bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Toward the promotion of effective performance of entry‐level managers: the case of Portugal
Authors: Ferreira Gomes Carlos , Yasin Mahmoud M. 
Published: June 2011

PurposeThe increasing importance placed on organizational performance in a highly competitive global business environment has been unmistakable in recent years. The performance of entry‐level managers contributes significantly to the effectiveness of the overall organizational performance. The purpose of this paper is to explore the nature and dimensions of entry‐level managers' performance‐related variables for a cross sectional sample of Portuguese organizations.Design/methodology/approachUsing a sample of 106 executives from Portuguese organizations, factor analysis was used to extract the underlying dimensions of effective performance of entry‐level managers. Multiple regression analysis was used to explore the relationships between the critical performance dimensions revealed by factor analysis.FindingsThe results of this study reveal the significance of personality‐related aspects, learned aspects, and cognitive capacities on shaping the effective performance of entry‐level managers. The practical implications of the results to business organizations and organizations of higher learning are examined.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample used in this study is specific in nature. It consists of executives from Portuguese organizations representing different industries. Thus, the results should be interpreted accordingly.Practical implicationsBased on the results of this study, some important organizational implications regarding managerial training and development are advanced.Originality/valueThis study empirically examines the Portuguese executives' opinions regarding entry‐level managers' desired performance‐related characteristics. It offers significant implications to both business and higher learning organizations, as they engage in joint ventures aimed at promoting effective managerial performance.
Deriving competitive advantage from real exchange rate changes
Authors: Schnabel Jacques A. 
Published: June 2011

PurposeThis paper seeks to argue that any competitive advantage realized by a firm that produces domestically and exports to a foreign market due to a real depreciation (appreciation) of the domestic (foreign) currency is purely transitory and thus not sustainable. Diversification of manufacturing operations across a number of countries and appropriate production rescheduling in light of real exchange rate changes are required to transform the character of this competitive advantage from merely transitory to sustainable.Design/methodology/approachAnalytic proof is provided of the dependence of an exporting firm's real profit margin on the real exchange rate. A simple contemporaneous and one‐period lagged model of the current account balance is then posited to argue that real exchange rates exhibit mean‐reversionary behavior.FindingsThe Marshall‐Lerner condition, which is a mainstay of balance‐of‐payments models is shown to imply that real exchange rates exhibit mean‐reversionary behavior. Extensive empirical evidence is cited that accords with this theoretical conclusion. Thus, any gain in competitive advantage due to a change in real exchange rates that accrues to a firm with a single manufacturing operation is merely transitory and not sustainable.Practical implicationsTo position itself to achieve sustainable competitive advantage from changes in real exchange rates, a firm must maintain a global supply chain diversified across many countries. With the flexibility provided by such disparate plant locations, production schedules can be adjusted in response to real exchange rate changes, to wit, increased (reduced) manufacturing should be programmed in countries whose currencies have experienced real depreciations (appreciations). Owing to oscillating real exchange rates, these requisite production schedule adjustments are expected to be perpetual.Originality/valueThe algebraic formulation of the firm's inflation‐adjusted profit margin's dependency on the real exchange rate and the analytical proof that the Marshall‐Lerner condition implies mean‐reversionary behavior in real exchange rates are both novel. The implications with regard to competitive advantage are likewise original.
Adaptive, generative, and transformative learning in project teams
Authors: Sessa Valerie I. , London Manuel , Pingor Christopher , Gullu Beyza , Patel Juhi 
Published: June 2011

PurposeThe aim of this study is to analyze a framework of team learning that includes three learning processes (adaptive, generative, and transformative), factors that stimulate these processes, and consequences of them. The variables provided a field study of the model.Design/methodology/approachIn the field study, 69 project teams of 3 to 11 students and their instructors responded to surveys.FindingsPositive learning stimuli were related to adaptive and generative learning processes, while negative stimuli were related to transformative learning processes. Learning processes were related to individual student learning outcomes. In addition, adaptive and generative learning processes were positively related to team and instructor ratings of outcome quality, while transformative learning was negatively related to team ratings of outcome quality.Research limitations/implicationsThe results were subject to the following limitations: cross‐sectional design, mostly self‐report measures, and the lack of control endemic to field research. As such, this study is viewed as an initial test of the team‐learning model in a field setting. Additional research, including longitudinal designs and experimental designs, are called for.Practical implicationsThis study adds to the growing literature on group learning. Educators and managers need to be aware that there are different kinds of learning processes in which groups can engage and that these are stimulated to occur differently and have a different impact on outcomes.Originality/valueTeam learning is rarely assessed directly as a construct in its own right and there is a lack of empirical support delineating causes and consequences of team learning. This field study is a first step in this direction.
Nature and antecedents of a marketing approach according to Italian SME entrepreneurs
Authors: Guido Gianluigi , Marcati Alberto , Peluso Alessandro M. 
Published: June 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to explore the conception of marketing held by entrepreneurs of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), in comparison with that proposed by researchers using different paradigms (i.e. the transactional, relationship, or inductional marketing). It then seeks to examine the determinants of the entrepreneurs' intention to adopt a marketing approach in their firms.Design/methodology/approachThe research is articulated in a pilot and a main study, which were carried out on a stratified sample of more than 200 Italian entrepreneurs. It adopts exploratory research techniques to investigate the entrepreneurs' perceptions of the marketing concept and applies Ajzen's Theory of Planned Behavior to quantitatively assess the psychological antecedents of their intention to adopt a “marketing approach” (i.e. what they mean by that).FindingsResults clearly show that the “concept of marketing” as perceived by Italian SME entrepreneurs differs from that proposed by academic researchers and subjective norm (as an indicator of corporate culture) is the main determinant of the entrepreneurs' intention to adopt a marketing approach.Research limitations/implicationsThe research stresses that a wide gap exists between academic researchers' and entrepreneurs' conceptions of marketing. The existence of a proper organizational culture can foster the diffusion of a marketing approach among firms.Originality/valueThe research contributes to the literature on contemporary marketing theory and practice, by showing the existence of a need “to market the marketing approach” at least among Italian SME entrepreneurs.
Collaborative business process management: status quo and quo vadis
Authors: Niehaves Bjoern , Plattfaut Ralf 
Published: June 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze the status quo with regards to business process management (BPM) and collaboration and to show potential fields of future research in the area of collaborative BPM.Design/methodology/approachTo obtain results, authors employ the method of a systematic literature review using relevant existing guidelines. They not only search leading journals and conferences in the fields but also in ISI web of knowledge's web of science. Subsuming, 39 relevant articles are selected and analyzed with regards to concepts identified upfront.FindingsThe paper finds that collaborative BPM is a growing trend in information systems research, but that there still exist significant research gaps. Hence, it proposes a research agenda consisting out of five action fields pointing at potentially fruitful directions for future research.Research limitations/implicationsFirst, this paper provides an overview of the status quo in the field of collaborative BPM to young scholars. Second, it identifies five distinct research gaps that could be worth studying. However, this paper may be limited by the choice of dimensions and the selection of relevant articles.Practical implicationsThis paper informs practitioners about the status quo of research on collaborative BPM. Here, especially the analysis in the dimensions collaboration partner and BPM goals can help to evaluate the practitioner's strategy.Originality/valueThe results of this paper present the status quo of collaborative BPM literature. Hence, it also identifies research gaps and derives a research agenda.
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) benefits survey of Indian manufacturing firms
Authors: Annamalai C. , Ramayah T. 
Published: June 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the tangible and intangible benefits of two enterprises resource planning (ERP) packages namely SAP and Oracle. In particular, the operational benefits (OP), managerial benefits (MB), strategic benefits (SB), information technology (IT) benefits and organizational benefits (OR) of SAP and Oracle packages are scrutinized.Design/methodology/approachA survey method was employed to elicit opinions from SAP and Oracle ERP professionals. The empirical results are analyzed using smartPLS (Version 2.0) software. The results are further compared and contrasted with that of Deloitte and O'Leary's studies.FindingsThrough this study, it seems that the tangible benefits such as procurement cost reduction (32 percent for SAP; 30 percent for Oracle), financial cycle reduction (46 percent for SAP; 48 percent for Oracle), productivity improvements (50 percent for SAP; 41 percent for Oracle), personnel reduction (43 percent for both SAP and Oracle) and IT cost reduction (35 percent for SAP; 21 percent for Oracle) percentages indicate Indian companies have achieved more ERP benefits as compared to Deloitte and O'Leary's studies.Research limitations/implicationsThree limitations were identified in this study such as adoption of the survey instrument, potential for response bias associated with targeting packages and the research instrument targeted only for manufacturing organizations. In the future, one can analyze the ERP benefits based on the ERP life cycle stages such as initiation, adoption, adaptation, acceptance, routinization and infusion. Moreover, one can investigate all the benefits mentioned in the literature of Shang and Seddon's study as this study reveals only few tangible and intangible benefits. There is also a possibility of extending the study to the benefits in terms of pre‐ and post‐ERP implementation in manufacturing systems. Finally, introducing some moderators to see the effect on ERP benefits.Practical implicationsThis paper provides new insights into the tangible and intangible benefits of SAP and Oracle ERP packages.Originality/valueNo prior study to the best of one's knowledge has been sought to explain in such benefits of SAP and Oracle ERP packages.
Creating a coaching culture across a global sales force
Authors: Phillips Tracy 
Published: June 2011

PurposeThe aim is to explore how Microsoft Advertising built a coaching culture across its global sales manager population.Design/methodology/approachThis case study illustrates how a coaching program was delivered that allowed for the complexity within the business as well as being flexible enough to meet the needs of different cultures.FindingsThis practical case study material from Microsoft Advertising, a global provider of digital advertising platforms, shows how the learning and development team developed the performance coaching capability of sales managers in order to lift the performance of the global sales force.Practical implicationsIt explores the implications of designing a program suitable for global delivery across five continents, in ten countries and with 22 nationalities of participants, as well as the practicalities of delivery.Originality/valueThis paper provides information on the coaching culture across Microsoft Advertising's global sales manager population.
Lessons from the East: next generation HR in Asia
Authors: McCartney Claire 
Published: June 2011

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to discuss the findings of a research program that set out to define HR's role as a catalyst for the consistently high growth performance of companies in the Asia‐Pacific region and, in doing so, to share valuable lessons with the West.Design/methodology/approachNext Generation HR in Asia is the second phase of a major research program initiated by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and Bridge. The aim is to identify aspects of leading edge HR practice that give a glimpse of “next practice” that will shape HR's future. Phase one of the project involved interviews with some of the most innovative HR practitioners in Europe, while phase two draws on interviews with leaders in 27 companies operating across the Asia Pacific region.FindingsDealing with the demands of the high growth and highly diverse market in Asia‐Pacific, and the associated extreme competition for talent, is resulting in innovative and flexible approaches to HR. Four next practices for HR emerged from the research. They are innovative solutions based on deep insight, developing loyalty and retention, leveraging the challenges of culture clashes, and being well positioned when the growth curve flattens.Practical implicationsWhile context is key and it is necessary to be aware of a one size fits all approach, the West can draw inspiration from the way in which entrepreneurial Asian leaders are putting themselves at the forefront of efforts to deliver superior organizational performance.Originality/valueThe paper provides useful information on leading edge HR practices, which are a catalyst for consistently high growth performance of companies in the Asia‐Pacific region.
The ethics challenge: establishing an ethics ambassador network to help embed an ethical culture
Authors: Irwin Judith , Bradshaw Katherine 
Published: June 2011

PurposeCreating and maintaining a consistent ethics program is a challenge for multinational organizations and establishing a network of ethics ambassadors is one way to help meet this challenge. This paper aims to summarize the role of HR in encouraging an ethical culture; looks at how to recruit ambassadors and establish a network; and examines some of the challenges.Design/methodology/approachThe report upon which this paper is based draws on the experience of one of the authors as an ethics practitioner in a large multinational company, and an Institute of Business Ethics (IBE) survey of large companies taken in 2010, compiled from 12 responses from companies across different sectors, of which six are headquartered in the UK, four are headquartered in continental Europe, one in the USA and one unknown.FindingsAn ethics ambassador network is a cost‐effective way of ensuring that ethical values are embedded throughout an organization. An effective network can help mitigate integrity risks and encourage a culture that is supportive of high ethical standards and legal requirements.Originality/valueThis paper provides HR practitioners within multinational organizations with an insight into how they can facilitate the use of ethics ambassadors. A more in‐depth examination of the subject is published in the IBE's good practice guide, Ethics Ambassadors, available from www.ibe.org.uk
A process directed towards sustainable business operations and a model for improving the GWP‐footprint (CO2e) on Earth
Authors: Svensson Göran , Wagner Beverly 
Published: June 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe: a process to achieve sustainable business operations; and a sustainable business model of Global Warming Potential (GWP) footprint on Earth, GWP being the measure of how much a given amount of greenhouse gas is estimated to contribute to global warming. It is a relative scale which compares the effect of a given gas (e.g. methane or nitrous oxide) with that of the same amount of carbon dioxide.Design/methodology/approachA Swedish fast food chain selling hamburger meals is examined in a case study. Data were collected from available corporate internal and external documentation, by site observations as well as from non‐structured interviews with top managers and company employees.FindingsThe company's efforts to accomplish its target of “zero mission” GWP‐footprint (CO2e) on Earth consist of both an iterative and continuous process and business model. Both underpin the corporate notion and desire to reduce fossil fuel dependency and greenhouse gas emissions.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings stress the importance of addressing corporate GWP‐footprints (CO2e) from a business perspective, rather than relying on political or governmental legislation and regulation. It also opens opportunities for further research.Practical implicationsThe case shows the possibility of implementing successful sustainable operations and sustainable business models in national “for‐profit” organisations without governmental subsidies in a highly competitive market, dominated by powerful multinational fast food chains.Social implicationsChanging consumer behaviour and purchasing patterns, as well as governmental intervention imposed at top political levels worldwide, will most likely increase the necessity for companies to create sustainable business models linked to GWP‐footprint (CO2e).Originality/valueThe principal contribution based on the presented case study is an illustration of how one can achieve sustainable business operations and create a sustainable business model in an industry that often has been heavily criticised in the past for harming the natural environment. It also shows how to create awareness of the GWP‐footprint (CO2e) of a company's products so that in turn customers may be able to make conscious and deliberate product choices.
Sustainable technological policy options for rural water supply management in selected rural areas of Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Gbadegesin A.S. , Olorunfemi F.B. 
Published: June 2011

PurposeAfter almost 60 years of water supply development in Nigeria, it is unfortunate that as many as 43 per cent of the population still lack access to safe water. The situation is worse in the rural areas. There is, therefore, the need to better understand the constraints and challenges of water supply, especially in the rural areas of the country. With this regard this study seeks to assess the extent to which stakeholders are willing and able to adopt and implement sustainable, cost‐effective and environmentally friendly management options for water resources in selected rural areas of Oyo State, Nigeria.Design/methodology/approachThe study areas include three rural/semi‐urban Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Oyo state. The three LGAs are Ibarapa, Afijio, and Lagelu. The choice of the three study areas is justified on the grounds that the areas are different in terms of potable water supply problems and management. The study adopted a combination of qualitative and quantitative methodology, including Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), in‐depth interviews (IDIs) with stakeholders as well as a structured and semi‐structured questionnaires survey.FindingsThe outcome of the study reveals that the knowledge base of the different stakeholder groups about the technological, socio‐economic and ecological dimensions of water resources management is very low. For some communities, however, the indigenous knowledge in the conservation of traditional water sources (e.g. streams and rivers) exists but needs to be improved.Originality/valueThe results formed a database on the ideas and experience of local initiatives which could be adapted to solve water supply problems in similar rural communities in Nigeria and elsewhere in the African continent.
What are we doing?
Authors: Coeckelbergh Mark 
Published: June 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to better understand the cultural‐philosophical significance of microblogging. In this way it seeks to inform evaluations of this new medium and of the culture and society it co‐shapes and in which it is rooted.Design/methodology/approachEngaging in philosophical reflection inspired by philosophy of technology, political philosophy, and cultural history, this paper identifies and discusses some structural features of microblogging such as Twitter.FindingsThis paper discusses the following structural features of microblogging as a medium: an emphasis on activity, the rule of opinion, emphasis on the ordinary and on the self, blurring of the private/public distinction, the primacy of the present, and the paradox of distance and proximity. The discussion also suggests that microblogging remediates “older” media such as letters, e‐mails, texting, diaries, and newspaper writings. Finally, the paper explores some strategies to cope with the new medium, including “hacking” it in order to widen the spectrum of possibilities it offers.Social implicationsThe paper assists users and policy makers to reflect on how new media such as microblogging might change the way we live and think. It helps them to better understand the medium and to evaluate its use.Originality/valueAlthough there are data available now on the use of Twitter and other microblogging technologies, there has been very little philosophical reflection on the phenomenon. This paper begins to bridge this gap and makes novel connections between ideas from different academic fields.
An analysis of the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010
Authors: Hervey Richard M. 
Published: June 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explain the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, P.L. 111‐325, signed into law on December 22, 2010.Design/methodology/approachThe paper summarizes the Act and provides a detailed explanation and analysis of each of the provisions in the Act.FindingsAn investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 may elect to be taxed as a Regulated Investment Company (RIC) under the Internal Revenue Code. A RIC that satisfies certain additional minimum distribution requirements is generally allowed to deduct the amount of dividends paid to its shareholders in computing the RIC's taxable income and gains, with the result that the RIC's distributed net income and gains can be passed through to its shareholders free of tax at the RIC level. The Act makes a number of changes to the provisions in the Code related to RICs.Originality/valueThe paper provides practical guidance from experienced financial services lawyers.