bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of leader transformational ability
Authors: Munir Sidani Yusuf 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess the role of speech on transformational leadership attributions and the role of follower self‐esteem in fostering the relationship between followers and their leaders.Design/methodology/approachSurvey research was used testing specific relationships. A 2‐by‐2 experimental design was conducted including treatments of leader speech and attributes with follower self‐esteem acting as a covariate.FindingsSignificant relationships between most attributions of transformational leadership and follower self‐esteem were found. Inspirational leader speeches were found to lead to higher levels of attributed transformational abilities.Research limitations/implicationsIt is suggested that there are contextual differences between different types of transformational relationships. Researchers are invited to distinguish between different types of charisma (social charisma vs business charisma).Practical implicationsAlthough the use of appropriate speech is an influential asset for the transformational leader, effective leadership does not solely depend on it. Organizations may benefit from inculcating communication training programs into their training agenda towards elevating their trainees to a higher level of leadership capability.Originality/valueLeadership research has been heavily dominated by an overriding focus on leader attributes. This study concentrates on a specific leader impression management behavior (speech) and inculcates a follower variable (self‐esteem) into the equation towards a better understanding of the leadership phenomenon.
Father leadership and small business management: the Kazakhstan perspective
Authors: Kim Cheng Low Patrick 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to gain an understanding of the theory, use, practice, and benefits of the father leadership in small businesses in Kazakhstan.Design/methodology/approachA hybrid or combination of both the focus group and interviewing data collection methods.FindingsFather leadership strengthens communications within the small businesses, and the business owners' relationshsips with their employees. It motivates them to be highly productive too.Research limitations/implicationsThe focus groups were held in Almaty and it appears as if the sessions were limited to that city. Almaty however is large and cosmopolitan hence the focus groups' findings can be considered as representative of Kazakhstani society.Practical implicationsBusiness is always looking for an edge over the competition. The study highlights that the edge in small business management comes not only from investments in technology or time planning but rather from “the soft skills” aspects, that is, father leadership. The relevance and usefulness of the father leadership's 5Cs approach is assessed, and the use and perceived value of that “all‐in‐the‐family” touch to ensure business success were also highlighted.Originality/valueThe article provides a continuing perspective on the father leadership in small businesses in Kazakhstan.
Predicting charlatan behaviour in a non‐Western setting: lack of trust or absence of commitment?
Authors: Gbadamosi Gbolahan , Ndaba Josephine , Oni Francis 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify predictors of charlatan behaviour and investigate relationships among the construct and other variables like: trust in management, organisational commitment, turnover intention, supervisory support, job performance and some job characteristics in Botswana and Swaziland.Design/methodology/approachData were collected using self‐administered questionnaires in this survey. Usable questionnaires were received from a total of 484 respondents. Respondents were from public and private sector. Five hypotheses were tested.FindingsResult shows a strong and significant inverse relationship between charlatan behaviour and trust on the one hand and a direct significant relationship with continuance commitment on the other. Supervisory support, employee participation and goal clarity were also significantly albeit inversely correlated with charlatan behaviour but not so with all other study variables. The significant predictors of charlatan behaviour were trust in management and continuance commitment.Research limitations/implicationsThe predictor variables for charlatan behaviour in this study were few and the sample is heavily skewed towards the public sector. Future studies would benefit from looking at how co‐worker trust and ethical behaviour scales would relate to charlatan behaviour, as well as cross‐cultural and multi‐cultural comparison.Practical implicationsDeliberate management policies that build trust, identify and tackle charlatan behaviour during selection and performance evaluation while sustaining employee commitment is vital. So is dealing with the potential problems posed by charlatans especially the possibility of upsetting and demotivating other sincere and committed employees.Originality/valueThe paper re‐awakens a new task for HR practitioners and researchers: that of identifying organisational charlatans. Also striving to create sustained commitment while building trust and segregating (or incorporating where possible) charlatans.
Assessment and enforcement of liquidated damages in construction contracts in Ghana
Authors: Tuuli M.M. , Baiden B.K. , Badu E. 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThe enforcement of liquidated and ascertained damages (LADs) can be problematic when the amounts are poorly assessed and there are lapses in the administration of contracts. This paper seeks to investigate the relevance of LAD clauses in construction contracts in Ghana, as well as the methods employed in their assessment and enforcement.Design/methodology/approachA parallel survey method was adopted. Three sets of similar questionnaires (slightly modified) were administered to professionals in client, consultant and contractor organisations in contract administration roles, to explore their experiences in the assessment and enforcement of LADs.FindingsLADs are not serving their purpose in construction contracts in Ghana. Clients have created situations that render LADs unenforceable. LAD amounts are also not genuine pre‐estimates of expected loss to be incurred, as assumptions and guesses rather than genuine calculations on a case‐by‐case basis are adopted in their assessment.Originality/valueThis research indicates that the enforcement of LADs can be enhanced if clients become more diligent in their contractual, mostly financial, obligations. Since a purposive sampling procedure was adopted, the findings and conclusions of this research are only tentative, but nevertheless raise serious issues regarding contract administration practices in Ghana.
An investigation of evaluative and facilitative approaches to construction mediation
Authors: Brooker Penny 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThe paper seeks to examine the debate on mediator style and provide empirical evidence on mediator orientation, which has implications for party choice and the development of professional standards for construction mediators in the UK.Design/methodology/approachThis paper analyses the theoretical arguments and distinctions in mediator style and assesses the available evidence relating to the utilisation of evaluative or facilitative mediator approaches in the UK and US construction industry. The paper reports on data from qualitative interviews with construction lawyers experienced in using mediation in the UK to assess the level of evaluative conduct experienced.FindingsThe findings suggest that interviewees had experienced a mix of evaluative and facilitative interventions by mediators. The data support the contention that construction mediation in the UK mirrors the experience of the USA and is becoming “lawyer‐driven” and adversarial, with mediators utilising evaluative techniques which some members of the legal profession prefer.Research limitations/implicationsThe qualitative data are based on a small sample of mediation users in the UK construction industry. However, interviewees were selected from respondents to a randomly conducted large‐scale postal survey of commercial and construction lawyers. All interviewees were repeat users of the process and all but one had received training in mediation or are practising lawyer‐mediators.Practical implicationsThe data provide evidence of different mediator techniques currently utilised in the UK construction industry and the practices of lawyers in the mediation process. The findings have implications for party choice and should inform the development of professional standards in construction mediation practice.Originality/valueThe paper provides original data on the practices of mediators and lawyers in construction mediation.
Evolving heritage control and practice: the case of Anglican churches in English parishes
Authors: Mansfield John 
Published: August 2007

PurposeAs part of its broader re‐evaluation of heritage policy, the UK Government has reviewed the Ecclesiastical Exemption, a long‐standing system that removes certain ecclesiastical buildings from secular heritage controls. This paper aims to critically review The Future of the Ecclesiastical Exemption and subsequent The Ecclesiastical Exemption: The Way Forward.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents a detailed overview of the Ecclesiastical Exemption and the Faculty Jurisdiction literature followed by a critical review of recent government proposals.FindingsThe post‐consultation evaluation of responses forced a review of the High Level Management Agreement and the introduction of voluntary Heritage Partnership Agreements. But further reviews of the Ecclesiastical Exemption are likely to be implemented in the future.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to the broader appreciation of the “shadow” planning system that the Church of England enjoys.
Juritecture of the built environment: a different view on legal design for multiple use of land
Authors: Groetelaers Daniëlle A. , Ploeger Hendrik D. 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to introduce a new view on the role of the lawyer in the process of development and maintenance of the built environment.Design/methodology/approachFor this paper the research consists of listing and analysing legal questions raised by multiple use of land. A multidisciplinary approach is used from a legal point of view and from a planning development point of view.FindingsIt is argued that law is not only a way of setting boundaries, but also should be stimulating to the development and maintenance of the built environment. This is what we call “juritecture”. The juritect is a designing lawyer; the legal construction is his responsibility. The juritect should have a role in the design process as early as possible, and he should work together with planners and architects. On the one hand, the work of the juritect seems to be that of a legal craftsman. His toolbox consists of instruments of both property law and contract law. On the other hand, the juritect is a legal scholar. By study and discussion of cases and existing law, he opens the doors to further legal development.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a first exploratory article on the subject of juritecture. Although it is concluded that this concept will be valid for all legal systems, the article is confined to the continental European Civil legal system and, more specifically, to Dutch law.Originality/valueThis paper introduces the new concept of “juritecture”, which challenges existing views on the role of the lawyer in the built environment.
Defects in common property of strata developments in Singapore
Authors: Christudason Alice 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThe paper seeks to consider the basis on which a management corporation can represent original and subsequent purchasers of units in strata developments in a representative action against developers; the significance of unit owners' share values when courts award compensation; vicarious liability; and developers' use of the “independent contractor” defence in relation to its liability for defects in common property.Design/methodology/approachThe paper analyses cases from several common law jurisdictions, with a focus on Singapore Court of Appeal decisions.FindingsThe paper highlights the problems posed as a result of the doctrine of privity in relation to management corporations' claims against developers for defects in common property; the implications of unit holders' share values; and the circumstances in which developers can avail themselves of the independent contractor defence.Practical implicationsThe paper will be instructive to developers, contractors, management corporations and both original and subsequent purchasers of units in strata developments.Originality/valueThe paper brings to focus the importance of due consideration by the management corporation before it commences a representative action on behalf of the subsidiary proprietors; and also highlights procedures and/or legislation that need to be implemented, failing which there may be financial implications that can render a “successful” litigation against the developer a pyrrhic victory.
Problems in enforcing Dutch building regulations
Authors: van der Heijden Jeroen , Visscher Henk , Meijer Frits 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThe paper seeks to define the nature of the policy problems in Dutch building control.Design/methodology/approachThe authors use Dunn's four‐phase methodology for public policy analysis, consisting of problem sensing, problem search, problem definition, and problem specification. Both a literature review and a field study into the operation of local building control authorities were undertaken. The field study incorporates characteristics of a survey, with methodology developed by Fowler.FindingsDutch building control legislation has been subject to many changes over the 100 years or so that it has been in force as it has responded to society's changing priorities. Throughout this period building regulation has become more detailed and more uniform across the country. Nevertheless, almost no legal changes have been made to the enforcement system. Responsibility for building control still lies with the municipalities and implementation is still not established by national legislation or policy document. Ongoing attempts to deregulate and standardise the legislative framework should therefore not stop at changing the regulations. Changes in the supervision system might offer an alternative route to improving the quality of the (technical) building control and clarifying the tasks and responsibilities of building control staff.Research limitations/implicationsThe analysis focuses on problems in building control and does not consider design and construction problems.Practical implicationsThe field study contains important lessons for building control practitioners and policymakers regarding current deficiencies in the implementation of building control legislation.Originality/valueThe paper provides a model for the analysis, and comparative study, of building control systems in other jurisdictions.
Appropriate real estate laws and policies for sustainable development in Nigeria
Authors: Adejoke Oladapo Rashidat , Olukayode Olotuah Abiodun 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThe paper seeks to describe the historical development, current status, and operation of real estate law and policy in Nigeria in the context of global requirements for sustainable development.Design/methodology/approachThe paper takes the form of a literature and legislative review. It examines the existing real estate law and policy (Land Use Act No. 6 of 1978) in Nigeria. The relevance of sustainable development to real estate laws and policy is highlighted. A brief comparative study of land issues in Nigeria and some developing nations is also included.FindingsThe existing real estate law and policy in Nigeria is inadequate to meet the aspirations for sustainable development.Practical implicationsThe paper makes recommendations geared towards appropriate real estate laws and policies for sustainable development in Nigeria.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to the critique on the existing real estate laws and policies in Nigeria. Based on tenets of sustainable development, it offers useful guidance on future formulation of real estate law and policy, in particular community participation, setting of different time periods, and the targets that each period must realize.
“History is bunk”: considerations on the future of FM
Authors: Grimshaw Bob 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThe last 25 years have seen facilities management established as an internationally recognised and valued function. However, the organisational changes that created the original demand for FM services are accelerating and will ensure that it will need to constantly adapt itself to new demands if it is to thrive. This article seeks to examine the nature of these forces and their likely impact on FM futures.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on a number of studies on flexible working carried out at UWE under the auspices of the “facilities innovation programme” with Johnson Controls.FindingsThe paper predicts a shift away from physical facilities as the focus for FM to a much more people‐centred logistics approach to supporting work across organisational networks.Practical implicationsThe paper provides much food for thought for practising FMs about the shape of their future and the forces that will drive it.Originality/valueBy scanning across the whole landscape of FM the paper emphasises the complexity and fluidity of FM futures.
Seeking sustainable solutions for office buildings
Authors: Häkkinen Tarja , Nuutinen Maaria 
Published: August 2007

PurposeVTT DIGITALO is an office building built for use by the VTT Technical research centre of Finland. The building project aimed at producing an office building and a modern workspace that supports an interactive way of working, emphasises the image of the user as a provider of high‐end technology solutions, and is in accordance with the principles of sustainable construction. The paper sets out to assess the project from the viewpoints of user‐requirements management and sustainable construction.Design/methodology/approachThe study includes the following aspects: life‐cycle impacts, building performance and user satisfaction. The paper introduces the project targets, summarises the results, discusses the lessons learned, and makes recommendations for further research.FindingsDIGITALO succeeded in achieving the targets stated for energy‐efficiency, adaptability, indoor conditions and service life, but there are problems with reference to pursued interactive and innovative workspaces. The results of the study emphasise the importance to develop requirement management methods that support the identification and understanding of user needs. The users' own understanding about the nature of work rather than directly expressed needs for workspaces should be considered as the starting‐point.Originality/valueThe DIGITALO project was considered as a milestone in a long‐term process that aims at the development of high‐quality facility and space services that are in accordance with the user needs, and based on understanding the strategic goals of the user. The DIGITALO case did not manage to achieve all the stated requirements, and the paper discusses the problematics of requirement management especially from the viewpoint of methods and tools needed.
Office productivity: a shift from cost reduction to human contribution
Authors: Haynes Barry P. 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to evaluate approaches to office productivity improvements.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents two contrasting approaches to office productivity improvements. The review aims to establish that cost is not the only consideration when considering office productivity. The human dimension is included in the debate along with creating a business case and the occupier perspective. Past and current thinking are explored.FindingsThe review of the literature reveals that relatively small increases in employee productivity can greatly outweigh significant reductions in real estate costs. This “leveraging” approach highlights the need for greater emphasis on the occupier perspective if significant office productivity improvements are to be made.Originality/valueWhilst it is appropriate to ensure that real estate costs are monitored and controlled, this should not be undertaken if it restricts employees' ability to perform their job as productively as possible.
The future @ work: delivering effective corporate real estate
Authors: Warren Clive M.J. , Simmons Julia , Trumble Nick 
Published: August 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to establish a benchmark measure of attitudes to property held by major corporations within Australia. The paper aims to show how workplace use is predicted to change in the near future and the implications of that change for managers of those assets.Design/methodology/approachThe research in this paper is based on a survey of senior corporate property managers throughout Australia. Using Likert scale responses participants' attitudes to emerging asset management issues were examined.FindingsThe research reveals that there exists a divergence between corporate property managers' perceptions of the role of property to the organisation and the perceived role by business managers. The research also reveals that workplace use is expected to change in the near future with greater need for flexibility in design, contracts and employee behaviour.Research limitations/implicationsThe survey response was limited to a small number of senior property executives. Future iterations of the research can seek to establish a broader response from industry. The research establishes a baseline from which future changes in the management of corporate property can be measured.Practical implicationsThe paper is important in that it highlights the divide between efficient and effective asset management and the perceptions of asset and business managers. It also indicates the growing need for flexible workplace design supported by flexible property contracts.Originality/valueThe paper provides a basis for evaluating the use of property assets by large corporations within Australia. It will be of practical use to all practitioners and service providers involved in the delivery, design and management of property assets for large corporations.
A novel nodal ordering algorithm for profile optimization by efficient solution of a differential equation
Authors: Kaveh A. , Zahedi M. , Laknegadi K. 
Published: August 2007

PurposeNodal ordering for the formation of well‐structures stiffness matrices are often performed using graph theory and algebraic graph theory. The purpose of this paper is to present a new method for nodal ordering for profile optimization of finite element models.Design/methodology/approachIn the present method, a combination of graph theory and differential equations is employed. The proposed method transforms the eigenvalue problem involved in optimal ordering of algebraic graph method into a specific initial value problem of an ordinary differential equation.FindingsThe transformation of this paper enables many advanced numerical methods for ordinary differential equations to be used in the computation of the eigenproblems.Originality/valueCombining two different tools, namely graph theory and differential equations, results in a more efficient and accurate method for nodal ordering problem, which is a combinatorial optimization problem. Examples are included to illustrate the efficiency of the present method.