bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pipe assembly planning algorithm by imitating human imaginal thinking
Authors: Zhou Chen , Yin Yuehong 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a computationally efficient and generally applicable measure for a pipe routing problem which decides the pipe paths and affects the pipe assembly feasibility. By imitating human thinking in pipe assembly planning, human's experience and intuition are quantified and applied in the pipe routing algorithm.Design/methodology/approachHuman's imaginal thinking is simulated with procedures of knowledge representation, pattern recognition, and logical deduction; the algorithm transforms the physical obstacles and constraints into 3D pipe routing space and then into 2D planar projection, by using convex hull algorithm onto the projection, the shortest pipe route is found efficiently.FindingsA novel pipe assembly planning algorithm by imitating human imaginal thinking is presented, which effectively solved the problem of conceiving the shortest pipe route in 3D space with obstacles and constraints.Practical implicationsThe application of the algorithm in assembly planning of an aircraft engine pipe system is demonstrated. The algorithm can also be used in similar pipe planning problems such as industrial plant pipe planning and submarine pipe system design.Originality/valueHuman's imaginal thinking is introduced into pipe routing algorithm for the first time. By using graphics as the media to transfer the pipe routing information, human's experience and intuition in pipe assembly planning are quantified and computationally applicable.
The auto‐cooking system for Chinese traditional dishes
Authors: Fu Z. , Yan W.X. , Ma W.T. , Zhao Y.Z. , Liu X.Y. 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a new auto‐cooking industrial system for the Chinese food industry.Design/methodology/approachFirst, the paper introduces a robotic system with the redundant control functions based on the embedded RISC fieldbus control system IP core. Second, the data acquisition of the advanced cooks' operation procedure is used to get the teaching knowledge in the different cooking actions for the typical Chinese dishes. Finally, according to the teaching‐playback method, the auto‐cooking procedure for the complex Chinese dishes is completed well.FindingsIt is found that the new auto‐cooking system can cook many Chinese traditional dishes with high quality.Practical implicationsThe robot is applicable to cooking automatically for the Chinese food industry.Originality/valueThe auto‐cooking industrial system has been developed with the programming method for the cooking actions.
Gender, globalization and organization: exploring power, relations and intersections
Authors: Dawn Metcalfe Beverly , Rees Christopher J. 
Published: February 2010

PurposeCurrent debates on neo‐liberal and universalistic globalization pay little attention to gender or to other marginalized groups, and fail to consider the complexity and diversity of the experiences of men and women in specific socio‐political contexts, especially those in the developing world. The paper challenges mainstream theories which present globalization and its associated forces as gender neutral. The main purpose of this paper is to advance theoretical debates on the gendered organizing dynamics of globalization.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on organization theory, gender and development studies literature, and feminist sociology, to advance critical understandings of contemporary debates of the intersecting qualities of globalization, transnational organizations and gender social divisions.FindingsThe paper provides a critical synthesis of the complexity and interconnections between gender, organization and globalization. The paper identifies international development agencies; transnational corporations; international nongovernmental organizations and government state machineries as key stakeholders in the global and national regulation of employment and diversity issues. The paper outlines the organizing praxis of these key stakeholders, and stresses the need for all actors to engage in human rights awareness and equality consciousness raising.Originality/valueThe paper provides an original gendered organization analysis of globalization which reveals the specificity of global‐local linkages mediated by national states, international organizations, women's NGOs and gendered government machineries.
Becoming an international man
Authors: Tienari Janne , Vaara Eero , Meriläinen Susan 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to address gender and management in contemporary globalization by focusing on the ways in which male top managers in a multinational corporation (MNC) construct their identities in interviews with researchers.Design/methodology/approachQualitative analysis based on interviews with virtually all top managers in the Nordic financial services company Nordea (53 men and two women).FindingsIt is found that becoming international induces a particular masculine identity for the top managers. In becoming international, however, their national identification persists. The unstability of the MNC as a political constellation leaves room for questioning the transnational identity offered.Originality/valueThis paper's findings suggest that in the global world of business, national identity can also be interpreted as something positive and productive, contrary to how it has been previously treated in feminist and men's studies literature.
The construction of gender identities in public sector organisations in Latin America
Authors: Rodriguez Jenny K. 
Published: February 2010

PurposeLiterature on “gender and organisation” in developing countries is scarce. The purpose of this paper is to unveil the way in which gender construction is understood and operates within public organisational settings in the Dominican Republic.Design/methodology/approachSemi‐structured interviews were conducted with 27 women and 13 men from three organisations in the public sector in the Dominican Republic. The research was developed using a feminist poststructuralist methodological framework and used discourse analysis.FindingsGender construction and dynamics in the Dominican public sector reproduce paternalistic assumptions and beliefs. Organisational culture operates as a gendered system where sexualised structures and processes perpetuate ideas about male superiority and female inferiority, which translate in expectations of men being dominant and women being submissive.Research limitations/implicationsThe experience of a group of employees from three public institutions cannot generalise the whole of the public sector all around the country. More importantly, it cannot be assumed to represent all feminist voices from developing countries.Practical implicationsThe implications of this research are significant both for gender sensitive employment public policy reform and human resource management practices in the public sector.Originality/valueThe research focused on how gender is articulated in organisational culture, situating this problematisation in the public sector in the Dominican Republic. The paper contributes to the limited knowledge of gender and organisation in the Hispanic Caribbean, particularly the Dominican Republic.
Gender, development, and sex work in Lesotho
Authors: Braun Yvonne A. 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the intersections of gender, development and globalization through an investigation of the ways in which a large‐scale, internationally financed multi‐dam development project, the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP), impacts gender relations through its physical presence in the highlands of Lesotho, Southern Africa.Design/methodology/approachField research including interviews with men and women impacted by the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) in Lesotho in 1997 and 2000‐2001.FindingsThe paper finds that, by positioning themselves as sex workers for foreign development workers, non‐elite women are able to access development monies indirectly. The devaluation of women's labor on farms and in the household excludes them as legitimate receivers of “development”, reproducing male ownership and patriarchal authority, and ultimately pushing some women into work that is precarious, low wage, risky, and often demeaning.Research limitations/implicationsThis research highlights the complicated and contradictory gendered gains and losses in the development context and how they mirror larger globalization processes and their effects on gender inequality. Further research with sex workers is needed.Originality/valueFeminist inquiries into globalization, particularly those focused on militarization and economic restructuring, have revealed the gendered effects of globalizing processes as they take place in particular locales (military bases, industries, corporations, factories). The ways in which the presence of sites of development creates particular gendered dynamics have been understudied. Incorporating analysis of the presence of large‐scale development projects in local areas offers opportunities to link the investigation of development in a larger context of globalization, and reveals a more nuanced reading of the gendered politics of development.
Equality and diversity rhetoric: one size fits all? Globalization and the Portuguese context
Authors: Barbosa Iris , Cabral‐Cardoso Carlos 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess the extent to which Portuguese companies have incorporated equality‐ and diversity‐related issues into their management discourse, and examine the prevalent rhetoric on these matters.Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive content analysis of the web sites of the 500 largest companies plus the 20 best companies to work for in Portugal, in 2005, according to the ranking of The Great Place to Work® Institute Portugal.FindingsThe analysis of the web site data shows that equality and diversity rhetoric mirrors, to a large extent, the dominant US discourse and ignores the necessary adaptation to the local context. However, there are significant differences in the adopted rhetoric according to the origin of the ownership control (native vs foreign) and the intended audience (local vs global). Native owned companies with web sites intended to a local audience tend to ignore diversity issues altogether.Research limitations/implicationsThe study was limited to a single country's data, and to the discourse rather than actual practices. However, the paper adds to the debate on the globalization of management knowledge stressing the limitations of adopting the “one size fits all” management rhetoric as opposed to developing rhetoric more appropriate and that fits into the local context.Originality/valueThe paper provides an account of the equality and diversity rhetoric adopted by the most prominent organizations operating in Portugal, suggesting that such rhetoric is mainly for external consumption.
Islamic sisters
Authors: Pio Edwina 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a case study of ethnic minority entrepreneurship in Sweden offered through the sacred‐secular lens of the Islamic Dawoodi Bohra community, with the purpose of exploring the relationship of spirituality to entrepreneurship.Design/methodology/approachThrough a case study, this paper spotlights the entrepreneurship of immigrant women from the Dawoodi Bohra Islamic community in Sweden. Utilizing the literature from spirituality, ethnography and ethnic minority entrepreneurship, this paper seeks to foreground the importance of a transcendent dimension in entrepreneurship which is woven into and sustains the day‐to‐day beliefs and practices of ethnic minority women entrepreneurs.FindingsThe women seem to be able to negotiate their spirituality within their role as ethnic minority women entrepreneurs, which gives meaning to their daily existence and increases theirizzat(honour) in their community.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a specific case study and represents a particular Islamic community, hence cannot realistically reflect all Islamic women in entrepreneurship. Future research can uncover the role of migrant Islamic women from various communities and countries.Practical implicationsThe paper presents the interweaving and leavening effect of spirituality and entrepreneurship for Islamic women entrepreneurs and is a valuable insight on how such women negotiate their lives.Originality/valueThe paper presents a close look at Islamic women from the Dawoodi Bohra community whose lived experience represents a negotiation between their spirituality, patriarchy, migration, ethnicity and minority.
Redefining the way we look at diversity: a review of recent diversity and inclusion findings in organizational research
Authors: Holmes Oscar 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to summarize the findings of studies presented at the 24th annual conference of the Society of Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) in relation to how diversity is studied, microaggressions, when diversity is perceived, and employment outcomes for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) job applicants.Design/methodology/approachA select group of presentations are summarized based on observation, notes, discussions, and reading of material.FindingsResearchers are beginning to redefine how diversity is studied as well as focus more on within‐group variation that might uncover considerable interpretation differences based on study results. More subtle forms of racism are being explored in addition to examining experiences of sexual orientation minorities.Originality/valueThe diversity and inclusion presentations at the 2009 SIOP conference continue to evolve diversity theory and inform evidence‐based organizational practice. This report summarizes a variety of findings during this conference.
Implementing corporate social responsibility in the UK construction industry
Authors: Barthorpe Stephen 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a general overview of the origins, development and rise in importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and demonstrate how CSR has been incorporated and implemented in the UK construction industry.Design/methodology/approachThis paper briefly introduces the concept and origins of CSR and then provides appropriate examples of how the UK construction industry implements it. A literature review provides the historical context and development of CSR and this is augmented with a “milestone of events” which summarises the notable events and identifies the influential people that have shaped the development of CSR throughout the world. The paper is structured on the following themes: introducing corporate social responsibility; incorporating and reporting corporate social responsibility; and implementing corporate social responsibility.FindingsThe findings of this paper reveal a surprising and welcome contrast to the generally held negative views expressed in recent seminal reports that castigate the UK construction industry for lacking innovation and the desire to embrace change. This paper demonstrates, through the use of case study examples, how the UK construction industry organisations add significant value to local and national communities by implementing CSR.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough an appropriate literature review has been able to provide the historical overview and development of CSR, the case study examples provided have been limited to ten major UK contracting organisations and will therefore not necessarily be representative of small or medium sized organisations.Practical implicationsThe practical implications of this paper are potentially significant. Individuals or organisations should be able to apply the principles and examples provided and apply them to suit their own circumstances.Originality/valueThis paper has provided a useful historical overview of CSR and succinctly demonstrates the significant milestone events that have shaped the development of this increasingly important phenomenon. CSR has, over the past few years developed into a powerful agenda in the boardrooms of organisations throughout the developed world. Initial token philanthropic gestures have latterly expanded and developed into mainstream corporate strategy. CSR is now becoming embedded in business practice and is not just seen as an altruistic burden but as making sound business sense and for providing an opportunity to gain strategic competitive advantage.
Understanding property cycles in a residential market
Authors: Reed Richard , Wu Hao 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to review property cycle theory and the relevance of the larger body of knowledge about cycles with reference to the housing market. It also aims to highlight the lack of research into property cycles in the residential sector on a suburb or smaller region basis, as well as the potential for increased knowledge about cycles to assist to avoid housing stress.Design/methodology/approachThe paper conducts a literature review of previous cycle research and encourages the use of cycle theory. It discusses the established body of knowledge about business cycles and the office market sector, as well as investigating levels of housing affordability and how detailed knowledge about property cycles can assist to decrease housing affordability in residential areas, which will eventually experience a downturn.FindingsIt is argued that an increased level of certainty about cycle behaviour in particular suburbs will give households a higher level of confidence when considering whether and when to enter the market. Property cycle research has the potential to assist low‐income homeowners to better understand the characteristics of cycles and associated risks in each residential.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a conceptual paper and has conducted a review of cycle research and housing affordability in certain countries. Some areas or countries may be affected to varying degrees by property cycles and levels of housing affordability.Practical implicationsIn extended periods of high volatility it is argued that a better understanding of housing cycles will allow more homeowners to avoid negative equity and the stress associated with repossessions. Property cycles are unavoidable although there is typically relatively little information available in the open market about the timing and amplitude of cycles in individual areas.Originality/valueThis paper is unique as it highlights the potential for property cycles to be used to avoid housing stress in the residential market. Traditionally cycle research is used to increase returns and avoid downturns in the office and/or business sectors.
The perceived effectiveness of surveillance in reducing crime at shopping centers in Finland
Authors: Kajalo Sami , Lindblom Arto 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThis study seeks to analyse managers' perceptions of the effectiveness of both informal and formal surveillance in reducing vandalism, disturbance, and shoplifting in their shopping centers in Finland.Design/methodology/approachThe present study utilizes elements of crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) in its theoretical approach. The data are based on an internet survey in Finland conducted in February and March of 2009. The sampling frame of the present study consistes of the 58 shopping centers and especially those managers who are responsible for security and safety management investments at these centers. All together 32 managers completed the survey.FindingsThis study reveales that perceived effectiveness of both formal and informal surveillance in reducing all three types of crime is high. Security guard patrols are clearly perceived to be the most effective formal surveillance method. Also, activity of personnel and premises that are easily monitored, are perceived very effective in reducing incidence of crime at the shopping centers.Research limitations/implicationsQualitative studies could reveal issues that would enable more thorough operationalization of the concepts linked the surveillance and security in shopping center context.Practical implicationsThe paper sensitizes managers to think where informal and formal surveillance work best in shopping centers.Originality/valueVery little empirical research has evaluated the effectiveness of surveillance at shopping centers. The present study fills this research gap.
Market orientation in the mental models of decision makers: two cross‐border value chains
Authors: Grunert Klaus G. , Trondsen Torbjørn , Gonzalo Campos Emilio , Young James A. 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to determine whether predictions about different degrees of market orientation in two cross‐border value chains also appear in the mental models of decision makers at two levels of these value chains.Design/methodology/approachThe laddering method elicits mental models of actors in two value chains: Norwegian salmon exported to Japan and Danish pork exported to Japan. The analysis of the mental models centers on potential overlap and linkages between actors in the value chain, including elements in the mental models that may relate to the actors' market orientation.FindingsIn both value chains, decision makers exhibit overlap in their views of what drives their business. The pork chain appears dominated by a focus on efficiency, technology, and quality control, though it also acknowledges communication as important. The salmon chain places more emphasis on new product development and good relations between chain partners.Research limitations/implicationsWhile confirming prior results regarding the role of competitive pressure, end‐user heterogeneity/dynamism, regulations, and trade associations, the results also generate new insights into the possible role of relational governance in promoting the market orientation of value chains.Originality/valueThis paper offers three novel ideas: using the concept of mental models as a possible mediator between factors that influence the degree of market orientation and market‐oriented activity; using a laddering method to elicit mental models; and considering concepts shared among actors in a value chain as possible indicators of the degree of market orientation.
New product development proficiency and multi‐country product rollout timeliness
Authors: Bong Lee Keon , Wong Veronica 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to address a gap in the understanding of the indirect effects of marketing and technical factors on time efficiency in developing a new product and international new product launch.Design/methodology/approachThis paper adopts a contingency perspective in examining the relationships between antecedents and on‐time completion (or timeliness) of new product development (NPD) and international new product rollout (INPR). A conceptual framework is tested based on data obtained on 232 NPD projects undertaken by Korean firms.FindingsThe results show that NPD proficiencies mediate to a greater or lesser extent the effects of key antecedents (e.g. cross‐functional linkages, project fit with available marketing resources, and effective coordination of headquarters‐subsidiary/agents' activities) on timeliness in NPD and INPR.Research limitations/implicationsEmpirical research on the role of marketing and technical proficiencies in improving NPD timeliness and rollout timeliness in the context of international NPD affirms the importance of adopting a contingency perspective in examining the antecedents of NPD and multi‐market entry timeliness.Practical implicationsThis paper lends insight into the role of overseas subsidiaries or agents in helping to build the technical proficiencies of emerging country companies.Originality/valueThis is the first review focusing on the mediating influences on time dimensions (e.g. timeliness) in multi‐country product launches.