bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Young professionals' perceptions toward organizational change
Authors: Lattuch Frank , Young Suzanne 
Published: September 2011

PurposeEffective change management is important for organizational development, but without knowing what features of change situations impact on employee behavior it is difficult to manage change successfully. Considering the changing age demographic of the Australian workforce and the shortage of skilled labor, the purpose of this study is to examine the important age group of young professionals and its perceptions toward organizational change.Design/methodology/approachBased on Lazarus and Folkman's cognitive phenomenological model of stress and coping, a framework of change perceptions was used to analyze young professionals' experience of change. A confirmatory factor analysis has been conducted surveying a sample of 261 young professionals from a diverse set of Australian organizations.FindingsThe analysis found that frequency of change and planning for change are significantly related to uncertainty, and in turn, that uncertainty is significantly related to job satisfaction and behavioral stress. Interestingly, it was found that although frequency of change is positively related to uncertainty, it is also positively related to job satisfaction. Findings indicate which features of change situations are related to poor well‐being outcomes and are therefore important for managers implementing change and working with young professionals.Originality/valueThe present study clarifies the relationship between young professionals and their perceptions of change. Practical implications of the findings for managers are discussed. Some recommendations for future research are provided.
Relationship between leadership behaviors and performance
Authors: Rowold Jens 
Published: September 2011

PurposeIn today's organizations, the heterogeneity of work teams is increasing. For example, members of work teams have different ages, genders, and/or cultural backgrounds. As a consequence, team leaders have to face the challenge of taking into account the various needs, values, and motives of their followers. However, there has been very little empirical research to test whether the influence of leadership behaviors on performance is moderated by facets of team heterogeneity. This paper aims to address this issue.Design/methodology/approachThe leadership behaviors of transactional and transformational leadership, laissez‐faire, consideration, and initiating structure, as well as three facets of heterogeneity (i.e. age, gender, and culture) were assessed in an empirical study based on a sample of n=283 members of German fire departments. These team members also provided self‐ratings for their performance.FindingsThe results revealed that the relationship between three leadership behaviors (i.e. transformational leadership, laissez‐faire, and consideration) and performance was being moderated by facets of team members' heterogeneity.Practical implicationsBoth transformational leadership and consideration work best when the work team is heterogeneous with regard to gender.Originality/valueThe importance of the contextual influences of team members' heterogeneity for effective leadership processes was explored theoretically, and subsequently, demonstrated empirically for the first time.
Quality management in China: the effects of firm characteristics and cultural profile
Authors: Zu Xingxing , Zhou Huaming , Zhu Xiaowei , Yao Dongqing 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the underlying characteristics that influence quality management implementation at manufacturing companies operating in China.Design/methodology/approachThe data of this study were based on 199 manufacturing companies collected from a cross‐sectional survey in China. The cultural profiles of these companies were identified through cluster analysis. Multivariate analysis of variance was conducted to identify the effects of operating characteristics and cultural profile on the implementation level of quality management practices.FindingsThe results show that in general, there is no significant difference in implementing quality management practices among companies of different operating characteristics in terms of company size, industry, ownership, and production process. This study reveals that cultural profile is a distinguishing factor to explain the difference in quality management implementation among the companies.Originality/valueAs China is becoming an important supplier of products to the global market, it is necessary to understand how product quality is controlled and managed in China. This study examines the effects of operating and cultural characteristics of companies in China on their implementation of quality management practices. The results contribute to a deeper understanding of how to build an effective quality system at companies in China.
Measuring service quality of conventional and Islamic banks: a comparative analysis
Authors: Amat Taap Manshor , Choy Chong Siong , Kumar Mukesh , Kee Fong Tat 
Published: September 2011

PurposeBased upon an extended SERVQUAL model, this paper attempts to measure and compare the service quality between conventional and Islamic banks in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachA new dimension, i.e. convenience was added to the existing SERVQUAL model of five dimensions. Data were collected from 287 bank customers residing in two major cities in Malaysia using self‐reporting questionnaires. Factor analysis is used to validate the instrument, after which the gap and dominance analyses techniques are employed.FindingsThe factor analysis extracted four dimensions of service quality, i.e. tangibility, reliability, competence, and convenience. The results reveal that there are large and significant differences between respondents' expectations and their perceptions. Specifically, the expectations on competence and convenience are significantly different between the conventional and Islamic banks, whereas the perceptions on tangibility and convenience are found to be significantly different between the two types of banks. The application of dominance analysis to predict the SERVQUAL gap indicates that the difference between the two types of banks lie in terms of degree but not pattern. Competence and convenience are found to be the relatively more dominant dimensions in both types of banks. These two dimensions, taken together, can help to reduce the overall service quality gap to an extent of 72 percent in the case of conventional banks and 85 percent in the case of Islamic banks.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the outcomes lend support to the extended SERVQUAL model, the results are derived based on a relatively small sample size with an uneven distribution between the two types of banks. This limits the generalizability of the study results which calls for future research attention.Practical implicationsThe Malaysian banking sector needs to take initiative to become more competent by being more responsive through fulfilling their assurance for customers and by providing banking facilities more conveniently.Originality/valueThis study is one of the first to examine and compare the service quality between conventional and Islamic banks using an extended SERVQUAL model. The results could be particularly useful to countries adopting dual banking systems.
Implementation of a quality procedure based on Delphi method and the ISO/TS 16949:2009 in the production of stainless steel tubes for automotive exhaust systems
Authors: Bevilacqua Maurizio , Emanuele Ciarapica Filippo , Giacchetta Giancarlo , Marchetti Barbara 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the application of a procedure for the quality control of stainless steel tubes produced for automotive exhaust systems from a leading company in the steel sector, based on the Delphi method in accordance with the ISO/TS 16949:2009 and the ISO 9000:2008. Using Delphi methodology, it was possible to identify the main problems in the production lines object of the study, the main defects and their causes. Statistical methods were used to monitor process compliance and capacity. The panel of experts involved in Delphi method was able to identify causes of non‐compliance and suggest corrective actions.Design/methodology/approachThe quality procedure implemented involves the application of the Delphi method and the ISO/TS 16949:2009 standard in conjunction with ISO 9000:2008 to the production line of welded tubes for exhaust systems. The statistical methods used to monitor the process were mainly control charts. Capability index, Cp and Cpk, were used to measure the process attitude to produce compliant outputs. Dimensional data were acquired by non‐destructive testing on diameters and X‐R charts were used to graphically represent the process state of control. Destructive tests were performed to monitor the welding quality and P‐chart were used to assess the proportion of nonconforming units.FindingsIn this work, a procedure was developed in order to characterize the production process of TXM tubes realized in the line 31 of the leader company plant. The use of Delphi methodology, in order to incorporate experts opinions in the quality control of stainless steel tubes, was one of the main points of this work. The panel of experts worked together to identify process issues, define their causes and propose corrective actions. The paper provides an overview about the quality approach of one of the world's largest companies in the production of steel and shows also how the statistical tools are used in order to manage process behavior.Originality/valueThe value of this paper is to illustrate an innovative approach to a real life quality problem; it demonstrates how the application of qualitative and quantitative quality instruments in accordance with technical specification can help in increasing and maintaining product compliance and in optimizing the management of resources.
Estimating a parameter of Burr type XII distribution using hybrid censored observations
Authors: Rastogi Manoj Kumar , Mani Tripathi Yogesh 
Published: September 2011

PurposeBurr distribution has been proved to be a useful failure model. It can assume different shapes which allow it to be a good fit for various lifetimes data. Hybrid censoring is an important way of generating lifetimes data. The purpose of this paper is to estimate an unknown parameter of the Burr type XII distribution when data are hybrid censored.Design/methodology/approachThe problem is dealt with through both the classical and Bayesian point of view. Specifically, the methods of estimation used to tackle the problem are maximum likelihood estimation method and Bayesian method. Empirical Bayesian approach is also considered. The performance of all estimates is compared through their mean square error values. The paper employs Monte Carlo simulation to evaluate the mean square error values of all estimates.FindingsThe key findings of the paper are that the Bayesian estimates are superior to the maximum likelihood estimates (MLE).Practical implicationsThis work has practical importance. Indeed, the proposed methods are applied to real life data.Originality/valueThe paper is original and is quite applicable in lifetimes data analysis.
Reliability analysis of repairable consecutive‐k‐out‐of‐n: G systems with sensor and repairmen
Authors: Krishnan Ragi , Somasundaram S. 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study repairable consecutive‐k‐out‐of‐n: systems with r repairmen and a sensing device.Design/methodology/approachThe system can either be a circular C(k, n: G) system or a linear C(k, n: G) system. The working time and the repair time of each component in the system and the sensor detection time are exponentially distributed. Every component after repair is perfect. Each component is classified as either a key component, or an ordinary one according to its priority role to system's repair. A sensing device is introduced to detect the failure of each component in the system in advance and completion of repair of components. If the repair is completed, the sensor will send the component to standby according to its priority. The state transition probabilities of the system are derived using the definition of generalized transition probability. To obtain the reliability and availability Laplace transform techniques have been used.FindingsThe Kolmogorov‐Feller forward equations are derived for both linear and circular systems. Reliability and MTTF of both the systems are derived using Laplace transforms. Numerical examples are given in detail to demonstrate the theoretical results and these verify the validity of the studied system.Research limitations/implicationsA consecutive‐k‐out‐of‐n system consists of a sequence of n‐ordered components along a line or a circle such that the system is good if and only if at least k consecutive components in the system are good. Each component in the system is classified as key component or ordinary component according to its priority in system functioning. By using a sensing device the failure can be detected in advance.Originality/valueThis study indicates that by using a sensing device we can detect the failure in advance. Thus, the reliability and MTTF of the system can be improved.
Performance leadership: managing for flexibility
Authors: Wilkes John , Yip George , Simmons Kevin 
Published: September 2011

PurposeMany multi‐business companies apply one performance management approach to all their businesses despite differing needs. This study proposes a flexible approach to managing performance that allows for variation across businesses and over time.Design/methodology/approachBased on a study of over 100 consulting projects in performance management and interviews at 15 major organisations.FindingsThe best way to simplify performance management is to recognize that it has been approached from the dimensions of people and process for years. The people dimension considers how to get the best out of people and the way they interact with each other. The process dimension is about formal mechanisms for executing strategy and tracking the more quantifiable aspects of performance.Practical implicationsAn insightful framework to help companies develop the right kind of approach to managing performance.Originality/valueBased on unique and extensive consulting experience and research data. Distinguishes between performance per se and the process of managing performance. A new framework that combines people and process dimension for selecting the right approach to managing performance.
The value of weak connections
Authors: Jackson Stuart E. 
Published: September 2011

PurposeMost business leaders are aware of the success and high market valuations associated with internet networking businesses such as Facebook and LinkedIn. But they often fail to apply the lessons from the success of these businesses to their own brick and mortar operations. This article discusses the underlying human willingness to help others with whom we have relatively weak connections. Businesses that tap into this human trait can expect increased loyalty from customers and improved business performance. The author proposes four key strategies for companies wishing to address this opportunity.Design/methodology/approachIn this article, Jackson discusses fundamental human behaviors behind the success of Facebook, LinedIn and many other off‐line networking organizations. The author cites a number of case examples of executives and businesses that have reinforced their commercial success through the principle of leveraging weak connections. Examples of businesses in the article include food and consumer durables, with a central example in the motorcycle industry. The author then draws lessons that can be applied broadly by any business.FindingsThe author proposes four priorities for reinforcing success through the power of weak connections: leverage the strength of your core product to build consumer interest and loyalty; create mechanisms for customer‐customer connections as well as company‐customer communication; become a destination for all potential users including non‐customers; and embrace weak connection technologies such as internet networking and devote sufficient resources to make your organization stand out. Often this means devoting a full‐time person to social networking.Originality/valueThis article sheds light on the underlying human trait of wanting to help others with whom we share some kind of connection, even if it is a relatively weak one, and the commercial opportunities this creates.
The foundations of the ethical tradition of economics: Plato'sRepublic
Authors: Alvey James E. 
Published: September 2011

PurposeEconomics was closely entwined with ethics up to the 1930s when this weakened subsequently. Amartya Sen first sketched this historical relationship in his book,On Ethics and Economics. This paper is in broad agreement with Sen. It aims to explore the ethical foundations of economics in ancient Greece, focussing on Plato'sRepublic.Design/methodology/approachKey aspects of Sen's ethical framework (ethical motivation, human well‐being, and social achievement) are used as a template to re‐investigate Plato's work. A close reading of Plato'sRepublicis undertaken in order to demonstrate the foundations of economics as an ethical enterprise.FindingsFirst, Plato argues that there is a range of motivations and behaviors along an ethical scale. For Plato, the goal is to try to establish what constitutes ethical behavior and then seek conditions suitable to bring it about. Second, in theRepublic, one sees an outline of Plato's understanding of human well‐being. Human functioning (physical and mental flourishing, including friendship), and gender equality are key parts of his picture. Third, Plato is painting the picture of a utopian society in theRepublic. In discussions of the ideal society, the economy, laws, and other policies must be set within an ethical framework. In several respects, Plato anticipates Sen's capabilities approach to economics.Originality/valueIn recent years, great efforts have been devoted to developing and extending Sen's Capability Framework. Part of that work has been devoted to tracing the origins of Sen's approach back to Aristotle. This paper represents the first attempt to trace that framework back further, to Plato'sRepublic.
Law and economics in the ASEAN+3 region: the rule of law deficit
Authors: Lane Jan‐Erik 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to emphasize that East Asia and South East Asia, despite enormous economic advances, have a deficit on rule of law, analysed as either judicial autonomy and legal integrity (rule of law I) or as voice and accountability (rule of law II).Design/methodology/approachFirst, a distinction is made between two key aspects of rule of law; second, these two aspects are measured by data from the World Bank Governance project, relating them to various measures on socio‐economic development and economic growth.FindingsIt is not generally true that development leads to or entails freedom, as several countries in the ASEAN +3 region display low scores on either one of the dimensions of rule of law or both.Practical implicationsIn both research and in practice, one needs to devote more effort into understanding how rapid economic development may be possible without strong rule of law, either as legal integrity and judicial autonomy, or as voice and political accountability. In the process of globalisation, demands for more of rule of law in this region appear justifiable.Originality/valueThis paper provides useful information on economic development and political development, which is highly relevant for understanding the implication of economic growth in the countries in ASEAN +3.
Managerial views about dividend policy in Pakistan
Authors: Khan N.U. , Burton B.M. , Power D.M. 
Published: September 2011

PurposeVery little is known about the influences on dividend decisions in Pakistan, despite the importance of the market in the region and the nation's non‐standard tax system. This study therefore aims to provide detailed evidence regarding this issue by examining the views of those charged with the decisions in practice.Design/methodology/approachThe study reports the findings from interviews with 23 Pakistani company officials about influences on their firms' dividend policies. A semi‐structured interview document was used to guide the discussions. The interviewees chosen ensure that a wide spread of professional and industrial backgrounds were covered in the study.FindingsThe results suggest that, despite differences in environmental idiosyncrasies, the dividend decision‐making process in Pakistani companies is similar in many important respects to that in the USA and other developed markets. However, unlike in earlier studies, the interviewees suggested that past dividends do not influence current dividend levels in Pakistan and respondents were not reluctant to announce news of a dividend cut; instead, firms focus only on current earnings and company liquidity when deciding on a disbursement level.Originality/valueThe study suggests that views about dividends in Pakistan differ from those reported in other markets in a number of important respects. Some, but not all of this evidence relates to the Pakistan taxation system, where until very recently share dividends (as with all capital gains) were tax exempt.
Mentoring female entrepreneurs: a mentors' training intervention evaluation
Authors: Sarri Katerina K. 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of a mentor training intervention for experienced entrepreneurs in order to support and advise new and early stage female entrepreneurs in an attempt to enrich the limited literature of empirical data in the area of mentor training intervention assessment.Design/methodology/approachFor the evaluation of the mentor training programme, a three‐level process has been used (reactions to training, knowledge and skills, behavior). Empirical research consists of quantitative research and different questionnaires were used to obtain information from respondents on a post basis. The sample consists of 52 mentors (experienced entrepreneurs) and 52 female mentees (early stage entrepreneurs). Descriptive statistics were generated by the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data.FindingsMentors responded positively to the training, they acquired knowledge and improved their skills, and they were able to transfer their improved knowledge and skills to their mentoring relationship and to their personal and professional lives.Research limitations/implicationsFindings are based on preliminary research and a more comprehensive evaluation could be devised using pre‐ and post‐programme evaluation and resultant relationships could be further evaluated through a qualitative study.Practical implicationsA mentor training intervention evaluation is needed to enhance delivery of mentoring functions tailored to the needs of female entrepreneurs. This study serves as a starting‐point for further research in the field of female entrepreneurial learning and particularly mentor training to policy makers, academics and professionals.Originality/valueAlthough the literature on female entrepreneurship, mentoring and training is growing, very little has been done to assess mentor training interventions. The present paper is one of the first to address and explore this issue.