bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A strategic framework for integrating marketing and supply chain strategies
Authors: Jüttner Uta , Christopher Martin , Godsell Janet 
Published: June 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review and structure the literature on the integration between marketing and supply chain management (SCM) and to contribute to the body of knowledge by developing a framework for integrating marketing and supply chain strategies.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws its insights and conclusions from a review of the literature in both fields, marketing and SCM, followed by an interaction research approach which helped to refine and validate the theory‐derived framework from the perspective of practitioners.FindingsIn the existing body of literature on marketing and SCM integration, three perspectives can be differentiated: the interfunctional perspective, the process perspective and the perspective of integrated business concepts. The proposed framework builds on these perspectives and moves them onto a strategic level. Integrating marketing and supply chain strategies involves the management of four integration levels: corporate integration; strategic customer integration; strategic supplier integration and marketing and supply pipeline strategy integration.Practical implicationsThe proposed framework points managers at the managerial issues of marketing and supply chain strategy integration and illustrates the need for an interaction approach which challenges the traditional view of marketing in the demand creation and SCM in the demand fulfilment role.Originality/valueMarketing and SCM integration is a topic which has received considerable interest in both fields for the last 30 years. Despite the notion that a close integration can contribute to the company and even supply chain success, no contribution to date addresses the integration from a strategy perspective. This paper leverages existing knowledge and advances our understanding of the strategic integration issues companies are facing in today's supply chain network‐based competition.
Informational efficiency of implied volatilities of S&P CNX Nifty index options
Authors: Dixit Alok , Yadav Surendra S. 
Published: June 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess the informational efficiency of S&P CNX Nifty index options in Indian securities market. The S&P CNX Nifty index is a leading stock index of India, consists of 50 most frequently traded securities listed on NSE. For the purpose, the study covers a period of six years from 4 June 2001 (the starting date for index options in India) to 30 June 2007.Design/methodology/approachThe informational efficiency of implied volatilities (IVs) has been tested vis‐à‐vis select conditional volatilities models, namely, GARCH(1,1) and EGARCH(1,1). The tests have been carried out for “in‐the‐sample” as well as “out‐of‐the‐sample” forecast efficiency of implied volatilities.FindingsThe results of the study reveal that implied volatilities do not impound all the information available in the past returns; therefore, these are indicative of the violation of efficient market hypothesis in the case of S&P CNX Nifty index options market in India.Practical implicationsThe finance managers, in Indian context, should rely on conditional volatility models (especially the EGARCH(1,1) model) compared to IV‐based forecasts to predict volatility for the horizon of one week. The stock exchanges and market regulator (SEBI) need to take certain initiatives in terms of extending the short‐selling facility and start trading of volatility index (VIX) to enhance the accuracy of IV‐based forecasts.Originality/valueThe paper addresses an issue which is still unexplored in the context of Indian securities market and in that sense makes an important contribution to literature on microstructure studies.
New ways of thinking about nurse scheduling
Authors: Diaz Deisell M. , Erkoc Murat , Asfour Shihab S. , Baker Edward K. 
Published: June 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a new look at solving the national nursing shortage problem by discussing new approaches to minimize the impact of nursing miss‐utilization and or miss‐allocation.Design/methodology/approachAmong the approaches explored is the well‐known financial engineering derivative interest rate swap as well as new scheduling applications including inventory management and queuing models.FindingsThe study found that there is great interest in the field of the nurse scheduling and staffing problem. The problems are, however, studied in isolation from one another, while their respective nature is inter‐related: staffing policies impact nursing problem model constraints. This gap may be one of the contributing factors to a well‐known gap between industry application and academic literature. Industry solutions focus encouraging the growth of nurses in the field, most of which result in a financial paradox due to increasing rate capitation for health service facilities, which began in the mid‐1990s.Research limitations/implicationsPossible limitations include a resistance to application from industry, as it has not been possible to minimize the application gap.Originality/valueThis paper introduces a swap model that satisfies the key problems resulting from the shortage: increasing costs and gap needs. The additional approaches offer a new look from outside industry application that have yielded solutions needed in the nurse scheduling problem.
Innovation in the pharmaceutical industry: study of select parameters
Authors: Khemka Meenakshi , Gautam Vinayshil 
Published: June 2010

PurposeInnovation is the key to sustained competitive edge, especially for organizations functioning in a fast changing environment. The purpose of this paper is to understand select factors affecting innovation in Indian pharmaceutical organizations.Design/methodology/approachThe empirical analysis first tries to find relationships between the variables on a one‐to‐one basis, by conducting a step‐wise regression analysis. Thereafter, the analysis is taken a step further to find out the effect of interaction between the variables.FindingsThe findings are interesting in the sense that while the one‐on‐one analysis did not yield significant results, the interaction analysis yielded significant results.Practical implicationsAn organizations' performance should be looked at as a function of the interaction effect of many variables and not as straight linear equations. This would give a more realistic understanding of the entire domain of organizational functioning.Originality/valueThis paper presents a study done in an Indian environment to understand the functioning in original as compared to adapting the frameworks developed elsewhere. This assumes relevance specifically in the post WTO era wherein the impetus of survival of the pharmaceutical industry is innovation.
The effect of brand extensions on product brand image
Authors: Müge Arslan F. , Korkut Altuna Oylum 
Published: June 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of fit, familiarity, perceived quality and attitude towards the brand on product brand image after an extension and also to examine whether the product image of a brand is diluted as a result of brand extension.Design/methodology/approachThe model adopted for the study is based on that developed by Martinez and de Chernatony. A questionnaire consisting of seven constructs (general brand image, product brand image, quality, familiarity, fit, attitude, and demographic characteristics) was administered to 474 respondents. Convenience sampling and face‐to‐face survey methods were used. The brands and extensions used in the study were the same as in the Martinez and de Chernatony study. The difference between these two studies is that, while Martinez and de Chernatony have investigated the effects of brand extension on both general brand image and product brand image, in this study general brand image is examined only before the extensions in order to compare the two brands. The results of the pre‐tests showed that Turkish consumers could not assess the effects of hypothetical extensions on the general brand image. Therefore, as for the effects of brand extensions, only the product brand image after the extension is investigated.FindingsThe results show that brand extensions affect the product brand image negatively, whereas the fit between the parent and extension brands decreases the negative effect. The drop of image as a result of extension is greater when the perceived image and quality of the parent brand are higher. Perceived quality of the brand, consumers' brand familiarity, fit perceived by the consumer, consumers' attitudes towards the extension have a positive effect on the product brand image after the extension.Research limitations/implicationsOwing to the sample size and sampling method, the study has its own limitations in terms of external validity. In addition, only two brands and two extensions were tested and the extensions used were hypothetical, which may lead to a lack of generalizability.Practical implicationsThe higher the image of a brand, the more the dilution that occurs, which means that companies should take caution when extending into different product categories.Originality/valueThe study is one of the very few research efforts conducted in the Turkish market concerning brand extensions and the sample used in the research consists of consumers rather than students.
Understanding financial information used to assess small firm performance
Authors: Halabi Abdel K. , Barrett Rowena , Dyt Robyn 
Published: June 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the reality of financial and management accounting in a small group of small firms. Specifically, from the owner's perspective, an exploration is undertaken to see what financial information is collected, how it is used (or not) to make business decisions and evaluate the firm's performance, and the role played by the accountant in that process.Design/methodology/approachA phenomenological paradigm underpins this exploratory study. Semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with the owners of ten small firms, where the focus was on understanding what happens in an organisational setting, as opposed to theory and textbook practice.FindingsThe qualitative data supported prior research in other countries. The in‐depth analysis revealed a very basic understanding of accounting information and problems with the financial literacy amongst these small firm owners. Accounting reports were not widely produced or used, so an informal assessment, such as how much cash was in the bank, was the primary means of assessing business performance. Accountants were used for taxation services, although some owners sought more general business advice.Originality/valueAn understanding is developed of why there might be a gap between textbook rhetoric and reality of accounting practice in small firms. The conclusion is that accounting textbooks need to include more information about the reality of financial management in small firms.
Interrogating accountability
Authors: Crofts Ken , Bisman Jayne 
Published: June 2010

PurposeThe paper has a dual purpose, being to report on an interrogation of concepts and contexts of accountability used in the accounting literature and to illustrate the application of a qualitative data analysis software tool in this interrogation.Design/methodology/approachA content analysis was undertaken of 114 journal articles related to accountability and published in highly ranked accounting journals from 2000 to 2007.FindingsAccountability is a concept used in a variety of contexts, particularly in connection with public accountabilities and accountability in the public sector, as well as within social contexts. The emphasis appears to be on accountability reporting in these settings, with less concern for the management perspective. The variety of contextual usage and categorisations of the term “accountability” indicate it has not become more precise over the period in question.Research limitations/implicationsSince only 21 accounting journals are sampled, there is scope for investigating accountability concepts across a broader base of publication outlets. The findings suggest that greater effort should be devoted to developing frameworks of accountability, researching accountability in relatively under‐explored contexts and settings, and considerable scope for researchers to more frequently utilise computer‐assisted qualitative data analysis in content analysis studies concerning accounting and accountability.Originality/valueWhile there is anecdotal evidence of the elusive nature of accountability, this paper provides a window on conceptions of accountability employed by accounting scholars and the contexts in which accountability is discussed and researched. Further, the use of the Leximancer software tool in qualitative content analysis is demonstrated, noting that the accounting literature is currently devoid of examples of applications of this software.
Constructing identity through the consumption of counterfeit luxury goods
Authors: Perez María Eugenia , Castaño Raquel , Quintanilla Claudia 
Published: June 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between the consumption of counterfeit luxury goods and identity construction. The argument is that through the consumption of counterfeit luxury goods consumers obtain real and symbolic benefits that allow them to express a desired social image and further their identity.Design/methodology/approachA total of 37 in‐depth interviews were conducted with women who owned both originals and counterfeits of luxury fashion products.FindingsThe findings highlight three main themes describing inner benefits that consumers attain with the purchase and consumption of counterfeit luxury goods: first, being efficient by optimizing their resources; second, having fun by experiencing adventure, enjoyment, and risk; and third, fooling others expecting not to be caught. But most important, through the accomplishment of these goals consumers of counterfeit luxury goods construct an identity in which they perceive themselves as “savvy” individuals.Originality/valueThe intent is to contribute to the understanding of the process of identity construction through consumption. This consumption occurs in a particular context; the consumption of counterfeit luxury goods. The experience is singular in the sense that this paper shows the existence of consumers who can afford the prices of luxury fashion brands but decide to buy counterfeits and also because it depicts how individuals can construct a confident self‐image from an ethically questionable behavior. The consumption of counterfeit luxury brands serve consumers a self‐concept expressive function (by helping them to communicate who they are) and an adaptive social function (by rewarding them with social acceptance).
Networking as marketing strategy: a case study of small community businesses
Authors: Miller Nancy J. , Besser Terry L. , Sattler Weber Sandra 
Published: June 2010

PurposeThe paper examines the building of a new business network by women apparel retailers operating in small Midwest US communities to better understand the network development process and the contributions to small business marketing strategy.Design/methodology/approachWork draws upon the theoretical and empirical tradition of network studies using prior research for considering current small business owners. This case study approach involved documenting the evolution of relationships among retailers over a five‐year period by means of primary data collection from multiple sources.FindingsTwo theoretical network development frameworks were supported in the identification and description of critical transformation phases and the implicit impacts on retail member firms.Research limitations/implicationsThe case study involves a limited number of business owners in the same retail sector operating in small towns. It may not be representative of retail operations of different size, in different sectors, and in different sized communities. However, insights are gained that can be used to build studies that focus on a variety of business types, geographic locations, and owner demographics.Practical implicationsThe paper shows that networking is a viable market strategy for small community retailers and that economic as well as social benefits are accrued from interactions with network members.Originality/valueGiven the unique challenges of operating a small independent business, this work provides suggestions for building networks that generate collaboration as a marketing strategy.
Identifying consumer decision‐making strategies using alternative methods
Authors: Zellman Eva , Kaye‐Blake William , Abell Walt 
Published: June 2010

PurposeThe research aims to investigate consumer decision‐making strategies using quantitative and qualitative methods. Two decision theories are contrasted: neoclassical theory proposes compensatory and optimising strategies with complete information, whilst bounded rationality theory suggests simplified and non‐compensatory strategies. The research assesses whether these theories will explain consumers' decision‐making strategies when completing a survey, and the extent to which qualitative and quantitative methods provide convergent validity of the explanations.Design/methodology/approachA computer‐based choice survey was administered to university students and staff. The choice task was to select a preferred potato from sets of potatoes with different attributes. Information for each attribute was initially hidden by a “card”; respondents had to reveal the information by clicking on the card with the computer mouse. The survey recorded the order of mouse clicks, providing quantitative data on decision strategies. Some respondents were also interviewed about their decision processes, which provided qualitative data on strategies.FindingsRespondents left over one‐fifth of the cards unopened. Interview findings confirmed that respondents generally did not obtain all available information and used simplified strategies. The qualitative data were generally validated by the quantitative data and provided improved descriptions of decision strategies.Research limitations/implicationsSome qualitative data can not be verified with quantitative data, and the convenience sample of university students and staff may limit the generalisability of the findings.Originality/valueThe paper suggests that consumers may not use all available information when making choices. The neoclassical assumption of full information may therefore not hold. It also indicates that probing decision strategies with qualitative questioning provides accurate data and better details than could be obtained quantitatively.
Exploring consumers' product‐specific colour meanings
Authors: Kauppinen‐Räisänen Hannele , Luomala Harri T. 
Published: June 2010

PurposeThe impact of colour is acknowledged, yet empirical studies on colours with marketing implications are rare. The paper seeks to advance our understanding of the role of package colours in consumers' product experiences by studying the relationship between colour meanings and product. It also aims at offering insights into the meanings associated with colours in a product context.Design/methodology/approachUnderstanding of package colours was elicited by applying the preference‐consumption difference interview technique. The data were analysed applying means‐end chain. Accordingly, it was possible to detect, not only the multifunction played by package colours, but also meanings that colours conveyed at different abstraction level. As colour research within marketing was fragmented and no such colour theory exists, the paper developed a theoretical framework for the paper.FindingsBased on the evidence, the proposed framework is further elaborated so that it could better capture the connections between colour and consumers' product experiences. Hence, the paper supports the significance of the functions emphasised by past research and uncovers the qualitative connections between packages colour meanings and product type.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research should extend the size of the sample, types of products, geographical area, and colours.Practical implicationsThe evidence shows that colours should be carefully considered when launching new brands or, indeed, when brand packages are redesigned, the multifunction of colours should be taken into consideration.Originality/valueThe paper covers an area neglected by past research, which has implications for understanding consumers' brand preferences.
Tunable digital material properties for 3D voxel printers
Authors: Hiller Jonathan , Lipson Hod 
Published: June 2010

PurposeDigital materials are composed of many discrete voxels placed in a massively parallel layer deposition process, as opposed to continuous (analog) deposition techniques. The purpose of this paper is to explore the wide range of material properties attainable using a voxel‐based freeform fabrication process, and demonstrate in simulation the versatility of fabricating with multiple materials in this manner.Design/methodology/approachA representative interlocking voxel geometry was selected, and a nonlinear physics simulator was implemented to perform virtual tensile tests on blocks of assembled voxels of varying materials. Surface contact between tiles, plastic deformation of the individual voxels, and varying manufacturing precision were all modeled.FindingsBy varying the precision, geometry, and material of the individual voxels, continuous control over the density, elastic modulus, coefficient of thermal expansion, ductility, and failure mode of the material is obtained. Also, the effects of several hierarchical voxel “microstructures” are demonstrated, resulting in interesting properties such as negative Poisson's ratio.Research limitations/implicationsThis analysis is a case study of a specific voxel geometry, which is representative of 2.5D interlocking shapes but not necessarily all types of interlocking voxels.Practical implicationsThe results imply that digital materials can exhibit widely varying and tunable properties in a single desktop fabrication process.Originality/valueThe paper explores the vast potential of tunable materials, especially using the concept of voxel microstructure, applicable primarily to 3D voxel printers but also to other multi‐material freeform fabrication processes.
A comparison of synthesis methods for cellular structures with application to additive manufacturing
Authors: Chu Jane , Engelbrecht Sarah , Graf Gregory , Rosen David W. 
Published: June 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate design synthesis methods for designing lattice cellular structures to achieve desired stiffnesses. More generally, to find appropriate design problem formulations and solution algorithms for searching the large, complex design spaces associated with cellular structures.Design/methodology/approachTwo optimization algorithms were tested: particle swarm optimization (PSO) and Levenburg‐Marquardt (LM), based on a least‐squares minimization formulation. Two example problems of limited complexity, specifically a two‐dimensional cantilever beam and a two‐dimensional simply‐supported plate, were investigated. Computational characteristics of the algorithms were reported for design problems with hundreds of variables. Constraints from additive manufacturing processes were incorporated to ensure that resulting designs are realizable.FindingsBoth PSO and LM succeeded in searching the design spaces and finding good designs. LM is one to two orders of magnitude more efficient for this class of problems.Research limitations/implicationsThree‐dimensional problems are not investigated in this paper.Practical implicationsLM appears to be a viable algorithm for optimizing structures of complex geometry for minimum weight and desired stiffness.Originality/valueThe testing of design synthesis methods (problem formulations and algorithms) for lattice cellular structures, and the testing of PSO and LM algorithms, are of particular value.