bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Conversations toward effective implementation of information communication technologies in Australian schools
Authors: Robertson Margaret , Grady Neville , Fluck Andrew , Webb Ivan 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo outline the emerging imperative for the integration of ICT into schools and to locate such integration within broad notions of governance and effective implementation.Design/methodology/approachUsing a flexible interview structure, conversations concerning ICT integration into schools were held with 65 school‐based personnel in 50 Tasmanian schools.FindingsCoding analysis of conversations enabled 14 themes to be identified; for example: “The use of ICT involves partnerships between people”, “ICT is more or less integrated into the classroom curriculum and is more or less entwined in the various pedagogies employed by teachers”, and “ICT ‘champions’ or ‘heroes’ are recognised more or less in schools”. Many of the themes focus on issues of governance. A number of strong correlations were found to exist between the themes. Few differences were found to exist within the data in regard to four criteria, namely: whether the school was in the Catholic sector or the Department of Education; the urban‐rural location of the school; the size of the school in terms of student enrolment numbers; and the role of the participant (Principal, Assistant Principal, Teacher, ICT Co‐ordinator, Technician). Concludes that there is likely to be considerable agreement about the content of such conversations in schools and that they are likely to be concerned with people and processes rather than with ICT technology/software/hardware and the like per se.Practical implicationsProvides guidance to school leaders and others regarding effective implementation of ICT into schools.Originality/valueIt is expected that the schools taking part in this project will move towards implementing ICT with considerable success and it is hoped that this can be applied to Tasmanian schools in general.
Knaves or knights, pawns or queens?
Authors: Dollery Brian , Murray David , Crase Lin 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo invoke Julian Le Grand's conceptual model of the interaction between human motivation and policy formulation in order to explain how motivational endogeneity in the university environment has distorted policy outcomes in the Australian higher education reform program.Design/methodology/approachLe Grand contends that changes in the perception of policy makers of both motivation and agency in the public sector have transformed public sector reform programs in the past two decades. However, because producers and consumers of public services react vigorously to different policy presumptions of their behaviour, a problem of endogeneity arises that may distort the intended outcomes of reform processes. This conceptual framework is applied to higher education reform in Australia from the so‐called Dawkins reform program in the late 1980s onwards.FindingsArgues that the Le Grand model can shed light on the changes in Australian higher education that have occurred as a consequence of the ongoing reform process and account for at least some of the unintended negative consequences of the reforms.Originality/valueThe paper represents the first application of the Le Grand model to higher education reform.
Decomposing the value of department store shopping into utilitarian, hedonic and social dimensions
Authors: Rintamäki Timo , Kanto Antti , Kuusela Hannu , Spence Mark T. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to decompose total customer value as perceived by department store shoppers into utilitarian, hedonic and social dimensions, and empirically test this conceptualization in a Finnish department store shopping context.Design/methodology/approachData were collected by a questionnaire administered over three days at a department store that generates the second largest turnover in Finland. A total of 364 shoppers completed the questionnaire.FindingsEmpirical evidence supports our tripartite conceptualization of total customer value. In particular, social value is an independent construct. Further, social value varies by day‐of‐week, with a significant increase on Saturday (versus weekdays) when the store is more crowded, whereas no such differences in utilitarian and hedonic values were detected.Originality/valueThe principal contribution is a tripartite conceptualization of total customer value that incorporates utilitarian, social and hedonic value dimensions in a department store shopping context. Individually these dimensions are all well rooted in streams of consumer behavior literature, albeit mostly at the product or brand, not the store, level. Increasing our understanding of these softer aspects of shopping, particularly the social dimension, is important because they represent possible differentiating factors in the highly competitive and often commoditized retail markets.
Social cues in the store environment and their impact on store image
Authors: Hu Haiyan , Jasper Cynthia R. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the roles that social cues play in affecting patronage behavior and how consumer susceptibility to interpersonal influence would moderate the influence of social cues on store image.Design/methodology/approachA two (high vs low socially‐oriented in‐store graphics) by two (high vs low personalized customer service) between subject experimental design was conducted to achieve the research objective. A total of 193 surveys were used for data analysis.FindingsConsumers had a more favorable attitude toward merchandise and service quality and felt more aroused or pleased with a store where more social cues were present. They also had a more favorable perception of store image when high‐personalized service was provided. Consumers perceived that they would be more likely to shop in a store that had more in‐store displays of graphics with social meaning. Consumer susceptibility to informational influence (SII) played a moderating role in some cases.Practical implicationsRetail service needs to be reinvented to create excitement. Consumers may use social cues embedded in the store environment as an information source. Sales skills of staff and in‐store graphics should be especially appealing to low‐SII customer.Originality/valueThis study has added to the retail literature by demonstrating that the social cues in store environment can affect consumers' perception of store image and patronage intention. It provides interesting insights on how retailers can use a socially meaningful environment as a source of competitive advantage.
Wal‐Mart's new normal is here: is everyone ready to accept the future?
Authors: Serpkenci Ray R. , Tigert Douglas J. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to critically examine the underlying reasons for the recent slow‐down in the rate of sales growth for the world's largest retailer, its implications for the economic valuation of this enterprise, and its future as a cohesive organization.Design/methodology/approachWal‐Mart's comparative or same store sales growth over the last five years are contrasted with two of its key rivals Target and Costco, and the source and momentum of its core US growth record are examined over the last decade.FindingsThe results of the investigation indicate that Wal‐Mart has entered a new phase in its evolution as an enterprise, and the future rates of its growth will be limited to 3‐4 percent per annum in comp, and 10‐12 percent in total sales, excluding any acquisitions. This “new normal” is in part due to the extreme market share of Wal‐Mart in many of its trading areas, and the changing competitive landscape that was in no small part “created” in reaction to Wal‐Mart's own market power.Originality/valueThe analysis and its conclusions are of interest to retailing students and scholars who have been following the Wal‐Mart enterprise throughout the years, as well as retailing and merchandising analysts who have been struggling to define a new valuation model for the world's largest retail company. The paper is also of interest to retail market strategist as it illustrates that there are potential and natural limits to growth in all competitive arenas, and sources of new growth will always have to be sought in new product‐market spaces.
On assessing the sensitivity to uncertainty in distribution network design
Authors: Lalwani C.S. , Disney S.M. , Naim M.M. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe design of distribution networks is prone to risks due to the uncertainties associated with factors that change over time. The purpose of this paper is to present a new method to identify those factors that the structure of a distribution network is most sensitive to.Design/methodology/approachA new method presented in this paper combines simulation and the Taguchi technique to allow a wide range of factor uncertainties to be evaluated without excessive computation time and effort. The simulation model developed is based on real world data of a European after‐sales business in the automotive industry.FindingsThe optimum design is most at risk due to the uncertainties associated with stock holding costs and delivery frequencies rather than customer volume changes and transport tariffs. This was found to be counterintuitive by the business managers and fore‐warned them of the likely future risks.Practical implicationsThe analysis indicates that when developing the network a careful consideration has to be given to reliably estimating the inventory holding costs and the mechanism for determining the capital holding charge. The model is sensitive to these variables and hence a company is prone to higher risk of designing the wrong network if these variables are incorrectly estimated. Furthermore, the analysis suggests that higher customer expectations on delivery frequency have an impact on total logistics costs and therefore, companies should consider charging customers different rates for different levels of customer service.Originality/valueA useful generic method has been presented in this paper for investigating the sensitivity of a scenario. This novel approach combines the use of simulation, brainstorming, Taguchi technique and ANOVA with distribution design modelling.
Organizational commitment and governance for supply chain success
Authors: Fawcett Stanley E. , Ogden Jeffrey A. , Magnan Gregory M. , Bixby Cooper M. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo examine the nature and extent of commitment to supply chain collaboration. Also, to explore the state of supply chain governance structures.Design/methodology/approachA multi‐method survey and in‐depth interview methodology was employed to gather data. Content analysis was then used to identify the types and extent of managerial support for supply chain initiatives.FindingsFour types of managerial support are needed to achieve the highest levels of supply chain success: top management support, broad‐based functional support, channel support, and infrastructural/governance support. None of the interview companies have put all four types of support in place. Leading‐edge governance relies on cross‐functional/inter‐organizational teams, executive governance councils, customer advisory boards, supplier advisory councils and a modified reporting structure that overseas all value‐added activities from product conceptualization to customer relationship management. Again, none of the interview companies have established all aspects of an effective supply chain governance structure.Originality/valueMuch has been written on the need to focus on supply chains and create more cooperative and integrative relationships with key organizations in the supply chain; however, little has been written concerning the commitment levels among those involved in the supply chain or the types of governance structures that should be utilized within a given organization or along the supply chain. This paper bridges this gap, providing a benchmark for managerial commitment and presenting a composite governance structure based on observed best practices. Both academics and practitioners can use the insights provided to work toward a better understanding of supply chain commitment and governance.
Major business‐environment influences on the cereal products industry supply chain
Authors: Sohal Amrik S. , Perry Marcia 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to provide a contextual basis for the supply chain activity of the generic Australian cereal products supply chain. It identifies the business‐environment factors underpinning the cereal products supply chain efficiency. It also further highlighted the complex nature of the extended supply chain and all the factors to be considered in its management. The approach to the topic is that of developing a holistic overview of the extended supply chain, its networks and its business‐environment influences in order to understand the complex reality of issues that a supply chain manager must deal with in order to optimise efficiencies.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative methodology was used in the study, involving an examination of supply chain practices throughout the cereal product supply chain, determined through interviews with players at all stages from seed to supermarket supply. Identification of key business‐environment influences impacting on the cereal products supply chain was achieved through thematic examination of the responses and comparison of the findings with literature relating to the Australian business‐environment. Field research activity included semi‐structured interviews throughout the supply chain for mapping and examining the status of supply chain networks and practices.FindingsThe business‐environment factor findings, depicted in a model, concerned the impact of globalisation and demand trends; industry complexity and realignment; power relationships; delivery imperatives; the competitive supply chain imperative; the information economy; industry accountability requirements; freight challenges; supply chain labour requirements and climatic conditions affecting crop yields.Research limitations/implicationsThe research was limited in that it represented a sample of viewpoints/supply chain activity in the Australian cereal products industry and lacked the comprehensiveness of a full industry study covering the entire gamut of regional, crop‐wide and circumstantial influencing factors.Practical implicationsThe paper highlights the influence of the identified business‐environment factors on supply chain activity and points the way for supply chain managers in the cereal product industry to be aware of broad contextual factors as well as their own immediate operating environment. The identified business‐environment influences present strategic challenges to players throughout the cereal products supply chain. A globally responsive cereal products supply chain will need to strategically align itself with the wider Australian grain industry, food industry and government to meet future market requirements. It will also need to maintain a constant supply chain dialogue focusing on common goals, being aware of constraints and future challenges.Originality/valueThis research paper is original and of value to supply chain management theory in presenting a wide contextual view of the supply chain and hence supply chain management.
Simulation study of a two‐level warehouse inventory replenishment system
Authors: Huq Faizul , Cutright Kenneth , Jones Vernon , Hensler Douglas A. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThis paper aims to discuss a simulation study for a multi‐product, two‐echelon inventory replenishment system. The paper compares a one‐warehouse N‐retailer replenishment system to a two‐warehouse, N‐retailer system with cost per unit of distribution and delivery lead‐times as the performance measures. The purpose is to demonstrate that under specific circumstances a two warehouse N‐retailer inventory replenishment system provides better customer service without significant changes in the cost.Design/methodology/approachMathematical modeling and simulation methodology is used to test the performance of the proposed two warehouse N‐retailer system and statistical analysis is used to compare the performance of several scenarios.FindingsThe two warehouse replenishment system indeed reduces delivery lead‐times, used as a measure of customer service, under specific conditions such as controllable freight costs.Research limitations/implicationsCaution should be exercised when interpreting these findings as the historical data used was from a single source. The paper did not investigate the effects of variable shipping costs from the manufacturing plant, warehouse and retailer. Future research could also consider multiple second level warehouses.Practical implicationsThe findings provide a persuasive argument for manufacturers struggling with performance issues and channel relationships. Moreover, in addition to contributing to efficiency of distribution, two level systems can also enhance ability to adapt to local market conditions and to unexpected demand variations.Originality/valueThe model examined in this paper addressed a specific case for one company. While freight costs and warehousing costs will vary across companies, the cost represented here may be used as a gauge for evaluating systems with cost structures in the vicinity of those for the company represented in this paper. Additionally, the model is amenable to substitution of other firms' cost structures.
Executive development for services: a report from the front lines
Authors: Hallowell Roger 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo discuss best practice for executive development for services.Design/methodology/approachThis paper draws on personal experience and knowledge of the “industry” (Guru Piece).FindingsThe approach to executive development described provides an example of best practice that may be applicable to some service organizations.Originality/valueThis paper is useful both to executives wanting a more holistic and theoretically‐effective approach to executive development, and to academics interested in examining a unique, holistic, and potentially more‐effective model for executive development.
Biometrics: the next frontier in service excellence, productivity and security in the service sector
Authors: Heracleous Loizos , Wirtz Jochen 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo explore the potential role of biometric technologies in driving service excellence, productivity and security in the service sector, and their role in fostering sustainable competitive advantage.Design/methodology/approachThis paper used a case study approach involving 16 in‐depth interviews with executives at Singapore Airlines and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore on their use of biometrics technologies with focus on the Fully Automated Seamless Travel project.FindingsThe potential for innovative technologies to foster sustainable competitive advantage can be assessed in terms of their potential impact on customer experience, as well as the extent to which their implementation involves significant business process reconfigurations that are hard to imitate by competitors.Research limitations/implicationsWith regard to limitations, this research is based on an in‐depth study of a single case of biometrics implementation. More cases need to be examined to enhance the validity of the findings. Research implications relate to evaluation of new technologies from the perspective of achieving competitive advantage, outline of dimensions of strategic alignment, and discussion of competencies and processes fostering strategic innovation.Practical implicationsThe findings provide a new framework for evaluating innovative technologies in terms of their potential for enabling an integrative strategy of differentiation and cost leadership; highlight the importance of strategic alignment; and outline competencies fostering strategic innovation.Originality/valueThis paper is one of the first exploring the role of biometric technologies in service delivery; addresses the strategic implications of implementation; and concludes in terms of broader strategic principles.
Re‐thinking the conceptualization of customer value and service quality within the service‐profit chain
Authors: Walker Rhett H. , Johnson Lester W. , Leonard Sean 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo provide an alternative view of customer value and service quality as conceptualized in the service‐profit chain.Design/methodology/approachA survey of the vast and diverse literature on the concepts of value and quality is used to reconceptualize these constructs as they are used in the service‐profit chain. The concept of intrinsic value and quality is proposed as an addition to the extrinsic value and quality concepts already apparent in the chain.FindingsThe service‐profit chain is based on the premise that profitability to a firm derives from customer satisfaction and loyalty, which, in turn, are derived from a customer's sense of value received. This value, it is argued, is calculated with reference to the perceived quality of what is received, balanced against the aggregated costs to the customer of availing themselves of the service. This paper questions the sufficiency of the assumption that value offered to a customer resides solely in the customer's perception of what has been experienced in and through the service encounter. Correspondingly, it is argued that value to the customer may reside also in intrinsic qualities or attributes of a service.Originality/valueThe idea of value and quality being built into a service offering (intrinsic) has value for both practising service managers and academic researchers. Several avenues for future investigation are posited.
The consumer direct services revolution in grocery retailing: an exploratory investigation
Authors: Teller Christoph , Kotzab Herbert , Grant David B. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo provide empirical evidence and explanation of the phenomenon that providers of home delivery of groceries are still of minor importance in highly concentrated retail markets.Design/methodology/approachBased on a critical literature review three propositions were set up. A web‐based survey was conducted with two prospective consumer groups for home delivery providers: time‐starved consumers and consumers with internet affinity. A structural equation modeling analysis was applied in addition to uni‐ and bivariate analysis.FindingsIn contrast with some assumptions in the literature shopping in stores for groceries was not generally perceived to be an annoying activity. Respondents were aware of their own shopping logistics efforts in terms of spatial and temporal distance when shopping in stores but were unable to convert these efforts into costs. Any perceived inconvenience connected with shopping for groceries had no impact on respondents' willingness to pay for home delivery services or their future intentions to use such services.Research limitations/implicationsThe study only investigated two specific consumer groups within highly concentrated urban grocery retail markets. However, these groups may be considered typical of most western European countries and thus the study's findings are of importance to retailers.Practical implicationsThe major findings suggest that in general home delivery service may not be considered a strategic competitive advantage in grocery retail markets. Other marketing issues such as pricing, assortment and store personnel still substantially affect a consumer's choice of retail formats. This leads to the conclusion that home delivery providers should either appeal to niche markets and/or offer additional differential criteria compared with traditional retail formats.Originality/valueThe paper argues for a different viewpoint for researchers investigating the topic of internet‐based distance retailing. Further, the reintegration of logistical tasks from consumers should not be considered detached from other format choice criteria.