bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Internationalization, internalization and the performance of US biopharmaceutical SMEs
Authors: Li Lei , Li Dan , Shi Weilei (Stone) 
Published: April 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the multinationality‐performance (M‐P) relationship in the context of US biopharmaceutical small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs).Design/methodology/approachThe study examines the M‐P relationship of SMEs from a single home country and in a specific industry.FindingsThe paper finds that geographic dispersion of both foreign subsidiaries and alliances affects SME performance negatively, albeit to a varying extent. Firm‐specific technological advantages alleviate the negative impact of geographic dispersion of both foreign subsidiaries and alliances, whilst firm‐specific marketing advantages mitigate the negative effect of only geographic dispersion of foreign alliances. The paper also addresses the direct and joint effects of firm‐specific advantages, country‐specific advantages, and the degree of internalization on SME performance systematically. Further, the results reveal some interesting differences between the venturing and the development stage of SME internationalization.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors' knowledge, there have been virtually no studies on the M‐P relationship which attempt to distinguish between subsidiary‐ and alliance‐based internationalization.
Framework for selecting an appropriate e‐business model in managerial holding companies
Authors: Hanafizadeh Payam , Shafiei Nikabadi Mohsen 
Published: April 2011

PurposeThe main aim of the present study is to propose a framework for selecting an appropriate electronic business (e‐business) model in managerial holding companies with a chain structure acting in the area of the automobile industry.Design/methodology/approachThis is an applied study conducted as a survey and case study. First, the factors affecting selection of an appropriate e‐business model in managerial holding companies with chain structure in auto industry are identified through a survey and by testing hypotheses. Then, these factors are measured as a case study in Iran Khodro Co. so that the appropriate e‐business model can be determined for this managerial holding company with chain structure.FindingsIn this study, 18 different factors were identified for the five main criteria in identifying e‐business. Using the survey conducted in the statistical sample, only three factors of internal and external integration of human resources, flexibility, and decentralization in the responsibilities were identified as less important factors in identifying an appropriate model of e‐business in managerial holding companies with chain structure in automobile industry.Research limitations/implicationsOne limitation of the study was lack of sufficient managerial holding companies with a chain structure in the Iranian automobile industry, so that only two companies of Iran Khodro and Saipa possess holding and chain structure. Thus, generalization of the results of this study to the whole society must be done with great care in association with more researches.Originality/valueThis study, expanding and operationalizing a conceptual model, tries to identify the set of determining factors in selecting appropriate e‐business models in the managerial holding companies with a chain structure in the automobile industry.
Barriers to master data quality
Authors: Haug Anders , Stentoft Arlbjørn Jan 
Published: April 2011

PurposeWhile few would disagree that high data quality is a precondition for the efficiency of a company, this remains an area to which many companies do not give adequate attention. Thus, this paper aims to identify which are the most important barriers preventing companies from achieving high data quality. By improving awareness of barriers on which to concentrate, companies are put in a better position to achieve high quality data.Design/methodology/approachFirst, a literature review of data quality and data quality barriers is carried out. Based on this literature review, the paper identifies a set of overall barriers to ensuring high data quality. The significance of these barriers is investigated by a questionnaire study, which includes responses from 90 Danish companies. Because of the fundamental difference between master data and transaction data, the questionnaire is limited to focusing only on master data.FindingsThe results of the survey indicate that a lack of delegation of responsibilities for maintaining master data is the single aspect which has the largest impact on master data quality. Also, the survey shows that the vast majority of the companies believe that poor master data quality does have significant negative effects.Research limitations/implicationsThe contributions of this paper represent a step towards an improved understanding of how to increase the level of master data quality in companies. This knowledge may have a positive impact on the data quality in companies. However, since the study presented in this paper appears to be the first of its kind, the conclusions drawn need further investigation by other research studies in the future.Practical implicationsThis paper identifies the main barriers for ensuring high master data quality and investigates which of these factors are the most important. By focusing on these barriers, companies will have better chances of increasing their data quality.Originality/valueThe study presented in this paper appears to be the first of its kind, and it represents an important step towards understanding better why companies find it difficult to achieve satisfactory data quality levels.
Botnets: threats and responses
Authors: Jeong Ok‐Ran , Kim Chulyun , Kim Won , So Jungmin 
Published: April 2011

PurposeA botnet is a network of computers on the internet infected with software robots (or bots). There are numerous botnets, and some of them control millions of computers. Cyber criminals use botnets to launch spam e‐mails and denial of service attacks; and commit click fraud and data theft. Governments use botnets for political purposes or to wage cyber warfare. The purpose of this paper is to review the botnet threats and the responses to the botnet threats.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes how botnets are created and operated. Then, the paper discusses botnets in terms of architecture, attacking behaviors, communication protocols, observable botnet activities, rally mechanisms, and evasion techniques. Finally, the paper reviews state‐of‐the‐art techniques for detecting and counteracting botnets, and also legal responses to botnet threats.FindingsBotnets have become the platform for many online threats such as spam, denial of service attacks, phishing, data thefts, and online frauds. Security researchers must develop technology to detect and take down botnets, and governments must develop capacity to crack down on botmasters and botnets. Individual computer owners must diligently take measures to keep their computers from becoming members of botnets.Originality/valueThe paper provides a review of current status of botnets and a summary of up‐to‐date responses to botnets in both technical and legal aspects, which can be used as a stepping stone for further research.
Automatic linguistic knowledge acquisition for the web
Authors: Winiwarter Werner 
Published: April 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to address the knowledge acquisition bottleneck problem in natural language processing by introducing a new rule‐based approach for the automatic acquisition of linguistic knowledge.Design/methodology/approachThe author has developed a new machine translation methodology that only requires a bilingual lexicon and a parallel corpus of surface sentences aligned at the sentence level to learn new transfer rules.FindingsA first prototype of a web‐based Japanese‐English translation system called Japanese‐English translation using corpus‐based acquisition of transfer (JETCAT) has been implemented in SWI‐Prolog, and a Greasemonkey user script to analyze Japanese web pages and translate sentences via Ajax. In addition, linguistic information is displayed at the character, word, and sentence level to provide a useful tool for web‐based language learning. An important feature is customization; the user can simply correct translation results leading to an incremental update of the knowledge base.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper focuses on the technical aspects and user interface issues of JETCAT. The author is planning to use JETCAT in a classroom setting to gather first experiences and will then evaluate a real‐world deployment; also work has started on extending JETCAT to include collaborative features.Practical implicationsThe research has a high practical impact on academic language education. It also could have implications for the translation industry by superseding certain translation tasks and, on the other hand, adding value and quality to others.Originality/valueThe paper presents an extended version of the paper receiving the Emerald Web Information Systems Best Paper Award at iiWAS2010.
Economic relations between China and ASEAN: 1970‐2010
Authors: Weng Willam Choy Kim , Ming Zhang Yen 
Published: April 2011

PurposeThis purpose of this paper is to review the progressive development in bilateral trade and investments between China and the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) since 1970. China's economic reform has served as a great incentive for ASEAN countries to engage in continuous political and economic dialogue with the economic giant as it is considered as one of the largest, growing markets in the world. The political and economic efforts initiated by ASEAN have sought to affirm an outward‐looking ASEAN in playing a pivotal role in the international community and advancing ASEAN's common interests, which include economic trade with China as regional partner.Design/methodology/approachA review of the literature based on secondary data provides the analysis of the stages of the Chinese political and economic reforms that had brought about improvement in the economic relationship between China and ASEAN.FindingsThe findings comprise reports that highlight the promising trend in investment relations between China and ASEAN.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper highlights the need for further in‐depth analysis of Chinese political and economic reforms that will have a significant impact on regional trade and investment in the Asia‐Pacific region.Practical implicationsThe paper will allow international managers of multinational enterprises to have a better appreciation of the political and economic developments in China and to consider options to enhance greater business partnerships with Chinese corporations.Originality/valueThe literature gap in this particular area of study presents an opportunity to explore new developments in the Chinese Government's economic reforms.
Managing conflict with the Chinese: The Key from an in‐depth single case study
Authors: Darling John R. , Heller Victor L. 
Published: April 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to present The Key as a very valuable interactive foundation for effective conflict management in international trade negotiations. The Key, as used in this analysis, is reflected in the nature of the thoughts and feelings (commensurate with attitudes) generated by a marketing manager, and influenced by that individual's sense of cultural responsibility. The authors have researched, and have used this concept of The Key and its effectiveness in conflict management in both academic and international business arenas, and in low context, as well as high‐context cultures.Design/methodology/approachAn analysis of conflict management is presented within a case situation that involves business in the high‐context culture of China. A high‐context culture places a great deal of emphasis on a person's values and position or place in society, and interactions with others, rather than on the words and formal legalistic constructs used for negotiations in low‐context cultures. The case focuses on the relationship between the Vice President for International Marketing of Innovative Technologies, Inc. (ITI) headquartered in Chicago, IL, with offices also located in Frankfurt, Germany, and the Managing Director of the Shanghai Technology Manufacturing Center (STC) in China. The steps and skills used in providing a structure for the responsive process of managing a conflict were: the preliminary steps (involving power‐base development, relational acceptance and meaningful communication skills); the resolution steps (involving assumption analysis, objective identification and alternative selection skills); and the maintenance steps (involving action agreement, feedback review and continuing oversight skills). Each of these steps and skills were used to resolve, in a positive manner, the conflict between the ITI and STC.FindingsUse of The Key, as reflected in a manager's positive thoughts and feelings, is of major importance for effective application of the steps and skills in the paradigm for effective conflict management introduced in this treatise.Originality/valueThe case focuses on conflict challenges that are encountered and successfully resolved, thereby facilitating the marketing of a new cell (mobile) telephone introduced into the high‐context culture of China by Innovative Technologies, Inc.
Integrating Taoist Yin‐Yang thinking with Western nomology
Authors: Du Rong , Ai Shizhong , Brugha Cathal M. 
Published: April 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to relate Taoist Yin‐Yang thinking to Western nomology in terms of trust and trust building, seeking to explore the question of how trust impacts on conflict management.Design/methodology/approachA moderating model of trust in conflict management is proposed. Investigations and observations using primary and secondary data are described. Three cases are presented to explain the moderating effects of adjusting activities and trust on conflict and negotiation.FindingsThe proposed model was supported. The following findings have been obtained: keeping a balance between adjusting others and adjusting self is a key to resolving conflict; creating and retaining harmony is a bridge that leads both sides in conflict and negotiation to adjust themselves; taking indirect actions through relationships instead of by direct actions through power is a good way to trigger a state of harmony; and trust is shown to be the original driver and source that contribute to adapting actions, harmony and eventually to a win‐win negotiation outcome.Research limitations/implicationsThe investigations were limited in time and scope and consequently not conclusive.Practical implicationsThis research may provide practical implictions for people and organizations interested in conflict resolution who wish to: take a position that values trust; take indirect actions through relationship instead of direct actions through power; create and retain harmony between both sides in conflict and negotiation; and keep a balance between adjusting others and adjusting self, so to achieve win‐win negotiation outcomes.Originality/valueThis research may enhance the understanding of Taoist Yin‐Yang thinking by linking it with the Western nomology.
Ownership structure and R&D spending: evidence from China's listed firms
Authors: Zeng Tao , Lin Horn‐Chern 
Published: April 2011

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine the effect of ownership concentration, inside ownership and state ownership on the R&D spending practices for China's listed firms. The paper argues that corporate ownership structures including ownership concentration, inside ownership and state ownership are important for corporate expenditures on R&D in China, whose firms present a high ownership concentration and a high level of state ownership.Design/methodology/approachThe paper takes the form of an empirical study using a sample of 780 listed Chinese firms for six years from 2000 to 2005.FindingsIt is found that firms with concentrated share ownership have lower R&D spending, and firms with inside ownership have lower R&D spending. However, firms with a higher level of state ownership spend more on R&D.Research limitations/implicationsGiven that corporate ownership structure and tax policy have changed dramatically in China in recent years, future studies should be conducted to explore the association between firms' R&D investment activities and those ownership structure and tax policy changes.Social implicationsThis study is of interest to the policy makers, corporate management, and academics who wish to examine corporate R&D and innovation activities and those factors, including ownership structure, which are associated with R&D investment decisions.Originality/valueThis is the first study that examines the relationship between ownership and R&D spending for Chinese listed firms.
Aquachemie LLC – expansion in Qatar
Authors: Sikdar Arijit 
Published: April 2011

Subject area
The paper covers strategic planning and strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis.

Study level/applicability
This paper is applicable to undergraduate and graduate management students.

Case overview
In November 2009, Mr Vaidya Raghwan, one of the founders of AquaChemie LLC was contemplating the company's expansion into Qatar. The recent financial crisis had affected the company's growth plans. He wondered if this was the right time to move forward. This case examines the decisions taken by AquaChemie LLC and strategic analysis undertaken in preparation of entering a new market.

Expected learning outcomes
This case is suitable for the introductory section of the strategic planning course. The case is intended to expose students to the process of developing a business plan. Students are expected to carry out an analysis of the SWOT of the business and identify possible options of expansion. Students are also expected to identity the additional information they require to evaluate the expansion options identified.

Supplementary materials
A teaching note is available on request.
Oilfield Services – the Abu Dhabi branch
Authors: Fonseca Conchita Mary 
Published: April 2011

Subject area
Business strategy and human resource management.

Study level/applicability
Undergraduate Business and Management.

Case overview
This case spotlights Oilfield Services branch in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It focuses on various problems encountered whilst operating in Abu Dhabi. Oilfield Services was first established in Dubai in 1995, primarily to meet the growing demand of quality human resources in the oilfield, shipping, and fabrication sectors in the Middle East and Persian Gulf region. The case highlights the challenges of motivation and compensating staff and the importance of strategic decision making.

Expected learning outcomes
This case can be used to teach decision making, cost/benefit analysis, employee motivation, and compensation and elements relating to international business strategy.

Supplementary materials
A teaching note is available on request.
PromoSeven Sports Marketing
Authors: McKechnie Donelda S. 
Published: April 2011

Subject area
Sport marketing, sponsorship, marketing strategy, event management.

Study level/applicability
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Business and Management.

Case overview
This case discusses sport marketing within an emerging market business environment. PromoSeven Sports Marketing is the focus company. PromoSeven name is synonymous with major events particularly Emirates Airline Rugby 7s and the Olympic Council of Asia. The case highlights the challenges facing sponsorship, event management, sport marketing and PromoSeven's own business strategy after the 2009 economic downturn drew attention to Dubai's financial situation.

Expected learning outcomes
This case can be used to teach sport marketing, sponsorship, event management, and marketing strategy. It can also be used to identify target market segments for sports and the positioning that may appeal to those segments.

Supplementary materials
A teaching note is available on request.
Production Services Network (PSN) Emirates rising up to the people challenge
Authors: Payyazhi Jayashree 
Published: April 2011

Subject area
HR, strategic alignment, organizational culture and change and organizational theory and design.

Study level/applicability
Suitable for undergraduate and graduate students taking up advanced courses in HR, Change Management, Organizational Theory and Design.

Case overview
This case spotlights Production Services Network (PSN) Emirates JV and the strengths of its global network. The case raises many important issues related to building a unified culture across a global organization. The case specifically focuses on the significance of sourcing the right talent and training them for the success of PSN's global network.

Expected learning outcomes
This case may be used to teach topics such as leading cultural changes, steps to build a strong organizational culture and the significance of systemic alignment for successful strategy execution.

Supplementary materials
A teaching note is available on request.
The Dubai tennis ball machine
Authors: Khan Zeenath Reza 
Published: April 2011

Subject area
Ethics in IT, community informatics, management.

Study level/applicability
Undergraduate and postgraduate information technology and citizens' rights, strategic decision making.

Case overview
This case spotlights Athlete Sports in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). It focuses on the malfunction of the company's equipment that is rented from ABC Sports Equipment. Athlete Sports has been in the UAE over a decade and has positioned itself fairly at the top due to its qualified coaches and quality of facilities it provides. The case highlights the company's transition from owning equipment to leasing equipment that increases profits. However, it also sheds light on ABC Sports' venture into code reusability in order to upgrade equipments faster. The case looks closely at the ultimate consequences of ABC Sports' practice and the impact it has on Athlete's Sports' clients and the subsequent decisions the managers are expected to make.

Expected learning outcomes
This case can be used to teach strategic decision making, and ethics in information technology.

Supplementary materials
A teaching note is available on request.
TMH – pitching for WOMAD 2010
Authors: Vel Prakash 
Published: April 2011

Subject area
Integrated marketing communication (IMC), communication strategy, media strategy, budgeting and usage of metrics in measuring communication performance.

Study level/applicability
Undergraduate and postgraduate marketing.

Case overview
The choice of a well-planned IMC strategy becomes crucial for the successful launch of an event. This is a case study on how a brand management consultancy house, TMH, used IMC to launch a world music festival event in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in 2009, registering a visitorship of five times their target, 89 percent satisfaction and a staggering 99 percent of the visitors planning to visit the festival also in 2010.

Expected learning outcomes
This case can be used to teach IMC, marketing communication strategy, media strategy and scheduling and budgeting.

Supplementary materials
A teaching note is available on request.