bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Library education in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Rodríguez Gallardo Adolfo 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to analyze the number of schools and programs of library science that have existed in Latin America and the Caribbean from 1985 to date. It was written in order to understand the nature of library science teaching, and to provide a numerical analysis of the schools and programs identified.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on previous works that collected information on programs and institutions devoted to library science teaching. The main sources are the works of Fang (1985), Fang et al. (1995) and Maris and Giunti (1999). Differences between the Hispanic‐Portuguese and Anglo‐Saxon educational systems are described, as well as what they mean to library science teaching. With the purpose of standardizing the Anglo‐Saxon and Hispanic‐Portuguese systems, the various study programs were divided according to the classification used by Fang and Nauta.FindingsIt is evident that the number of schools and programs has been increasing and decreasing, and although the causes of this trend are not known, the data show that Latin American library science studies are continuously in motion. Regarding the creation of schools and programs, the data that have been gathered suggest an influence from European and American schools first and UNESCO programs later. Numerical data are provided per country on the number of schools and programs for training, technical studies, tertiary‐undergraduate studies, tertiary‐graduate studies and tertiary‐postgraduate studies.Research limitations/implicationsBecause this study is based on previous works that collected information on programs and institutions, one has to admit that they do not provide information on all the schools that have existed in Latin America and the Caribbean and, thus, data are not fully accurate; however, there is enough information to provide a clear overview of the situation and the trends of library science in Latin America and the Caribbean.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to the knowledge of library education in Latin America and the Caribbean. It points out the formation of human resources in reference to education levels and affirms the diversity of library education in those regions.
Trends, challenges and opportunities for LIS education and training in Eastern and Southern Africa
Authors: Ocholla Dennis , Bothma Theo 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss the status, trends and challenges of library and information education and training in Eastern and Southern Africa. It notes that library and information education and training in Africa is undergoing rapid change, with difficult challenges to be overcome. For example, during the past 20 years, the number of library schools has grown in some regions and declined in some, such as South Africa. Common LIS factors include amalgamation, re‐orientation, and curriculum review and revision.Design/methodology/approachThe authors' extensive experience with and exposure to LIS education has been used together with observations and literature survey in the field to inform this paper.FindingsIt is evident that LIS schools have, to a greater or lesser extent, been redesigning their curricula to keep track of the latest developments in the information world and keep their teaching market‐related. New qualification programmes have been developed to provide opportunities for further specialization. In many cases departments have changed their names to reflect these new focus areas and extensions, and in many cases departments have realigned themselves within their universities. It is evident that LIS schools have taken the challenges of the changing information environment very seriously, and have adapted their curricula, their names and their institutional alignments to reflect these changes.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper raises fundamental issues concerning trends, challenges and opportunities for LIS education and training in eastern and southern Africa by largely drawing examples from the authors' experience and related African studies in the domain.Practical implicationsThe paper provides useful current information to inform LIS educators, researchers, students and other stakeholders on the issues and challenges of LIS education in the region.Originality/valueInformation provided in this paper is of value for comparative studies on LIS education and training. The paper is current and largely informed by participant observation, participation and experiential knowledge that is fresh and well informed.
International credentialing, certification, and recognition in the United States
Authors: Dowling Michael 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to present an overview of the situation with international credentialing, certification, and recognition in the USA from the perspective of the American Library Association.Design/methodology/approachReviews history of changes to methods of international credentialing and recognition in the USA.FindingsThough the recent changes in policy from ALA now allow for equivalency of degrees at the Master's level, libraries in the USA are not bound by the policy and many still have questions about accepting applicants with foreign degrees based on concerns such as compatibility, quality assurance, and acceptability.Practical implicationsMore work has to be done by ALA to publicize its new policy and gain acceptance by libraries in the USA and to gather lists of accredited or recognized programs from other countries. The issue of international credentialing, certification, and recognition needs to be addressed by IFLA and library educators, library associations, and libraries as employers to make progress toward creating “global librarians.”Originality/valuePoints put forward by the author will be of interest to those involved in the same field.
The revised Combined Code and corporate governance
Authors: Pass Christopher 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the extent to which a sample of large UK companies comply with the main provisions of the revised 2003 Combined Code on corporate governance. The new Code incorporates a number of key principles of compliance with regard to the roles of a company's chairperson and chief executive, the composition of its Board of Directors and the composition of the Board's three main committees – the Nominations, Remuneration and Audit Committees. Companies are expected to fully comply with the provisions of the Code or proffer an “acceptable” explanation as to why they have not done so under the Code's “comply or explain” philosophy. The Code gives greater prominence to the role of non‐executive directors in a company's corporate governance structures and decision‐making processes and emphasizes the importance of non‐executive directors being “independent”.Design/methodology/approachThe paper looks at the extent of compliance in respect of the governance provisions referred to above presenting a survey of 50 large UK companies reporting in 2005 drawn (at random) from the FTSE‐250 listing.FindingsA total of 17 companies fully complied throughout their reporting year. Twenty‐two companies took action to comply or proffered “acceptable” explanations as to why not during their reporting year. Eleven companies, however, remained in breach of the Code on one or more counts.Practical implicationsThe paper discusses some of the issues which have arisen concerning the effectiveness of non‐executive directors and addresses the controversial matter of what constitutes “independency”.Originality/valueThis is one of the first papers to present an empirical study of the initial impact of the new Code.
EU free market rules: strategic options for transition economies
Authors: Yeoh Peter 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis article seeks to examine the strategic options open to transition economies in Central and Eastern Europe in the face of intense competition in two highly sensitive economic sectors within the EU.Design/methodology/approachThis exploratory paper makes use of cross‐country case analysis.FindingsThe investigation demonstrated that protective mechanisms are used in veiled fashion to some degree even amongst the more economically advanced members of the EU and not just the transition economies as commonly perceived. It further argues that whilst a free and open EU will contribute to the quicker full realisation of its common market aspirations, transition economies are currently not adequately prepared for its required economic adjustments. Transition economies may need to respond in measured phases, taking into account its economic and political limitations. Otherwise, it might not be able to withstand the full onslaught of globalisation.Practical implicationsThis research challenges the one size fits all notion of zealous free marketers and offers a middle ground strategic option for transition economies in the EU for further evaluation by policy makers and academics alike.Originality/valueThis research uses two highly economic sectors in the EU to argue for a more middle ground strategic economic strategy for transition economies in Central and Eastern Europe. This contrasts with the more global agenda of liberal economics.
Futures dilemmas for marketers: can stakeholder analysis add value?
Authors: Clulow Val 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to offer marketers an example of the application of stakeholder theory and analysis, using a current discourse between a number of stakeholders about their views on issues raised in a report on a model for the sustainability of life in Australia in the future.Design/methodology/approachThrough a systematic discourse analysis of the text of the speakers on the documentary program, the relationship of each stakeholder group to the issues at the centre of the discourse is unpacked.FindingsFour themes emerged from the analysis indicating that the thinking of the stakeholders on the concept of an “economy” was based on different theoretical schemata; their level of concern for “sustainability” of a viable economic model varied; they did not agree on the question of who is responsible for a “sustainable future”; and the philosophical positions of the stakeholders on the issue varied considerably.Practical implicationsThe implications for marketing communicators or stakeholder groups, needing to lobby, negotiate or influence others who operate in a different paradigm, are discussed.Originality/valueAn integrated marketing communications model is proposed that accounts for important relationships between the organization and its key stakeholders. The contribution to marketing lies in the demonstration that consideration of each step in the plan as it relates to each stakeholder, rather than a single‐minded approach, provides an opportunity for competitive advantage.
New service development: a stakeholder perspective
Authors: Smith Anne M. , Fischbacher Moira 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo increase understanding of both the process of new service development (NSD) and the nature of services as delivered to customers.Design/methodology/approachFour qualitative, exploratory case studies encompassing public (health) and private (financial) sector service organisations.FindingsManagers select stakeholder groups for involvement in NSD attributing stakeholder salience, centrality to the process and power to influence the final service design. Customers are “dormant” stakeholders, thought to lack the knowledge/experience to contribute meaningfully to NSD. Their interests and needs are channelled through other stakeholders.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is confined to two service industries based on a key informant approach; thus generalisability to other industries may be limited.Practical implicationsMultiple stakeholder involvement places a growing emphasis on the need for NSD managers to be skilled in managing complex, multi‐layered and multi‐faceted processes, often without legitimate power. This is likely to be a particular challenge for the public sector.Originality/valueThis paper examines the relatively underdeveloped area of NSD and from an unusual perspective, i.e. that of services as outcomes of an amalgam of stakeholder interactions and relationships. Furthermore, it represents one of only a few in‐depth studies of NSD within a health service context.
Exchange and combination of knowledge‐based resources in network relationships
Authors: Marianne Vainio Anu 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo gain a better understanding of various network relationships in the software industry by classifying relationships by type and identifying distinctions with respect to the business potential of those relationships.Design/methodology/approachOn the basis of literature, the study presents a framework for the tasks of combining and exchanging knowledge‐based resources in network relationships. In the empirical research setting, the relationships of nine Finnish software firms are first classified and placed in the framework, and then the organisational effectiveness of the relationships is measured.FindingsThe findings reveal three relationship types, each leading to different effectiveness profiles.Research limitations/implicationsIt is recognised that this exploratory multiple‐case study raises the concern of generalisability and, thus, a statistical research using more accurate quantitative methods could be useful in checking the validity of the findings. Further, the selected cases exclude non‐networking companies, which is why future researchers may wish to consider whether the conclusions are valid across all firms and not just for those already in relationships.Practical implicationsA very useful information for new software firms having and planning partnerships in the software industry. For a new venture with limited resources, in particular, the partnerships may offer valuable resources. The study advances the identification of those benefits.Originality/valueThis study extends the understanding of management in strategic networks, particularly in the software industry, by classifying network relationships by type, describing the potential of these relationships, and indicating the capabilities needed for managing specific types of relationships.
Retailers' press release activity: market signals for stakeholder engagement?
Authors: Whysall Paul 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo increase understanding of the role, content and effectiveness of press releases.Design/methodology/approachQualitative and quantitative analyses of UK supermarkets' press releases in 2001/2002, a medium previously little researched in marketing, are undertaken.FindingsSupermarkets seek stakeholder engagement on diverse issues with different mixes of groups. Treating releases as market signals demonstrates the important role of the press as filters and interpreters. Intended messages frequently fail to reach target audiences, and when they do can be significantly reinterpreted, so that positive claims are reported critically and negatively. Larger chains apparently produce more releases and gain more newspaper coverage, but generally volume of releases does not improve likelihood of press coverage.Research limitations/implicationsThe nature of qualitative data, the limited time frame, and possible omissions from source archives.Practical implicationsAs level of coverage varied independently of turnover, higher release activity of larger chains was questioned. Seeking differentiation through press releases becomes problematic with the press as filters.Originality/valueThis paper increases knowledge of press releases as market communications, and contributes to the literature of market signalling, notably emphasising the press as important signal intermediaries.
An empirical examination of the complex relationships between entrepreneurial orientation and stakeholder support
Authors: Giraud Voss Zannie , Voss Glenn B. , Moorman Christine 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to integrate stakeholder theory with the entrepreneurial orientation literature to explore relationships between distinct entrepreneurial behaviors and support from stakeholders with divergent interests.Design/methodology/approachA longitudinal study in the non‐profit professional theatre industry examines how relationships between entrepreneurial orientation and stakeholder support evolve over time. A series of regression analyses examine how support from diverse stakeholders influences entrepreneurial behaviors and, subsequently, how those entrepreneurial behaviors influence future stakeholder support.FindingsThe findings support a multi‐dimensional conceptualization of entrepreneurial orientation, point to tensions inherent in satisfying multiple stakeholder demands, and illustrate that different stakeholders support entrepreneurial behaviors in unique and sometimes unexpected ways. The findings offer insight into the complex balancing act that entrepreneurial managers must execute to generate support from distinct stakeholder markets.Originality/valueThis research provides researchers and managers with unique insights into the evolutionary nature of the relationships between distinct entrepreneurial behaviors and external stakeholder support.
A model for addressing stakeholders' concerns about direct‐to‐consumer advertising of prescription medicines
Authors: Hoek Janet , Maubach Ninya 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo explore how a “harm chain” analysis could identify and address stakeholders' concerns about direct‐to‐consumer advertising of prescription medicines (DTCA).Design/methodology/approachThe paper analyses the development of stakeholder theory before exploring and discussing the tension between normative and instrumental logic. The authors adopt a utilitarian perspective, which they use to identify the range of stakeholders involved with or affected by DTCA.FindingsA “harm chain” analysis identifies common concerns held by stakeholders; these include disquiet over the quality of information provided via DTCA and possible derogation of doctors' role as prescribers. The paper outlines prescriptive advertising guidelines that could address these issues, but notes that failure to achieve a satisfactory reduction in harm potential may result in a ban on DTCA.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough a utilitarian norm will not satisfy all stakeholders' interests, the authors believe that it will produce the greatest reduction in harm, as well as maximising the benefits that can result from DTCA. The conclusions imply the need for independent monitoring of DTCA's effects on stakeholder groups to ensure that regulations governing this advertising are broadly based.Practical implicationsThe authors suggest changes to DTCA regulation, specifically the introduction of a “fair balance” criterion and a statement explicitly recognising doctors' role in determining appropriate treatments.Originality/valueAlthough the debate over DTCA has been well documented, this paper represents the first attempt to use stakeholder theory to explore the ethical issues associated with this advertising. The analysis produces a decision‐making model that the authors recommend should guide future policy decisions.
Balanced versus focused responsiveness to core constituencies and organizational effectiveness
Authors: Koll Oliver , Woodside Arch G. , Mühlbacher Hans 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo test how responsiveness to key organizational stakeholders (owners, customers, employees) is related to organizational effectiveness (OE). Focused versus balanced strategies of responsiveness are compared.Design/methodology/approachEmploys Boolean algebra to study performance of 69 companies in three industries over a ten‐year period. Responsiveness to key stakeholders and performance are measured using publicly available data provided by these organizations (Compustat by Standard & Poor's).FindingsProvides evidence that balanced responsiveness to multiple constituencies is more likely to lead to high OE than focused responsiveness to a single one. Trade‐offs in responsiveness to key stakeholders are found supporting the idea that serving multiple interests is challenging. Most results are not industry‐specific – the usefulness of a balanced strategy of responsiveness may be generalized.Research limitations/implicationsResponsiveness embraces organizational behaviors not covered by accounting information. Development of more comprehensive responsiveness measures may be a fruitful avenue for further research. Analyses are limited to a subset of key stakeholders and three industries.Practical implicationsProvides evidence that organizations avoiding extreme unresponsiveness to any of its key stakeholders are more effective. Aiming for above‐average responsiveness to any constituency only pays off if no other constituency simultaneously enjoys below‐average responsiveness.Originality/valueThis article develops a comprehensive methodological framework to assess strategies comparing balanced versus focused responsiveness to multiple organizational constituencies. Empirical results should be of relevance to strategy practitioners and scholars alike.
An empirical examination of the stakeholder strategy matrix
Authors: Polonsky Michael Jay , Scott Don 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine whether the stakeholder strategy matrix provides useful guidance for managers in dealing with stakeholders. The matrix suggests that strategies for dealing with stakeholders can be determined based on stakeholder ability to cooperate and threaten organisational outcomes.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses a hypothetical scenario looking at the development of a new environmentally friendly product, where eight stakeholder groups and their influencing abilities are manipulated. Marketers reviewed one version of the scenario and were then asked the applicability of 13 strategies for each stakeholder group described. Mixed design analysis is then undertaken to examine the direct effects and interactions between the four combinations of influencing abilities, the stakeholder group examined or how the strategy suggested impacted on managers' views.FindingsThe research found that there was an interaction effect suggesting that some strategies were more applicable to stakeholders with certain sets of influencing abilities, as the stakeholder strategy matrix suggested. The specific stakeholder group examined also appeared to impact on managers' views, which is inconsistent with the theory.Research limitations/implicationsThe limitations are that the research focused on managers' perceptions of the applicability of strategies, rather than the actual success of strategies examined. Research into the effectiveness of actual behaviours would possibly require more in‐depth examination of case studies.Practical implicationsThe research suggests that the stakeholder strategy matrix may provide some guidance as to how managers deal with stakeholders. However, it also suggests that managers may be implicitly applying influencing abilities to groups irrespective of their “true” influencing ability. In this case managers are in fact ignoring valuable information when deciding how to interact with stakeholders and therefore possibly using less effective strategies to interact with stakeholders.Originality/valueThe research is unique as it looks at determining whether different types of strategies for dealing with stakeholders are perceived to be more or less effective. This therefore seeks to make stakeholder theory more strategic and applicable in a broader set of contexts. As such the paper would be of interest to managers seeking to understand better how to deal with stakeholders and to theorists seeking to understand better how stakeholder theory impacts on organisational outcomes.