclosures is very low (5.3 per cent) with more extensive disclosures within the sub‐categories of share market measure, profitability and capital structure. A far lower liquidity and cash flow ratio information is reported. Larger firms with more dispersed share ownership provide more extensive financial ratio information than the others. Further, profit‐making firms and Big4 clients exhibit more extensive financial ratio disclosures. Resources firms present significantly lower incidents of financial ratio than the financials and services sector. Corporate governance and capital management initiatives do not have predictive properties.Originality/valueFinancial ratio disclosure, although important, is under‐researched. A comprehensive set of predictors are investigated. The findings highlight the need for Australian regulators to consider more explicit guidelines or mandatory requirements.
Sustainable development: what it means to CFOs of New Zealand
Authors: Dimitrov Dara K. , Davey Howard 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to evaluate and better understand the Chief Financial Officers' (CFOs) role in sustainability reporting of New Zealand's (NZ) publicly listed companies.Design/methodology/approachThe research uses a questionnaire sent to the CFOs of 88 of New Zealand's largest listed companies; the CFOs were telephoned beforehand and introduced to the nature of the research and asked if they would participate. A total of 33 fully completed responses were returned.FindingsCFOs expressed their agreement with the adoption of sustainable development as they believed there were benefits to be made for their firms; the survey identified reputation enhancement and good corporate governance as the two main benefits. However they were reluctant to have their firms' information scrutinised by stakeholders. They believed that stakeholders are largely unaware of the difficulties of adopting sustainable development practices, and furthermore, stakeholders have unrealistic expectations of what their firms could achieve by adopting sustainable development. CFOs did not believe that sustainable development would cut costs and improve their profits – rather they believed that sustainable development adoption was very inconvenient as it is costly. Thus the influence for firms to adopt sustainable development practices is driven largely by non‐financial factors rather than any economic gains. This corroborates earlier findings.Research limitations/implicationsThe research utilises primary data collected in 2008. A useable response rate of 38 per cent was achieved. The research is restricted to New Zealand listed companies.Practical implicationsIn gaining a deeper appreciation of where CFOs gain their understanding of sustainable development issues, and how they participate in the discourse around sustainable development, we are potentially better able to provide information to this key group of people.Originality/valueVery little research has been undertaken into how CFOs gain their knowledge about sustainability reporting nor about their views on the subject. This research attempts to fill this gap and opens the way for similar work to be undertaken overseas.