bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Marketing health‐enhancing foods: implications from the dairy sector
Authors: Armstrong Gillian , Farley Heather , Gray Jennifer , Durkin Mark 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo assess the potential for development in the agri‐food sector by investigating: consumer awareness of health‐enhancing foods; key influences on their perceptions of and attitudes towards these foods; their relevant purchasing behaviour in the context of the Northern Irish dairy products market. To develop recommendations for future segmentation and positioning strategies for health‐enhancing dairy foods.Design/methodology/approachNorthern Ireland is a geographically discrete area of the United Kingdom, which relies heavily on the agri‐food industry in general, and the dairy sector in particular. A consumer questionnaire was adapted from previous studies. After two pilot studies with 30 and 50 consumers, 600 were administered face‐to‐face to a quota sample of male and female shoppers in six key supermarkets across Northern Ireland. Results were collated and analysed by SPSS. Descriptive parametric and non‐parametric statistics re‐reported in findings.FindingsThere is potential for the agri‐food industry to expand further, particularly in the case of added‐value food products, among which health‐enhancing foods should be treated as an important subset. However, a pre‐requisite is development of enhanced consumer segmentation and product positioning strategies.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings and conclusions derive from one study of one specialist product type in one small national market. Generalisation should be possible, at least informally, but comparative studies are indicated.Practical implicationsThe findings indicated a general lack of awareness of the health‐enhancing food concept and the level of (largely proven) health benefits of such products, which is a barrier to their wider adoption of these products. The key aims goals for marketing planners in this context are thus awareness generation and consumer education. The crucial segments of the general target audience and the core message to be conveyed, are both defined by the findings.Originality/valueThis study provides a research‐based foundation for a more proactive and informed marketing strategy in a particular context, potentially transferable to other market sectors and locations.
Green value added
Authors: Hartmann Patrick , Apaolaza Ibáñez Vanessa 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo provoke thought, and perhaps responses, to a radical view of “green marketing” and its place in society.Design/methodology/approachThis paper is essentially an essay but, based on a careful review of the relevant literature, several empirical studies conducted by the authors themselves, and some practical experience in green marketing.FindingsThe key challenge for green marketers has been in the past and will be more so in the future to strengthen individuals' perception of the individual benefits to be gained from “going green” by adding more and stronger emotional values to green brands. Future green marketing research should extend its analysis to the emotional motivations and benefits associated with environmentally responsible consumption behaviour.Research limitations/implicationsThis essay is not based on a specific empirical study; it expresses a personal point of view, albeit well grounded in theory and practice. Green branding is a promising topic for future research.Practical implicationsThe propositions put and conclusions drawn can form the basis of a potentially valuable toolkit for those planning marketing and communication strategies for green products and services.Originality/valueThe role of emotional benefits, particularly those based on the hypothetical human affinity with nature, has scarcely been attended to until now, in the field of green marketing.
Engineering information modeling in databases: needs and constructions
Authors: Ma Z.M. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo provide a selective bibliography for researchers and practitioners interested in database modeling of engineering information with sources which can help them develop engineering information systems.Design/methodology/approachIdentifies the requirements for engineering information modeling and then investigates how current database models satisfy these requirements at two levels: conceptual data models and logical database models.FindingsPresents the relationships among the conceptual data models and the logical database models for engineering information modeling viewed from database conceptual design.Originality/valueCurrently few papers provide comprehensive discussions about how current engineering information modeling can be supported by database technologies. This paper fills this gap. The contribution of the paper is to identify the direction of database study viewed from engineering applications and provide a guidance of information modeling for engineering design, manufacturing, and production management.
Securing industry‐wide EPCglobal Network with WS‐Security
Authors: Shih Dong‐Her , Sun Po‐Ling , Lin Binshan 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo provide the secure web services framework in an environment designed to integrate RFID system into the EPCglobal Network.Design/methodology/approachUtilizing web services helps maximize the value of information generated from RFID systems and, taking advantage of web services security (WSS) technology, to provide an XML‐based abstraction layer for established security technologies that delivers confidentiality, integrity, authentication, authorization, and non‐repudiation in EPCglobal Network.FindingsThis paper inspects four cases of trust relationships in one‐to‐one and one‐to‐many teamwork models that exemplify how the proposed WSS specifications being used in industry‐wide EPCglobal Network are envisioned. For each of these cases the different security strategies were proposed. Also a comparative view is given, of discussed security strategies which businesses may wish to consult.Originality/valueThis first proposed secure framework integrating web services and WSS technology to industry‐wide EPCglobal Network will provide business an integration and collaboration capabilities, which make it easier for trading partners to electronically share real‐time RFID data and conduct transactions in an accurate, complete, highly controlled, and secure environment.
Learning during the quality management process
Authors: Ruiz Moreno Antonia , García Morales Víctor , Lloréns Montes Francisco Javier 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe goal of this research is to provide a model of how service firms respond to their environment by developing both different quality management (QM) practices and organizational learning.Design/methodology/approachWe review the different contributions to the study of the relationship between organizational learning and quality. Based on prior research, we propose a series of hypotheses concerning the influence in service firms of QM practices on organizational learning and the influence of the degree of implementation of the practices. Finally, we tested these hypotheses empirically using a sample of 127 service firms operating in the European Union.FindingsThe results of the investigation reveal first, a strong relationship exists among organizational learning and QM practices. Second, we verified that the relations between different QM practices and between QM practices and organizational learning are stronger in service firms with a high degree of implementation of these practices. Finally, we have verified that, although QM practices have been derived from the experience of consultants and practitioners in manufacturing, these practices can be transferred to services.Research limitations/implicationsThe conclusions of this study may be subject to several limitations that suggest further possibilities for empirical research. First, survey data based on self‐reports may be subject to social desirability bias. Second, the conclusions established by our study should be interpreted with care when generalizing, since we have concentrated exclusively on the service sector. Third, the cross‐sectional nature of the research allows us to analyze only a specific situation in time of the organizations studied, not their overall conduct through time. Future research should place more emphasis on longitudinal studies.Practical implicationsWe have obtained a model of QM practices that encourages learning in service organizations, enabling directors to manage service environments while taking into account their unique characteristics.Originality/valueThis paper identified a model of QM practices (Leadership, policy‐strategy, people, processes and partnerships resources) that encourages organizational learning in service organizations.
The effect of facility size on manufacturing structure and performance
Authors: Davis Robert A. , Vokurka Robert J. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThere has been considerable discussion over the last several years concerning the size of manufacturing facilities and their productivity. Anecdotal evidence suggests that smaller facilities are more productive than larger facilities since they tend to be more focused on a smaller set of products. The assumption is that as facilities become larger, they lose their focus by expanding their product mix and as a result, productivity suffers. Very little empirical evidence exists to support this idea.Design/methodology/approachIn an attempt to bring some empirical clarity to this question, a study was conducted involving over 300 US manufacturing facilities of various sizes, as measured by number of employees. The performance level of each facility was estimated through the use of 29 performance indicators. A statistical analysis was conducted addressing the relationship between facility size and performance.FindingsWhile some differences in operating characteristics between the two groups were found, only a few significant differences in performance were found. Results of this data analysis do not support the general suggestion that small facilities are more productive than larger facilities.Research limitations/implicationsSince respondents spanned all manufacturing industries, there may be some differences in certain industries that are not reflected due to the cross‐industry nature of this study. Also, the responses to the items were all perceptual based on a seven‐point Likert scale. There were no objective measures included because of the incomparability between industries, particularly for performance measures.Originality/valueResults of this study can provide valuable insight into the relationship between facility size and productivity.
Adoption of web site and e‐commerce technology among Malaysian public companies
Authors: Akmaliah Adham Khairul , Ahmad Maisarah 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis study examines the adoption rates of web site and e‐commerce technology by all 562 Malaysian public listed companies, as of March 2004, testing the proposition that the number having web sites would approach 100 percent, and that most companies serving end customers would also have e‐commerce systems.Design/methodology/approachAfter identifying and testing company URLs for operability, contents of all operable sites were evaluated to determine whether they had incorporated e‐commerce systems for online transactions.FindingsOf the 562 companies, only 62 percent (351) were found to have operable web sites; and of 351, 96 percent (336) were solely informational, leaving only 4 percent (15) that were equipped for e‐commerce transactions.Research limitations/implicationsFurther research is needed on reasons and consequences for not adopting web site and e‐commerce technology, and on specific business contexts surrounding adoption decisions and related managerial challenges.Practical implicationsAnalysis of findings and research literature strongly suggest that having a web site would give any public listed company a major advantage in the marketplace. The most effective web site implementation appears to require aligning new technology with company's strategic planning, integrating it into existing operations, using it to exploit new business opportunities and considering customer behavior theory when designing and implementing the web site interface.Originality/valueAs the first study to examine adoption of web site and e‐commerce technology by all currently existing Malaysian public listed companies, this provides a benchmark for further research on the subject.
Factors affecting intentions to purchase via the internet
Authors: May So W.C. , Danny Wong T.N. , Sculli Domenic 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo investigate web‐shopping behaviour in Hong Kong: identification of the general attitude towards web‐shopping; relationships between past web‐shopping experience, attitude towards web‐shopping, adoption decisions, search behaviour and web‐shopping intentions; and influences of promotional offers and product categories on web‐shopping intentions.Design/methodology/approachRelevant hypotheses were constructed and a web‐based questionnaire survey was than conducted using technically educated subjects. The proposed hypotheses were statistically tested and principal components analysis and structural equations were used to produce a structural model.FindingsWeb‐shopping intentions are directly affected by web‐search behaviour and web‐shopping adoption decisions, and are indirectly affected by web‐shopping attitudes, past web‐shopping experiences and past experience with the web. Web‐search behaviour was a stronger factor than adoption decision in terms of influencing web‐shopping intentions. The presence of promotional offers had a positive effect on web‐shopping intentions, and web‐shopping intentions were different for different product categories.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample employed was composed of technically educated undergraduates and graduates and thus limiting generalizations to a higher levels.Practical implicationsExperienced internet users and experienced web‐shoppers are more likely to be potential future web‐shoppers. Those who have a general dislike for shopping and who tend to buy in a great haste when the purchase becomes absolutely necessary may eventually be another group to become web‐shoppers.Originality/valueThe primary value of this paper lies in extending the understanding of Hong Kong web‐shopper behaviour, and in developing an empirical model that can partly explain the processes leading to web‐shopping intentions.
Information systems offshore outsourcing
Authors: Gonzalez Reyes , Gasco Jose , Llopis Juan 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe present paper has as its aim to deepen in the study of information systems offshore outsourcing, proposing three essential steps to make this decision: weighing up the advantages and risks of offshore outsourcing; analysing the taxonomy of this phenomenon; and determining its current geography.Design/methodology/approachWith that objective in mind, it was decided to base the research work on the literature about this topic and the review of reports and statistics coming from different sources (consultants, the press, public institutions, etc.).FindingsOffshore outsourcing has grown vertiginously in recent years. Its advantages exceed even those of onshore outsourcing, though it also involves greater risks derived from the (cultural and physical) distance existing between customer and provider. Various types of services and customer‐provider relationships hide under the umbrella of offshore outsourcing; i.e. it is not a homogeneous phenomenon. The main offshore outsourcing customers can be found in the USA and Europe, mainly in the UK but also in other countries such as Germany and France. As for provider firms, most of them are located in Asia − outstandingly in India but also in China and Russia. At present, there are important providers scattered in other continents as well.Originality/valueThe conclusions suggest that the range of potential offshore outsourcing destinations must be widened and that the search for a provider cannot be based exclusively on cost savings; other considerations such as quality, security and proximity of the provider must also be taken into consideration. That is precisely the reason why the study of new countries like Spain as offshore outsourcing destinations is proposed.
The impact of information technology on the competitive advantage of logistics firms in China
Authors: Lai Fujun , Zhao Xiande , Wang Qiang 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine the impact of information technology (IT) on the competitive advantages of third‐party logistics (3PL) firms in China.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire‐based mail survey was conducted in mainland China. Spline regressions were used to model the relationship between IT and competitive advantages.FindingsThis study found that IT could significantly influence a firm's competitive advantage, and the effects are nonlinear.Research limitations/implicationsThe modeled relationship between IT and competitive advantages may not hold in different cultural environments and industrial settings. The sample size was small.Practical implicationsA higher IT focus may improve a firm's competitive advantage. To achieve competitive advantages efficiently, it is essential to integrate IT, align IT strategy and business strategy, obtain IT‐related management skills, and achieve IT competency. 3PL managers can expect competitive advantages from their investments in IT to begin showing up when the deployment of IT is higher than the average relative to competitors.Originality/valueThis paper is a pioneering study that investigates the relationship between IT and competitive advantages in 3PL firms; is a pioneering study on IT and its impact on competitive advantages in China's 3PL firms; and provides valuable guidance and insights for 3PL managers to improve competitive advantages using information technology.
Productivity/performance measurement
Authors: Phusavat Kongkiti , Photaranon Watcharapon 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo address two key problems facing the production department at the government pharmaceutical organization (GPO). They were a lack of productivity and performance measurement at the operational level, and a need to assess the functional readiness to undertake its own performance‐analysis work.Design/methodology/approachThe decision was made to apply the multi‐factor productivity measurement model (MFPMM). This was due to its ability to link with existing data that had been generated by the accounting department, its explicit integration between productivity and financial performance (i.e. profitability) at the operational level, and its major features such as information on opportunity gain/loss.FindingsFor the GPO, it was quite clear that productivity improvement would represent the critical direction for the production department in the future. Based on its initial deployment at the Section 3 unit, the MFPMM was generally viewed as a suitable tool for measuring and providing necessary productivity/performance information.Practical implicationsThe database management needed to be improved in order to ensure timely provision of data into the MFPMM. Furthermore, better performance‐analysis capability by the staffs was required. In other words, both technical and managerial aspects must be recognized in order to ensure the MFPMM success and sustainability.Originality/valueThis study generated insightful information into operational performance at the GPO. It was clear that productivity represented the basis for formulating future policy initiatives.
A multiple regression model for patent appraisal
Authors: Hou Jiang‐Liang , Lin Hsiu‐Yan 
Published: January 2007

PurposeConcerning the general patent trading mechanism, this paper proposes a systematic patent appraisal model to provide patent transferors and transferees a reasonable price suggestion of the target patent.Design/methodology/approachBased on the appraisal factors (including the patent transferor, patent transferee, patent features, and patent trading specifications) and regression model, a patent trading system is developed with an automatic patent appraisal function.FindingsBased on the case study, it is found that the system performance is better if the non‐critical factors can be identified and dropped out from the appraisal model.Practical implicationsThe proposed model and platform can enhance patent trading performance and, therefore, the enterprise R&D tasks can be accomplished more efficiently.Originality/valueThis study proposes quantitative models of patent appraisal factors and a multiple regression model for patent appraisal to present an automatic patent price determination mechanism.
Management criteria of automated order picking systems in high‐rotation high‐volume distribution centers
Authors: Caputo Antonio C. , Pelagagge Pacifico M. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo develop a decision support system (DSS) and improved management criteria for operating dispenser‐based single‐piece automatic order picking systems (AOPS) in distribution centers, able to reduce the need for manual decision making based on personal experience or subjective judgement.Design/methodology/approachSimulation was utilized to analyze the relationships between stochastic demand, setup parameters and performances of an AOPS. A set of rules was then defined to cost‐effectively select the values of setup parameters. A DSS was built incorporating the heuristic rules to dynamically update the equipment setup.FindingsManual management of an AOPS can be poorly efficient even if largely practiced. Significant economic benefits may result from rule‐based equipment setup instead of the traditional manual decision approach. This was verified resorting to a case study referring to the distribution center of a leading pharmaceuticals distributor in Italy. Major performances improvements resulted regarding manual operation by an experienced logistic manager, including a 40 per cent reduction of the cost per picked order line.Practical implicationsThe proposed DSS is able to monitor the system behaviour over a specified time window and automatically set the values of the state variables for the next period. It is able to automatically define the set of items to be allocated on to the machine, to select the number of storage locations allocated to each item and set reorder levels and maximum picking quantities for each item, thus greatly simplifying the task of the logistic manager. Utilization of this DSS enables one to maintain a high level of picking automation efficiency while drastically cutting the required support personnel, thus significantly improving profit margins of high‐volume high‐rotation distribution centers.Originality/valueThe paper addresses, with original methodology, a practically relevant issue which is neglected in the literature. The paper is aimed at distribution centers managers seeking to improve the performances of AOPS and reduce their operating costs.