bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Knowing: how we know is as important as what we know
Authors: Mitroff Ian I. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to show that more than ever than ever, businesses need to understand the nature of different concepts of knowledge and methods for producing them.Design/methodology/approachUtilizing the philosophy of inquiry, the extreme importance and relevance of applied epistemology (theories of knowledge/inquiry) for business is demonstrated. It introduces and briefly explains five archetypal inquiry systems from Western philosophy. Each system defines “truth” and “knowledge” in completely different ways.FindingsThe paper shows the strengths and the limitations of each system for “knowledge”, and especially for doing business in the systems age.Originality/valueThe philosophy of inquiry has been greatly underutilized, even ignored, in schools of business. This paper attempts to correct this.
Living in the present
Authors: Marren Patrick 
Published: May 2008

PurposeAn article “from the future” illustrating the trend away from serious strategy and planning in American companies.Design/methodology/approachMaking use of previous learning and work with numerous clients to illuminate certain aspects of the context within which business strategy is formulated.FindingsFewer and fewer corporations are engaging in serious long‐range planning efforts. Wall Street's short‐term focus and incursion upon CEO prerogatives may be one reason.Originality/valueExpresses ideas in a way that the author hopes they have not been expressed before.
Synchronization: moving beyond re‐engineering
Authors: Kambil Ajit 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe re‐engineering movement focused on obliterating functional silos and creating processes. As processes become more prevalent, today's challenge is to overcome process silos and synchronize them within and across companies. This paper lays out the key drivers of synchronization challenges and many responses to address them.Design/methodology/approachThe article defines synchronization and uses examples to articulate its impact on businesses. It then identifies six key drivers of synchronization failure: uncertainty, ambiguity, complexity, volatility, urgency, and differing agency incentives across processes. The article then outlines strategies for responding to these shortcomings and examples of organizations that derive competitive advantages from synchronization.FindingsThe article presents five steps to improving synchronization within an organization: identify key synchronization opportunities; identify responses to the opportunities; stimulate, evaluate and examine interdependencies; execute select initiatives; and evaluate and iterate.Originality/valueSynchronization is difficult, and firms who successfully synchronize key processes are likely to have advantages that are difficult to replicate. As we enter an economic slowdown in the United States, managers may discover that improving synchronization will be a better strategic move than simply cutting costs.
Realization problem for positive 2D hybrid systems
Authors: Kaczorek Tadeusz 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe paper aims to formulate and solve the realization problem for 2D positive multi‐input multi‐output linear hybrid systems.Design/methodology/approachA procedure is proposed for finding a positive 2D realization of a given proper transfer matrix.FindingsSufficient conditions for the existence of a positive 2D realization of a given proper transfer matrix are established.Originality/valueA method for computation of a positive 2D realization of a given proper transfer matrix is proposed.
The challenges of tracking and protecting data
Authors: Rudall B.H. , Mann C.J.H. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to review current research and developments with particular reference to some of the challenges of tracking and protecting data when innovative methods of capture and processing are used. Some ethical issues are considered.Design/methodology/approachA general review and survey of selected research and development topics.FindingsIllustrates the multi‐ and trans‐disciplinary natures of studies in cybernetics, systems and management science with a view to further research and development activity.Practical implicationsThe choice of reviews provides the awareness of current trends in these areas, of research and application.Originality/valueThe reviews are selected from global database and give a studied assessment of current research and development initiatives.
Descriptive definitions of potential and actual infinities
Authors: Zhu Wujia , Lin Yi , Gong Ningsheng , Du Guoping 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe paper's purpose is to analyze the concepts of potential and actual infinities.Design/methodology/approachThe exploration and research on potential and actual infinities generally touch on many disciplines, such as philosophy, logic, computer science, mathematics, etc. From the angle of a brief history, recall and development, the authors analyze the concepts of potential and actual infinities on one starting point and two locations to cut in.FindingsClarify the difference and connection of these two infinities on the level of mathematics and introduce the symbolized, descriptive definitions for potential and actual infinities.Originality/valueIt is the first time that the difference between the concepts of potential and actual infinities are clarified, which leads to the discovery of the fourth crisis in the foundations of mathematics.
Promoting Success: Mentoring Students with Disabilities Using New Technologies in Higher Education
Authors: Khalil Mounir A. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to investigate the traditional mentoring practices of mentors and protégés.Design/methodology/approachAs a matter of fact students with disabilities, as a group, have the lowest participation in postsecondary education programs and the highest unemployment rates. Effective mentoring programs can change these outcomes. These students need knowledgeable mentors who are familiar with technology and disabilities to help them in their fields of education. Access to technology and emphasis on using the technologies for mentors will be discussed.FindingsTraditional in‐person mentoring is problematic because of transportation problems with appointment or location. In addition, mentors can help their protégés explore career options, set academic and career goals develop social and professional contacts, identify resources, and strengthen interpersonal skills. Using technology between mentors and protégés makes it easy to exchange information at anytime from anywhere.Practical implicationsThe paper discusses in detail two widely used e‐mentoring programs. The first program is DO‐IT, a program which is sponsored by the University of Washington and the second program is MentorNet, which deals with mentoring and increasing diversity in the engineering and science fields.Originality/valueAs one writer stated: “mentoring is a win‐win situation”. This article describes the need for intervention, mentoring and retention of students with disabilities in Higher Education.
Marketing services more effectively with neuromarketing research: a look into the future
Authors: Fugate Douglas L. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to alert services marketers that a new methodology exists for researching many of the components of the consumer decision making process.Design/methodology/approachThis methodology involves the use of real‐time measurements of neural (brain) activity associated with the presentation of various marketing stimuli. Instead of relying on traditional inferential associations to explain consumer behavior, this approach provides direct correlational associations.FindingsThe ability to examine what specific brain function or functions are activated during various stages of the consumer's decision‐making process should help service marketers improve their efficiency and effectiveness. While neuromarketing has applications to all forms of product marketing, it is of particular interest to services marketers because of the intangible nature of services; thus making conventional research more difficult and speculative.Research limitations/implicationsInformation for this paper was gathered from a variety of literature resources because the use of neural imaging has been used in many different physical and social sciences such as medicine, economics, political science, marketing, and psychology. While a few specific examples of using neuromarketing for the marketing of services exist, most are proprietary. This limits the generalizability of this paper currently but hopefully does not diminish interest in an area of research that has great potential for helping to answer many difficult questions.Originality/valueServices marketers are encouraged to follow the technique as it evolves from medical procedure to marketing procedure.
An examination of consumer price cue usage in US discount formats
Authors: Moore Marguerite , Carpenter Jason M. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeAs retailers in the discount sector proliferate into US retail markets their presence poses competitive challenges for all types of formats that vie for the same target consumer. Practitioners and academics traditionally characterize the discount consumer as one who seeks low‐cost goods and broad assortments. Yet, as US discounters have begun to differentiate their retail offerings, consumers appear to be responding to these initiatives, suggesting that they may seek value beyond low price in this context. The purpose of this paper is to identify the price cues used by consumers in the discount environment, segment these consumers based on their price cue usage, and describe the price segments in terms of store choice and demographics.Design/methodology/approachA telephone survey was used to gather a nation‐wide sample of US discount format shoppers (n=354). Confirmatory factor analysis is used to evaluate the price cue measures and K‐means cluster analysis is used to identify unique price cue segments. χ2, analysis of variance and descriptive statistics are used to describe the price cue segments.FindingsFour shopper segments are identified with distinct operations of the price cue, suggesting that discount shoppers seek more than low price in the discount environment. Differences in segments in terms of store choice, income and age emerge from the data.Originality/valueThe study provides understanding of the manner in which consumers perceive and act upon price, beyond low‐price and value, in the discount sector. The results suggest that popular wisdom regarding price and the US discount shopper is oversimplified, which may portend even greater opportunity for discounters and threat to their intra‐type competitors.
Tourism in Niagara: identifying challenges and finding solutions
Authors: Jayawardena Chandana 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a relevant backdrop for the Worldwide Hospitality snd Tourism Themes (WHATT) theme issue on tourism challenges and solution in the Niagara region, and to present the key points discussed during the 2007 WHATT roundtable discussion in the Niagara region, Canada.Design/methodology/approachThe approach of this paper is more a narrative one. It also draws data from a series of web sites to analyse the past and present performance of tourism.FindingsThis paper provides a historic perspective of the Niagara region and presented in the context of tourism in the world, Americas, Canada, and Ontario. Then it travels back to explain the origins of WHATT and its scholarly journey over the years. In capturing the essence of the 2007 WHATT roundtable discussion in Niagara, the paper provides a strong foundation for the other nine articles, which follow in this WHATT theme issue.Originality/valueIn a world of theories, this paper provides fresh perspectives on many relevant ideas by using original expert views. Readers who are interested in the Niagara region would benefit from this paper.
SARS: lessons in strategic planning for hoteliers and destination marketers
Authors: Johnson Tew Paula , Lu Zhen , Tolomiczenko George , Gellatly Joanne 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review the impact that the 2003 SARS epidemic had on tourism and summarize the lessons that were learned from this crisis. To offer both practical and strategic tips for hoteliers and destination marketers in the Niagara region should a similar crisis affect this region.Design/methodology/approachFindings were derived from the analysis of both secondary and primary data. The popular press and academic journals as well as reports, briefs, and presentations were analyzed. A questionnaire was designed to investigate the impact of SARS, management during the crisis, recovery strategies, and formal planning.FindingsProvides information on how industry dealt with a major, extended crisis. Recognizes the importance of an integrated strategy for dealing with a crisis.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper concentrates on the effects of an epidemic in two large North American cities. The strategic and practical tips may not be suitable in other jurisdictions.Practical implicationsThis paper provides information on how the tourism industry can prepare itself for a crisis or disaster and describes how all stakeholders must work together to better deal with the effects of a crisis.Originality/valueThis paper summarizes the effects that SARS had on the tourism industry and offers practical and strategic tips for preparing for and managing crises.
The phases and paradoxes of educational quality assurance
Authors: Tee Ng Pak 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to highlight three important insights into educational quality assurance, using Singapore as a case study. It is useful to policy makers and practitioners to understand the phases and paradoxes in their educational quality assurance journey so that they may recognise and manage better the complex dynamics of quality assurance in education.Design/methodology/approachThis paper utilises a phase model to analyse the development of quality assurance and the challenges and paradoxes involved. This phase model is a framework of analysis of the quality assurance dynamics of primary and secondary education in Singapore with the following phases: standardisation; local accountability; and diversity and innovationFindingsThe paper finds that: quality assurance develops in phases, each with its own characteristics and challenges; quality assurance changes the nature of education; quality assurance is a paradoxical journey.Practical implicationsThe Singapore case study serves as a mirror to other developing countries in recognising and managing the delicate dynamics of quality assurance.Originality/valueThe paper illustrates the phase model of educational quality assurance in Singapore and the analysis of the delicate balancing act between conformity and diversity, and between standards and innovation.
International and product diversification
Authors: Callaway Stephen K. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to investigate how e‐commerce may influence international and product diversification.Design/methodology/approachThe current study elaborates the importance of resource‐based and resource dependence theory to illustrate how internal and external resources may enable firms to diversify. Prior studies on resource‐based theory, resource dependence theory, international diversification, product diversification, and IT capabilities have been presented to show gaps in the literature and identify avenues for future research.FindingsThis paper has established a theoretical perspective on the importance of external resources or infrastructure, as well as firm‐specific capabilities, on encouraging product and international diversification. A model has been developed and propositions given.Research limitations/implicationsFuture studies on this topic will need to empirically test the model given in this paper, in order to manage all of the interconnected variables and mediators developed in this study.Practical implicationsUtilization of the internet may provide a means for firms to offer “one‐stop shopping” for customers, and may even encourage firms to diversify internationally. Furthermore, important firm‐specific IT capabilities of financial services firms may be extended geographically and by product line, and combined with utilization of the internet, may improve firm performance.Originality/valueThis study compares and contrasts the role of internal and external resources, and assesses whether they will demonstrate a greater effect upon international or product diversification.
Entrepreneurial learning in the context of portfolio entrepreneurship
Authors: Huovinen Jari , Tihula Sanna 
Published: May 2008

PurposePrevious research has predominantly focused on the meaning of prior entrepreneurial experience in the context of habitual entrepreneurship. To date, however, little is known about how previous experience affects the way in which several firms can be managed simultaneously. The purpose of this study is to examine entrepreneurial learning in the context of portfolio entrepreneurship and clarify how it is possible to manage several firms at the same time.Design/methodology/approachAn exploratory study using a case method was conducted (Eisenhardt; Yin) by focusing on one portfolio entrepreneur. In this study, the case can be considered as unusual thus being suitable for a single‐case study. Data were collected through interviews and the entrepreneur also provided the researchers with a written description of the development and present situation of his entrepreneurial career.FindingsThis study proposes that failures may develop entrepreneurial knowledge as well as founding experiences. Development of entrepreneurial knowledge is viewed as leading to new ways of organizing and managing start‐up firms. Learning through previous experiences has strengthened entrepreneurial knowledge and contributed to the formation of the management team (MT). Without cooperation, delegation and sharing responsibilities, successful portfolio entrepreneurship would not have been realized. However, the results suggest that learning from failure is dependent on the entrepreneur's personal background.Originality/valueThis study seeks to bring new insight to portfolio entrepreneurship by concentrating on the entrepreneurial career of a well‐known Finnish entrepreneur by following the framework of Politis. In this case, a MT in each firm enabled effective control and management of the current firm portfolio. The study shows that in addition to the entrepreneurial team, the management teams can also have a significant role in the context of portfolio entrepreneurship although they have largely been ignored.
Wire bonding using insulated wire and new challenges in wire bonding
Authors: Zhong Z.W. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThis paper attempts to review recent advances in wire bonding using insulated wire and new challenges in wire bonding for advanced microelectronics packaging.Design/methodology/approachDozens of journal articles, conference articles and patents published or issued in 2004‐2007 are reviewed.FindingsThe advantages and problems/challenges related to wire bonding using insulated wire are briefly analysed, and several solutions to the problems and recent findings/developments related to wire bonding using insulated wire are discussed.Research limitations/implicationsBecause of page limitation of the paper, only brief review is conducted. Further reading is needed for more details.Originality/valueThis paper attempts to provide introduction to recent developments and the trends in wire bonding using insulated wire. With the references provided, readers may explore more deeply by reading the original articles and patent documents.
Portraits of five hedge fund fraud cases
Authors: Muhtaseb Majed R. , Chun “Sylvia” Yang Chun 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is two fold: educate investors about hedge fund managers' activities prior to the fraud recognition by the authorities and to help investors and other stakeholders in the hedge fund industry identify red flags before fraud is actually committed.Design/methodology/approachThe paper investigates fraud committed by the Bayou Funds, Beacon Hill Asset Management, Lancer Management Group (LMG), Lipper & Company and Maricopa investment fund. The fraud activities took place during 2000 and 2005.FindingsThe five cases alone cost the hedge fund investors more than $1.5 billion. Investors may have had a good opportunity for avoiding the irrecoverable costs of the fraud had they carefully vetted the backgrounds of the hedge fund managers and/or continuously monitored the funds activities, especially during turbulent market environments.Originality/valueThis is the first research paper to identify and extensively investigate fraud committed by hedge funds. In spite of the size of the hedge fund industry and relatively substantial level and inevitably recurring fraud, academic journals are to yet address this issue. The paper is of great value to hedge funds and their individual and institutional investors, asset managers, financial advisers and regulators.
Perspectives of communication in the Australian public sector
Authors: Glenny Leanne 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to seek an understanding of the role of government communication in Australia by examining perspectives on the extent to which public servant communicators persuade or engage the Australian public.Design/methodology/approachThemes from the public relations literature into the role and function of public relations are used in a qualitative analysis of key government documents and in‐depth interviews conducted with public servants, political staffers, journalists and interest group representatives.FindingsThis research found a diversity of views regarding the role communication does and should play within government. Participants without formal experience or education in communication generally viewed the function as one of persuasion and dissemination of information whereas the more experienced argued for more of an engagement with the public. A lack of detailed knowledge and/or use of public relations principles appears to be limiting the understanding of the role and purpose of government communication in Australia.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is conducted in an Australian context only and uses a qualitative approach that should not be generalised without further research.Practical implicationsContinued cynicism about the role of public relations in government does little to improve the quality of communication between a government and its public. This paper provides an opportunity for reflection on the purpose of government communication and the role of the public servant.Originality/valuePrevious studies in this area have generally focused on political communication in the sense of partisan or party‐political messages of government. This paper explores the concept from a bureaucratic perspective.