bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Resource margin accounting: an elucidation and preliminary empirical testing
Authors: Johnson Peter , Thomas Howard 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to describe “resource margin accounting” (RMA) as a valuation framework in strategic analysis.Design/methodology/approachThe paper defines RMA as an improved framework for valuation in competitive strategy, relative to existing value‐added and cash flow methods. The framework was tested on a sample of 300 US manufacturing companies between 1983 and 1998.FindingsThe paper finds that the resource margin approach has greater explanatory power than traditional market‐to‐book valuation measures.Practical implicationsThe resource margin approach is methodologically and empirically superior to economic value‐added (EVA) and cash flow models of valuation.Originality/valueThe paper presents and tests a new valuation method: RMA.
Knowledge as a lens on the jigsaw puzzle of strategy
Authors: McGee John , Thomas Howard 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how to incorporate knowledge concepts into analytical models of strategy formulation and the strategic theory of the firm.Design/methodology/approachThe paper examines four different perspectives of the elusive concept of “knowledge”, namely, “knowledge as assets”, “knowledge through innovation”, “knowledge embedded in routines” and “knowledge through learning”. The study attempts to specify and interrelate the concepts of a knowledge‐based strategic theory of the firm.FindingsThe “knowledge web” is seen as a partial framework, capturing from a strategic perspective how both specific and organisational knowledge build the competences necessary for the value‐creating activities of the firm.Practical implicationsThe paper provides frameworks for understanding how knowledge can reinforce the strategic core competences of the firm.Originality/valueThe paper addresses knowledge as a key element in the development of an enhanced strategic theory of the firm, incorporating the knowledge‐based viewpoint.
Improvement‐led home maintenance strategies and quality expectations
Authors: Kangwa Joseph , Olubodun Femi 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to explore the satisfaction rating associated with the repair and maintenance of 34 most occurring house defects remedied by owner‐occupiers selected from a stratified random sample.Design/methodology/approachThe study targeted over 1,200 owner‐occupiers from 12 local authority wards; these were identified on the basis of the Ward Index of Multiple Deprivation. The sample also included some neighbourhoods recently designated for improvement under the Urban Renewal's Single Regeneration Budget initiative within the Northwest of England.FindingsThrough the use of nonparametric statistical techniques, the paper argues that owner‐occupiers' expectation of the quality of maintenance works is a derivative dichotomy of unrelated decision constructs: on the one hand is the prior knowledge of the severity of house defects which, in turn, impacts on the follow‐on repair strategies and maintenance quality expectations. On the other hand are the projected improvements as perceived in terms of the added value to a dwelling vis‐à‐vis the principal methods of remediation enshrined within the broader renewal initiatives.Originality/valueOverall, the results suggest that expectations on maintenance quality ought to be defined as owner‐occupiers' perception of desired standard of work relative to the projected market value of their property. The study further concludes that, when all the notable variations in the satisfaction rating on follow‐on maintenance strategies and expectations are considered together, it is the perceived increase in the value of a property – following improvement works under the urban renewal programme – that stands out as the main influencing criterion.
Aspects of valuation practice in Central and Eastern European economies
Authors: Mansfield John R. , Royston Paul J. 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to provide a detailed overview of the structure of professional valuation practice in the three countries that acceded to the European Union in May 2004 – the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland. Specifically, it examines the relationship between the bases of valuation and their relationship to external changes in the regulatory systems.Design/methodology/approachBased on a critical review of the existing literature, empirical information was obtained through structured interviews with practitioners in the three countries.FindingsThe paper highlights the potential problems that investors can face when commissioning valuations that may not accord with internationally recognised definitions of “market value”. There is a recognised need for consistency and universality in the application of adopted valuation practices.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is the first phase of a longer programme.Originality/valueThe paper presents recent evidence of market practice and could inform potential investors or their advisors.
On the modeling of large ratcheting strains with large time increments
Authors: Johansson Göran , Ekh Magnus 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to speed up finite element analyses of structures with a highly nonlinear material response subjected to many loading cycles.Design/methodology/approachAn approach where large time increments are taken in an adaptive fashion is presented. The size of the large time increments typically spans several loading cycles and is based on Taylor series expansions of the response combined with error control.FindingsThe suggested adaptive algorithm is simple compared with some well‐known alternatives in the literature. It also has the inherent convergence property that it reduces to the classical time incrementation in the case where the estimated error is too large.Research limitations/implicationsThe algorithm is suitable for (restricted to) a special class of problems where the material response versus a representative time sequence are smooth curves. The simplicity of the method results in a robust algorithm.Originality/valueSimilar algorithms have been presented earlier in the literature but the present work introduces some enhancements, e.g. accounting for general internal variables also in the error estimate. In addition, the present work considers a more complex constitutive model compared with earlier work within the research field.
Concept maps as a strategy to convert knowledge in knowledge management
Authors: Henao‐Cálad Mónica , Pía Arango‐Fonnegra María 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the applicability of using concept maps in organizations where knowledge management is the goal.Design/methodology/approachBased on the principles stated by Nonaka and Takeuchi about knowledge creation and conversion and on the work by Novak and Gowin on concept maps, the core idea is to present the use of concept maps as a technique that facilitates, in some cases, and supports, in others, the realization of the following knowledge conversion operations: socialization, exteriorization, combination and internalization. These are the operations that, according to Nonaka and Takeuchi (1999), allow for the transformation of individual knowledge into collective knowledge and vice versa. Furthermore, it aims to answer the question of how to support the process of knowledge management in an organization through the use of a software application like CmapTools.FindingsThis paper shows that knowledge evolves through various stages, with particular characteristics that need to be acknowledged in order to be managed properly.Originality/valueThe technique of employing concept maps is appropriate to sponsor and facilitate the transitions among these stages of knowledge. It even allows for the preservation of the valuable knowledge of a person through the management of individual knowledge or the knowledge of a group of persons in an organization. This, in turn, promotes knowledge management in the enterprise itself.
Buyer‐seller relationship development episodes: theories and methods
Authors: Schurr Paul H. 
Published: April 2007

PurposeFor the benefit of those who want to address gaps in our understanding of business relationships, this paper seeks to conceptually frame investigation into critical interaction episodes that fundamentally strengthen or fatally weaken relationship development. It also considers the importance of non‐critical episodes in business relationships. Particular attention is paid to the enduring yet frequently modified critical incident technique associated with Flanagan.Design/methodology/approachEpisode relationship theory, the qualitative/quantitative debate, and the critical incident technique (CIT) literature are selectively reviewed and critically assessed.FindingsFirst, because business relationships tend to persist, episode research must advance beyond relationship dissolution studies and progress into investigations of how different types of interactions change relationships. New types of episodes need to be studied, such as the generative, degenerative, and neutral episodes discussed here. Also, functionally distinct characteristic and non‐critical episodes are conceptualized. Second, the methods review suggests that useful qualitative methods deserve more attention. Third, though CIT research is prevalent in the marketing literature, it is at present incompletely adapted to business marketing research and needs development along the lines suggested in this article.Originality/valueThe interaction perspective on business relationships is given a dynamic framework at the interaction episode level while keeping the connection to the more macro relationship development models that conceptualize relationship states and processes.
Electronics industry drivers of intermediation and disintermediation
Authors: Shunk Dan L. , Carter Joseph R. , Hovis John , Talwar Aditya 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to summarize the current thinking on intermediation and disintermediation, extract candidate drivers for this cycle, capture the expert opinions on what is driving the cycle and determine the quantitative and qualitative conclusions related to the electronics industry supply network integration and requirements for its success.Design/methodology/approachA series of one‐on‐one expert interviews were conducted to establish the validity of the initial list of drivers and to add to this list based upon their expert knowledge. A web‐based survey followed with the purpose of validating the final dimensions list and assessing the various alternative value propositions that intermediaries should be considering. Finally, a Delphi exercise concluded this research thrust by convening experts in the electronics supply network for a one‐day review of the results and a distillation of the results into expert forecasts of directions and trends.FindingsAny supply chain intermediary must achieve “Operational Excellence” in their chosen field of endeavor for them to remain competitive in the electronics industry. But this condition is a necessary but not sufficient predictor of business success. The intermediary service “Bundles” bring more value than individual cash flow, material flow, information flow or knowledge flow alone. And unbundling one flow from the others does not seem to provide a successful disintermediation platform.Practical implicationsThe paper provides electronics industry firms an assessment of the fundamental conclusions that must be addressed for this industry to better withstand another industry downturn than it did in the previous recessionary period (2001‐2002).Originality/valueThis paper documents the first triangulated research project where knowledgeable experts within the electronics industry supply network were polled to determine the fundamental drivers for the intermediation/disintermediation cycle present in the electronics industry today.
Internet archaeology: uncovering pension sector web site evolution
Authors: Waite Kathryn , Harrison Tina 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe paper has two objectives. First, it seeks to present a procedure for exploring web site development using the Internet archive (www.archive.org). Second, it aims to test the assumption that over time a progression in web site numbers and interactivity is visible within an industry sector.Design/methodology/approachThe Internet archive was used to view web site activity from 1998‐2004 for 21 randomly selected organisations generating a final sample of 106 web sites. Content analysis was used to gather information on web site numbers and functionality. Web sites were evaluated using existing models of web site evolution adapted for the financial services sector.FindingsThis paper produces meaningful data on patterns of web site development. Results indicate that UK pension provider web sites have increased in sophistication but remain underdeveloped.Research limitations/implicationsIn this paper there is no qualitative web site assessment and thus no information on web site quality. This method is recommended as a starting point for a wider enquiry due to the incompleteness of some archived records.Practical implicationsThe paper shows that for practitioners, a methodology for mapping the configuration and evolution of sector web sites will assist in developing Internet marketing strategy. For academics, awareness of web site evolution patterns will inform Internet research. For the pension sector this identification of unrealised cost‐efficiencies from developing online payment and processing functionality highlights a competitive opportunity.Originality/valueConsiderable commentary exists on paths of Internet development but there is little longitudinal research into patterns of web site change, this research addresses this gap. This paper is a novel approach to web site metrics that allows both practitioners and academics to trace changes in the Internet landscape.
Rapid prototyping driven design and realisation of large components
Authors: Dimitrov D. , Schreve K. , Taylor A. , Vincent B. 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the use of three‐dimensional printing (3DP) process as a base technology for rapid manufacturing of components, larger than the machine's build volume. This extends the 3DP applications field beyond its existing domain. The paper gives process chains and design for manufacturing and assembly guidelines.Design/methodology/approachSeveral parameters influencing the process chains are identified and their interrelations investigated. Based on this study, new process chains are developed for specific functional and material requirements. The new process chains are validated with several case studies. Where applicable, the process chains are compared qualitatively with existing methods.FindingsThe results show that the new process chains are as fast as or faster than existing methods and have similar accuracy. The most significant advantage is a more geometric freedom. There is also more opportunity for checking physical models before making the final part. Some limitations to the processes are identified and given as design guidelines.Research limitations/implicationsA quantitative comparison of existing methods with the new process was not possible.Practical implicationsThe study provides useful design for manufacturing guidelines.Originality/valueThis paper shows how 3DP technology, originally only conceived as a concept modeller, can be used to manufacture components that are larger than the rapid prototyping machine's build volume. It gives guidelines for designers wishing to follow a similar route.
Stereolithography mold life extension using gas‐assisted injection
Authors: Nambiar R.V. , Lee K.H. , Nagarajan D. 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this work is to extend the life of plastic injection molds made by stereolithography through the use of gas‐assist technology.Design/methodology/approachPolypropylene parts were made by injection molding in stereolithography molds with and without gas‐assist technology. The mold life was evaluated by observing the number of parts produced before the breakage of each of small core pins and the ejection force was measured.FindingsWhen using gas‐assisted injection molding (GAIM), the core pin life was approximately doubled, the average cavity pressure and the average mold temperature were reduced, and there was a three‐fold increase in ejection force. Also, the core pin location had a very dramatic effect on the life.Research limitations/implicationsThis study suggests research into understanding the relationship between ejection force and mold failure, testing the mechanical properties of the parts and identifying reliable design rules for parts produced by GAIM. Research into other low pressure injection techniques and the viability of using a wider set of polymer materials also appears promising.Practical implicationsThe result of this research encourages molders who have abandoned the use of stereolithography tools after a few unsuccessful attempts to consider using GAIM with stereolithography molds.Originality/valueThis is a novel use of GAIM technology to extend the lives of molds fabricated by stereolithography.
Sustainability for the Americas: building the American network of sustainability consortia
Authors: Motloch John , Pacheco Pedro , Vann John 
Published: April 2007

PurposeTo build awareness of an emergent global network of sustainability consortia, the network's Sustainability for the Americas (SFTA) regional cluster, its pilot US‐Brazil Sustainability Consortium (USBSC), its subsequent North American Sustainability, Housing and Community Consortium (NASHCC), the process through which these consortia are emerging and evolving to sustained implementation, planned parallel academic and project funding tracks, and models, tools and techniques used for knowledge transfer. To build awareness of an emergent global sustainability network of multi‐national consortia of universities and non‐institutional partners created to promote sustainability and innovation that connects people, ideas, and resources for a sustainable future; and to invite people interested in multi‐national partnering to enter into a dialogue that can lead to emergence of a multi‐national consortium.Design/methodology/approachThe paper establishes the need for key universities to lead society to a sustainable future. It builds understanding of the role of international partnering, global networking, global media networking, multi‐sector partnering, and sustainability consortia in this leadership. It identifies efforts of the Land Design Institute (LDI) at Ball State University and key partners to facilitate emergence of a global network of sustainability consortia. It reviews the model through which these consortia are emerging and evolving to sustained implementation, including the model's parallel academic and project funding streams. It focuses on the SFTA initiative, including its pilot consortium, as a case‐study in phased emergence and evolution to sustained implementation of these consortia. It presents the consortia model for integrating internal and external knowledge networks; and processes, tools, and techniques used by consortia to lead society to a sustainable future. It reviews the model's nested curricula and international collaborative partnership approach to building sustainability leadership. It builds on experiences to date in this pilot consortium to make suggestions for future consortia.FindingsPaper findings include the relative ease of consortium emergence, seeding, implementation start‐up, and acquiring academic funding; relative difficulty of achieving sustained implementation and project funding; increased awareness of the need for project seeding; and a new understanding of the catalytic benefits of consortia, including increased faculty interaction, development, and productivity including professional papers, journal articles, and proposals for external funding.Originality/valueThe paper fulfills the need for effective models, processes, tools and techniques for international partnering to lead society to a sustainable future.
Developing local talent in international subsidiaries: the importance of trust and respect in Toyota
Authors: Petison Phallapa , Johri Lalit M. 
Published: April 2007

PurposeTo analyze the challenges and solutions in developing local employees for managing subsidiaries – the implementation of Thainization philosophy at Toyota Motor Thailand (TMT).Design/methodology/approachIn‐depth interviews were conducted with Thai and Japanese employees, and Imai Hiroshi, one of the architects of Thainization philosophy.FindingsFor successful implementataion of Thainization philosophy in TMT, the management had to demonstrate respect for local employees and build trust between Thai and Japanese employees. Once the employees related to each other on the basis of mutual respect and trust, it was relatively easy to collaborate and find solutions.Practical implicationsCEOs of multi‐national companies, particularly Asian subsidiaries, can learn how to cope with challenges in developing local employees, building their technical and managerial capabilities.Originality/valueMany international companies are struggling with the important issue of building capabilities of local employees for leveraging their global competitiveness. The successful implementation of Thainization philosophy of TMT offers a major breakthrough in this direction.
Role‐playing: a learning process to aid supply chain integration
Authors: Clements Michael D.J. 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis paper introduces an alternative use of an existing learning mechanism to aid in gaining acceptance of others' roles within a supply chain. This view places an emphasis on role‐playing as a means to improve supply chain integration.Design/methodology/approachThis paper is conceptual and introduces a learning technique to enable both “hard” and “soft” systems orientated participants to be better understood between chain partners.FindingsThe findings presented in this paper are conceptual. However, the technique offered has partially proven success in other management scenarios and yet to be tested in supply chain management.Practical implicationsBy embracing role‐playing, practitioners have opportunities to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation about other roles that participate in the same supply chain as themselves, creating an opportunity for enhanced integration between roles within their supply chain.Originality/valueThe value of this paper is to invite the reader to consider role‐playing as a mechanism to encourage and educate supply chain participants in the roles of others who participant in the same chain from another perspective. This learning technique will contribute towards integration internally between functions of the organization and in an inter‐organizational capacity along the supply chain.
A learning partnership between L&D and the business: the case of “AXA Academy”
Authors: Brandon Tracey 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis article describes a strategic Learning & Development (L&D) initiative that has begun in the UK giving the “story so far” on how the approach has been radically altered.Design/methodology/approachThe paper details the setting up of the AXA Academy. This model was driven by one of our strategic objectives to enable us to be an employer of choice and develop our staff to a more consistent standard.FindingsLessons learned so far include: team members need to be available, for approximately two or three days a month to ensure that the project gets speedily off the ground; and the members of the project teams need to be fully motivated and self starters.Originality/valueIn the financial protection and wealth management industry, there is a real need for consistency in approach and outcomes and the Academy will deliver this.