bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Typology of the Chinese exporter
Authors: Chen Xi , Hu Zuohao , Sun Xuanzhong , Zhao Ping 
Published: August 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify the typology of Chinese indigenous exporters by incorporating proactive‐reactive and long‐ and short‐term export motivations as inputs. This study also seeks to find out whether, when driven with a different strength of four export motives, firms differ significantly in terms of commitment, learning, competence and performance.Design/methodology/approachThis paper employs cluster analysis to explore the typology of Chinese exporters and conducts ANOVA to compare subsequent differences in organizational characteristics, competence and performance. Case studies are then used to validate and exemplify the typology.FindingsFindings suggest that Chinese exporters fall into four segments: the prospector, the strategist, the hesitator and the experimentalist. Each shows a unique set of organizational characteristics and different performances. The prospector is most competitive and the best performer, followed by the strategist.Research limitations/implicationsThe study uses limited export motives and profiling variables to understand this in a static way. Other motives and profiling variables are welcomed, and future study can address this in a dynamic way.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest an evolutionary path for exporters and implies how to strengthen proactive and long‐term motives in order to achieve superior performance.Originality/valueThis paper for the first time looks at firms that are already involved in exporting, how differently they are motivated and how their initial internationalization motivations lead to sharp differences in export performance.
Work, motivation and personal characteristics: an in‐depth study of six organizations in Ningbo
Authors: Yang Fang 
Published: August 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate employees' work motivation in China. It aims to give answers to two questions: what motivates employees in China? What are the effects of personal characteristics on work motivation for employees in China?Design/methodology/approachThe study used convenience sampling to select the sample and the respondents were randomly selected from employees of six organizations, from people in the personnel market and also from people walking around in shopping centres in a very representative city of China – Ningbo. Then, descriptive statistics, t‐test (one sample t‐test, independent sample t‐test and one‐way ANOVA), regression analysis and scatter plots were used to analyze the data.FindingsThe findings of the study are: all the 15 motivation factors listed in the questionnaire, including good pay, promotion, desirable work environment, good welfare package, good bonus system, good company policy, good interpersonal relationships, good supervisors, job security, the opportunity to use my ability, a sense of challenge and achievement, positive recognition, autonomy, self‐actualization and interesting job, do motivate employees in China; good pay is the most important motivator for employees in China; employees' work motivation is affected by their personal characteristics.Originality/valueIt is believed that these findings can assist organizations in China, those located in Ningbo in particular, in effectively motivating their employees. It may also be applied to organizations located in other parts of the world which have Chinese employees.
Equitable risks allocation of projects inside China: analyses from Delphi survey studies
Authors: Ke Yongjian , Wang ShouQing , Chan Albert P.C. 
Published: August 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to validate and elaborate on the preferred risk allocations for Chinese public‐private partnership (PPP) projects.Design/methodology/approachA previous two‐round Delphi survey was carried out to identify the preferred risk allocations in Chinese PPP projects. A series of face‐to‐face interviews was subsequently conducted to collect actual risk allocations in some recently completed PPP projects. By comparing the preferred and actual allocations and discovering the reasons behind the differences, an equitable risk allocation scheme was then obtained.FindingsThe comparative analysis showed a great degree of conformity between the two allocation schemes. These interviews effectively reinforce the rationale of the preferred risk allocations, so that they can be considered as equitable for PPP projects in China.Originality/valueEquitable risk allocation is critical to the success of a PPP project. The findings in this paper are hence important to investors for a better understanding of the risks of PPP projects in China.
Planting seeds of enterprise
Authors: Dana Léo‐Paul , Hipango Waata 
Published: August 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to add to the understanding of Māori perspectives pertaining to the economic application of New Zealand's flora and fauna.Design/methodology/approachThe body of literature consulted was a combination of works written about Rongoā Māori (Māori medicine) and Māori perspectives on the stewardship and management of New Zealand's natural resources. Empirical findings were obtained from focus groups and an interview with a practitioner of Rongoā Māori. All interviews were semi‐structured.FindingsThe findings indicate that Māori enterprise involving indigenous flora and fauna is likely to be community based; with a proportion of these being non‐profit in nature. The transmission and protection of traditional knowledge regarding the use of plants is a key issue. Māori iwi (tribes) would benefit from further research into their models of community‐based entrepreneurship.Practical implicationsThe paper would be useful for academics considering further exploration of Māori participation in the bio‐economy.Originality/valueThe paper is an exploratory study that has captured some Māori perspectives regarding the use of indigenous flora and fauna.
Entrepreneurial implications of Nigeria's oil industry local content policy
Authors: Bellema Ihua Ugwushi , Abiodun Olabowale Olatunde , Nnanna Eloji Kamdi , Ajayi Chris 
Published: August 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the efficacy of Nigeria's oil and gas industry local content (LC) policy, with particular reference to how the policy has enhanced entrepreneurial activities and served as panacea to resolving some of the country's socio‐economic challenges within the oil‐producing Niger Delta region.Design/methodology/approachSurvey data were randomly obtained from a questionnaire sample of 120 indigenes in Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers states; and subjected to factor‐analysis using varimax rotation to identify the most crucial factors likely to influence the success of the policy. Cronbach's α was also applied to ascertain the reliability of the data and overall agreement amongst respondents.FindingsThe study reveals a general level of indifference amongst the respondents, and an insignificant level of entrepreneurial implication, regarding the LC policy. Notwithstanding, the need to create business prospects, jobs opportunities, and establish special quota arrangements to benefit indigenes of the oil producing host‐communities were found to be most crucial in their assessment of the policy's efficacy.Practical implicationsIt is expected that the policy should stimulate and open up more channels for budding entrepreneurial activities, job opportunities and wealth generation. These would mitigate situations of unwarranted militant activities, social disorder and disguised criminalities such as kidnapping and destruction of oil installations, resulting from perceived marginalisation, massive unemployment and poor living standards experienced within the region.Originality/valueThe study provides insights into how the LC policy, if properly harnessed and judiciously implemented, can generate win‐win outcomes for the nation, multi‐national oil companies, host communities and indigenous entrepreneurs.
Governance, commercial strategies and performances of wine cooperatives
Authors: Couderc Jean‐Pierre , Marchini Andrea 
Published: August 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyse the structural characteristics, the governance and the performance of two French and Italian groups of wine cooperatives, with two objectives in mind. On one hand, the study will analyse the presence of similarities between the characteristics of the two groups of companies which were founded in the same period within a similar legal framework; on the other, it will study the presence of links between the strategic policy of the companies and their structural, governance and performance characteristics.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses survey data obtained from interviews with 25 wine cooperatives. It covers the topics of their structure, organisation, strategies, management and performance in Italy (specifically in Umbria, a region in the centre of Italy), and in France (in Languedoc‐Roussillon, a region in southern France). Other indicators of performance, calculated from the balance sheets of the companies, were added to this analysis, and a careful analysis was drawn up to check the factors which condition the performance of the companies.FindingsThe main finding underlines some strong differentiating elements between those cooperatives selling the biggest part of their production as bulk wine and those selling it as packaged wine. But the first situation does not lead automatically to inferring a decline or an involution of these cooperatives. On the contrary, the mitigated performances that were found clearly question whether there is a strategic evolution towards more specialisation (intermediate phases of product transformation, leading to business‐to‐business differentiation strategies) which could be more profitable for their growers‐owners than further integration towards packaged wine sales.Originality/valueThe analysis deals with the problem of performance and governance of the transformation cooperative companies in the wine sector, which produce more than 50 percent of the entire wine production both in France and Italy.
Localization of human resources in the State of Qatar
Authors: Williams Justin , Bhanugopan Ramudu , Fish Alan 
Published: August 2011

PurposeThis paper seeks to provide an overview of the concept of “localization” of human resources in Qatar. Relative to the rest of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries (GCCCs), economic development began late in Qatar due to political and economic factors such as the influx of an immigrant labour force and changes in the education system. Now, with one of the fastest growing economies in the world, and the highest per capita income, Qatar has vigorously embraced rapid economic expansion. However, in a small country awash with natural resources, and with a population engulfed by expatriates, the issue of “localization” is a pressing economic and social issue.Design/methodology/approachThis paper reviews the national human resource situation in this atypical context, and seeks to determine the factors that impact on “localization” in this small, yet important Gulf nation.FindingsThere are some common barriers to “localization” throughout the GCCCs. These can be summarized as: an inefficient quota system; a culture that is focused more on prestige than performance; strict cultural practices concerning women in the workforce; education systems that are not market driven; and an inequitable social contract and distribution of oil and natural gas wealth in the GCCCs.Originality/valueWhile much attention has been directed to the concept of “localization” in developing countries, “Qatarization” has received no attention in the scholarly literature, despite the resounding political and economic role that Qatar has in the GCCCs.
Access to higher education for Palestinians in Israel
Authors: Arar Khalid , Mustafa Mohanned 
Published: August 2011

PurposeThe paper seeks to analyze the characteristics of higher education (HE) among Palestinian Arabs in Israel (PAI). It aims to indicate the main trends that have taken place in higher education since the establishment of the State of Israel, especially in the last decade, and to examine the main factors that have hindered access to higher education for this minority group.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on a meta‐analysis of official statistics and other official documents, and on an analysis of relevant recent research studies.FindingsThe analysis shows that although there has been an increase in the numbers and percentages of PAI studying in Israeli HE institutes, especially for women, structural blocks still hinder their access to Israeli HE institutes, a situation exacerbated by their deficient preparation in secondary school. Their disproportionate under‐representation in the HE system reflects policies relating to power distribution and control in Israeli society.Social implicationsPolicy favoring re‐distribution of power alongside affirmative action legislation could influence the structure of the HE system and improve PAI minority representation in Israeli HE institutes.Originality/valueThe paper indicates the need for affirmative action to increase the Palestinian minority population's access to higher education in Israel.
Ranking the future global manager characteristics and knowledge requirements according to UAE business managers' opinions
Authors: Barhem Belal , Younies Hassan , Smith Pamela C. 
Published: August 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to rank the importance of global manager characteristics according to the views of private and public leaders in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In addition, it will establish the most important and in demand managerial knowledge for UAE managers over the next five years.Design/methodology/approachThis study was conducted using a two‐part questionnaire developed by the researchers. The purpose of the 52‐item questionnaire is to assess managers' ability to work in an international business environment. The sample includes 180 managers, from different public and private organizations in the UAE. Based on prior research, the characteristics examined include the following: communication skills, adaptability, open‐mindedness to foreign environments, strong technical skills, stress management, ability to work well with others, social intelligence, and valuing diversity and multicultural teamwork. Factor analysis is used to analyze the importance of these global leader characteristics.FindingsThe study found that the sample of UAE managers feel the top five global manager skills are: strong desire to go overseas, specific knowledge of overseas culture, the ability to adapt to time differences, the capacity to deal with expatriate work assignments, and overseas experience. In terms of the future, computer skills, communication skills, knowledge of worldwide networks and contacts, knowledge of home culture, and the ability to understand cultural dynamics are the most important skills.Originality/valueThe results will help in defining the major characteristics of future global managers in the UAE and the Gulf Corporation Council region.
Post‐qualifying students' experiences of implementing skills acquired from a “hearing voices” module into routine clinical practice
Authors: Chapman Jim , Morris Mervyn 
Published: August 2011

PurposePrevious research into psychosocial interventions courses has identified a problem with the uptake of newly acquired skills into routine practice. This paper seeks to analyse interviews of students who have undertaken a module equipping them with recovery orientated skills to work with voice hearers at one higher education institution, to establish if the same problems exist, if any new problems have emerged and if any strategies can be employed to overcome these barriers.Design/methodology/approachSemi‐structured interviews were used to interview 45 previous course participants in four focus groups about their experiences of implementing skills acquired from the module into routine practice. Thematic analysis of the data was undertaken by two people, independent of one another and aided by the use of NVivo 8 software.FindingsThree main themes were identified: organisational issues; resistance and process issues. Management support can be a great enabling factor, as can effective clinical supervision. The readiness of the individual to change and their perceived confidence to implement new skills are important factors as is the readiness from service users and their families to accept new ways of working.Originality/valueMental health educators need to be aware that although participants on a course might “buy‐in” to a new approach whilst undertaking a period of training, it is easy to slip into old customs and practices. More robust and accessible supervision might help participants to “keep the faith” with their new skills and knowledge, and may also help people feel more confident in trying out new skills.
Embitterment among German academic and non‐academic nurses
Authors: van Eckert Sandra , Gaidys Uta , Martin Colin R. 
Published: August 2011

PurposeNursing staff display symptoms of psychological stress more frequently than members of other professions. The subjective experience of embitterment also takes on a greater significance. This paper seeks to determine if level of education has an impact on the degree of embitterment as a function of educational status.Design/methodology/approachA between subjects design was used with academic status as the independent variable and self‐report embitterment, using the German version of the Bern Embitterment Inventory, as the primary dependent variable. A random sample of 212 German nurses with academic and non‐academic education participated in the study.FindingsThe comparison between academic and non‐academic nursing staff revealed a statistically significant difference indicating that an academic education has a positive effect on the subjective perception of embitterment (p=0.001).Originality/valueConsidering the current situation of academic nurses within the German health care system and the everyday nursing routine, psychological stress potential of unique dimensions such as embitterment have important ramifications in terms of understanding the relationship between the mental health and academic status of nurses within this system. The findings suggest the merit and value of further implementation of academic nursing study courses in Germany.
Biogeography migration algorithm for traveling salesman problem
Authors: Mo Hongwei , Xu Lifang 
Published: August 2011

PurposeBiogeography‐based optimization algorithm is a new kind of optimization algorithm based on biogeography. It is designed based on the migration strategy of animals to solve the problem of optimization. The purpose of this paper is to present a new algorithm – biogeography migration algorithm for traveling salesman problem (TSPBMA). A new special migration operator is designed for producing new solutions.Design/methodology/approachThe paper gives the definition of TSP and models of TSPBMA; introduces the algorithm of TSPBMA in detail and gives the proof of convergence in theory; provides simulation results of TSPBMA compared with other optimization algorithms for TSP and presents some concluding remarks and suggestions for further work.FindingsThe TSPBMA is tested on some classical TSP problems. The comparison results with the other nature‐inspired optimization algorithms show that TSPBMA is useful for TSP combination optimization. Especially, the designed migration operator is very effective for TSP solving. Although the proposed TSPBMA is not better than ant colony algorithm in the respect of convergence speed and accuracy, it provides a new way for this kind of problem.Originality/valueThe migration operator is a new strategy for solving TSPs. It has never been used by any other evolutionary algorithm or swarm intelligence before TSPBMA.
Reducing data dimensionality using random projections and fuzzy k‐means clustering
Authors: Aswani Kumar Ch. 
Published: August 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce a new hybrid method for reducing dimensionality of high dimensional data.Design/methodology/approachLiterature on dimensionality reduction (DR) witnesses the research efforts that combine random projections (RP) and singular value decomposition (SVD) so as to derive the benefit of both of these methods. However, SVD is well known for its computational complexity. Clustering under the notion of concept decomposition is proved to be less computationally complex than SVD and useful for DR. The method proposed in this paper combines RP and fuzzy k‐means clustering (FKM) for reducing dimensionality of the data.FindingsThe proposed RP‐FKM is computationally less complex than SVD, RP‐SVD. On the image data, the proposed RP‐FKM has produced less amount of distortion when compared with RP. The proposed RP‐FKM provides better text retrieval results when compared with conventional RP and performs similar to RP‐SVD. For the text retrieval task, superiority of SVD over other DR methods noted here is in good agreement with the analysis reported by Moravec.Originality/valueThe hybrid method proposed in this paper, combining RP and FKM, is new. Experimental results indicate that the proposed method is useful for reducing dimensionality of high‐dimensional data such as images, text, etc.
Robust control of quadrotor MAV using self‐organizing interval type‐II fuzzy neural networks (SOIT‐IIFNNs) controller
Authors: Chen Xiangjian , Li Di , Xu Zhijun , Bai Yue 
Published: August 2011

PurposeQuadrotor micro aerial vehicle (MAV) is nonlinear and under actuated plant, and it is difficult to obtain an accurate mathematical model for quadrotor MAV due to uncertainties. The purpose of this paper is to propose one robust control strategy for quadrotor MAV to accommodate system uncertainties, variations, and external disturbances.Design/methodology/approachThe robust control strategy is composed of two self‐organizing interval type‐II fuzzy neural networks (SOIT‐IIFNNs) and one PD controller: the PD controller is adopted to control the attitude and position; one of the SOIT‐IIFNNs is designed to learn the inverse model of quadrotor MAV online; the other SOIT‐IIFNNs is the copy of the former one to compensate for model errors, system uncertainties and external disturbances, both structure and parameters of SOIT‐IIFNNs are tuned online at the same time, and then the stability of the resulting quadrotor MAV closed‐loop control system is proved using Lyapunov stability theory.FindingsThe validity of the proposed control method has been verified through real‐time experiments. The experimental results show that the performance of SOIT‐IIFNNs is significantly improved compared with Backstepping‐based controller.Practical implicationsThis approach has been used in quadrotor MAV, the controller works well, and it could guarantee quadrotor MAV control system with good performances under uncertainties, variations, and external disturbances.Originality/valueThe proposed SOIT‐IIFNNs controller is interesting for the design of an intelligent control scheme. The main contributions of this paper are: the overall closed‐loop control system is globally stable, demonstrated by Lyapunov stable theory; the tracking error can be asymptotically attenuated to a desired small level around zero by appropriate chosen parameters and learning rates; and the quadrotor MAV control system based on SOIT‐IIFNNs controller can achieve favorable tracking performance.