bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Doctors' service orientation in public, private, and foreign hospitals
Authors: Saad Andaleeb Syed , Siddiqui Nazlee , Khandakar Shahjahan 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to propose a doctors' service orientation (DSO) scale and uses it to compare the services received in public, private and foreign hospitals in a developing country from the patient's perspective.Design/methodology/approachThe scale was derived from the service quality literature and qualitative research. A questionnaire was designed next. Data were collected from patients who had used the services of doctors in a hospital.FindingsThe scale demonstrated appropriate psychometric properties. Two clear patterns emerge from the study results: on 10 out of 12 measures of doctors' service orientation, there was no significant difference in their perceived behaviors between public and private hospitals and foreign doctors were “always” rated significantly higher.Research limitations/implicationsThis study focused on one major city because of time and resource constraints. The findings are thus not generalizable to hospitals across the country. Also, because of translation and retranslation issues, the scale ought to be further tested for wider use.Originality/valueThe scale may be used periodically in a comprehensive quality assurance program to exhort doctors to become more service oriented and to improve their performance over time.
The future healthcare and quality
Authors: Moumtzoglou Anastasius 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess the future of healthcare and quality.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes six future healthcare systems based on four archetypes.FindingsInstead of dealing with process oriented practice, management participation, financial incentives and capacity management, the emphasis should be on communication, education, shared decisions and quality of life.Originality/valueThe paper makes it clear that quality improvement efforts should be centred on the needs and wishes of patients, recognising patients' expertise, values and preferences.
Quality costs and electronic adverse incident recording and reporting system
Authors: Walsh Kerry , Antony Jiju 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the usability and potential of incorporating quality costs into an electronic adverse incident recording system within a healthcare sector.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is a general review and a discussion of an electronic adverse incident‐recording system into the potential benefits and restrictions was undertaken. Articles containing both information systems and quality costs were reviewed in order to explore the potential of linking information against patient safety issues.FindingsThe paper finds that quality costs is a valid and useful approach for measuring the impact of individual adverse incidents or trends in order to support managers and clinicians to develop appropriate action plans to reduce levels of patient harm and thereby improve patient safety. The paper also shows that quality costs can be used to support managers and clinicians and are commercially designed to improve the detection, investigation and action planning to improve service quality and patient safety.Practical implicationsQuality costs can be used as a driver for identifying potential high impact quality and patient safety projects within a healthcare setting.Originality/valueThis paper provides useful information for designers of electronic adverse incident‐reporting systems to support managers and clinicians to utilise the benefits of quality costing in order to strengthen and re‐focus patient safety issues in healthcare.
Timing of antibiotics in CAP
Authors: Reza Shariatzadeh Mohammad , Marrie Thomas J. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTimely administration of antimicrobials in patients with community‐acquired pneumonia is now a standard of care. The purpose of this paper is to present a large observational study to understand the issues that result in a delay in the administration of antibiotics to patients with community‐acquired pneumoniaDesign/methodology/approachThis prospective study involved all six hospitals in the Edmonton area: patients were enrolled at the time of hospitalization if they were adults aged ≥17 years with a clinical presentation consistent with community‐acquired pneumonia. A retrospective chart review was performed to determine the reasons why it took more than eight hours to administer the first dose of antibiotics.FindingsThe paper finds that of all 3,394 hospitalized patients, 646 (19.0 percent) received antibiotics over four hours after admission to the emergency department and in most instances the delay was more than 12 hours. A total of 30 percent of the delays were justifiable – 17 percent due to diagnostic indecision and 13 percent due to recent receipt of an antibiotic at home or at another institution prior to transfer. All the other delays were unnecessary and easily correctable. In this paper the data indicate that only 5.6 percent of 3,394 patients had an adequate reason for delay in antibiotic administration. Thus a reasonable target for timely administration of antibiotics is at least 90 percent of the patient population.Originality/valueThe strengths of this study lie in its large number of patients, inclusiveness and real world context.
Organizational intelligence: a structuration view
Authors: Akgün Ali E. , Byrne John , Keskin Halit 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to unify the fragmented views on organizational intelligence from the perspective of Giddens' structuration theory.Design/methodology/approachThe paper used a case study of a firm, which is a small electronics manufacturing group located in the New England area of the northeast USA. Data were collected by observation, oral histories and through discussion and interviews with organization members.FindingsIt was observed that a structuration view of organization intelligence removes the individual/organization level intelligence dichotomy, and integrates the fragmented studies on the epistemology of intelligence, e.g. cognitive, behavioral and social/emotional.Research limitations/implicationsPropositions for further research are formulated. However, findings are derived on the basis of a substantive case study in a particular country. Further, research needs to expand this base to encompass other organizations in a wider range of countries across different cultures.Practical implicationsThis paper helps managers to assess and to operationalize organizational intelligence.Originality/valueThis paper proposes a more comprehensive understanding of intelligence in organizations.
The guru's gusto: management fashion, performance and taste
Authors: ten Bos René , Heusinkveld Stefan 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess the role of management gurus in a contemporary society.Design/methodology/approachTo further understanding about the specific atmosphere favorable to the production and consumption of the guruesque ideas the paper draws on the work of Goffman and MacIntyre about the performance‐like quality of organizational life.FindingsIt is argued that the management guru is well at home in a social world in which presentation is a central theme. Hence, we portray the guru not as the messenger who brings indisputable truths to the managerial masses, but as a person who succeeds in presenting him or herself as a “tastemaker”.Research limitations/implicationsThe concept of tastemaker is still in need of more development and therefore this paper suggests three lines of further research.Practical implicationsThis paper may help managers, as important consumers of guruesque ideas, to better understand the management guru phenomenon and to reflect on their value in daily praxis.Originality/valueThe paper provides more insight into the, albeit contested, role of (dis)taste, an issue that received scant attention in discussions about management fashion and guruism.
Heated Gas Jet Reflow: An Alternative
Reflow Solder Assembly Process Technology*
Authors: Lichtenberg L.R. , Gillespie P.J. 
Published: June 2007

A new product design required the addition of a second
layer of electronics to control a base module. This product was designed with significant
overhangs of heavy leads and components which presented a significant challenge to many
different solder assembly processes. Only the heated gas jet process was able to solder the
product successfully without damaging the printed wiring boards.To answer the
challenge, a new machine was developed, combining dispensing of solder paste with hot gas jet
reflow technology. This provided a combination of capabilities resulting in a flexible process
which was significantly superior to alternative technologies.Other soldering processes
such as laser, focused xenon lamp, robotic soldering iron, and focused IR soldering technologies
were evaluated. Each of these technologies causes some damage or defect to the assembly due to
the heat sinking aspect of the circuit assembled. These alternative processes would create
damage or defects to the assemblies by burning the laminate, delaminating the pads on the
printed wiring board, or not soldering the pads.Proof of concept tests before machine
designs were initiated demonstrated the potential and capabilities of this technology for
automated assembly soldering. Testing indicated that the heated gas jet processing would
provide a means of soldering the assemblies at a controllable rate without damaging the circuit
boards.While evaluating the machine ion its design phase, a designed experiment was
initiated to help understand the relationships between head temperature settings versus gas flow
rates, the measurable output was time to reflow.The process meets all expectations in
terms of solder fillet appearance, volume, and overall visual quality while maintaining process
cycle time requirements.
Investigating the development of digital patterns for customized apparel
Authors: Yang Yunchu , Zhang Weiyuan , Shan Cong 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe paper aims to provide an overview of the area of digital pattern developing for customized apparel.Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines several methods of digital pattern developing for customized apparel, and discusses the principles, characters and applications. Digital pattern developing process has two paths. One path develops apparel according to traditional 2D pattern‐making technology. There are three methods: parametric design, traditional grading technique, and pattern generating based on artificial intelligence (AI). Another path develops pattern through surface flattening directly from individual 3D apparel model.FindingsFor parametric method, it can improve greatly the efficiency of pattern design or pattern alteration. However, the development and application of parametric Computer‐Aided‐Design (CAD) systems in apparel industry are difficult, because apparel pattern has fewer laws in graphical structure. For grading technique, it is the most practical method because of its simple theory, with which pattern masters are familiar. But these methods require users with higher experience. Creating expert pattern system based on AI can reduce the experience requirements. Meanwhile, a great deal of experiments should be conducted for each garment with different style to create their knowledge databases. For 3D CAD technology, two methods of surface flattening have been outlined, namely geometry flattening and physical flattening. But many improvements should be done if the 3D CAD systems are applied in apparel mass customization.Originality/valueThe paper provides information of value to the future research on developing a practical made‐to‐measure apparel pattern system.
Investigating the positioning edge accuracy of sensors in textile and clothing manufacture
Authors: Nikolić Gojko , Čubrić Goran 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to pursue the research of different types of sensors suitable for positioning edge accuracy of textile material.Design/methodology/approachA measuring device is used to install different types of sensors on the slide holders and to change their interspace as well as the space between the sensors and textile fabric.FindingsThe new measuring equipment has been established.Research limitations/implicationsOnly the results of woven fabric measurement are analyzed in this paper, while the results of knitted and nonwoven fabric measurement will be elaborated in the future papers.Originality/valueThe measuring equipment is original.
A smart sensor for compression measurement in automotive textiles
Authors: Drean Emilie , Schacher Laurence , Adolphe Dominique , Bauer François 
Published: June 2007

PurposeFor size reasons, adapted sensors, able to measure intrinsic mechanical properties of fabrics, have not been developed yet. The study aims at developing a sensor that can be inserted within a specific textile, a “complex” fabric used as seat‐cover fabrics, and consisting of an assembly of three layers.Design/methodology/approachPiezoelectric polymer sensors containing polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) were chosen. A total of 20 “complex” were studied. A characterisation in compression was achieved, using the Kawabata Evaluation System. The best‐adapted measurement method using a PVDF sensor has been required. The method consists in analyzing the response under compressive stress of a PVDF disc using the resonant frequency of the material. A constraint series is applied to the fabric in the sensor area; the maximal phase at the sensor's resonant frequency is taken up for each one.FindingsPhase variation is linear and differs according to the studied “complex”. A correlation study between Kawabata compression parameters and slopes did not show any relationship between slope values and compression properties when the surface fabrics of “complex” are compared, but a classification in “families” is possible when different foams are considered.Research limitations/implicationsFurther studies should demonstrate whether these “smart” textiles could find applications in the automotive field, to measure accurately the mass of a passenger. The influence of the external parameters (vibrations, temperature variations) has to be checked, knowing that the sensor is not depending on moisture. To complete the study, the sensor has to be tested in a real situation, i.e. inserted in a car‐seat, in contact with a human body.Originality/valueThis study promises development of a sensor that can be inserted into a specific textile, a “complex” fabric used as a seat‐cover, consisting of an assembly of three layers.
Assessing the market valuation of e‐service initiatives
Authors: Lin Jiun‐Sheng Chris , Jang Woan‐Yuh , Chen Kuan‐Jiun 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis study aims to examine how e‐service initiatives affect a firm's market valuation. To provide further insight, paper also assesses the impact of technology acquisition mode, the firm's organizational position, industry characteristics, and service introduction strategy on firm value.Design/methodology/approachUsing an event study methodology, we examined the market value of e‐service initiatives through their impact on stock returns‐investors' expectations of firm performance. Based on strategy and marketing theories, we also developed a conceptual framework to examine factors that influence firm performance and value.FindingsFindings include positive abnormal returns accompanying e‐service announcements. Regression results also show market size and firm size have negative effects on valuation while firm experience has positive effects on firm value. Whereas pioneers and late entrants have an advantage over early entrants, firms acquiring needed technology through collaborative R&D or using diversification expansion strategies experience increased returns. Results are consistent across diverse industry types.Research limitations/implicationsBased on concepts derived from extant marketing strategy and technology management research, this research provides a new perspective for examining the performance implications of e‐services introduction by developing an integrated framework that identifies a comprehensive set of factors that shape the market valuation of e‐service initiatives. Future research can further evaluate the performance effects of e‐service initiatives on other dimensions of corporate performance as well as track the performance before and after announcements to give further insight into effective corporate strategies and long‐term investigation.Practical implicationsWhen firms initiate e‐services, technology acquisition mode, organizational position, industry characteristics, and service introduction strategies affect financial performance, and therefore, should be accounted for by managers. Recognizing value drivers and their varying effects on performance can provide managers with insights into developing e‐services.Originality/valueThis study presents a framework integrating various performance‐influencing forces at work when a firm initiates e‐services. This framework helps practitioners and researchers in clarifying the importance of e‐service initiatives and the fit of such services with performance‐affecting factors.
Self‐service technology and online financial service choice
Authors: Ding Xin , Verma Rohit , Iqbal Zafar 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe application of self‐service technology in transaction‐based e‐service (e.g. online financial services) creates a challenge for firms: what combination of features should they offer to satisfy needs from different customer segments? This paper seeks to address the above question by highlighting similarities and differences of consumer preferences among self‐service, hybrid service and professional service segments for online financial services.Design/methodology/approachThis study employs a web‐based discrete choice experiment, in which 1,319 consumers were offered different account alternatives, which include features for self‐service and professional assistance, price per transaction, and promotion offers.FindingsThe results demonstrate that overall, consumer preferences for features of online financial services differ across segments. Moreover, with the variation in the strength of self‐reliance, interesting trends regarding the relative importance of features are observed. With the given customer segments, this study also identifies several demographic features with significant effects on the choice of service alternatives through a multinomial logistic model.Originality/valueThe authors believe that these results have both managerial and research implications for design and operations strategy formulation for online financial services.
Third party logistics: a literature review and research agenda
Authors: Selviaridis Konstantinos , Spring Martin 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo provide a taxonomy of third party logistics (3PL) research and, based on that, to develop a research agenda for this field of study.Design/methodology/approachThe proposed 3PL research classification framework is based on a comprehensive literature review, which concentrates on peer‐reviewed journal papers published within the period 1990‐2005. A total of 114 academic sources have been retrieved and analysed in terms of research purpose and nature, method employed, theoretical approach and level of analysis.FindingsThe review reveals that 3PL research is empirical‐descriptive in nature and that it generally lacks a theoretical foundation. Survey research is the dominant method employed, reflecting the positivist research tradition within logistics. It identifies certain knowledge gaps and develops five propositions for future research. It suggests that focus should be directed towards more normative, theory‐driven and qualitative method‐based studies. It also argues that further empirical research in relation to 3PL design/implementation and fourth party logistics services is needed.Originality/valueThis paper fulfils an identified need for a comprehensive classification framework of 3PL studies. It essentially provides both academics and practitioners with a conceptual map of existing 3PL research and also points out opportunities for future research.
Leadership as a subversive activity
Authors: MacBeath John 
Published: June 2007

PurposeLeadership is as widely used as it is misused and misunderstood. This paper seeks to argue that in an educational context it is important not only to revisit and reframe conceptions of leadership but also to see it as having an essentially subversive purpose. The paper aims to dicuss subversion in an intellectual, moral and political sense, as a sacred mission to confront the “noble lies” of politicians, the superficiality of the designer culture and the line of least resistance opted for by overworked and demoralised teachers.Design/methodology/approachThe empirical base for this paper is a seven‐country three‐years study entitled Leadership for Learning which brought together staff from 24 schools in seven countries to explore the connections between learning and leadership and to arrive at some common understanding which could be tested in practice across national and linguistic boundaries.FindingsWhile recognising the unique contexts and differing cultural traditions as diverse as those of Australia and Austria, the USA and Greece, engaging in an international discourse through face‐to‐face workshops, virtual conferencing and exchange visits led one to five key principles held in common.Originality/valueThe paper offers intriguing and insightful discussion into the subject of leadership as a subversive activity.
Towards an integration of intuitive and systematic decision making in education
Authors: Klein Joseph , Weiss Itzhak 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe literature advocates educational decision‐making processes that are either intuitive or systematic. While the two approaches seem to be incompatible, each has its merits. Intuitive thinking is considered to be holistic and creative, whereas the systematic approach has the advantages of a theoretical foundation and accuracy in data processing. The purpose of this paper is to investigate a procedure that integrates both approaches.Design/methodology/approachA total of 383 academic teachers were asked to resolve a complex educational dilemma by means of three different decision‐making procedures: intuition; a precise systematic procedure utilizing DSS software; and the Simplified Decision Process (SDP) that integrates the intuitive and systematic techniques by breaking the dilemma down into simple secondary problems that can be processed intuitively without computer assistance.FindingsThe paper finds that 52 percent of the participants utilizing SDP arrived at decisions similar to the DSS‐mediated conclusions.Originality/valueThe paper sheds light on the differential thinking patterns of decision makers, and on the cognitive potential demonstrated when SDP is employed for simplification of complex educational decisions without the pitfalls of inexact and biased judgments.