bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Order adaptive integration rule with equivalently weighted internal nodes
Authors: Ragulskis Minvydas , Ragulskis Liutauras 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo develop order adaptive integration rule without limitation requiring that the number of equally spaced nodes must be a divisible numeral. Such integration technique could be of great practical value for different engineering applications where partition adaptability is impossible and use of standard high order integration techniques is unfeasible due to the fact that a significant number of nodes at the end of the sampling sequence must be deleted until the needed divisibility of the number of nodes is achieved.Design/methodology/approachFinite element approximation is used for the subdivision of the domain of integration and the development of order adaptive integration rule.FindingsNew integration rule is developed. It has a number of interesting features. Weights of the internal nodes are equivalent and equal to one. That makes the computational implementation of the integration rule very easy. Weights not equal to one are located only at the beginning and at the end of the sequence and are symmetric. For an m‐th order rule the number of weights not equal to one is 2m if m is odd.Originality/valueFor different engineering applications where the integration order can be controlled without changing the number of nodes, especially for real time applications where the number of discrete samples is unknown before the experiment.
Masonry compression: a numerical investigation at the meso‐level
Authors: Pina‐Henriques J. , Lourenço Paulo B. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo contribute for a reliable estimation of the compressive strength of unreinforced masonry from the properties of the constituents (units and mortar).Design/methodology/approachSophisticated non‐linear continuum models, based on damage, plasticity, cracking or other formulation, are today standard in several finite element programs. The adequacy of such models to provide reliable estimates of masonry compressive strength, from the properties of the constituents, remains unresolved. The authors have shown recently that continuum models might significantly overestimate the prediction of the compressive strength. Hence, an alternative phenomenological approach developed in a discrete framework is proposed, based on attributing to masonry components a fictitious micro‐structure composed of linear elastic particles separated by non‐linear interface elements. The model is discussed in detail and a comparison with experimental results and numerical results using a standard continuum model is provided.FindingsClear advantages in terms of compressive strength and peak strain prediction were found using the particle model when compared with standard continuum models. Moreover, compressive and tensile strength values provided by the model were found to be particle size‐ and particle distortion‐independent for practical purposes. It is also noted that size‐dependent responses were obtained and that shear parameters rather than tensile parameters were found to play a major role at the meso‐level of the phenomenological model.Originality/valueThis paper provides further insight into the compressive behaviour of quasi‐brittle materials, with an emphasis on the strength prediction of masonry composites. Reliable prediction of masonry strength is of great use in the civil engineering field, allowing one to reduce experimental testing in expensive wallets and to avoid the usage of conservative empirical formulae.
Finite element solution of transient heat conduction using iterative solvers
Authors: Vujičić Mile R. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo provide an analysis of transient heat conduction, which is solved using different iterative solvers for graduate and postgraduate students (researchers) which can help them develop their own research.Design/methodology/approachThree‐dimensional transient heat conduction in homogeneous materials using different time‐stepping methods such as finite difference (Θ explicit, implicit and Crank‐Nicolson) and finite element (weighted residual and least squared) methods. Iterative solvers used in the paper are conjugate gradient (CG), preconditioned gradient, least square CG, conjugate gradient squared (CGS), preconditioned CGS, bi‐conjugate gradient (BCG), preconditioned BCG, bi‐conjugate gradient stabilized (BCGSTAB), reconditioned BCGSTAB and Gaussian elimination with incomplete Cholesky factorization.FindingsProvides information on which time‐stepping method is the most accurate, which solver is the fastest to solve a symmetric and positive system of linear matrix equations of all those considered.Practical implicationsFortran 90 code given as an abstract can be very useful for graduate and postgraduate students to develop their own code.Originality/valueThis paper offers practical help to an individual starting his/her research in the finite element technique and numerical methods.
Consumer ethnocentrism: an integrative review of its antecedents and consequences
Authors: Shankarmahesh Mahesh N. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo provide an integrative review of the antecedents and consequences of consumer ethnocentrism (CET).Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive review of works on CET to date is put forward. An integrative framework and a detailed summary table are provided.FindingsFour categories of antecedents, namely, socio‐psychological, political, economic and demographic are gathered from the literature. Direct consequences and indirect consequences through relevant mediators and moderators are identified. Future research directions are offered.Practical implicationsThe compendium of antecedents and consequences of CET can be used by international marketing managers for their segmentation and target marketing strategies.Originality/valueAs new vistas emerge for furthering international trade in goods and services, this paper provides a timely review and an integrative framework of existing research on CET, its antecedents and consequences. This paper contributes to the marketing discipline both by integrating a wide body of research on an important international marketing topic and by offering broad avenues for further research.
Customer perceptions of service dimensions: cross‐cultural analysis and perspective
Authors: Cunningham Lawrence F. , Young Clifford E. , Lee Moonkyu , Ulaga Wolfgang 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the results of a study that examined how customers in the USA, France, and Korea perceived and classified a set of 13 services based on multidimensional scaling (MDS).Design/methodology/approachA MDS framework was used to map service classifications and actual services in the USA, Korea and France. Results from each country were then compared to the other two countries to determine similarities and differences.FindingsResults from this research suggest that there are two underlying dimensions that explain approximately 80 percent of the total variance in service perceptions and classifications. Underlying dimensions of the classifications across the three cultures were virtually identical. Differences among the countries were based on relative positioning of classifications and/or services on the underlying dimensions.Research limitations/implicationsEvidence from diverse cultures implies that consumers perceive services in a somewhat simplistic, two‐dimensional fashion rather than the complex set of classifications proposed by researchers. Although the complex classifications may be of use to service providers in organizing the delivery of services, the presentation and positioning of those services is along a much simpler framework in the minds of customers.Originality/valueThis is the first time consumer‐based perceptions of services have been examined systematically across cultures using a MDS approach.
Choice of foreign market entry mode in service firms
Authors: Blomstermo Anders , Deo Sharma D. , Sallis James 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between foreign market entry modes and hard‐ and soft‐service firms. The paper investigated which foreign market entry modes service firms opt for, and if this is influenced by systematic differences between types of service industries. A secondary purpose is to test the generalizability of the research findings from manufacturing sector to service sector firms.Design/methodology/approachOur sample consisted of 140 Swedish service firms. These firms were investigated using a mailed questionnaire survey, and logistic regression analysis was used for testing the hypotheses.FindingsThe statistical analysis shows that, in general, soft‐service firms are much more likely than hard service firms to choose a high control entry mode over a low control entry mode. Furthermore, as cultural distance increases, the likelihood of this choice increases even more.Research limitations/implicationsThe implications are that while hard service suppliers can learn from the experience of manufacturing firms going abroad, soft services are unique. Given the importance for soft‐service suppliers to interact with their foreign customers, they should opt for a high degree of control over their foreign market entry mode. In future research on foreign market entry mode selection in service firms more attention should be given to social processes that exercise control.Originality/valueThe findings enhance knowledge on foreign market entry by service firms.
Extending the construct of consumer ethnocentrism: when foreign products are preferred
Authors: Gabrielle Klein Jill , Ettenson Richard , Krishnan Balaji C. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis research has the purpose of exploring whether the construct of consumer ethnocentrism extends to contexts in which foreign products are preferred to domestic products.Design/methodology/approachThe study evaluates the psychometric properties of the consumer ethnocentrism scale (CETSCALE) in the transition economies of China and Russia using both student and non‐student samples. A valid and reliable six‐item version of the CETSCALE is developed based on these samples. The refined six‐item scale is then validated through a re‐analysis of Netemeyeret al.'s data collected in four developed countries.FindingsFindings show that the scale can be used effectively in these transitional economies. A consistent pattern of support is found for the six‐item CETSCALE across eight samples from six countries.Originality/valueThe research provides practicing marketers as well as international researchers with a parsimonious six‐item CETSCALE that can be used in both developed and transition economies.
Interpersonal liking in lender‐customer relationships in the Australian banking sector
Authors: Hawke Amy , Heffernan Troy 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to focus on the critical, yet under‐researched dimension of relationship development, being interpersonal liking. Liking has been found to positively influence relationship success. However, these issues have not been extensively explored in the banking sector.Design/methodology/approachA case study methodology was adopted for this research. The unit of analysis used was the relationship dyad that exists between a business lender at a major international bank and their customer. Ten case studies were conducted with a range of techniques in an attempt to increase the reliability and validity of the findings.FindingsFindings suggest that the interplay between similarities, communication, professionalism, trust and personality are the driving forces leading to interpersonal liking in business lender‐customer relationships. Further, the outcomes of interpersonal liking emerged as increased commitment and cooperation in the relationship and a growth in business referrals for the bank lender. These findings contribute to the limited theory on interpersonal liking.Research limitations/implicationsSeveral limitations emerged due to the nature of the research undertaken. These include the examination of relationships in only one major bank in Australia and the research undertaken uses cross‐sectional not longitudinal data.Practical implicationsThese findings have implications for human resource management policies when recruiting personnel in relationship development rolls in the banking sector. Further, training programs aimed at developing interpersonal liking skills could be fashioned. Finally, dissemination of these findings in the banking sector would allow the important concept of interpersonal liking to gain more academic and practical attention.Originality/valueThis paper identifies what interpersonal liking is. Findings for three research questions are presented followed by an explanation of the methodology adopted.
Dimensions of price satisfaction: a study in the retail banking industry
Authors: Matzler Kurt , Würtele Andreas , Renzl Birgit 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the dimensionality of price satisfaction. It argues that price satisfaction is composed of several dimensions (price transparency, price‐quality ratio, relative price, price confidence, price reliability, and price fairness) and that companies should consider these dimensions when monitoring customer satisfaction.Design/methodology/approachBased on a theoretical discussion of the price dimensions, a questionnaire is developed that measures customer satisfaction with individual price dimensions. Using regression analysis the impact of price satisfaction dimensions on overall price satisfaction is measured, using a sample of 160 students.FindingsThe results show that price satisfaction can be conceptualized as a multidimensional construct and that five dimensions influence overall price satisfaction. The application of the questionnaire allows for measuring price satisfaction in firms.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper introduces price satisfaction as a multidimensional construct and the study empirically supports the hypotheses. The student sample, however, restricts generalizability and more studies are needed to test the validity and reliability of the questionnaire.Practical implicationsBased on the measurement of price satisfaction, managers are able to identify the drivers of price satisfaction, their satisfaction and relative importance in different market segments and, consequently they are able to take the right measures to increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.Originality/valueSo far price satisfaction has been treated as a one‐dimensional construct. This paper contains a theoretical argumentation for why price satisfaction should be treated as a multi‐dimensional construct consisting of several dimensions, i.e. price‐quality ratio, price fairness, price transparency, price reliability and relative price. These dimensions constitute the determinants of overall price satisfaction.
An empirical study of quality function deployment on company performance
Authors: Herrmann Andreas , Huber Frank , Algesheime René , Tomczak Torsten 
Published: July 2006

PurposeQuality function deployment (QFD) has had considerable success in terms of its implementation in companies. It has also been the subject of many studies in recent years. It seems, however, that there are some shortcomings in the research on this subject and in particular the lack of an adequate conceptual framework suitable for empirical research. The purpose of this paper is to address this issue.Design/methodology/approachThis study proposes and elaborates a model which examines QFD in relation to three dimensions of performance: improvement of product quality, reduction in costs for R&D, shorter R&D time. The model is empirically tested on data gathered on a stratified random sample of manufacturing plants through the application of valid and reliable measures. The model is tested using structural equation modeling.FindingsThe results show three distinct paths of direct influence which lead, respectively, to superior economic performance. The empirical study has shown that the success of a QFD project is mainly influenced by motivated employees in the QFD project team. A comprehensive technical support for the QFD project is also a crucial key success factor. The strict organization of the QFD project is of minor, however still remarkable importance for the success.Originality/valueThis article specifically addresses the following four questions. What are the variables which affect QFD? What are the outcomes from using QFD? What relationships exist between QFD variables and outcomes? What guidelines may be offered for managers of QFD? By answering these questions the manager will get a clear understanding of the impact of QFD on corporate success.
Suppliers, do you know your customers?
Authors: Schofield R.A. , Breen Liz 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the customer's perception of service quality within the context of the pharmaceutical supply chain, and look specifically at the supplier/customer relationship.Design/methodology/approachThe research in question focuses on the trading relationship between a pharmaceutical wholesaler and its pharmacy customers. Existing literature shows that quality of the overall service is determined by the customer's perceptions of that service; therefore it is important that the supplier measures the customer's perception of service quality and understands what factors influence that perception and build this into their service delivery. The data were collected via a series of qualitative semi‐structured interviews with hospital and retail pharmacies located in the North West of England.FindingsThe findings show that pharmacy customers have a range of vitally important to less important criteria associated with good service quality and that pharmaceutical wholesalers as suppliers should aim to excel at the vital and important issues and meet those of lesser importance to satisfy customers expectations of service quality.Research implications/limitationsThis reinforces the importance of measuring customer expectations and incorporating outputs into service design to ensure a customer focus to the service provided. Further consideration should be given to adopting the SERVQUAL tool in conducting future research and analysis.Practical implicationsSuppliers should be aware that there are vital activities that customers expect to have performed/delivered and that they need to know what these are and excel at these, whilst managing less important criteria effectively.Originality/valueThis paper provides an insight into the customer‐supplier relationship within the pharmaceutical supply chain in the NHS, which will be of benefit to practitioners and academics in this field.
Choosing a quality improvement project using the analytic hierarchy process
Authors: van de Water Henny , de Vries Jan 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to address ways in which customer satisfaction could be improved.Design/methodology/approachIn this article it is shown how the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) can be of use in making a choice between a number of alternative quality improvement projects. A case study performed in a large information technology oriented company illustrates that the model can play an important role in reaching a consensus about the ranking of quality management projects.FindingsResults of the case study suggest that the AHP can strongly contribute to a more effective way of communicating and transforming knowledge between experts from different disciplines during quality improvement projects.Originality/valueBased on this case study, it can be concluded that by means of the AHP model a rather simple method of making a decision regarding pilot projects related to quality improvement is available to companies. One final advantage of the AHP approach as experienced in the case study relates to the possibility to explore inconsistent judgements.
The evolving path of TQM: towards business excellence and stakeholder value
Authors: Mele Cristina , Colurcio Maria 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to analyze the present level of the adoption of TQM in firms, and to outline an evaluation of its evolving path.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative method was chosen to analyze the “state‐of‐the‐art” of TQM. A total of 21 firms were investigated, using the case study method, in detailed multiple case studies.FindingsIn most of the investigated firms, TQM was characterized by stronger and stronger cultural and behavioural features. The co‐ordinated and systematic development of TQM basic factors helps the priming and feeding of innovative processes favouring the course towards business excellence.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is based on a sample of firms and it is necessary to amplify the research process including other enterprises and to outline some forms of categories (with cultural and behavioural aspects).Practical implicationsIf TQM is appropriately managed, it supports the organization in achieving excellence, the real source of stakeholder value's continuous creation. In order to achieve business excellence and stakeholder value, TQM importance can be found in two main levels: developing a strategic dimension and the organizational dimension of synergies among TQM, business excellence and stakeholder value.Originality/valueThis paper provides an important contribution in the understanding of the evolution of TQM, stressing theoretical and practical implications in a new perspective. This is a composite perspective based on three elements: innovation, excellence, and value.
Quality in the games industry: an analysis of customer perceptions
Authors: Ip Barry , Jacobs Gabriel 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore, via an examination of a large number of games released in the quadrennial 2000 to 2003 for the five dominant video‐games platforms, the extent to which current product quality matches expectations.Design/methodology/approachAll games software released between 2000 and 2003 for the five dominant video‐games platforms (Playstation2, Xbox, Gamecube, Gameboy Advance, and PC) were recorded and analysed for their perceived level of quality. The games were sorted with respect to country of origin, platform, publisher, genre, and time of release with the aim of assessing possible relationships with quality.FindingsThe results are disquieting in that they suggest a threat to the long‐term prosperity of the games industry, when quality as perceived by experienced gamers and reviewers is taken into consideration.Research limitations/implicationsThe main limitation of the study is that customer perceptions in the form of review scores may be biased as a means of gauging true software quality. Further research is required to develop more stringent means of assessment for the benefit of consumers and developers.Practical implicationsThe findings represent a comprehensive reflection of the quality of software in today's games market.Originality/valueThis paper fills a sizeable gap in the area of quality analysis for interactive software, and provides an objective overview of the current state of the games market and is a useful source of information for researchers of quality assessment in the area of software and market analysis.