bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Employee evaluations of occupational pensions
Authors: Gough Orla , Hick Rod 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe paper aims to examine the role of an occupational pension in employees' psychological contracts, the degree to which such pensions influence decisions relating to employee recruitment and retention, and attitudes of managerial employees to the recent Employment Equality (Age) Regulations.Design/methodology/approachThirty‐six in‐depth interviews were conducted with managerial employees in order to examine the topics described above.FindingsIt is found that the role of an occupational pension in employees' psychological contracts is related to age, and that they play a much greater role in the psychological contracts of older employees. The provision of an occupational pension was found to be more successful in promoting the retention rather than the recruitment of staff. The managerial employees interviewed were overwhelmingly supportive of the introduction of the recent Employment Equality (Age) Regulations, but some expressed scepticism that they would be implemented faithfully by their organisations.Research limitations/implicationsFurther research is needed to examine the impact of the widespread closure of defined benefit pension schemes on employment decisions. The small sample size used in this research means no claims can be made to external validity.Originality/valueThe original features of the paper are that the authors apply the psychological contract framework in analysing the degree to which employees value their occupational pensions, employees themselves are interviewed rather than their employers in assessing the impact of an occupational pension on recruitment and retention, and the paper provides an early assessment to the recent introduction of age discrimination.
Employment relations in liberal market economy airlines
Authors: Harvey Geraint 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to evaluate the institutional complementarity thesis, which anticipates that the institutional context of the firm will have a considerable influence on the choice and success of employment relations strategies. Focusing on two liberal market economies, the paper presents analysis of secondary data from the US airline industry and primary data from UK civil aviation to assess the power of the institutional context on employment relations.Design/methodology/approachSecondary data were drawn from trade journals, newspaper reports and other civil aviation information sources such as the Civil Aviation Authority database. Primary data collection involved interviews with airline management, officials at the British Air Line Pilots Association, and pilots. A large‐scale questionnaire survey of pilots was also conducted.FindingsIn both liberal market economies airlines have adopted a range of employment relations strategies, which demonstrates the robustness of strategic management choice. Moreover, in both the UK and the USA, airlines with institutionally complementary employment relations strategies performed less well over a range of measures than their counterparts with employment relation strategies more closely aligned with coordinated market economies.Originality/valueThe findings identify best practice in the management of people in the airline industry and build a business case for cooperating with employees and their trade unions.
From administrative expert to strategic partner
Authors: Lemmergaard Jeanette 
Published: January 2009

PurposeReplicating Ulrich's model, this study aims to investigate empirically the HR role performance of a case organisation. Despite the popularity of the model, both theoretical discussions and empirical research that build on the model are scarce.Design/methodology/approachThe present study investigates HR professionals' and line managers' perceptions of HR roles in a regional full‐service bank based on a combination of interviews and a questionnaire survey distributed to the HR executive and line managers.FindingsThe case study evidence reported suggests that not only are all four roles strongly represented, they are also equally shared between the HR executive and line managers.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is limited by the usual problem of a wider application of findings provided by a small‐scale single‐case study. The generalisability of the findings would be improved by conducting more comparable cases within the field.Originality/valueHR professionals are struggling to make top executives and colleagues recognise the value of their operations and initiatives. It is therefore increasingly important to demonstrate the value of the HR function, and a first step towards demonstrating its value is to define and clarify the roles and role expectations of the HR function in the organisation. This study demonstrates how an organisation can get a clear picture of the roles that are performed or perceived as performed by the HR function by using Ulrich's relatively simple model, and thereby create a good basis for further discussion and clarification.
Can you hear us?
Authors: Bailey Marie 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to analyse the effectiveness of European Works Councils (EWCs) as a mechanism of employee voice from the perspective of Hungarian workers in UK‐owned multinational companies (MNCs). In addition, it analyses the role of prevailing systems of employee voice in Hungary, such as trade unions and works councils, assessing their capacity to influence the work of the EWC.Design/methodology/approachUsing a qualitative approach, the data are drawn from three case studies and comprise a series of semi‐structured interviews, whilst observational and archival data provide additional information. Interview participants primarily consisted of EWC representatives from the UK and Hungary, together with a number of central and local managers and trade union officials.FindingsThe data are presented using a five‐themed framework, devised to highlight a number of key themes and comparisons. Evidence suggests fundamental differences in the quality of EWCs, with some providing a better mechanism of voice than others. The level of consultation, managerial and employee attitudes, Eastern European working conditions, training and inadequate communication strategies form some of the major issues identified in the study. Furthermore, trade union involvement and the impact that local works councils have in general proved limited in enhancing the success of the EWC.Practical implicationsThe implications for improving the Hungarian voice within the EWC forum are discussed.Originality/valueThe paper confirms existing issues surrounding EWCs, extending the existing field of literature and offering a unique insight into the impact of EWCs in Hungary.
Refocusing for the future: meeting user expectations in a digital age
Authors: Sidorko Peter Edward , Tao Yang Tina 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe the changes adopted in a major Asian academic library aimed at making the library more responsive to evolving and growing client needs, and to positioning the library as a key player on campus in terms of teaching and learning support.Design/methodology/approachFollowing a period of organizational restructuring, the library embarked on a series of client focused services specifically aimed at enhancing its role in teaching and learning support.FindingsThe article draws on a number of previously existing and new services introduced by the library, and demonstrates growth in their usage. Further evidence of success is highlighted through three consecutive biannual user survey results which demonstrate an increasing responsiveness to user expectations.Research limitations/implicationsWhile many of the new services have been well received, the findings require further examination to ensure that the services continue to create value for the organization and that the library sustains its role.Practical implicationsThis paper reinforces the perspective that, in order to succeed and remain relevant, academic libraries must continue to evolve and to position themselves within their organizations so that they are recognized as important players in teaching and learning processes.Originality/valueThis article provides one possible model for other libraries to follow in attempting to reposition themselves within their organizations.
Local touch and global reach
Authors: Wang Jian , Lim Adriene 
Published: January 2009

PurposeTechnology changes swiftly and the traditional library online public access catalog (OPAC) is in danger of becoming irrelevant as more users rely on network‐level search engines such as Google and Google Scholar to search for information resources. This paper seeks to explore the next‐generation discovery and delivery solutions that are designed to adapt to changing user expectations in the Web 2.0 environment. It aims to examine the current trends in which libraries are partnering with vendors to promote their value‐added services to library users, and are making their collections more visible in a global digital landscape.Design/methodology/approachThe paper begins with an overview of current library catalogs and then introduces some emerging products focusing on discovery and delivery that affect the value of libraries as they present their collections and provide services to a new generation of library users. Case studies are presented to illustrate trendy features of next‐generation catalogs as well as the challenges that the new tools bring to libraries as they work toward providing users with richer discovery experiences and greater delivery of content beyond local collections.FindingsThe paper identifies major problems with libraries' existing OPACs as well as challenges of implanting new discovery tools to meet the demands of today's network users.Practical implicationsThe paper suggests that libraries must become more responsive and adaptable to remain sustainable, relevant, and competitive in the new environment.Originality/valueThe paper presents an up‐to‐date account of the state of next‐generation library catalogs used in American libraries.
ERM system implementation in a consortium environment
Authors: Liu Guoying 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to address the issues associated with electronic resources management (ERM) system implementation in a consortium environment.Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines the implementation process along with the problems encountered and their solutions and impacts on the use of the system in the implementation of Verde ERM system at University of Windsor Leddy Library, which implemented the system as one of the early adopters within a consortium. The issues and challenges the library experienced in the project are analyzed and discussed.FindingsThe ERM system is still in its early stages. There are both benefits and challenges of the consortia approach in ERM system implementation. Should a library adopt the system within a consortium or just as a single library? When would be the right time to implement an ERM system? Answers depend on the library's local needs, resources and environment. The strategy of ERM system selection, evaluation and implementation is crucial for libraries to make a suitable decision.Practical implicationsThe issues related to the ERM system implementation in a consortium environment discussed in the paper will have implications for libraries to select a proper approach and time on the adoption of emerging library systems.Originality/valueThe paper addresses issues related to a large library system, especially ERM system implementation in a consortium environment. The experience and findings obtained from the project can provide practical information to libraries that are considering implementing ERM or other large library systems.
Learning Library 2.0: 23 Things @SCPL
Authors: Titangos Hui‐Lan H. , Mason Gail L. 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the significance of 23 Things @SCPL, a learning Library 2.0 program based on Web 2.0, running from September 2007 to January 2008 at Santa Cruz Public Libraries.Design/methodology/approachThe paper introduces a new methodology in promoting the concept that learning could not only be self‐directed and collaborative, but also fun and rewarding.FindingsBy studying indepth the program's implementation process, the two authors report their findings in the following areas: organizing the first project in the history of Santa Cruz Public Libraries, to involve the whole organization in the learning process about the digital realm; helping staff members overcome typical learners' stress and blocks, by offering an innovative teaching approach; key to success I: comprehensive curriculum; key to success II: strong leadership; and impact on library services and beyond.Practical implicationsThe paper analyzes a successful implementation of the “lighten‐up” approach for program management. For this purpose, it adopts a user‐friendly and easy approach, so as to reach a broader audience.Originality/valueThe paper helps project managers to organize, develop and succeed in their new projects.
Library managers and information in World 2.0
Authors: Allard Suzie 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide library managers with the ability to recognize and address World 2.0 information issues to enhance their ability to develop management plans for the future.Design/methodology/approachThis paper explores what World 2.0 means to library managers in three ways. Three information dimensions are identified using models to examine World 2.0 in a historical context. An analysis is conducted of the different generations of users in World 2.0 including their diverse attitudes, beliefs, experiences and skills and how these influence their engagement with the information environment. Four key characteristics of Web 2.0 are identified through an analysis of Web 2.0 in relation to World 2.0.FindingsKey findings in this paper are that: three dimensions of information in World 2.0 exist and can be used by library managers to help them understand the challenges and to facilitate the construction of strategic management plans that address them. Generational and organizational perspectives of World 2.0 can influence how libraries engage Web 2.0, and should be considered when library managers make strategic management plans for the future. The four characteristics of Web 2.0 create considerations for library managers during their planning processes.Originality/valueThis paper is of interest because it provides library managers with a thorough understanding of World 2.0 and how it may influence their libraries and their users so they can make more informed, more successful planning choices.
Libraries' role in equalizing access to information
Authors: Russell Susan E. , Huang Jie 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to address the question of what libraries can do to help narrow the digital divide that causes unequal access to information.Design/methodology/approachThis study examines the continuing problem of digital divide in the United States based on data collected from several national and organizational reports along with our own survey.FindingsThe findings show that the problem of digital divide, which is specifically affected by various demographic factors, still exists despite the rapid uptake of new technologies, which is occurring among a majority of groups of Americans in the United States.Originality/valueThe study focuses on the important roles of libraries in today's society by looking at ways libraries can actively utilize and expand upon their work toward equalizing access to information for the future benefit of those who remain disenfranchised by the digital divide.
Performance evaluation
Authors: Mui Law Lin , Xiaohang Gao Vicky , Ling Ng Hui 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe paper aims to introduce and examine certain performance indicators and result areas used by the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library to evaluate its services and staff performance.Design/methodology/approachThe paper lists out the measures in place and looks for justification for each in terms of their relevance to library work and value to stakeholders.FindingsIt is shown how the measures in place enable services and staff to effectively support the library's mission and vision.Originality/valueThe paper provides insight for those interested in performance evaluation for library staff and services in the National Library Board, Singapore.
Internationalization in higher education and global access in a digital age
Authors: Hammond Ellen H. 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThis article seeks to propose that – as university faculty and students increasingly engage in research, teaching, and learning in international locations – librarians at the home campus need to expand the geographic range of their public services planning. Specifically, it aims to suggest that written agreements with university library partners in other countries can be used to provide patrons with access to collections, expertise, and study space during their residence abroad.Design/methodology/approachThe article provides an overview of agreements (the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)) concluded by East Asia Library staff at Yale University to secure access for Yale affiliates to the University of Tokyo and Waseda University Libraries, both in Tokyo, Japan. These institutional arrangements facilitated a level of access not possible for an individual researcher or student.FindingsThe agreement with the University of Tokyo is an example of a detailed reciprocal arrangement providing both library use and borrowing privileges. The agreement with Waseda is also reciprocal, but the written language is much less specific; nevertheless, the framework provided by this general MOU now allows enhanced access services for patrons.Originality/valueUnlike most of the international library exchanges and partnerships described in library literature to date, this case study developed from the idea that agreements be strategic and designed to serve user needs. While there is an extensive literature about serving international students and researchers, this article provides a shift in perspective by focusing on what the “sending institution” can do through strategic agreements to enhance library services for patrons abroad.
Information and digital literacy: a stumbling block to development?
Authors: Ameen Kanwal , Gorman G.E. 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe paper aims to explore the overall state of information and digital illiteracy (IDL) in developing countries and how it hampers the growth of individuals and nations. The case of Pakistan is to be used as an example to illustrate the endemic state of poor information and digital literacy. It also aims to discuss the general drawbacks to effective IDL in developing Asian countries.Design/methodology/approachTo achieve the objectives of the study, the literature review and result of Pakistan‐based surveys are used to indicate the state of IDL among university students and faculty in one country while integrating these findings with discussion.FindingsIt was found that in Pakistan, as elsewhere, IL/IDL practice and training are not the norm in libraries or in education; they are not operational priorities. The low level of IL/IDL among the educated classes contributes to the status quo of information illiterate citizens. It also establishes that becoming “critical consumers” of information is essential for personal and national empowerment.Originality/valueThe study explores the overall status of IDL in the developing countries using case of Pakistan as example. It suggests conducting local research on contextually relevant literacies and IL/IDL. The paper invokes the appreciation for making IL/IDL an integral part of learning programmes at all levels.
Finishing robots: a review of technologies and applications
Authors: Bogue Robert 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a review of finishing robot technology and its applications.Design/methodology/approachThe paper initially considers the development of automated finishing technologies and then discusses robotic systems. The uses of robotic finishing are illustrated through reference to a range of applications and case histories and a final section summarises the key benefits of the technology.FindingsThe paper shows that robotic finishing is being adopted by a range of industries including the aerospace, automotive, medical and household goods sectors. The technology has been shown to yield significant benefits, notably improved productivity, cost reductions, more consistent quality and reduced reject levels.Originality/valueThe paper provides a useful insight into robotic finishing and illustrates the key applications and benefits of the technology.
Latest unmanned vehicle show features both innovative new vehicles and miniaturization
Authors: Bloss Richard 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review the 2008 AUVSI Conference and Show held in San Diego, California with emphasis on unmanned vehicles or service robots, their application on the ground, in the air and in the water.Design/methodology/approachThe approach takes the form of in‐depth interviews with exhibitors of unmanned vehicles and the providers of the technologies which are fundamental to their design and deployment.FindingsThe unmanned robotic vehicle industry is largely driven by government requirements, both military and civilian. Unmanned service robots are also found in commercial applications such as pipeline surveillance, crop monitoring and fish school location at sea.Practical implicationsDevelopers will be challenged to meet the need for improvements in speed, payload, sensor capabilities, autonomous operation and command and control of fleets of unmanned vehicles.Originality/valueThe paper offers insights into trends and new products in the unmanned robotic vehicle industry.
Error significance analysis and compensation for HPKMs
Authors: Eastwood Sara , Webb Philip 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe a novel error‐ranking methodology and two compensation strategies for hybrid parallel kinematic machines (HPKMs).Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines an error analysis methodology developed for HPKMs and applies the technique to a typical industrial HPKM. Based on the results of this, two compensation strategies are developed and implemented, for both mass‐induced and thermal errors.FindingsThe paper demonstrates and quantifies the performance improvements possible with appropriate error compensation strategies.Originality/valueThe paper introduces a novel and generic methodology for error source analysis and describes two fully implemented compensation strategies which result in a significantly improved level of system performance.