bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intellectual capital measurement: a critical approach
Authors: Dumay John C. 
Published: April 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate intellectual capital (IC) measurement critically so that the dynamics of intangible value creation can be better understood and to provide insights into how IC is constructed rather than what IC is.Design/methodology/approachThis paper presents a case study on how a division of a large Australian financial institution utilised an approach based on complexity theory to investigate IC in practice. The method utilises narrative, numbers and visualisations to make sense of IC at a particular point in time.FindingsIt is argued that trying to “fit” existing popular frameworks to gather IC measurements inside organisations has little relevance to understanding the value‐creation process. As a result of the investigation of IC in this paper, it is found that, to date, IC measurement has relied heavily on “accountingisation” and that alternate methods to understand IC need to be developed. The paper highlights that academics and practitioners need to develop new skills.Research limitations/implicationsThe case study is limited to the use of an alternate method to investigate IC in a particular organisational and cultural setting. The research opens the possibility of the benefits of changing thinking about both research into, and the practice of, measuring IC.Practical implicationsRather than being constrained by the traditional models of measuring intangibles, by way of contemporary IC reporting frameworks, a more open process is outlined that could improve the timeliness and use value of the information.Originality/valueThis paper has relevance to both IC academics and practitioners as it critically examines the contemporary IC frameworks and offers an alternate method for examining IC which has the potential to add to a discourse which focuses on additional understanding of IC.
Monitoring and measuring intangibles using value maps: some examples
Authors: Jhunjhunwala Shital 
Published: April 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an integrated approach to understand and monitor those intangible assets (IAs) that are the key value drivers of an organization. With the help of three different examples, it attempts to examine the cause‐and‐effect relationship among different intangibles and map them to organizational success.Design/methodology/approachSystem thinking approach using examples from three different industries.FindingsThe paper finds that the success of any organization depends on a network of interrelated IAs that affect each other and the crux is to ensure that each of these is performing as desired. The use of a causal model clearly demonstrates the cause‐and‐effect relationships between key variables and ultimate objectives, and helps companies identify which intangibles need to be constantly monitored using suitable indicators to achieve the desired goals.Research limitations/implicationsThe models have not been verified in practice.Practical implicationsUseful for organizations to monitor and measure intangibles by linking them to their objective of maximizing shareholder value. The indicators illustrated can be used to track the performance of intangibles.Originality/valueThree industry specific original generic models are presented that will be useful to managers and consultants as a basis for identifying and mapping key intangibles (value drivers) to their organization goals.
A framework for prioritization of intellectual capital indicators in R&D
Authors: Kim Dong‐Young , Kumar Vinod 
Published: April 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a framework for prioritizing intellectual capital (IC) indicators, as well as suggesting key improvement areas by using the Delphi approach and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) analysis.Design/methodology/approachThe effectiveness of the framework is demonstrated through the case study of a public sector research and development organization.FindingsThis paper identifies three major characteristics of the framework: weighing indicators that should be based on an organization's strategies and contexts; employing multiple processes (Delphi and AHP approaches) which can overcome the limitation of a single methodology; and providing a visual map that can help management identify which indicators and related activities need attention and should be improved.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the literature and practices in several ways. First, this paper provides a practical and operational guideline on how to engage in IC management efficiently. Second, the authors try to integrate IC management into traditional management tools (e.g. quality management) by employing the concept of an operational feedback process and three screening processes. Third, this paper tests the possibility of using a Delphi approach in prioritizing IC indicators.
A perception‐influence model for the management of technology implementation in construction
Authors: Miller Andrew , Radcliffe David , Isokangas Erik 
Published: April 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to propose a model based on participant perceptions and the resulting influences on the outcome of a technology implementation in construction projects. This paper outlines the conception and development of the model.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative methodology combines implementation theory with the empirical data to conceive the model. Data are collected by an immersed researcher employing a participant‐observation technique.FindingsThis perception‐influence (P‐I) model suggests that negative perceptions of value, benefit and usability cause innovation implementations to be ineffective with an end result of discontinued use or neglect. The model maps an innovation implementation through using participant perceptions as the primary model constructs. In the model, each perception is formed by a number of contributing factors and has only a positive or negative associated action.Practical implicationsThe P‐I model is a planning and evaluation tool that is useful for technology managers at any stage of an innovation implementation.Originality/valueThe paper puts forward a new perspective for implementation research in construction.
Pervasive technologies for workspace management
Authors: Lindkvist Carmel , Elmualim Abbas 
Published: April 2009

PurposeFacilities managers have less visibility of how buildings are being used due to flexible working and unpredictable workers. The purpose of this paper is to examine the current issues in workspace management and an automatic solution through radio frequency identification (RFID) that could provide real time information on the volume and capacity of buildings.Design/methodology/approachThe study described in this paper is based on a case study at a facilities management (FM) department. The department is examining a ubiquitous technology in the form of innovative RFID for security and workspace management. Interviews and observations are conducted within the facilities department for the initial phase of the implementation of RFID technology.FindingsResearch suggests that work methods are evolving and becoming more flexible. With this in mind, facilities managers face new challenges to create a suitable environment for an unpredictable workforce. RFID is one solution that could provide facilities managers with an automatic way of examining space in real time and over a wider area than currently possible. RFID alone for space management is financially expensive but by making the application multiple for other areas makes more business sense.Practical implicationsThis paper will provide practicing FM and academics with the knowledge gained from the application of RFID in this organisation. While the concept of flexible working seems attractive, there is an emerging need to provide various forms of spaces that enable employees' satisfaction and enhance the productivity of the organisation.Originality/valueThe paper introduces new thinking on the subject of “workspace management”. It highlights the current difficulties in workspace management and how an RFID solution will benefit workspace methods.
Achieving patient‐focused maintenance services/systems
Authors: May Daryl , Clark Liz 
Published: April 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify and investigate the contribution made from the estates services to the quality of the patient experience from the perspective of all estates staff ranging from front‐line staff to directors of estates and facilities. The work is exploratory in nature owing to no known earlier studies in this area.Design/methodology/approachA postal questionnaire is distributed to a non‐random self‐selecting group of National Health Service (NHS) estates staff – therefore those staff working in the areas of maintenance, engineering, building, gardening and general office estates management. A total of 920 questionnaires are distributed to the 46 NHS trusts. There are 202 responses, which is a return rate of 22 per cent.FindingsIt is clear that overall estates staff consider their job/service to be important to the patient experience, 94 per cent of respondents indicate they did. This is further confirmed by 82 per cent of estates line managers considering their job to be important to the patient experience. In terms of how estates feel they contribute to the patient experience, there is a range of responses, however the main reason highlighted is the recognition that the hospital could not function without the service being provided, i.e. the maintenance of essential services, water, power and the general infrastructure. Estates departments perhaps need on patient awareness of the services they provide and the importance of them in making the hospital function.Research limitations/implicationsThe results presented provide a useful insight into how estates departments in the NHS perceive their contribution to the patient experience. However, they are not without limitations. First, the sample size is relatively small; and second non‐random sampling techniques are used.Originality/valueThe findings suggest a number of avenues for future work. The most obvious would be to investigate the level of awareness from patients regarding estates services in the NHS.
International trade and labour: a quest for moral legitimacy
Authors: Nkowani Zolomphi 
Published: April 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to critically review the arguments for and against a social clause as an ethical benchmark for international trade.Design/methodology/approachThe paper takes a social economic approach in analysing the case for and against a social clause in international trade. It considers an economic, jurisprudential, social and human rights case for a social clause.FindingsThe consideration of a social clause purely in economic terms, removed from its social context fundamentally flaws the arguments on both sides of the debate. The conclusion of south‐south labour agreements, north‐south bilateral free‐trade agreements and regional integration schemes incorporating labour standards has a positive impact on diffusing tension and helping in consensus building around the issue. Labour standards are human rights and to claim comparative advantage in human rights in trade is unethical. There is a need to keep the debate alive especially within the World Trade Organization.Practical implicationsThe paper provides an insight into the utility of a social clause in the trade and development agenda for both developed and developing countries.Originality/valueGiven the strength of emotions surrounding the issue, the proposed approach will assist in detoxing the debate and in providing an avenue for vertical and horizontal consensus building on the issue.
Lithium monitoring: should tracking prescriptions be implemented to improve outcome?
Authors: Thompson Fiona Jane , Dibben Claire , Watson Peter , Hunt Neil 
Published: April 2009

PurposeThis study seeks to compare rates of blood lithium monitoring with rates of lithium prescription collection in order to evaluate whether identifying patients with low frequency of monitoring could alert clinicians to poor prescription collection. It examines whether routine monitoring of lithium prescription pick‐up would be likely to reduce admissions to hospital, as a way of identifying those who were poorly adherent with treatment. It also ascertains the frequency of lithium toxicity and its outcomes.Design/methodology/approachThe frequency of monitoring of lithium was assessed through laboratory results of 773 patients. A sub‐sample of 119 patients on lithium was found through general practice records and the rates of medication collection determined. Admission data were examined to assess whether this was related to a failure in blood monitoring or prescription collection.FindingsA total of 87 per cent of the GP group had lithium levels measured at least twice a year and 84 per cent collected more than 80 per cent of prescriptions. It was found that those patients not collecting their prescriptions were a different group from those who did not have their blood levels monitored. Admission rates were not higher in those who were less efficient at picking up prescriptions. Two per cent of the total sample had lithium levels above 1.6 mmol l−1. There were no fatalities associated with high levels.Originality/valueIt is important to assess the real potential benefits of additional monitoring rather than assuming that increased surveillance will improve the outcome.
Does organizational learning capacity impact on organizational effectiveness? Research analysis of the metal industry
Authors: Aydin Bulent , Ceylan Adnan 
Published: April 2009

PurposeThe aim of the study is to emphasize the importance of organizational learning capacity (OLC) and to measure its influence on organizational effectiveness (OE) in metalworking manufacturing.Design/methodology/approachThe research plan has been stated as; looking for the survey questions in the literature, reaching the participants, informing them about the survey, gathering the data, and measuring and analyzing the data. The survey instrument has been applied on metal industry employees in Turkey. The valid responses have reached to 578. We analyzed the data by SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) version 11.5.FindingsThere are significant correlations (at the 0.000 level) between OE and all OLC dimensions (systems orientation, organizational climate for learning orientation, knowledge acquisition and utilization orientation, and information sharing and dissemination orientation). The total explained variance of OE (depending on OLC) has been calculated as 65 percent.Research limitations/implicationsWe have calculated the OE value in terms of employee satisfaction, customer orientation and financial and growth performance, whereas there may be other factors to be considered for the related value.Practical implicationsThe organizations should consider knowledge‐intensive activities more precisely when constructing their strategic maps.Originality/valueThis study helps to fulfill the gap between the OE and OLC from a managerial point of view in metalworking manufacturing. The main audiences are global businesses as well as academic researchers.
Challenging the importance of size as determinant for CSR activities
Authors: Blombäck Anna , Wigren Caroline 
Published: April 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to contribute to the development and understanding of corporate social responsibility (CSR) by discussing two interrelated characteristics of current literature: a tendency in discourses to portray CSR as equal to the societal activities displayed by and demanded from large, multinational firms; and an increasing focus on and description of “small firm CSR” in research. These two characteristics instigate a limited approach to the meaning of CSR and an unjust dichotomization of CSR based on firm size are posited. A distinction that risks stimulating an un‐nuanced CSR discourse.Design/methodology/approachFrom reviewing the field, it has been concluded that firm size should not be a feasible main criterion when trying to understand or predict CSR behavior. From examples of far‐reaching CSR activities in the small business community and local initiatives by large firms, the distinctions suggested in the current discourse do not appear in practice are shown.FindingsAdditional firm features and contextual characteristics to explain the CSR approach in companies are proposed. Local embeddedness, corporate governance, and individual motivation are examples of issues that appear to explain a firm's CSR activities and characteristics, regardless of firm size.Originality/valueThe paper concludes by articulating a number of propositions. These are presented as a basis for research to further understand how CSR activities relate to various organizational and operational features.
Radicalism and corporate social responsibility: unlikely partners?
Authors: Jallow Kumba 
Published: April 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the dichotomy of radicalism and reformism in the corporate social responsibility (CSR)/sustainability literature, where the reform position is described as mainstream, where sustainability is delivered by governance mechanisms, regulation and planning, internalising costs, and redesigning industrial processes. Radical critiques of this position argue that reformists have “claimed” the CSR debate and therefore disempowered those who would bring about more fundamental changes. The alternative radical position is described as a countercurrent, an ecocentric approach requiring change in economic and political systems.Design/methodology/approachThe paper reviews some of the thinking in this area to assess whether a truly radical position is possible to affect change or whether the forces of incrementalism allow gentle resistance to the status quo, which will be more effective in closing the sustainability gap.FindingsThe paper maps some of the models described within it to assess where each lies in the radical‐reformist continuum.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings should allow an assessment of the possibilities for CSR to become more radical in approach. However, this needs further empirical testing.Originality/valueThe mapping is an original contribution to the area.
Portfolio Analysis (PFA) as a strategic tool for tourism policy: an integrated analysis of overnight data
Authors: Laimer Peter , Weiss Juergen 
Published: April 2009

PurposeThe present paper aims mainly to target policy makers in the tourism industry. It seeks to give an overview about using the Portfolio Analysis (PFA) as a tool for analysing tourism flows based on the official accommodation statistics of Statistics Austria, which is electronically available for a 35‐year time series, for more than 1,600 communes, for 15 kinds of accommodation establishments and for more than 60 markets.Design/methodology/approachLarge quantitative data sets deliver a holistic picture of tourism developments by taking several describing variables into account. Multivariate scatter plots using static and dynamic indicators are used as graphical illustration of these data sets.FindingsBased on this comprehensive data set it turns out that the use of portfolio matrices is a useful tool for doing detailed and multidimensional analysis of the available data. Portfolio matrices may be focused on specific questions regarding the status quo of a region or the development of selected markets. In contrast to traditional methods of constituting and publishing tourism statistical data PFA fills potential information gaps by focusing on different variables considering a respective period of time. The paper presents example results for Austria, by using tourism flow, positioning and benchmark analysis.Research limitations/implicationsThe results concern data of the official statistics on overnights and arrivals. However, the approach might be used for similar work concentrating on alternative data sets.Practical implicationsThe main user's value is receiving information obtained by integrated statistical data. This information is graphically illustrated and therefore easy to interpret, although it is based on highly integrated data of high quality and internal consistency. Depending on the field of interest various combinations of data presentations are feasible.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to the general problem of bringing theoretical models closer to decision maker's needs. It fills potential information gaps of what official statistics are capable of delivering and what is indeed requested by decision makers.
Internet research differs from research on internet users: some methodological insights into online travel research
Authors: Lohmann Martin , Schmücker Dirk J. 
Published: April 2009

PurposeOnline data collection is gaining momentum throughout the market research business. At the same time internet users and their online information and booking behaviour are becoming more and more important for the travel and tourism industry. This paper aims to investigate this issue.Design/methodology/approachThe paper researches internet users' travel and information/booking behaviour through online surveys. However, this approach is prone to critical methodological limitations. One of the main issues in this respect is the question of proper definition of the universe and sampling procedures. The paper shows today's chances and limitations of sampling using list‐based e‐mail invitations and online access panels.FindingsResults indicate that sampling method and length of field time have a substantial influence on response rates. It can further be shown that results from online travel research differ from results obtained in face‐to‐face interviews even when focussing on the same target group.Research implicationsAs long as online research differs from research on internet users to such an extent, online surveys seem to be rather a good complement than a substitution for more traditional research methods.Originality/valueThe paper shows the limitations and chances of online travel research based on the unique comparison of data from a face‐to‐face and online access panel surveys.