bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Conceptualising, delineating and analysing business networks
Authors: Prenkert Frans , Hallén Lars 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to explore possible contributions to the development of models to define business networks conceptually, and identify and delineate them empirically by integrating concepts and ideas from “market exchange theory” originating in the works of Alderson.Design/methodology/approachFollowing a conceptual discussion defining business networks as a type of exchange system, empirical data were used to exemplify and illustrate the theoretical development ideas. From data on 22 business firms collected in 1999‐2001 in the form of transcribed interviews and other print documentation, a business network as a type of exchange system was identified comprising five business entities. This case serves as illustration to the remainder of the theoretical discussions throughout the paper.FindingsBased on a conceptualisation of business networks as a type of exchange system and a notion of interaction encompassing exchange processes stemming from both market exchange theory and social exchange theory, it is suggested that business networks can be more consistently identified and delineated empirically using this theoretical base.Research limitations/implicationsThe empirical case is merely illustrative, and more extensive empirical work is needed to further test the ideas of business networks as a type of exchange system. The implications to the study of markets‐as‐networks are that these ideas can be used as a basis for identification, delineation and analysis of business networks.Originality/valueThis paper extends Alderson's work by suggesting a fourth type of transformation: transformation in ownership, as well as by developing a typology with five resource types in the exchange system. Furthermore, it provides a conceptual tool that can be used by researchers to identify, delineate and analyse business networks and incorporates market exchange theory.
Network pictures: concepts and representations
Authors: Henneberg Stephan C. , Mouzas Stefanos , Naudé Pete 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThere has recently been an increase in interest in the notion of “network pictures” amongst researchers in the field of business‐to‐business marketing. Network pictures are managers' subjective mental representations of their relevant business environment. They are posited to work as “sense‐making” devices, and consequently shape managerial decisions, actions, and evaluations. However, while interest in this concept has been reported in a range of literature that is here identified and discussed, there has been no attempt to rigorously conceptualise the underlying dimensions of such pictures. This paper aims to address this issue.Design/methodology/approachBased on an extensive review of previous work, this study proposes a parsimonious set of interrelated dimensions, and initially tests this approach.FindingsThis article shows the model's face validity, but also argues that not all dimensions are perceived as being equally useful: utilisation of the different dimensions is determined more by what it is that managers wish to represent.Research limitations/implicationsThe implications of the concept of network pictures, as well as further research propositions, are discussed.Originality/valueAs researchers develop their interest in network pictures, so one needs to develop one's understanding of what their underlying dimensions are. A parsimonious set of such dimensions is developed and tested.
Human resource development, social capital, emotional intelligence
Authors: Brooks Kit , Muyia Nafukho Fredrick 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis article aims to offer a theoretical framework that attempts to show the integration among human resource development (HRD), social capital (SC), emotional intelligence (EI) and organizational productivity.Design/methodology/approachThe literature search included the following: a computerized search of accessible and available material using the key words “human resource development”, “emotional intelligence”, “social capital”, “human capital”, “organizational productivity”, “productivity”, and “organizational performance”.FindingsThe literature review provides evidence that it is logical to assume that the relationship among HRD, social capital, emotional and organization productivity is highly integrated. This finding influenced the authors to conceptualize an integrated model that illustrates the interconnectivity of HRD, social capital, emotional intelligence and organizational productivity with internal and external environmental factors.Research limitations/implicationsThe integrated model conceptualizing the dynamic relationship among HRD, social capital, emotional intelligence and organization productivity is based primarily on the review of the literature.Originality/valueThe integrated model developed by the authors provides a framework that HRD scholars and practitioners may use to develop innovative instruments to measure the relationship among HRD, EI and SC and their subsequent impact on organization performance.
Performance scripts creation: processes and applications
Authors: Lyons Paul 
Published: July 2006

PurposeSeeks to explain some of the dynamics of scripts creation as used in training, to offer some theoretical underpinning regarding the influence of script creation on behavior and performance, and to offer some examples of how script creation is applied in training activities.Design/methodology/approachThe paper explains in detail and demonstrates the general processes of script creation for training uses. The design of the paper is to present, in sequence, a generalized script creation process, the theoretical grounding of the processes, and evidence of the efficacy of script creation.FindingsWhile there is not a lot of research available to practitioners about script creation uses in training, the research that does exist gives credible support for script creation applications. There is a body of research in cognition and cognitive processes that tangentially treats script behavior; however, that body of research is highly technical and esoteric and not of practical value to most practitioners.Practical implicationsThe script creation processes and supporting information give practitioners a considered view of some useful training applications and generally add to the toolbox of trainers and facilitators. A sequence of events is offered that may be tailored for a specific training application. The script creation process, in general, offers a model for trainers to consider in applications such as exploration of new skills, skills improvement, continuous performance improvement and change initiatives, among others. The basis of the process explained in this paper is firmly grounded in motivation theory that describes how the process is attractive to employees.Originality/valueAs far as the author knows, there is no generally available model or template for script creation activities in a training context. This paper helps to address the matter. Of value to practitioners and managers is the explication of a general, malleable model for training activities that is grounded on sound learning and motivation theory.
Properties of sensorless control systems based on multiscalar models of the induction motor
Authors: Krzemiński Zbigniew , Lewicki Arkadiusz , Włas Mirosław 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo develop general forms of multiscalar models of the induction motor and to present properties of the sensorless control systems based on such models.Design/methodology/approachPreviously presented multiscalar model of the induction motor based on a stator current and rotor flux vector is generalized as a model of type 1. New model of type 2 is defined for stator current and the vector which is directly controlled by a voltage vector. The above models are applied in a sensorless control system with speed observer. Dynamical properties of the sensorless control systems are investigated by simulations and experiments.FindingsApplication of the multiscalar model of type 2 results in higher exactness of sensorless control system than application of the multiscalar model of type 1. Controlled variables are more smooth in transients.Research limitations/implicationsThis is not an analytical proof of stability of the control systems.Practical implicationsProvides very useful information for development of sensorless control systems for the induction motor.Originality/valueThis paper extends the known method of nonlinear control of the induction motor to the general form. It is possible to choose the sensorless control system of better properties than those used so far.
A cybernetic re‐evaluation of socio‐economic development programs
Authors: Espinosa A. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo explore the usefulness of the cybernetic approach to support development programs by offering a theoretical framework that helps us to re‐understand development and measuring systems.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents a summary of Beer's theory for organisational development and measuring systems, shows examples of application in design and implementation of socio‐economic development programs in Colombia, and uses them to explore the usefulness of the approach in this field.FindingsAnalysis of the reported examples shows a clear indication of the usefulness of Beer's approach to design and measure development programs. It reveals an important field for applied research that could benefit from further applications of the approach.Research limitations/implicationsThe experiences analysed here showed the strength or alliances between government, universities and development agencies, for applied research. It makes clear that more long‐term oriented projects are required to fully implement innovative approaches like the one described.Practical implicationsApplying a cybernetic approach in this field implies changing from top‐down to bottom‐up design; wider involvement of stakeholders to agree on critical measurements; changes from emphasis in technological and managerial improvements, to improvements in learning and self‐control tools for the developing communities.Originality/valueEven if there has been agreement on the convenience of experimenting with more holistic approaches to socio‐economic development, few researchers show the potential of the cybernetic approach, as this paper does.
Identity: the paradoxical nature of organizational closure
Authors: Hoebeke Luc 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to clarify the concept of organizational closure as developed by Stafford Beer in his viable systems model, defined as System 5.Design/methodology/approachThe author refers to his experiences of multi‐stakeholder platforms and confronts them with the original texts of Stafford Beer. He takes the stance of a reflective practitioner.FindingsThe identity function, defined as organizational closure, only can be embodied at the boundary of a system, defined by an observer. Identities are not essential characteristics but changing attributions by different observers. Multiple identities are the norm.Practical implicationsThe author develops the required characteristics of representatives participating in the organizational closure or System 5 activities.Originality/valueThe author gives an alternative way of thinking about identity different from the mainstream essentialist way of defining identity. He explores the consequences of this way of thinking for governance and governing bodies. He clarifies in this way the fundamental tension between participative and representative democracy.
Momentum and control: a dynamic of democracy
Authors: Leonard Allenna 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to show how the application of cybernetic principles to governance and democracy shows dangerous gaps in control due to a lack of appreciation of momentum, requisite variety and scale.Design/methodology/approachThis is a conceptual paper with examples drawn from the news. Beer's Viable System Model and Ashby's Law of Requisite Variety underpin the arguments.FindingsThe workings of our democracies depend on nineteenth century concepts and are easily overwhelmed by lags, distortions and problems that interfere with a level of feedback that would enable effective control. The elective process, the regulatory process, the boundaries between public and private spheres of action and the threat to our common viability share similar difficulties balancing changing circumstances with limitations on the means to address them. Although some of these issues have been noted before, there has been little appreciation of their interconnection and the consequences of a political system whose dynamics counteract its ideals.Research limitations/implicationsThere is a need for more research into the problems identified here and how they relate for governance to be effective when the pace of events is rapid. A plea is made for sufficient resources to be devoted to the task.Practical implicationsThese are problems we must solve if our societies are to remain viable. Our knowledge in the systems and cybernetics communities could help – but it must be used and it will not be used effectively until it is more widely known and applied.Originality/valueMost current political analysis deals with the problems discussed in piecemeal fashion if it deals with them at all. Drawing a boundary around the situation that is wide enough to include these interconnected issues is needed for effective corrective measures to be applied.
Nonylphenyl methacrylate modified bisphenol‐a‐glycidyl dimethacrylate(BisGMA) networks
Authors: Behera D. , Satapathy H. , Banthia A.K. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo evaluate the performance of a reactive diluent, nonylphenyl methacrylate (NPM) for toughness improvement of bisphenol‐a‐glycidyl dimethacrylate (BisGMA) and to optimise the results of such a modification.Design/methodology/approachTo achieve desirable rheological and physico‐mechanical properties of BisGMA/NPM network, various compositions were made by incorporating different concentrations of NPM. The effect of concentration on the impact and the adhesive strengths of the unmodified and modified BisGMA networks were characterised.FindingsThe modification of BisGMA resin using NPM showed significant enhancement of the impact and the adhesive strengths over the unmodified one. The modification caused a chemical linkage between NPM and BisGMA resin, which led not only to a phase separation but also to establishing the intrinsically strong chemical bonds across the NPM phase/resin matrix interphase, which was responsible for the improvement of the impact and adhesive strength. The optimum results were obtained at 10/h (parts per 100 parts of BisGMA resin) of modifier.Research limitations/implicationsThe reactive diluent, used in the present context was synthesised from nonyl phenol, methacrylic acid and benzoyl chloride in methyl ethyl ketone using triethylamine as base.Practical implicationsThe method of modification developed provides a simple and practical solution for improving the rheological and physico‐mechanical properties of BisGMA network.Originality/valueThe method developed is a novel one for enhancing the rheological and physico‐mechanical properties of BisGMA network diluted with NPM resin and may find numerous applications in surface coating and adhesive.
Leveraging resources in a library gateway
Authors: Caswell Jerry V. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to describe a new use of technology to improve users' access to electronic resources.Design/methodology/approachDescribes the use of guided searches in a library gateway to shorten the pathway to information for library users.FindingsGuided search forms can be constructed for both databases and catalogs using HTML and JavaScript. They are a useful alternative to vendor‐provided search interfaces, especially for inexperienced users.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper focuses on the technical issues involved in creating guided searches. It does not address usability testing and a detailed comparison of effectiveness with vendor‐provided interfaces.Practical implicationsWorking with tools already in hand libraries can improve the accessibility of electronic resources by crafting simpler user interfaces.Originality/valueThe paper shows libraries how they can leverage their investment in databases and the catalog not only to make them more useful to their user communities, but to bring them more in tune with the expectations of users who have grown up with the web.
Beyond HTML
Authors: Goans Doug , Leach Guy , Vogel Teri M. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo report on the content management system designed to manage the 30 web‐based research guides developed by the subject liaison librarians at the Georgia State University Library.Design/methodology/approachThe web development librarian, with assistance from the web programmer, designed a system using MySQL and ASP. A liaison team gave input on the system through rigorous testing and assisted with the design of the templates that control the layout of the content on the guides. A usability study and two surveys were also completed.FindingsThe new system met and exceeded the baseline expectations for content collection and management, offering a greater control over appearance and navigation while still offering customization features for liaisons. Improvements are planned for the templates in addition to better promotion of the guides on the library web site. Initial and ongoing training for the liaisons should have been more effectively addressed. Despite their observed and future potential advantages, the CMS model has not been universally adopted by academic libraries.Practical implicationsRegardless of the technology involved, libraries preparing for a CMS transition must give at least as much attention to user issues as they do to technical issues, from the organizational buy‐in and comprehensive training to internal/external usability.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to a small but growing collection of CMS case studies. It covers the technical, functional, and managerial developments of a CMS, while also addressing the practical user factors that sometimes get lost in the process.
CMS/CMS: content management system/change management strategies
Authors: Goodwin Susan , Burford Nancy , Bedard Martha , Carrigan Esther , Hannigan Gale C. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeFive web sites, five libraries, numerous departmental pages and thousands of pages of content explained, in part, why users found library resources difficult to navigate. Web redesign became a strategic initiative in 2001 and state funding enabled the purchase of a content management system (CMS). The purpose of this paper is to describe the systematic implementation of a CMS at Texas A&M LibrariesDesign/methodology/approachThe web implementation team (WIT) was formed to include a diverse group of people from all areas of the library and charged with responsibility for the overall management of the University Libraries' web site.Practical implicationsUsing a CMS to create the library's web presence is an important and expensive undertaking that requires coordinated management oversight. It also presents opportunities to reconsider the library's organizational structure and culture.Originality/valueThis paper describes a management strategy that involves all areas of the organization, encourages teamwork, promotes innovation, and stays focused on organizational priorities. It discusses expected and unexpected consequences of implementing a CMS, and makes recommendations about CMS management in general.
Untangling a tangled web: a case study in choosing and implementing a CMS
Authors: Huttenlock Terry L. , Beaird Jeff W. , Fordham Ronald W. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo present a case study of a library systems department's experience in choosing and implementing a content management system. By sharing this process others may be helped as they look for solutions and face similar situations.Design/methodology/approachA reflective case study was chosen because it allowed the systems department to tell their story by reflecting on what had happened over the past two years. This is also a self study as the writers of the story are also the ones who experienced the events.FindingsThe article provides a detailed account of choosing and implementing a CMS including insight into decisions, issues, and processes. The broad issues of usability, that usability is individualistic and task oriented, is portrayed. The hard work and difficulties involved in this type of project, especially for a small library, is recognized.Research limitations/implicationsAs this is one department's experiences, it is not necessarily generalizable to other CMS projects or other libraries.Practical implicationsSharing experiences can give insight and guidelines to those who are contemplating similar decisions/implementations.Originality/valueThis paper offers practical advice and reflective insights based on an actual experience.
New Gadgets on the Horizon
Authors: Riggs Colby 
Published: July 2006

PurposeAims to review some new technology “gadgets”.Design/methodology/approachA review with descriptions of new technologies which might impact library services.FindingsThe proliferation of computer technology has ensured that gadgets play a significant role in our daily routines. They are used at work, home and during playtime. The gadgets range from mouse devices, keyboards, headsets, camera accessories and more.Originality/valueProvides descriptions of some gadgets of value to information seekers.
Part I: Seigniorage of fiat money and the maqasid al‐Shari’ah: the unattainableness of the maqasid
Authors: Kameel Mydin Meera Ahamed , Larbani Moussa 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo reason whether the interest‐based fiat monetary system is compatible with the objectives of the Islamic law or the Shariah.Design/methodology/approachThis is a theoretical paper that uses the quantity theory of money and the objectives or maqasid al‐Shariah as expounded by scholars as basis for logical deductions therefrom.FindingsThe socio‐economic implications of fiat monetary system imply that the maqasid al‐Shariah cannot be attained. Indeed, the system is likely to cause a move away from the maqasid.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper is based primarily on theoretical deductions. Further empirical investigation would shed further light.Practical implicationsPractical implications are numerous. The definition of what is money is then crucial to address the socio‐economic implications caused by the fiat monetary system. For Islamic economics, this would imply that the process of Islamization of knowledge/disciplines is futile without addressing this issue first. Accordingly, the establishment of Islamic economics, banking and finance warrants a serious look into the current definition of money and monetary systems.Originality/valueIt calls for a definition of Shariah‐compatible money. This is beneficial to the researchers, proponents and practitioners of Islamic economics, banking and finance.