bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
What matters most
Authors: O'Driscoll Finian 
Published: June 2012

PurposeThis study presents institutional research and aims to explore the underlying factors that contribute to hospitality management students' satisfaction and perceptions of service quality at a higher education college in Ireland. Research focusing on hospitality and leisure management education argues for greater cognisance of the relevance of students' experience with third level education. Therefore, the current paper seeks to address the issue of student feedback and satisfaction measurement in light of recent proposals.Design/methodology/approachThe responses to a “course satisfaction questionnaire” taken from a database of first year students (n=263) were factor‐analysed using the principal component technique, the purpose of which was to identify latent explanatory variables of the student satisfaction concept as applied in a hospitality management context. Descriptive analysis was used to examine the level of satisfaction within the data. Tests for gender and nationality differences were conducted. Correlational analysis along with multiple regression techniques were applied to the data set to explore the salient relationships between satisfaction variables.FindingsAnalysis reveals a multidimensional structure of student satisfaction. Six underlying factors accounted for a high percentage of variance in explaining student satisfaction. Academic support, welfare support and course communication structures are identified as being significant determinants while differences based on nationality are observed, particularly in relation to pre‐placement support.Practical implicationsIssues such as quality of student life and other non‐institutional factors need to be accounted for in offering a more comprehensive explanation of student satisfaction. The role of pre‐work placement preparation is emphasised. The potential to chart the level and structure of student satisfaction throughout the whole institution is suggested. Furthermore, the prospect of conducting longitudinal research serves as a unique opportunity. The use of quantitative techniques, bolstered by qualitative methods, is recommended as a future direction for data collection, analysis and synthesis.Originality/valueThis paper attempts to fill a gap in student satisfaction research from a hospitality and tourism management perspective.
Exploring quality assurance in sixth form colleges
Authors: Stoten David William 
Published: June 2012

PurposeThis paper aims to focus on the changing nature of quality assurance systems within the sixth form college sector.Design/methodology/approachTen sixth form colleges were surveyed across England and staff from varying levels within college hierarchies questioned about how quality assurance systems were implemented. Research involved interviews and questionnaires to staff, as well as documentary research.FindingsThe main finding was that there is no single model of quality management system within the sixth form colleges sector and that the clearest differences in practice are between the colleges in the north and south of England which may suggest different organisational cultures in play.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper was limited by the relatively small sample size – ten from 94 sixth form colleges. However, it does provide a foundation for further research and a basis upon which to debate whether the sixth form college sector should aim for a standardised model of quality assurance.Originality/valueInsufficient research is undertaken into the work of sixth form colleges compared to the school and general further education sectors. This paper provides an insight into an under‐researched area.
The changing nature of teaching and unit evaluations in Australian universities
Authors: Shah Mahsood , Sid Nair Chenicheri 
Published: June 2012

PurposeTeaching and unit evaluations surveys are used to assess the quality of teaching and the quality of the unit of study. An analysis of teaching and unit evaluation survey practices in Australian universities suggests significant changes. One key change discussed in the paper is the shift from voluntary to mandatory use of surveys with the results used to assess and reward academic staff performance. The change in the direction is largely driven by the introduction of performance‐based funding as part of quality assurance arrangements. The paper aims to outline the current trends and changes and the implications in the future such as increased scrutiny of teaching and intrusion to academic autonomy.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on the analysis of current teaching and unit evaluation practices across the Australian university sector. The paper presents the case of an Australian university that has introduced performance‐based reward using various measures to assess and reward academic staff such as the outcome of student satisfaction surveys. The analysis of external quality audit findings related to teacher and unit evaluations is also presented.FindingsThe findings suggest a shift in trend from the use of voluntary to mandatory tools to assess and reward quality teaching. The case of an Australian university outlined in the paper and the approach taken by seven other universities is largely driven by performance‐based funding. One of the key concerns for many in higher education is the intrusion of academic autonomy with increased focus on outcomes and less emphasis on resources needed to produce excellence in learning and teaching and research. The increased reliance on student happiness as a measure of educational quality raises the questions on whether high student satisfaction would strengthen academic rigour and student attainment of learning outcomes and generic skills which are seen as key factors in graduate exit standards.Practical implicationsThe renewal of quality assurance and performance‐based funding using student satisfaction as a measure of educational quality will result in increased use of student voice to assess learning and teaching outcomes. Such direction will increase the accountability on academics to improve student experience and the measures will be used to assess academic staff performance.Originality/valueThe paper outlines the trends and changes in the teacher and unit evaluations in Australian universities and its implications in the future. The paper also provides a case of an Australian university that has recently made teacher and unit evaluations compulsory with the results used in academic staff annual performance review and linking reward with performance outcomes.
The value relevance of corporate responsibility reporting: South African evidence
Authors: de Klerk Marna , de Villiers Charl 
Published: June 2012

PurposeCorporate responsibility reporting (CRR) deals with companies’ ethical, economic, environmental, and social impacts. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the debate on whether CRR is associated with the information set that shareholders use to value a company's equity and therefore, the value‐relevance thereof for investment decision making.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses a modified Ohlson model developed by Hassel, Nilsson and Nyquist to examine the role of CRR in providing information to shareholders that may affect their valuation of a company. The paper uses two data sets, namely a KPMG dataset on the CRR of the top 100 South African companies and the McGregor BFA database for financial data.FindingsIt was found that the share prices of companies with higher levels of CRR are likely to be higher.Originality/valuePrior research in which different valuation methods and different assessment periods were used was conducted in different developed countries. Some studies show value relevance, while others do not. South Africa is a developing country and by bringing a developing country to the literature the authors’ aim is to contribute to the current debate on the value relevance of CRR.
Dynamics in capital structure determinants in South Africa
Authors: Ramjee Anil , Gwatidzo Tendai 
Published: June 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to use a dynamic model to investigate capital structure determinants for 178 firms listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange for the period 1998‐2008. The sample of firms is also used to examine the cost and speed of adjustment towards a target debt ratio.Design/methodology/approachA target adjustment model is estimated using a generalized method of moments technique to examine the cost and speed of adjustment towards a target debt ratio. The determinants of target capital structure for South African listed firms are also examined.FindingsThe results show that South African firms adjust relatively fast towards a target leverage level. It is also found that asset tangibility, growth, size and risk are positively related to leverage, while profitability and tax are negatively related to leverage. The results also suggest that capital structure decisions of South African listed firms follow both the pecking order and trade‐off theories of capital structure.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample chosen focused on listed firms, thus the results cannot credibly be generalized to all South African firms (listed and unlisted). Also, whilst a lot can be gleaned from the results, they may not be readily applicable to firms in other African countries.Originality/valueThe issue of dynamic adjustment towards a target or optimal debt ratio has not received sufficient attention in developing economies. Using data from an emerging economy, this paper attempts to fill this gap in the literature. A target adjustment model is estimated using a generalized method of moments technique.
Understanding propensity to initiate negotiations
Authors: Volkema Roger J. , Fleck Denise 
Published: June 2012

PurposeThis paper seeks to introduce a model of the initiation process in negotiations, and to describe a study of the effects of culture and personality on propensity to initiate and assertiveness in negotiations.Design/methodology/approachUsing a survey research approach and hierarchical regression analyses, initiation propensity and assertiveness were regressed against two country cultures diverse with respect to perceived appropriateness of initiation (Brazil and the USA) and four measures of personality (self‐efficacy, locus of control, risk propensity, Machiavellianism).FindingsRegression analyses found three personality factors (risk propensity, self‐efficacy, Machiavellianism) to be most significantly associated with initiation propensity/assertiveness, along with an interaction effect involving country culture and risk propensity.Research limitations/implicationsFuture studies might benefit from a broader, more diverse subject pool (beyond the two countries studied). This would allow for separate analyses of cultural dimensions, rather than treating culture as a composite measure. In addition, future research might include measures of actual initiation behavior.Practical implicationsInitiation is a manageable process. Self‐efficacy, for example, can be improved by observing others skilled in the initiation process, and through practicing initiation under more favorable conditions. Furthermore, an individual can follow a graduated approach to gain initiation confidence, beginning with simply engaging (without asking) and progressing to asking and optimizing.Originality/valueThis paper offers a model for understanding the dynamics of the initiation process in negotiations, which generally has been overlooked by negotiation researchers. The study examines two sets of factors that can influence initiation behavior that have not been investigated in total – culture and personality.
Deer Creek Land Development (DCLD)
Authors: Jagoda Kalinga , Maheshwari Bharat , Gutowski Gregory 
Published: June 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe and analyse the experiences of a small business, Deer Creek Land Developments (DCLD), which has been very successful in negotiating the competitive pressures in a mature industry over time and has built sustainable competitive advantage. The firm has been quite successfully navigating the ups and downs of the market. The case provides an excellent example of how small businesses can open their business models to respond to changes in the external environment, such as an economic downturn, and/or simply to grow.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses a single case study approach. Detailed interviews of the owner and the manager were used to collect data for the case study.FindingsDCLD's success is found to be hinged on its ability to consistently enhance operational efficiencies, move to higher valuations by adopting an open business model that exploits core in‐house capabilities and those acquired through contractors and partner organizations.Practical implicationsThe paper provides several interesting insights useful for small business managers and entrepreneurs. Small businesses can use openness of both types, as demonstrated in the case, to create strategic differentiation and also to reduce operating costs.Originality/valueThis paper initiates a rich field enquiry, which provides some interesting insights to small business managers. The case study is used to demonstrate how a small business can effectively use an open business model to negotiate competitive and environmental pressures.
Blues and hues for Color Valley
Authors: Mehta Seema , Singh Tarika , Saxena Tanjul 
Published: June 2012

PurposeThe owners and promoters of Color Valley are feeling blue as their much cherished entrepreneurial endeavour is attacked by multi‐hued issues. Having chalked out a distinct position for itself in the landscape of the unorganized paint industry through aggressive brand building and marketing, the five year old company, known for its quality product and customer satisfaction, is today at a crossroads of liquidity dilemma. The severe cash crunch needs to be not only contained but reversed through well thought out actions. This is not an exception in such set‐ups: it's rather more of a norm. However, decisions of today are going to determine the fate of tomorrow. The purpose of this paper is to present a case of financial (mis)management set in the backdrop of entrepreneurial venture, which will be useful to practising managers, entrepreneurs and students alike.Design/methodology/approachThe researchers use a single case study approach by examining stages in entrepreneur development process, effect of environment, barriers to entrepreneurship and strategic decision making. In addition, secondary data on the Indian paint industry were gathered and analyzed to determine external environment for the business, and the root cause of the problems faced by young entrepreneurs identified.FindingsThe case finding encapsulates issues of general management, financial management and marketing and throws a light on entrepreneurial thinking and development.Originality/valueThis case study provides a deep understanding of the tough times faced by young entrepreneurs, resulting from the exposure of the multiple issues which offer the opportunities and problems to small‐scale entrepreneurs.
Location as a strategic retail decision: the case of the retail cooperative
Authors: Mohd Roslin Rosmimah , Rosnan Herwina 
Published: June 2012

PurposeThis paper is a case study of a cooperative whose involvement in the retail business was exemplary of a successful cooperative, bold enough to venture into the retail business. Known as the Johor Cooperative Supermarket (JCS), it was established in 1976 with the support of a firm number of cooperative members, totaling 15,000 at its peak. The purpose of this paper is to examine the success story of JCS and the eventual demise of such an outstanding cooperative.Design/methodology/approachUsing the case study method through in‐depth interviews with the board of directors of the cooperative, information was accumulated to conceptualize the story and trace the chronological events relevant to the case.FindingsUnlike other business entities, JCS was established on the foundation of a cooperative that seeks to attain profitable standing for the benefit of its members. Located strategically in the southern tip of Johor Bahru in Malaysia's southern state of Johor, the supermarket attracted a large number of Singaporeans who find the assortment of merchandise and the pricing of the vast array of goods offered by JCS an attractive lure to shop in this cosy and neighbourly supermarket. However, a strategic decision on its location eventually led to the closure of this once supreme supermarket.Originality/valueThe paper traced the history of the supermarket and trailed the strategies which the management took that led to its ultimate demise. This case is also a reflection of the brave move undertaken by the members of the cooperative board to venture into a big retail business that makes it susceptible to the peculiarities and erratic movement of the business environment.
The battle to counter disruptive competition: continuous innovation vs “good” management
Authors: Denning Stephen 
Published: June 2012

PurposeThis article aims to examine an existential question that all long‐established firms need to face: is there an effective competitive response to counter disruptive innovation, and if so, what is it?Design/methodology/approachThe paper evaluates current alternatives to dealing with the battle to counter disruptive competition: continuous innovation vs “Good” management.FindingsThe paper concludes that the most reliable strategy is continuous innovation.Research limitations/implicationsOnly a small number of companies have pursued the approach and the experience is only in the ten to 15‐year range. More time is needed to assess the long‐term durability of the approach.Practical implicationsMost large organizations must make fundamental changes in the way they are managed if they wish to survive.Originality/valueThe paper offers a solution to disruptive competition, the most worrying management problem facing established organizations today.
Getting back to what matters – creating long‐term economic and social value
Authors: Leavy Brian 
Published: June 2012

PurposeThis “Masterclass” aims to guide executives through three complementary sets of insights into what is fundamentally wrong with the current model of capitalism, and the specific actions that they can take to create long‐term economic and social value.Design/methodology/approachThree sets of insights are compared: Fixing the Game by Roger Martin; “Creating shared value” in Harvard Business Review by noted strategists Michael Porter and Mark Kramer; and Higher Ambition by Michael Beer and his co‐authors.FindingsMartin tracks the evolution of “shareholder capitalism” during the latter part of the 20th century and explains why it has become so detrimental. Porter and Kramer show business leaders how to restore credibility to capitalism by adopting a view of corporate social responsibility. Beer and his co‐authors explain “why” high performance over time results when business leaders simultaneously create economic and social value.Practical implicationsSome steps that executives can take are: focus – shifting the focus back to the customer and away from shareholder value, turning primary attention back to the real market and away from the expectations market; executive compensation – restoring authenticity to the lives of executives by eliminating stock‐based compensation and creating new models that focus executives on real and meaningful goals; and the civil foundation – defining and institutionalizing a more expansive societal goal for business executives ‐ to be a force that improves the society in which they live and work.Originality/valueThe author synthesizes three sets of cutting edge insight about how to transform a company to achieve long‐term value and social responsibility.
Time: another frontier of value innovation
Authors: Abraham Stan 
Published: June 2012

PurposeThis interview aims to explore Adrian Ott's observations and research on the impact of time on customer behavior and decision‐making. Even though people factor time into decisions on a daily basis, many executives are overlooking this key element of the customer decision process as a source of innovation opportunity.Design/methodology/approachThis paper provides a framework for understanding how customers value offerings in relation to time and attention priorities. It also demonstrates the evolution of today's time scarcity in relation to commerce and why it is more salient today.FindingsCompanies that understand how customers value time in relation to their offerings were more successful in today's economy and often achieved competitive advantage.Practical implicationsThe framework guides executives in determining actions and market opportunities for products or services based on a time and attention‐centric mindset.Originality/valueTime‐value economics provides a new lens for organizations to understand how time shapes customer behavior and decisions. The associated Timeographics 2×2 provides a useful market segmentation model. It enables businesses to identify new innovation opportunities and actions to foster growth.
How cloud computing enables process and business model innovation
Authors: Berman Saul J. , Kesterson‐Townes Lynn , Marshall Anthony , Srivathsa Rohini 
Published: June 2012

PurposeAlthough cloud computing is widely recognized as a technology game changer because it offers anytime, anywhere services, its potential for driving business innovation remains virtually untapped. This article seeks to define that potential for generating new business models and disrupting industries.Design/methodology/approachThe authors show how cloud technology has the power to fundamentally shift competitive landscapes by providing a new platform for creating and delivering business value.FindingsIBM research suggests that organizations are just beginning to understand the power of cloud services to help drive business innovation.Research limitations/implicationsTo track how organizations use cloud tech today and how they plan to employ its power in the future, IBM surveyed 572 business and technology executives across.Practical implicationsThe survey found that companies worldwide are beginning to recognize cloud's capabilities to generate new business models and promote sustainable competitive advantage.Originality/valueBy assisting in developing new operating capabilities, cloud technology can help a company change its role within its industry or enter a different industry.
Open innovation helps Whirlpool Corporation discover new market opportunities
Authors: Muller Amy , Hutchins Nate 
Published: June 2012

PurposeThis paper posits that by selectively applying open innovation, companies can enrich their stock of valuable ideas, effectively manage product development and upgrade their emerging businesses without wholesale changes to their innovation initiative.Design/methodology/approachThis is a case study of the open innovation process at Whirlpool Corporation written by two Strategos consultants who have worked with the firm.FindingsWhirlpool has developed a set of questions and discussion guides that help to inform the decision to go “open” or not at each step of the innovation process.Practical implicationsWhirlpool believes that open innovation is really about building and maintaining relationships and alliances. These relationships are managed by “relationship managers” as part of the new business development activities.Originality/valueBy changing the context to competences within any organization, not just Whirlpool, the company is now considering and pursuing a number of opportunities that would have previously been rejected, and Whirlpool is successfully expanding its business to adjacent spaces through the help of open innovation partners.