bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Open innovation process to inbound knowledge
Authors: Buganza Tommaso , Verganti Roberto 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the organizational aspects of an open innovation approach by focusing on the relationship between universities and firms as a vehicle for acquiring technological knowledge. It discusses in detail the characteristics of firm organizational units that are devoted to managing relationships with universities and the processes that firms put in place to select research fields and partners.Design/methodology/approachConsidering the complex system of variables that characterize this phenomenon, an interview‐based case study method is adopted. In order to compare behaviors and organizational approaches, a retrospective, multiple case study method with theoretical replication was employed to focus on four companies that operate in three different industries: telecoms, construction, and aviation. The goal was to better explain the studied phenomenon. After the data‐gathering phase, the cases were compared by identifying similarities and differences in terms of four different drivers, the relevance of which were highlighted during the interviews.FindingsFirst, the sampled companies do acquire external knowledge from universities, but in doing so, they take into account the technology lifecycle (or s‐curve) and its associated phases. Second, in order to manage relationships with universities, companies make different decisions vis‐à‐vis four main organizational variables: the number of people involved in the organizational unit (OU) that is devoted to managing relationships with universities; the positioning of the OU within (or outside) the firm's boundaries; the degree of work specialization in the OU; and the degree of formalization of the process.Originality/valueThis paper is one of the first attempts to operationalize the open innovation concept from an organizational perspective. Thus, it opens new possibilities for future organization‐focused studies on this topic.
Exploring the field of open innovation
Authors: Elmquist Maria , Fredberg Tobias , Ollila Susanne 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review the emerging research field of open innovation and identify where the field is going as well as suggest future fields of research.Design/methodology/approachAll academic papers and books published until November 2007 under the label of open innovation were systematically reviewed. Also, nine key researchers were asked to contribute with their opinions on the research frontier.FindingsA number of key themes in the research were identified, and conclusions on the underlying structure were drawn. This reveals that there is a tendency towards a broader definition and application of the term, a growing critical perspective, and a concentration on theory development and managerial implications.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper suggests that thelocusof the innovation process and the extent of collaboration should be used as two dimensions in a model to further understanding of how open innovation develops. These dimensions have an important impact on both the human and the organizational side of innovation, areas that are highlighted as important fields for further research.Originality/valueDespite the interest in the open innovation topic, a comprehensive review of the academic publications in the area does not seem to exist. The review and the conclusions drawn support the understanding of the growing field.
Functional actors and perceptions of innovation attributes: influence on innovation adoption
Authors: Kristian Häggman Sami 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to complement organizational diffusion research by illustrating influence of factors specific to collective adoption process, which has received limited focus in diffusion research. The research question is how do different actors perceive attributes of innovation and how does that influence the process towards initial adoption of a new technology?Design/methodology/approachOwing to limited prior research and need to assess multiple innovation variables, the paper employs an inductive case study. Uses Rogers' five main perceived attributes of innovation as an analysis framework and functional actors as a unit of analysis. Two cases with early stage companies commercialising new, differentiating technologies to global, established value networks. Key actors influencing the adoption of the technologies interviewed.FindingsThe paper illustrates how actor characteristics and perceptions of innovation attributes are interrelated; perceptions of different functional actors on innovation attributes differ, both gating and advancing the adoption process for innovations; and the actors' differing perceptions and the resulting interaction influence the duration and outcome of adoption process.Research limitations/implicationsNon‐traditional methodology in diffusion research leading to larger interpretation of the findings, but enabling assessment of multiple variables and their interrelations not captured with traditional approaches. Areas for further research: generalizable patterns in interrelation between actors' functional roles and perceptions of innovation attributes as well as evolution of perceptions during collective adoption process.Practical implicationsInnovation providers need to identify both the parties gating and advancing the innovation as well as their underlying motivations. They need to ensure sufficient interaction between themselves and the actors and among the actors to leverage the positive momentum to overcome the resistance towards innovation.Originality/valueThe paper addresses the organizational diffusion research critique of, e.g. Frambach, of Damanpour, and of Wejnert on insufficient attention being paid to actor level characteristics and their influence on diffusion as well as interaction of different variables. The paper empirically illustrates how factors specific to collective adoption influence the process towards adoption.
Personalization in non‐territorial offices: a study of a human need
Authors: Brunia Sandra , Hartjes‐Gosselink Anca 
Published: October 2009

PurposePersonalization and the non‐territorial office seem to be contradicting concepts. It is generally accepted that it is not possible to personalize workplaces in environments where no fixed individual workplaces are allocated. However, people seem to have a human need of personalization. Personalization can be done in different ways and for different reasons. Based on a literature review and a qualitative case study at a Dutch governmental organization, the purpose of this paper is to explain why and how personalization occurs in environments where non‐territorial office concepts are introduced.Design/methodology/approachQualitative interpretative research design, in which literature study, document analysis, observations and talking, and interviews are combined, to understand the actor's perspective and behavior in the non‐territorial office of organization X.FindingsConclusions of the study indicate personalization to be a relevant factor for consideration when implementing a non‐territorial office design: when objects are prohibited to personalize your work environment, people seek several additional ways to make the environment familiar and comfortable for them and to mark their identity in the organization.Research limitations/implicationsAccess to organization X went via top management, which makes it possible that the position of the independent researcher was not clear to people. The research took place in three months, but not full time. Missing important behaviors is amongst possible consequences for the findings. Since this is one case study, further research is recommended.Practical implicationsBalanced decisions and rules between organizational policy and human needs help the acceptance of own workplace lost in non‐territorial offices.Originality/valuePersonalization is a well‐researched subject; as applied in non‐territorial offices, it is not well researched yet. This research paper suggests that aspects of emotion and psychological need should be considered as well in the development of a non‐territorial office.
Evaluation of third‐party logistics (3PL) providers by using a two‐phase AHP and TOPSIS methodology
Authors: Perçin Selçuk 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThird‐party logistics (3PL) provider selection has gained great attention in logistics management literature. The purpose of this paper is to provide a good insight into the use of a‐two‐phase analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) approach that is a multi‐criteria decision‐making methodology in the evaluation of 3PL providers.Design/methodology/approachIn this paper, after the selection criteria of 3PL providers are determined by modified Delphi method, the weights of criteria have been calculated by applying the AHP method. The TOPSIS method is then employed to achieve the final ranking results. And an actual case example is presented to clarify the methodology. Sensitivity analysis is also given to demonstrate how sensitive the proposed model is to changes in the weights of different main criteria.FindingsThis model provides decision makers with a simple, flexible, and easy‐to‐use approach to evaluate potential 3PL providers efficiently. Findings demonstrate that the proposed benchmarking framework, with minor modifications, can be useful to all firms in their 3PL provider selection decisions.Research limitations/implicationsA two‐phase AHP and TOPSIS methodology is very flexible and suitable for various decision situations. However, selection of the appropriate 3PL provider requires consideration of multiple alternative solutions and evaluation criteria because of complex methodology, and hence it increases the effort.Originality/valueThis is probably the first time that an attempt has been made to apply the modified Delphi method, AHP and TOPSIS methodology in the decision of 3PL provider selection in a Turkish automotive supplier company. This is the most powerful motivation to consider this problem. In addition, the paper is especially of interest to managers as they make decisions on which criteria should be considered in the evaluation process and how a decision model should be structured by using a two‐phase AHP and TOPSIS methodology.
Performance measurement in supply chain entities: balanced scorecard perspective
Authors: Chia Adrien , Goh Mark , Hum Sin‐Hoon 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to empirically examine what senior supply chain executives measure and how they perceive performance measurement from a balanced scorecard (BSC) perspective.Design/methodology/approachA survey designed from the four perspectives of the BSC framework is conducted on senior executives involved in the supply chain functions of client firms, and those executives from the logistics service provider industry.FindingsDespite the need to provide a balanced approach to performance measurement, firms remain focused on traditional financial measures (gross revenue, profit before tax, and cost reduction). From a supply chain perspective, the non‐tangible measures such as customer satisfaction are most measured. Other key logistics performance indicators include on‐time delivery, and customer satisfaction.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings are based on a sample size of 113. Thus, some respondent clusters are smaller than others. Hence, the results may not be representative of the individual clusters.Practical implicationsEach supply chain entity must adopt a more balanced perspective in its performance measurement and management. Companies need to recognize the importance of the drivers of strategic future performance. Managing a given supply chain's overall performance necessitates the coordination of measures across the different entities on the supply chain, often requiring all entities to adopt a common balanced perspective in their performance management to facilitate the overall performance and competitiveness of the entire supply chain.Originality/valueThis paper is the first attempt to apply the BSC framework on the logistics industry.
The status and development of logistics cost management: evidence from Mainland China
Authors: Song Hua , Wang Lan 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine current practices of logistics cost management (LCM) in Mainland China and identify factors impacting on the effectiveness of LCM.Design/methodology/approachThe questionnaire‐based survey is conducted in Mainland China. To analyze the status quo of LCM in Mainland China, the paper takes two nonparametric tests, Mann‐Whitney U‐test and Kruskal‐Wallis one‐way analysis of variance to compare the difference between firms with and without attaching importance to LCM.FindingsThe difficulties of LCM in China is as follows: first, there is a lack of effective cost measurement tools and analyses as well as reporting systems, especially in terms of distributors. Second, it is very critical to organize intra‐organizational cross‐functional teams and inter‐organizational collaboration based on business processes to promote information integrating instead of blindly investing on information technology application. Third, professional logistics managers are in short supply, even among logistics service providers.Research limitations/implicationsFirst, although the sample covers some industries, the generalization of the conclusion is still limited due to sample size. In future research, more industries should be covered to test the hypotheses proposed. Second, this paper just analyzes the status quo of Chinese company LCM. Future studies are encouraged to deeply explore internal and external operational management factors impacting on LCM.Practical implicationsThis paper is a very insightful source of information about LCM in Mainland China for logistics managers and policy makers. This paper provides logistics managers with insight so as to improve their performance. There are also suggestions for government and educational institutions to provide more resources to develop and offer more logistics courses and training programs to fulfill the needs of the logistics industry. The paper sets up a basis for research on LCM in China.Originality/valueDespite the importance of LCM in Mainland China, the extant literatures scarcely have a sound analysis. Theoretically, this paper extends theories of LCM in China and identifies main issues concerning LCM. This paper is an exploratory study to figure out an effective LCM approach in China.
Benchmarking on supply chain partnering effectiveness in two semiconductor companies
Authors: Rajagopal Premkumar , Zailani Suhaiza , Sulaiman Mohamed 
Published: October 2009

PurposeSupply chain partnering (SCP) in internationally operating companies is still not adequately addressed in the literature. The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors towards effective SCP across two organizations of different origins (Company A and Company B).Design/methodology/approachThe central issue is to investigate how information flow, organizational linkage, supply chain infrastructure, and resource sharing exhibit themselves in the SCP through a case study method.FindingsThe interviews reveal that Company B tends to be a reluctant player and is far more skeptical about the benefits afforded through such a relationship. It can also be concluded that Company B is less interested in the benefits gained and is more likely to highlight the risks associated with heightened dependence on a smaller number of suppliers. On the one hand, it can be stated that Company B thinks about the gains afforded by partnering supply chains but is more easily swayed by traditional purchasing metrics related to cost or initial purchase prices. On another level, Company A seems to fully participate in SCP efforts and sees the benefit from such a relationship.Research limitations/implicationsThe interviews are necessary for developing basis understanding on how companies implement SCP, especially to examine the factors that contribute to its successful. The study suggests that larger number of sample need be used.Practical implicationsFrom the case study, it is believed that firms appear to confirm a positive and significant relationship between the degree of resource sharing and organizational linkage, if they see that scalable partnering efforts as hypothesized are workable.Originality/valueThe case study highlights is the important role of the partnering to support supply chain process and to deliver high‐quality service. This is important because the profitability and survival of the chains depend on how well partnering concept been implemented.
Business and marketing strategies in responsible property investment
Authors: Kriese Ulrich 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to give an overview of business and marketing strategies pursued by responsible property developers, funds and investors in the USA and to draw conclusions for future activities in that sector from a transatlantic perspective.Design/methodology/approachPersonal interviews are conducted with 42 developers, fund providers and managers, institutional, nonprofit and major private investors representing more than US$60 billion of responsible property assets under management. The data are complemented by an analysis of promotional documents. A cluster analysis is performed to classify the strategies of the participating companies and institutions and to explore any commonalities and differences.FindingsBusiness and marketing strategies in responsible property investment (RPI) can be described and characterised within the three dimensions of location, building and people. RPI activities and investors in the USA usually transcend pure green building and aim to contribute significantly to smart growth, to sustainable urban development and revitalization.Research limitations/implicationsThe results in this study are not fully representative of the US RPI community, with the study focussing on the core network of developers, real estate funds and large investors. Furthermore, issues of corporate governance and financial performance are omitted from this study. Interviews are conducted in autumn 2008, i.e. at a time when the major financial crisis reached a global scale, potentially influencing participants' perspectives and subsequent responses.Practical implicationsThe findings may help RPI practitioners reflect on business and marketing strategies. European developers, real estate funds and investors can benefit in many respects from US experiences.Originality/valueThe research approach, applied to RPI focussing on business and marketing strategies for the first time, provides new insights for practitioners on both sides of the Atlantic. Above all, the findings may initiate further research to deepen the understanding of the RPI business.
Comparing “socially responsible” and “sustainable” commercial property investment
Authors: Kimmet Philip 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to set out to explore the similarities and differences between jargon used to describe future‐focussed commercial building product. This is not so much an exercise in semantics as an attempt to demonstrate that responses to challenges facing the construction and property sectors may have more to do with language than is generally appreciated.Design/methodology/approachThis is a conceptual analysis which draws upon relevant literature.FindingsSocial responsibility and sustainability are often held to be much the same thing, with each term presupposing the existence of the other. Clearly, however, there are incidences where sustainable commercial property investment (SCPI) may not be particularly socially responsible, despite being understood as an environmentally friendly initiative. By contrast, socially responsible assets, at least in theory, should always be more sustainable than mainstream non‐ethically based investment. Put simply, the expression of social responsibility in the built environment may evoke, and thereby deliver, a more sustainable product, as defined by wider socially inclusive parameters.Practical implicationsThe findings show that promoting an ethic of social responsibility may well result in more SCPI. Thus, the further articulation and celebration of social responsibility concepts may well help to further advance a sustainable property investment agenda, which is arguably more concerned about demonstrability of efficiency than wider public good outcomes.Originality/valueThe idea that jargon affects outcomes is not new. However, this idea has rarely, if ever, been applied to the distinctions between social responsibility and sustainability. Even a moderate re‐emphasis on social responsibility in preference to sustainability may well provide significant future benefits with respect to the investment, building and refurbishment of commercial property.
Social and environmental metrics for US real estate portfolios
Authors: Pivo Gary 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess the availability of information in the USA for measuring the social and environmental performance of real estate portfolios.Design/methodology/approachA search is conducted for relevant indicator data sources using internet, library and government resources. Priority is placed on information that could be accessed on line, by any user, free of charge, from reputable sources, using available search parameters, for all types of properties and for any properties anywhere in the USA. Useful sources are identified and assessed using data quality indicators. Information gaps are also identified. A previously published method is adapted for comparing the social and environmental performance of properties and portfolios and data collected from identified sources are used to illustrate the construction of indices useful for making comparisons.FindingsNationwide data sources are available for most important dimensions with greater availability for the most important ones. There are, however, important data gaps related to such issues as water use, day light and ventilation, aesthetics and others. Most sources only require a property address for queries but do not support batch processing. There are no data quality problems for most data sources but a substantial minority of the sources does have at least one data quality issue. Available data can be used to construct indices useful for comparing properties and portfolios.Practical implicationsFund managers can use these results to compile extra‐financial information on sustainability and corporate social responsibility and socially responsible investors can use them to evaluate investment opportunities.Originality/valueThis is the first effort to identify and assess data sources needed for creating responsible and sustainable metrics and indices and responds to demand for better metrics in the field of sustainable and responsible property investing.