bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The problem of identity and trust in European works councils
Authors: Timming Andrew R. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to look analytically at the relationship between identity and trust in the context of European industrial relations.Design/methodology/approachDrawing from a case study of a European works council from a large, multinational firm in the traditional manufacturing sector, the problem of exclusionary identity choices along the lines of national cultures and industrial relations is examined via ethnographic methods.FindingsIn the light of the delegates' assumed identities, it was found that trust relations in the European Works Council case study were characteristically sub‐optimal both between worker and employers' representatives and also among the workers themselves. The extensive lack of trust in the forum was thought to be problematic with respect to the prospects for co‐operation. As a result, employers' representatives are able to use the European works council as a self‐serving tool of human resource management.Practical implicationsThe implications for improving cross‐national industrial relations action are spelled out in the conclusion.Originality/valueThe paper offers a unique approach to studying the obstacles to co‐operation in European industrial relations settings.
Employees' preferences for the bases of pay differentials
Authors: Dickinson Julie 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe aim of this study was to investigate whether perceptions of fair pay are characterised by social norms about the appropriate bases of pay differentials.Design/methodology/approachIn order that the employees could voice their opinions without the restrictions of pre‐coded categories individual interviews were carried out with employees from five private sector organizations. The design of the study allowed an examination of attitudes towards pay criteria in the context of changes in organizational pay structures towards more individualism in pay awards.FindingsThe most popular bases of pay were “responsibility”, “qualifications” and “performance”. The attitudes appeared to reflect widespread norms about the most appropriate bases of pay. There was some evidence for an interaction between employee attitudes towards pay determination and organizational characteristics on the design and implementation of pay policies.Research limitations/implicationsThe interview methodology restricted the size of the sample and consequently the generalisations that can be made from the findings. Future research could use qualitative or quantitative methods to check whether the findings replicate with different types of groups of employees.Practical implicationsThe paper contains useful information for human resource practitioners about maintaining “felt fairness” in the design of new pay systems.Originality/valueThe qualitative approach of this study produces rich information about employee perceptions of pay differentials in the context of current changes towards more individualised pay determination.
Management strategies in transitional economies
Authors: Ross Peter 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo provide an analysis of the privatisation of the Czech Republic's former state‐owned telecommunications monopoly, Český Telecom, in relation to governance, organisational restructuring and strategic human resource management (SHRM) practices.Design/methodology/approachThis research project used a qualitative approach that supported an in‐depth case study analysis. This included semi‐structured interviews that were conducted across a broad range of stakeholders associated with the Czech telecommunications sector. SHRM and downsizing theories were used to assist in the analysis of this data.FindingsThe paper finds that management strategies at Český Telecom exhibited some similarities with those of Western TelCos facing similar deregulation issues. However, these processes were tempered by country‐specific historical and institutional factors, including the relatively weak institutional structures and mechanisms found in Eastern Europe.Research limitations/implicationsA qualitative analysis concentrating on one case study lessens the universal applicability of the findings.Practical implicationsA useful source of information for academic researchers and HRM practitioners who wish to conduct research and/or manage workers in the Czech Republic.Originality/valueProvides an original case study analysis within an important strategic sector that has undergone large‐scale change: the telecommunications sector of Eastern Europe.
Achieving collaborative advantage: understanding the challenge and making it happen
Authors: Vangen Siv , Huxham Chris 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThis article discuses the challenge of organizations achieving a collaborative advantage.Design/methodology/approachGives a brief synopsis of collaborative advantage.FindingsLeadership must involve being both gentle and tough at the same time – being prepared to nurture relationships on the one hand and taking a directive clear line on the other.Originality/valueGives guidance in terms of how to understand the complexity of collaboration.
Data envelopment analysis for decision support
Authors: Seydel John 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo provide decision makers (DMs) an option for addressing problems involving finite alternative sets and multiple criteria, where criterion weighting is difficult or impossible.Design/methodology/approachThe multicriteria decision problem is described, and a typically descriptive (rather than prescriptive) tool, data envelopment analysis (DEA), is summarized, along with a hypothetical but typical example of a multicriteria decision (vendor selection). The DEA approach is modified to incorporate weight constraints and is used to rank the available vendors. Results are compared with those from the use of a popular multicriteria decision tool (SMART) and a naïve averaging approach.FindingsThe modified DEA approach yields results very similar to those produced using SMART; these results are quite satisfactory in spite of the fact that DEA requires less involvement on the part of the DM. In addition, non‐dominant optima (a possible anomaly with DEA) are avoided, and often a single alternative, rather than a non‐dominated set, will result, thus providing a unique optimum.Research limitations/implicationsResults are based on the analysis of a single data set. Future investigation should examine the performance of the DEA approach when other data sets involving more like as well as more unlike alternatives are involved.Practical implicationsWith DEA the burden on the DM is reduced, as the need for eliciting criterion weights is obviated. DEA should thus provide an acceptable alternative to prescriptive modeling tools when multiple DMs are involved and/or criterion weight determination is unfeasible.Originality/valueThis paper demonstrates how DEA, a tool used more typically in post hoc evaluations, can be used also, with some modifications, as a prescriptive decision support tool.
Talis Insight 2004 conference: views of technology futures
Authors: Chad Ken 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo share with a wider audience key papers from the Talis Insight conference held in November 2004.Design/methodology/approachThe article highlights four key presentations, and gives an executive summary showing key themes from the whole event.FindingsThe paper highlights libraries' work with text messaging, web applications to highlight resource collections, libraries' integration with councils to provide better access to library and council services, and improved stock disposal through selling books online through Amazon.Originality/valueOffers librarians and information managers the opportunity to see what innovations in service other libraries are achieving through use of new technology or new ways of working.
Factors influencing user trust in online games
Authors: Gao Yuan 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThis paper aims to provide a theoretical overview of the factors influencing user trust in online games. It offers a set of guidelines that help online game marketers to better understand how users form their trust in online games, and fully reap the benefits of this new medium.Design/methodology/approachThis paper reviews literature from the perspectives of considering an online game player as both a consumer of web‐based entertainment and a computer user. It explores factors related to the web environment as well as those of the games themselves. In particular, it examines a user's perceptions about the company, the online gaming site, and an individual game.FindingsA number of factors influencing user trust in online games are largely within the control of the company sponsoring the sites or marketing the games. Based on the analysis of these factors, this paper provides a set of guidelines that would help marketers win user trust in their online gaming products or services.Practical implicationsFirms promoting online games can take guidance in how to build user trust through paying attention to building brand recognition, enhancing usability and appeal, as well as providing security assurance both at the web sites and within the individual games.Originality/valueThis paper is based on current research in consumer trust, both offline and online, and represents an original attempt at analyzing theoretically the factors influencing user trust in online games. It provides a framework for empirical testing of the propositions outlined in the paper.
Searching for Chinese history journals online
Authors: Wai Fan Ka 
Published: June 2006

PurposeBased on the author's experience, this paper aims to provide tips for finding Chinese history journals on the web.Design/methodology/approachAfter reviewing a total of four portals, the author points out the challenge faced by searchers. The author provides six searching tips, including terms, databases, organizations, institutes, universities and publishers, for finding Chinese history journals online.FindingsBy following the hints provided by the author, most Chinese history journals can be found online and readers will be able to find full‐text articles or citations that will facilitate their research. In addition, examples are given to show how to catalogue online Chinese journals when building up an electronic library.Practical implicationsContains very useful hints for librarians and researchers planning to build up an electronic library for China studies.Originality/valueThis paper offers practical help to librarians and researchers building up web sites or electronic libraries for China studies.
Ubuntuas a key African management concept: contextual background and practical insights for knowledge application
Authors: Karsten Luchien , Illa Honorine 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo explore how an increasing attention which is being paid to language and culture in organisations can help people to understand the impact of particular management concepts in business practices.Design/methodology/approachA range of publications has been selected to indicate how important language in organisations is and how particular cultural backgrounds influence the applicabilty of management concepts. This has been illustrated with the conceptUbuntu, which gains popularity in South Africa.FindingsThe applicabilty ofUbuntuin companies will rely on the habitus of the manager to be a good conversationalist.Originality/valueSo far the Western literature about management knowledge has neglected the development of particular management concepts originating in other parts of the world.
It takes two to tango
Authors: Spencer Michael 
Published: June 2006

PurposeIncreasingly the arts are being considered as having valuable lessons that can be transferred to a business context. This paper explores ways in which the assumed gap between the two cultures can be bridged effectively.Design/methodology/approachDrawing upon a wide and practical knowledge of arts education and facilitation practices across a broad and diverse constituency, the author uses his experiences gained as both a performer and practitioner to identify areas of divergence in thinking and methods by which these can be closer aligned in order to establish more effective and sustainable relationships.FindingsThere are important and far reaching implications for integrating arts practices within a business context, however the process of building the relationship between artist and business person from initial meeting through planning, delivery and final evaluation requires careful and informed nurturing.Practical implicationsIt gives accessible and practical proposals for identifying potential problem areas whilst offering suggestions for ways in which to start and continue successful associations between artists and business people.Originality/valueThe paper is of considerable value to all potential stakeholders who hold the intention to meld together arts and business processes into a training model of good practice.
Supply chain integration: a European survey
Authors: Bagchi Prabir K. , Chun Ha Byoung , Skjoett‐Larsen Tage , Boege Soerensen Lars 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe major goal of this study was to identify the underlying factors of supply chain integration in European firms with particular emphasis on the role of information sharing and interorganizational collaboration.Design/methodology/approachIn order to get an overall view of the state of supply chain integration in European firms, a mail survey was done to investigate the extent and nature of supply chain integration in 149 companies. Using statistical analysis, the study attempts to comprehend if increasing levels of the intensity of supply chain integration show concomitant rise of operational performance.FindingsEuropean firms are starting to be aware of the strategic importance of integration across the boundaries of the supply chain. Both correlation analyses and multiple regression analyses have clearly shown that supply chain integration affects operational performance and the degree of integration also influences cost and efficiency. An interesting and surprising finding from our survey was the significant negative correlation between the length of relationship with suppliers and performance measures such as total logistics costs, on‐time delivery and rate of return. While performance has been shown to have improved as a result of collaboration with suppliers and customers alike in areas such as supply chain design, inventory management and customer relationship management (CRM), the nature and extent of integration has been rather selective. Most companies are quite cautious when it comes to sharing sensitive data and rightfully so.Research limitations/implicationsIn order to obtain more generalizable results, further larger studies of supply chain integration are needed to reveal the impediments for a wider degree of integration and to highlight potential strategies to increase integration across the supply chain.Practical implicationsThe main findings confirm that comprehensive supply chain integration is more a rhetoric than reality in most European firms. However, we found a clear indication of the value placed by the respondents on integration with key suppliers and customers for performance enhancement.Originality/valueThis is the first empirical work measuring the state of supply chain integration in European firms and the challenges faced by them. Supply chain management professionals would have a clearer idea about the areas ripe for collaborative effort.
Combined radiative and convective heat transfer in a divided channel
Authors: Bouali H. , Mezrhab A. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThis paper presents a numerical investigation of the interaction of surfaces radiation with developing laminar free convective heat transfer in a divided vertical channel. The influence of the radiation on the heat transfer and on the air flow is studied for various sizes (width and length) of the plate.Design/methodology/approachThe specifically developed numerical code is based on the utilization of the finite volume method. The SIMPLER algorithm for the pressure‐velocity coupling is adopted. The view factors are determined by using boundary elements to fit the surfaces, an algorithm solving the shadow effect and a Monte Carlo method for the numerical integrations.FindingsResults obtained show that the radiation: plays a very important role on the paces of the isotherms, especially at Ra≥1,600; increases considerably the average wall Nusselt number; and increases the mass flow rate and the average channel Nusselt number at high Rayleigh numbers. The plate location has a significant effect on the heat transfer only in presence of the radiation exchange. The increase of both length and width of the plate causes a decrease of the heat transfer and the mass flow rate.Research limitations/implicationsThe use of the code is limited to the flow that is assumed to be incompressible, laminar and two dimensional. The radiative surfaces are assumed diffuse‐gray.Practical implicationsNatural convection in vertical channels formed by parallel plates has received significant attention because of its interest and importance in industrial applications. Some applications are solar collectors, fire research, electronic cooling, aeronautics, chemical apparatus, building constructions, nuclear engineering, etc.Originality/valueIn comparison to the most of the previous studies on natural convection in partitioned channels, the radiation exchange was neglected. This study takes into account the radiation exchange in a divided channel.
New hires: when was a 60 percent success rate ever acceptable?
Authors: Harvard Davis Stephen 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe paper aims to focus on why such a large percentage of newly hired executives fail to stay with the organization.FindingsThe paper blames failure to make clear the results required of the executive, failure to investigate if the candidate has the hidden job skills required to succeed, and the tendency of organizations to withdraw to allow the new executive as much freedom of action as possible.Practical implicationsThe paper shows how organizations can avoid these common mistakes.Originality/valueDemonstrates that a few simple precautions can improve the success rate dramatically.
Document destruction and obstruction of justice: why Arthur Andersen doesn't matter
Authors: Robbins Patrick D. , Huffman Alicia G. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo provide guidance to investment companies on document retention policies based on Section 802 of the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act of 2002, codified as Section 1519 of the United States Code.Design/methodology/approachReviews the conviction of Arthur Andersen for obstruction of justice based on the way the firm implemented its document retention/destruction policy as Enron was collapsing, and the Supreme Court reversal of that conviction. Explains why the Supreme Court decision should no longer guide an investment company's document retention/destruction policy in light of more recently enacted Section 1519, which imposes stiff penalties on anyone who knowingly alters, destroys, mutilates, conceals, or covers up any record or document with the intent to impede, obstruct, or influence any federal investigation, or in contemplation of such a proceeding.FindingsSuggests a few straightforward rules for an investment company's document retention/destruction policy with a warning to err on the side of caution.Originality/valueIn light of Section 1519, every investment company needs to review its document retention/destruction policy. This article provides useful guidelines for doing so.
New supervisory control requirements for branch and remote offices
Authors: Kroll Amy N. , Franzon Anders W. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo provide an overview of the new uniform definition of “branch office” and to discuss how that definition will influence broker‐dealer supervisory programs.Design/methodology/approachDiscusses the new definition of “branch office”, describes new NASD and New York Stock Exchange supervisory control system requirements and supervisory requirements for branch offices and other locations, and suggests guidelines for developing a branch office or remote office supervisory program.FindingsIn the current regulatory environment, no broker‐dealer should overlook regular and rigorous attention to supervision of branch offices and other remote locations. And in light of the new definition of a branch office, each broker‐dealer must include in its review and analysis a close evaluation of how the broker‐dealer supervises every location where broker‐dealer personnel engage in activities on behalf of the broker‐dealer and must document that evaluation.Originality/valueImportant reference for broker‐dealers’ branch office supervisory programs that underscores the need to pay proper attention to remote locations.
The impact of the Market in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID)
Authors: Jairath Aman 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo introduce the Market in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID).Design/methodology/approachProvides a brief overview of the MiFID, how it widens the scope of business permitted under the “passport” regime, the types of financial institutions it covers, and the time frame for implementation.FindingsThe biggest challenge facing regulated firms is the limited time they will have to comply with MiFID's requirements.Originality/valueDiscusses the scope and importance of MiFID.
Outsourcing: the regulatory challenge for financial services firms
Authors: Evans Ruth M. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo explain current guidelines for outsourcing as provided by the Joint Forum, the EU Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID), and the UK Financial Services Authority.Design/methodology/approachAfter discussing the international regulatory focus, describes FSA policy on outsourcing in detail, including senior management responsibility for management of risk and the need for internal and external due diligence. Provides guidance concerning supplier contracts, relationship management and monitoring, contingency planning, and exit planning.FindingsThe FSA's guidance on outsourcing highlights the need for senior management of the customer firm to take full responsibility for the increased risks that outsourcing can generate as part of their inherent accountability for efficient systems and controls.Originality/valueA guide for ensuring that a firm's outsourcing arrangements are in compliance with FSA and MiFID guidelines.