bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Investigating the complex drivers of loyalty in e‐commerce settings
Authors: Mohd Kassim Norizan , Ismail Salaheldin 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate how perceived service quality, satisfaction and trust determine loyalty in e‐commerce settings at the level of construct dimensions.Design/methodology/approachA survey method approach was used in this study. To test the dimensionality of the perceived service quality, all the 20 items were analyzed using oblique rotation and varimax rotation. The hypotheses were tested using the structural equations modeling.FindingsEmpirical results indicate that only assurance does appear to play an imperative role in building trust as suggested by many authors. Of particular interest is the finding that word‐of‐mouth (WOM) is an antecedent of trust and intention. It becomes clear that WOM is a relatively important driver of trust and intention in e‐commerce settings.Research limitations/implicationsThe study may also be delimited to Qatar only. Further research could complement it by exploring the study variables and other variables not mentioned in depth here.Practical implicationsSatisfaction, which contributes considerably to loyalty, can be increased by providing an attractive user interface, and an easy to use and interesting system. Specifically, the positive word‐of‐mouth decreases the need for marketing expenses and can increase revenue if new customers are attracted. Online retailers should direct their before‐ and after‐sales service mechanisms towards developing consumers' willingness to get engaged in positive WOM in favour of the company and its services.Originality/valueThe major contribution of the study is that it is the first attempt to investigate the impact of word of mouth on trust and intention ahead of previous studies.
Organizational service orientation and its role in service performance formation: evidence from Polish service industry
Authors: Urban Wieslaw 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThe paper seeks to evaluate the state of organizational service orientation in service industry in Poland; also to examine the influence of service orientation on key service performance, especially on the quality of service. Employing a cross‐sector approach, it aims to assess the problem of differences of organizational service orientation across different service trade.Design/methodology/approachIn the research process the survey method was employed. The research population enclosed 230 service enterprises operating in three regions of Poland; units were chosen randomly. Serv*Or questions battery designed by Lytle et al. was employed to assess the organizational service orientation. Advantage was taken of correlations analyses and ANOVA.FindingsThe weakest element regarding organizational service orientation is employee empowerment, which originates partly from national inclination to individualism, and partly from the central planning political system that existed in the Polish economy in the Communist era. The main conclusion is that organizational service orientation affects service performance. Its influence on service quality and clients' loyalty is substantial; therefore the organizational service orientation concept appears as a predicator of service quality and might be used in the quality management process. It is possible to indicate five service orientation dimensions that differ across sectors: customer treatment, employee empowerment, service standards communication, service vision, and service training.Originality/valueThe study takes a cross‐sector approach. No wide cross‐sector study has appeared before in an investigation of organizational service orientation.
Factors influencing Hong Kong CPAs' entrepreneurship in the accounting profession
Authors: Law Philip , Hung Jennifer 
Published: March 2009

PurposeEntrepreneurship plays a key role in society and is important for economic growth. Despite prior studies of entrepreneurial behavior, no research has been conducted to examine the influence of monetary and personality factors on the entrepreneurial start up of Certified Public Accountant (CPA) firms in Hong Kong. The purpose of this paper is to investigate into factors influencing Hong Kong CPAs in becoming entrepreneurial public practitioners.Design/methodology/approachData are collected through a questionnaire survey and analyzed by binomial logistic regression. A total of 212 CPAs of Chinese origin are randomly selected in Hong Kong. Social capital theory derived from the sociology literature is employed for analysing the findings.FindingsResults indicate that “profit motivation” and “education level” variables have no significant influence on the entrepreneurial start up, and contradict findings in prior literature. Results further reveal that “social networking” and “internal locus of control” variables could positively influence on the entrepreneurial start up of CPA practices. Results support the validity of social capital theory that reveals social networks have values and productive benefits. Gender plays a role in the entrepreneurial start up of CPA practices, with males predominate has entrepreneurs of CPA practices.Originality/valueThis study could add new contributions to the accounting literature on the study of the entrepreneurial start up of CPA practices in Hong Kong. With the booming Hong Kong economy and the vast supports from China's prosperous market, Hong Kong CPAs are more inclined to become entrepreneurs of CPA practices in the long run. Implications of this study could enable accounting bodies and education institutions focusing on CPAs' personality development and education.
The significance of Chinese commercial property in an Asian property portfolio
Authors: Newell Graeme , Wing Chau Kwong , Kei Wong Siu 
Published: March 2009

PurposeInternational investors have shown considerable recent interest regarding property investment in China via both direct and indirect property. The purpose of this paper is to assess the significance and performance of the China commercial property market compared to six developed and emerging commercial property markets in Asia.Design/methodology/approachThis paper analyses the performance of commercial property in China over 1998‐2007 for both direct and indirect property. Risk‐adjusted performance analysis is used to assess the added value of China commercial property in a pan‐Asia portfolio, with the portfolio diversification benefits of China commercial property also assessed. Sub‐period analyses are also used to assess the dynamics of China commercial property.FindingsThis paper finds that China commercial property has shown significantly enhanced performance and diversification benefits in recent years. In a pan‐Asia property fund context, there are clear diversification benefits provided by China commercial property, with these benefits also being evident in the other Asian property markets. The findings highlight the benefits of a pan‐Asia property investment strategy by international property investors, as well as the key benefits and added‐value of including China commercial property in this pan‐Asia property investment strategy.Originality/valuePrevious empirical research into the China commercial property markets has been very limited. This paper rigorously assesses the role of China commercial property in a pan‐Asia property portfolio context. Given the increasing interest by the leading international property investors regarding investing in China commercial property, this research enables more informed and practical investment decision‐making regarding the role of both direct and indirect China commercial property as part of a pan‐Asia institutional property investment strategy.
Developmental state, property‐led growth and property investment risks in China
Authors: Albert Cao J. 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to apply the developmental state theory to examine the institutional arrangements that support the widespread adoption of the property‐led urban economic growth model and generate risks on property investment in Chinese cities.Design/methodology/approachThis paper conducts institutional analysis on the behaviour of the Chinese state and examines results from major interview programmes and field investigations on six cities in China.FindingsThe Chinese state deviates from other developmental states and is polymorphous, i.e. lacking an effective central state to maintain the standard of governance and regulate the behaviour of local states. The weak central state is responsible for failures to implement national policies on land supply and housing price inflation, to nurture the development of professions like valuation, and to formulate policy on commercial property. The local states, on the other hand, intensify risks in property investment by poor plan making and implementation that create chaos in urban development and intensive competition among projects, and by poor data services and legal support for market operations. Such risks, however, seem to be played down by Chinese property professionals.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper uses the summarised opinions of interviewees who have varied expertise on different issues in China. Further research could be conducted on a number of fronts, say risk perception by different professions such as valuers or investors.Originality/valueThis is the first paper to apply developmental state theory to examine the roles the Chinese central and local governments play in using the property‐led growth model on the generation and intensification of property investment risks.
Defining sustainability metric targets in an institutional setting
Authors: Rauch Jason N. , Newman Julie 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to expand on the development of university and college sustainability metrics by implementing an adaptable metric target strategy.Design/methodology/approachA combined qualitative and quantitative methodology is derived that both defines what a sustainable metric target might be and describes the path a university might take to get there. Local to global spatial scales and short to long‐term time scales are accounted for. Four popular metrics are developed: carbon emissions, water use, recycling rate, and energy use. Sustainability metric data available from Yale University are utilized to show the applicability of this metric target strategy.FindingsTargets for sustainability metrics may be set at short, medium, and long‐term time scales. While quantitative targets may be set for sustainability metrics, these are often long‐term ideals that offer no information on the path to achieve them. If a path to achieving these targets is outlined, it is often arbitrary quantitatively, if not also qualitatively. This paper finds that sustainability metric targets can be founded upon clearly delineated, rigorously quantified targets. At the same time, the process framework for developing sustainability metric targets is adaptable to the unique situation of a particular university. This adaptable metric target strategy reflects the ideals of sustainability to be at one time both local and global in scope. The metric target strategy is globally applicably, but the sustainability metric targets produced will be unique to each institution.Research limitations/implicationsThe process framework for developing sustainable metric targets is only outlined for four popular metrics. Achieving these four targets alone will certainly not define a university as sustainable. Further development of other sustainability metrics utilizing the framework presented would be helpful.Practical implicationsThe application to real metric data shows the feasibility of this approach for use at other universities and colleges. They can define their own sustainability targets using the approach outlined.Originality/valueThis paper highlights how sustainability metrics being collected by universities may be used to define a target path towards sustainability. The process framework presented has the potential to provide unique solutions for each institution while remaining a universal methodological approach.
The integration of green chemistry experiments with sustainable development concepts in pre‐service teachers' curriculum
Authors: Karpudewan Mageswary , Hj Ismail Zurida , Mohamed Norita 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce green chemistry experiments as laboratory‐based pedagogy and to evaluate effectiveness of green chemistry experiments in delivering sustainable development concepts (SDCs) and traditional environmental concepts (TECs).Design/methodology/approachRepeated measure design was employed to evaluate the effectiveness of green chemistry experiments in delivering SDCs and TECs. Structured interviews were conducted to gather the students' feedback on the course content and course structure.FindingsGreen chemistry have enhanced students' understanding of both TECs and SDCs. However, students understanding of SDCs are significantly higher than the TECs. During the interview sessions, students described that the course content as interesting and timely accurate. The course also succeeded in changing students' values and behaviors. Green chemistry was noted as a teaching pedagogy that the student teachers will implement in their future teaching. The course has also provided a space for them to improve their skills in communication, problem solving, and decision making.Practical implicationsThis paper outlines a new teaching strategy and will be a good source for student teachers engaged in science education program. This new teaching strategy embeds scientific concepts grounded in economic, environmental, and societal imperatives.Originality/valueThe paper highlights the importance of education for SD (ESD) in higher education, with particular focus in teacher education. The paper proposes green chemistry experiments integrated with SDCs as laboratory‐based pedagogy in a teacher education program as an effort to green the existing curriculum and ultimately addresses the ESD.
Sustainable attitudes and behaviours amongst a sample of non‐academic staff
Authors: Davis G. , O'Callaghan F. , Knox K. 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is seek to characterise sustainable attitudes and behaviours (including recycling and waste minimisation, energy efficiency, water conservation and “green” purchasing) amongst non‐academic staff within Griffith University, Queensland.Design/methodology/approachFor this study, the attitudes and behaviour of 100 individuals from a cross‐sectional sample from a single Department, along with the determinants of pro‐environmental behaviours were investigated. The survey tool administered used the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and was delivered via an online survey, which was e‐mailed directly to all participating staff across Griffith's five campuses.FindingsThe research sought to pilot the use of the TPB to determine sustainable behaviours amongst staff. The survey successfully showed that the TPB was effective at determining staff attitudes and behaviours and determined that staff were overall satisfied with the current efforts by Griffith University to become more sustainable. However, a number of barriers were identified that should be addressed in order to more comprehensively incorporate sustainability into the work environment. Significant differences in opinions were more prevalent amongst various demographic groups rather than between other characteristics such as department/function.Originality/valueThe TPB has been widely adopted to determine both waste minimisation and recycling behaviours amongst householders. This is a new focus for the tool, to determine if it can accurately determine a suite of additional attitudes and behaviours associated with sustainability and why these differences occur.
US higher education environmental program managers' perspectives on curriculum design and core competencies
Authors: Vincent Shirley , Focht Will 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThis study is the first of a five‐phase research project sponsored by the Council of Environmental Deans and Directors (CEDD), an organization of environmental program managers operating under the umbrella of the National Council for Science and the Environment. The purpose of the project is to determine if a consensus on core competencies for environmental program graduates is achievable, and if so, to make recommendations for consideration by program managers.Design/methodology/approachQ methodology was used to discern the perspectives of program managers at 42 CEDD member institutions on environmental curriculum design. An online survey preceded the Q sort exercise to elicit managers' curricular views and program characteristics. Survey responses were analyzed to select statements for the Q‐sorting exercise and categorized according to emergent themes. Multiple regression analysis was used to explore the relationship between perspectives (factor loadings) and host institution Carnegie classifications.FindingsThree distinct, but not opposing, perspectives were identified from the initial Q‐factor rotation, which suggests the possibility of agreement on core competencies. The perspectives differ in their views of: curriculum orientation (professional training versus liberal arts), curriculum breadth versus depth, and flexible versus fixed core competencies. Host institution classification (Carnegie) is a small but significant predictor for two of the three perspectives. A second Q‐factor rotation reveals a consensus perspective that accommodates most respondents and aligns well with principles of sustainability, thus suggesting that sustainability may serve as a guiding paradigm for defining areas of core competence.Originality/valueNo national study of program managers' views of curriculum design and the identification of core competencies has been conducted in the USA.
Addressing the time lag dilemma in curriculum renewal towards engineering education for sustainable development
Authors: Desha Cheryl J. , Hargroves Karlson , Smith Michael H. 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the case for engineering departments to undertake rapid curriculum renewal (RCR) towards engineering education for sustainable development (EESD), to minimise the department's risk exposure to rapidly shifting industry requirements, government regulations and program accreditation. This paper then outlines a number of elements of RCR.Design/methodology/approachThis paper begins by proposing that Higher Education Institutions face a “time lag dilemma,” whereby the usual or “standard” curriculum renewal approach to embed new knowledge and skills within the curriculum may take too long, lagging behind industry, regulatory, and accreditation shifts. This paper then outlines a proposed RCR approach. This paper presents a number of preliminary “elements of RCR” formulated from a literature review of numerous existing but largely ad hoc examples of curriculum renewal within engineering and other discipline areas, together with the authors' experience in trialling the elements.FindingsThis paper concludes that a strategically implemented process of curriculum renewal to EESD can help a department address its risk exposure to likely and impending shifts in industry, regulations and accreditation. A number of examples of implementing “elements of RCR” are emerging and this literature can inform a strategic approach to curriculum renewal.Practical implicationsThe aim of this paper is to highlight the potential risks and opportunities for engineering departments as they consider “how far” and “how fast” to proceed with curriculum renewal for EESD, along with providing an overview of a range of options for implementation.Originality/valueThis paper fulfils an identified information/resources need.
What the government's expanded investigations of market manipulation may mean (and what you should do before and after the subpoena arrives)
Authors: Mennitt Gary J. , Huey‐Burns Paul , Jossen Robert J. 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to discuss the SEC's investigatory program with respect to market manipulation in the securities of certain financial institutions and to provide constructive steps for firms to take prior to and after they receive a subpoena or other inquiry from the SEC staff.Design/methodology/approachThe paper discusses the implications of a formal SEC investigation, how to respond, and appropriate document retention, disclosure, and internal investigation policies.FindingsIt is essential that firms and individuals provide timely and accurate responses to SEC requests. Document retention and destruction policies are a critical issue. A financial services firm that has received an SEC subpoena or request for information should consider whether any disclosure to its clients and other investors is advisable. When an entity concludes that potential violations may have occurred, it should consider whether to conduct a more extensive internal investigation and whether separate counsel is advisable. In sending materials to the SEC, the responding entity should request confidential treatment.Practical implicationsIt is essential that firms and individuals provide timely and accurate responses to SEC requests, whether pursuant to a subpoena or to a request to submit a narrative statement.Originality/valueThe paper provides practical guidance by experienced securities and litigation lawyers as a result of government investigation into market manipulation.
Compliance with Sarbanes‐Oxley and do not call regulations is interdependent when telemarketing is a core part of a sales strategy
Authors: Ruch Lisette 
Published: March 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to explain the importance of a do not call (DNC) regulations compliance program for broker‐dealers and other investment companies as part of an overall Sarbanes‐Oxley (SOX) compliance strategy.Design/methodology/approachThe paper explains why an effective DNC Regulations compliance program is needed, the consequences of violations, and the control objectives an effective DNC solution should address.FindingsA DNC solution needs to address the risks of a lack of necessary functionality, circumvention, security, failure, and insufficient monitoring. In 2004, the SEC approved amendments to Rule G‐39 that require broker‐dealers to comply with the Federal Trade Commissions DNC rules. In conjunction, the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board also issued clear guidance on required DNC compliance. Thus, this topic is of key importance to broker‐dealers and other investment professionals, especially publicly traded firms. In light of current events, control structures within investment firms will become increasingly important even in non‐public companies, and SOX‐like regulations are likely to develop, affecting all types of investment companies. Proactive compliance is essential.Practical implicationsThe risk of DNC violations is not insignificant. Failure to comply with the do not call (DNC) rules could also lead to failure to comply with SOX since penalties and fines for violations could easily be overlooked and be material to a company's financial information.Originality/valueThe paper offers detailed explanation of DNC program requirements by an experienced consultant.