bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Antecedents of budgetary participation: enhancing employees' job performance
Authors: Yuen Desmond 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis study aims to investigate two antecedents to participation in budgetary activities – a need for a sense of achievement and a positive work attitude – and then to assess the impact of these two variables on job performance in the context of public‐sector organizations in Macau.Design/methodology/approachData for the study were collected by a survey questionnaire administered to a sample of 216 managers in three departments of the Macau public service.FindingsThis paper demonstrates that the two antecedent factors – a positive work attitude and a need for achievement – have a significant positive relationship with budgetary participation. It is concluded that indirect relationships exist between the two antecedent variables (work attitude and a need for achievement) and the dependent variable (job performance), with participation in budgeting as an intervening variable.Research limitations/implicationsThe results should be interpreted within the usual limitations of survey research. The participants volunteered to participate in the present study, and the sample was thus not strictly random. Because, less than 100 per cent of the questionnaires were returned, non‐response bias might exist.Practical implicationsThe results of the study have implications for the design of effective budgeting planning control process in public‐sector organizations in Macau. In providing a formal conceptual framework, the paper argues that the interactive process of budgeting systems means that individual‐level factors are crucial to the achievement of budget plans.Originality/valueThe results provide an improved understanding of the effect of individual‐level behaviour on job performance in a budgetary context on the basis of the current study's findings.
The Chinese enterprise secret: sustained advantage in labor‐intensive industries
Authors: Li Lee , Qian Gongming , Gaber Brian 
Published: June 2007

PurposeIn the past decade, Chinese enterprises have achieved superior cost advantages in the labor‐intensive industries. This paper explores the valuable resources that Chinese enterprises use to develop such advantages and the effective mechanisms they employ to sustain the advantages.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a multiple case design that allows a replication logic, in which a series of cases is treated as a series of experiments with each case serving to confirm or disconfirm the inferences that are drawn from the others. Twenty‐nine cases were collected. The data analysis consisted of three steps (1): within‐case analysis; (2) cross‐case analysis; and (3) proposition‐shaping analysis.FindingsEvidence from this study indicates that the Chinese enterprises employ a complicated multi‐step framework to develop and sustain their cost advantages. The framework consists of various resources at different levels. Resources at the same level fit, support, and reinforce each other and they work together to achieve certain competitive advantages. The advantages are not constants. They are renewed frequently, and the advantages at previous step serve as the foundation for generating the next round of advantages. The contextual and historical causality between these resources and the advantages result in their sustainability.Originality/valueThe findings of this study make contributions to the existing strategy literature on two fronts. First, the sustainability of a competitive advantage results from the contextual and historical causality between various resources in combination. Second, in addition to physical, human, and organizational resources, valuable resources may also include intangibles, such as culture, norms, large home market size, tough domestic competition, and flexible organizational structures, etc.
Social marketing: strengthening company‐customer bonds
Authors: Katsioloudes Marios , Grant Jim , McKechnie Donelda S. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis article discusses optimizing customer retention using customer relationship management (CRM) linked with social cause‐related marketing (SCRM). Establishing a socially responsible synergy between company and customer is targeted to managers seeking creative and innovative approaches that strengthen the value equation.Design/methodology/approachThe discussion focuses on the progression of CRM from early links to basic database information to its current complex form whereby customers may be outsourced if they do not meet loyalty and mutual value parameters. A ten‐question test for testing CRM strategy is included, along with the steps required for adding SCRM to the company‐customer relationship.FindingsCRM maximizes customer satisfaction while SCRM maximizes customer loyalty. Together, CRM and SCRM can optimize customer retention by sharing socially responsible activities. Tremendous goodwill with customers and in the marketplace can be generated from the synergy of CRM and SCRM.Originality/valueIncreasingly, it is the customer that is “setting the pace” in the company‐customer relationship. Implementing a SCRM strategy strengthens the business bond while facilitating the transition from the company being dominant to the customer driving the relationship process. The successful integration strategy includes: identify; integrate; switch; shift; choose; and measure.
Gaining the edge in new business development
Authors: Jackson Stuart E. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeMost managers understand that the ability of their business to out‐perform competitors and earn strong returns is greatest when they stick closely to markets that they know well and where they have all the advantages of the incumbent. But if successful strategy is all about playing to our strengths – which of course tend to concentrate in those sectors where we've been doing business successfully for years – how do we ever do anything new? How do we tap into new sources of growth while still finding competitive advantage and building value for shareholders? In this article, the author shows how business leaders can overcome this paradox.Design/methodology/approachThe article discusses diverse examples from healthcare, airlines, retailing, package delivery and jet engines.FindingsStrategic market position is a framework that enables managers to understand the range of business activities that are within bounds of where existing businesses can support competitive advantage and strong profitability.Originality/valueThe article shows how strategic market position can help uncover profitable new business growth.
The triad of paradigms in globalization, ICT, and knowledge management interplay
Authors: Mohamed Mirghani S. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe paper aims to investigate the synergetic effects of knowledge management (KM) and information and communication technologies (ICT) on globalization progression. Then the article seeks to portray how this synergy can be employed in various KM activities and processes to transubstantiate a national company into an effective boundaryless global knowledge‐based enterprise (GKBE).Design/methodology/approachThe article reviews and interprets the relevant literature on both globalization and knowledge management technology. The resultant insights are used to reveal the synergy and to develop a butterfly model that shows the interconnectedness and the domino effects of KM activities on globalization advancement.FindingsOwing to the significant differences between the national and the global knowledge‐based enterprise (GKBE) the butterfly framework has been proposed, utilizing the benefits from the synergy of the major globalization components. The call for implementing KM practices to improve globalization efficiency came as a result of the unknown parameters within the new global market competition.Practical implicationsGlobalization has become increasingly complex and challenging for many multinational companies. This article will help these companies to solve the problem using KM strategy as facilitated by ICT and human cognitive efforts. Owing to the complexity of the issue, the solution is in turn multifaceted and can only be achieved through a consistent system thinking.Originality/valueThe model presents a road‐map for multinational global operations managers and KM practitioners when developing their strategy for competitive advantage.
Cyberinfrastructure: an emerging knowledge management platform
Authors: Mohamed Mirghani S. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe paper seeks to outline the capabilities of cyberinfrastructure (CI) as a new knowledge‐sharing conduit. The article introduces CI properties and parameters that align with KM concepts and principles. It also describes the utilization of a CI framework in facilitating virtual enterprises and their communities. Finally, the article outlines the three major challenges in the way of CI deployment as a knowledge mobilization medium in the public domain.Design/methodology/approachThe article reviews extensive literature on CI from the approach of KM principles. It summarizes the relationship between CI and previous network architectures, and how that contributes to its expected dominance as a new KM platform.FindingsCI can be regarded as the architecture that narrows the historical gap between KM and the bivalent logic technologies. This can be attributed to the fact that it adds people and services to fundamental network components. However, KM practitioners must be cautious in utilizing it to deploy KM programs. This is due to the inherited binary effects, information overloading, and security issues surrounding open, inter‐operable environments.Originality/valueThis overview consists of useful information on an inventive network configuration and its appropriateness as a new KM platform.
KM: from concept to theory to practice
Authors: Kaplan William S. , Thomson Reed Anne F. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to impart how Acquisition Solutions, Inc. is moving knowledge management “from concept to theory to practice” through an ability to connect, collect, and collaborate at all levels “as part of the way we do business”. It demonstrates how the void that exists between the theories about “knowledge management” and the delivery of clear and specific knowledge management practices that “deliver on the promise of KM” is filled.Design/methodology/approachThe authors provide brief company context and the knowledge challenges faced in considering future evolution and growth, such as improving the ability to leverage the hidden value of corporate knowledge in business development and new solution creation, strengthening the ability to learn from past challenges and successes in strategic decision making and client solution delivery, and creating value from knowledge, experience, and insight held by both employees and clients. The authors discuss a Knowledge Convergence© strategy, implementing framework and model and how to integrate these into consulting operations – employing an Applied Innovation Model© to continually improve solution delivery by integrating communities of practice, attention to business practice methodologies, and the development of competencies in the workforce.FindingsThe paper presents ten learnings, including the fundamental understandings that “it is not about knowledge management, it's about knowledge leadership” as well as “capture and reuse must be part of business operations and not something extra”.Originality/valueThis paper is written for practitioners who are focused on performing and learning to improve the performance of individuals, teams, and organizations.
Printed circuit boards for lead‐free soldering: materials and failure mechanisms
Authors: Johander Per , Tegehall Per‐Erik , Ahmed Osman Abelrahim , Wetter Göran , Andersson Dag 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to evaluate the influence of previous exposure to moisture on delamination and formation of CAF (conductive anodic filament) in printed circuit boards used for lead‐free soldering.Design/methodology/approachThe moisture absorption and desorption characteristics of printed circuit boards were evaluated according to the IPC/JEDEC J‐STD‐020C standard for handling of moisture sensitive components. The CAF test was performed according to IPC‐TM‐650, Test Method 2.6.25.FindingsPrinted circuit boards used for lead‐free soldering must be treated as moisture sensitive components. Severe delamination occurred on test boards that had been exposed to JEDEC level 1 conditions prior to soldering, while no delamination was observed on boards exposed to level 3. Furthermore, previous moisture and thermal exposure had a strong influence on CAF formation. The insulation resistance dropped three decades in less than 15 h in the worst case.Research limitations/implicationsThere are considerable stresses on printed circuit boards in lead‐free soldering processes. The influence from materials and processes is very large on the CAF formation. Therefore, a useful strategy is to evaluate the CAF properties for each supplier and material.Originality/valueThe paper pin‐points previous moisture exposure as a very important factor for delamination and CAF formation and confirms that printed circuit boards must be treated as moisture sensitive components.
Selection and qualification of polymers for rigid and flexible interconnect applications
Authors: Schuessler Florian , Feldmann Klaus , Bigl Thomas 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to give an overview on the benefits and challenges of moulded interconnect devices‐technology and the use of flexible printed circuits (FPC) in electronics production.Design/methodology/approachEach process step was adapted to the boundary conditions of manufacturing three‐dimensional substrates and FPC. The substrate materials were examined under the specific requirements of electronics production with a special focus on the thermal stability of the materials and the adhesiveness of the metallization.FindingsThe use of thermoplastics as substrate materials for electronic devices offers high potential but new challenges, e.g. the higher coefficient of thermal expansion of thermoplastics, have to be taken into consideration as well. In most cases, standard machines for surface mount technology can be used with few modifications. Research has shown that even components with very fine pitches can be used successfully on alternative substrate materials.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper covers a selection of possible thermoplastic materials that can be used in electronics production. Depending on the requirements of the application and the operating environment other substrate materials open up a large variety of possible solutions.Originality/valueThe paper details the most promising thermoplastic materials for use in electronics production as rigid and FPC. Furthermore, it gives information about manufacturing guidelines for the production of three‐dimensional circuit carriers.
Principles of administration revisited
Authors: Donaldson John , Fafaliou Irene 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo explore the assumptions underlying the traditional “principles of administration” in the light of the rise of interest in corporate social responsibility, business ethics and corporate governance and to link revised principles to practical stakeholder models, using, for example, modern communications media.Design/methodology/approachUsing concepts of “fit” between traditional administrative principles and common problems of business administration, such as those identified in the corporate social responsibility, business ethics and corporate governance literature, the approach is to locate principles on which sound administration and “proper” expectations of stakeholders can be adjusted acceptably.FindingsTraditional lists of principles can be fruitfully replaced by methods for identifying and meeting the aspirations of stakeholders, within agreed principles, which may vary, depending on the level of generality and on circumstances.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper is based on observation and conceptual analysis. Developments appear to depend on willingness to replace codes and practices that are devised from the top and imposed on others by ones that are responsive to stakeholders.Practical implicationsResponsive codes imply a need to respond in a principled way to differing aspirations, and a willingness to use modern digital media to identify the aspirations accurately.Originality/valueTraditional principles of administration are essentially principles for administering the internal labour market in large organisations. The proposed approach broadens the range of application and offers practical ways forward.
Veblen on globalization: further clarification
Authors: Leathers Charles G. , Patrick Raines J. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is further clarify Veblen's views on globalization with insights derived from international trade in the alternative socio‐economic order envisioned in Bellamy's utopian novel Looking Backward.Design/methodology/approachAfter reviewing the intellectual relationship between Veblen and Bellamy, the approach of the paper is to examine how international trade was arranged in Bellamy's utopian economy.FindingsBellamy's envisioned system of global trade based on providing maximum supplies of goods and services needed for high standards of living for all would be very compatible with Veblen's views on globalization.Practical implicationsThe real world implications are the need for innovative institutional reforms to facilitate maximizing the potential gains from an ever expanding industrial system in a manner that that assures equitable distributions of the gains and adequate compensation for those negatively affected. On a practical basis, Veblen saw free trade under conditions of competitive markets as an improvement in that direction.Originality/valueThe paper offers points of interest to all who recognize that economic and political institutions are constantly under pressure to change to accommodate the ever expanding and changing global industrial system.
Understanding the success factors of micro‐finance institution in a developing country
Authors: Hartungi Rusdy 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo provide a deep understanding of success factors contributing to a micro‐finance institution (MFI) in a developing country, e.g. Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) and how MFI in developing country might learn from this success.Design/methodology/approachThis is a case study research which took place at BRI branches as well as its village units (unit desa). Data were gathered from both sides, e.g. from BRI and borrowers. The interviews, raging from in depth interviews to semi‐structured interviews, were conducted in Jakarta and some rural cities mainly in Java and South Sulawesi between August and September 2003.FindingsFactor contributing to the success of BRI lay on the decision to keep adapting its practice with environmental changing. Also BRI is very innovative in choosing collaterals so in one hand, the credit is still interesting for lower class community, but at the same time they work as compensation in case the clients fail to repay their credit and thus ensuring the sustainability of the MFI. Well‐trained and dedicated staffs operating a simple, transparent system, clear incentives to staffs and clients, tight internal supervision and audit capacities and financial procedures and sound financial risk management contributes to its success as well.Research limitations/implicationsThe case study took place in a developing country, in Indonesia. Given that any developing country has unique environment and circumstances, this success model will not automatically transferable to any MFI in other developing countries. Any further research is needed to transfer BRI success elsewhere.Practical implicationsA useful lesson learnt for national/international development agent which wants to set up a sustainable MFI to assist the poor and alleviating poverty.Originality/valueThis is the first time that the investigation also took place on BRI village units in South Sulawesi, one of the most successful operational area of BRI village units. Thus, the implication of this research is true reflection of the success of BRI village units.
Karl Marx and Milton Friedman: bedfellows in thought
Authors: Wellington Donald C. , Zandvakili Sourushe 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe paper aims to offer a viewpoint that economic surplus is a notion shared by economists as diverse as Karl Marx and Milton Friedman.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is an interpretation and critique of the literature of the work by Marx and Friedman.FindingsThe paper finds the two men's respective writings bear out the commonality while recognizing that they drew radically different implications from their common perception. Elucidating the commonality is a worthwhile exercise even though the elucidation might not interest the broad range of economists.Originality/valueThe paper expresses a viewpoint that economic surplus is a notion shared by diverse economists.
Rent‐seeking and economic valuation of environmental quality
Authors: Handy Femida , Gleason Joyce 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe paper seeks to address conceptually the issue of monetary valuations of environmental intangibles.Design/methodology/approachThe paper offers an innovative approach based on the rent‐seeking behaviour of individuals, as seen in lobbying for environmental goods. As an alternative to the contingent valuation method, which relies largely on willingness‐to‐pay disclosures in hypothetical situations, this approach depends on actual payments made by individuals in real situations. If individuals are willing to spend scarce resources to obtain an environmental good, then the total expenditures incurred provide an estimate of the value of that environmental good.FindingsThe estimates provide a lower bound of value of certain environmental goods. The rent‐seeking approach gives a different and more direct way to determine the value of environmental public goods.Originality/valueThe paper considers the free‐rider problem and other issues arising from the voluntary nature of public good rent‐seeking activity.
Person: an economic agent for the electronic age
Authors: O'Boyle Edward J. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo demonstrate that person and the philosophy of personalism are more relevant to contemporary economic affairs than individual and the philosophy of individualism.Design/methodology/approachThis paper addresses two tasks. First, it provides a sketch of what it means to approach economic affairs from the perspective of person and personalism versus individual and individualism. Second, it traces the origins of personalist economics to Aristotle, Aquinas, and Smith, shows why personalist economics departs from mainstream economics, and how it is linked to Weber and Walras principally through Schumpeter.FindingsThis paper provides a schematic showing that personalist economics originates with Aristotle, Aquinas, and Smith without embracing the individualism of the Enlightenment and a timeline that connects the three stages of human communication – oral/aural, script, and electronic – to the evolution of economics since the Enlightenment.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper challenges mainstream economics to consider the adequacy of individual/individualism in an age where it is self‐evident that human beings are not autonomous individuals.Practical implicationsThe individual as the basic unit of economic analysis is a creature born of the individualism of the script stage. The person as the basic unit of economic analysis was born of the personalism of the electronic stage and, therefore, is much better suited to economic analysis in an age of economic globalization.Originality/valueThe integration of work on human communication with the way in which economists should be thinking about contemporary economic affairs.