bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The impact of ICT on the work patterns of managers and their organisations
Authors: Birchall David W. , Giambona G. 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThe main aim of this paper is to present the results of a study examining managers' attitudes towards the deployment and use of information and communications technology (ICT) in their organisations. The study comes at a time when ICT is being recognised as a major enabler of innovation and new business models, which have the potential to have major impact on western economies and jobs.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire was specially designed to collect data relating to three research questions. The questionnaire also included a number of open‐ended questions. A total of 181 managers from a wide range of industries across a number of countries participated in the electronic survey. The quantitative responses to the survey were analysed using SPSS. Exploratory factor analysis using Varimax rotation was used and ANOVA to compare responses by different groups.FindingsThe survey showed that many of the respondents appeared equipped to work “any place, any time”. However, it also highlighted the challenges managers face in working in a connected operation. Also, the data suggested that many managers were less than confident about their companies' policies and practices in relation to information management.Originality/valueA next step from this exploratory research could be the development of a model exploring the impact of ICT on management and organisational performance in terms of personal characteristics of the manager, the role performed, the context and the ICT provision. Also, further research could focus on examining in more detail differences between management levels.
Proposals for the financing and development of Greek farms based on a clustering method for categorical data
Authors: Menexes George , Angelopoulos Stamatis 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThe aim of the study is to propose certain agricultural policy measures for the financing and development of Greek farms, established by young farmers, based on the results of a clustering method suitable for handling socio‐economic categorical data.Design/methodology/approachThe clustering method was applied to categorical data collected from 110 randomly selected investment plans of Greek agricultural farms. The investment plans were submitted to the “Region of Central Macedonia” administrative office, in the framework of the Operational Programme “Agricultural Development – Reform of the Countryside 2000‐2006” and refer to agricultural investments by “Young Farmers”, according to the terms and conditions of Priority Axis III: “Improvement of the Age Composition of the Agricultural Population”. The input variables for the analyses were the farmers' gender, age class, education level and permanent place of residence, the farms' agricultural activity, Human Labour Units (HLU) and farms' viability level. All these variables were measured on nominal or ordinal scales. The available data were analyzed by means of a hierarchical cluster analysis method applied on the rows of an appropriate matrix of a complete disjunctive form with a dummy coding 0 or 1. The similarities were measured through the Benzécri'sχ2distance (metric), while the Ward's method was used as a criterion for cluster formation.FindingsFive clusters of farms emerged, with statistically significant diverse socio‐economic profiles. The most important impact on the formation of the groups of farms was found to be related to the number of HLU, the farmers' level of education and gender. This derived typology allows for the determination of a flexible development and funding policy for the agricultural farms, based on the socio‐economic profile of the formulated clusters.Research limitations/implicationsOne of the limitations of the current study derives from the fact that the clustering method used is suitable only for categorical, non‐metric data. Another limitation comes from the fact that a relative small number of investment plans were used in the analysis. A larger sample covering and other geographical regions is needed in order to confirm the current results and make nation‐wide comparisons and “tailor‐made” proposals for financing and development. Finally, it is interesting to contact longitudinal surveys in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the funding policy of the corresponding programme.Originality/valueThe study's results could be useful to practitioners and academics because certain agricultural policy measures for the financing and development of Greek farms established by young farmers are proposed. Additionally, the data analysis method used in this study offers an alternative way for clustering categorical data.
Retail store branding in Turkey: its effect on perceived quality, satisfaction and loyalty
Authors: Gürbüz Esen 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to build and test a model of the impact of a store brand name on perceptions of service quality and on customer satisfaction, the latter being the driver of perceived quality or at least a key determinant. It also aims to examine the role of all three variables in the generation of customer loyalty to a store brand.Design/methodology/approachData collected by questionnaire from 490 customers of three furniture stores in one city in Turkey were analysed by structural equation modelling, to test and measure the interrelationships in the specified model.FindingsResults suggest that both perceived service quality and customer satisfaction are influenced by a store's brand name, that the former is influenced by the latter, and that a positive perception of service quality (but not the level of customer satisfaction) contributes to the development of store loyalty.Research limitations/implicationsBecause the model was tested on customers of three stores in one city in one country, and the mediating influence of price was not investigated, the findings can be generalised only with due caution. Further studies could focus on individual causal relationships within the model, build in price as a variable, collect data more widely, stratify the sample, compare different types of store, and extend the investigation into other areas of retailing and services in general.Practical implicationsThe store brand name has a direct, positive relationship with perceived service quality and customer satisfaction. Retailers with a strong and well maintained branding strategy should therefore gain considerable competitive advantage, provided marketing tactics and communications reinforce brand values rather than diluting or contradicting them, over time.Originality/valueSuccessful store‐name branding is very likely to provoke competitive responses. Retail marketing strategists therefore need a means to the end of understanding the consumption behaviour of target customers, especially in economies and societies broadly comparable to Turkey's.
The driving forces of internet adoption
Authors: Carlos Pinho José , Macedo Isabel Maria 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThis study aims to analyse the driving forces that either favour or inhibit internet adoption by organisations operating in the non‐profit sector.Design/methodology/approachFollowing a quantitative methodological approach, a national survey was applied to a sample of 392 Portuguese non‐profit organisations to empirically test the proposed conceptual model. Logistic regression, which enables to test models to predict categorical outcomes with two categories was used to analyse the data.FindingsFindings drawn from this study identify key factors that facilitate or inhibit internet adoption by non‐profit organisations. The internet is perceived as a potential tool for the dissemination of social values and programs of action, the improvement of public image, the enhancement of customer satisfaction, and the improvement of service delivery. By contrast, lack of expertise and start‐up costs have been identified as the most significant inhibitors. In addition, size, age and international affiliation are shown as important internet adoption facilitators.Practical implicationsThis study offers the opportunity to rethink existing policies and to set forth specific measures that can be designed to encourage and foster the use of the internet by non‐profit organisations.Originality/valueThe relevance of this study is set against a lack of consistent, detailed research on the factors determining internet adoption within the context of the non‐profit sector.
Region‐based business strategies: a Portuguese case study
Authors: Cadima Ribeiro José , Freitas Santos José 
Published: September 2008

PurposeSmall and medium size enterprises (SMEs) located in particular geographical areas are producing and selling regional products to domestic and foreign markets. Most of the local activities are embedded in historical tradition and geographic, cultural and social specificity. This article aims to investigate the effect of local environment on the success of two Portuguese SMEs.Design/methodology/approachThe authors use case study methodology to understand whether local environment influences the nature of the competitive advantage of the small firms and their ability to gain access to resources that enable them to compete with the industrial low price substitutes produced by larger firms.FingingsThe key conclusion of the study is that the two firms analysed rely strongly on the specific characteristics of the local environment and on partnerships with local producers (raw materials or products) in order to achieve the economic scale that allows them to compete in the domestic and foreign markets.Originality/valueDue to the limitations of the present analysis concerning the way buyers affect small suppliers' ability to maintain core artisanal knowledge, future research should also examine how this influence works. For example, how firms learn from their network links and how belonging to a network might drive them to internationalisation, and the choice of countries made. In addition, future research should explore the impact of the region of origin concept on new business formation and internationalisation.
EU e‐inclusion policy in context
Authors: Timmers Paul 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to give an overview of EU‐level e‐inclusion policy providing elements for the context for reflection on the role and shape of universal service.Design/methodology/approachThe paper provides an account of the drivers and principles of EU e‐inclusion policy.FindingsThe paper finds that e‐inclusion – at this stage – needs a comprehensive and coherent approach addressing any social and economic exclusion factor with the help of ICT, addressing the risk of ICT as a factor of exclusion, bringing together the market, society, and user perspectives and seeking a “triple‐win”, and pro‐actively and forward‐looking combination of policy tools that can help to realize e‐inclusion.Originality/valueThe paper provides a contribution to the discussion on universal service from the wider perspective of EU e‐inclusion policy.
From universal service to universal network access?
Authors: Xavier Patrick 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThe current approach to universal service involving the provision of specific services (such as fixed voice, public payphones, ability to make emergency calls, etc.) needs re‐thinking in a convergent, NGN environment. This paper seeks to be part of that re‐thinking.Design/methodology/approachQuestions addressed include: Should we move to a focus on universal access to communications infrastructure, allowing consumers to dictate preferred services? Since access to the full range of NGN services, including VoIP, requires broadband connection, should the scope of USOs be “upgraded” to include broadband?FindingsA shift towards universal network access seems sensible provided that a number of conditions exist. One is that traditional services defined under universal service obligations (USOs), remain available. In particular, a shift to VoIP raises questions about whether present features of universal service (quality, ability to make emergency calls, etc) can be sustained. Another condition is widespread access to broadband. Another condition is that consumers are empowered to exercise the increased choice of services that will be available in an NGN environment. Such consumer empowerment requires that market power, information asymmetry, barriers to “switching”, as well as “systematic bias” in consumer decisions be effectively addressed.Originality/valueStimulates the policy reconsideration that is needed in regard to universal service in an NGN environment.
Investment dimensions in a universal service perspective: next generation networks, alternative funding mechanisms and public‐private partnerships
Authors: Falch Morten , Henten Anders 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine the investment dimensions of next generation networks from a universal service perspective in a European context. The question is how new network infrastructures for providing access for everyone to communication, information and entertainment services in the present and future information society will be funded.Design/methodology/approachThe paper starts by looking at the range of policy measures available for promoting broadband access. This is followed by an overview of existing and upcoming access network technologies. Before concluding, there is a section on alternative funding mechanisms, including a sub‐section on the potential of private public partnerships (PPP) in providing funding for broadband access infrastructures.FindingsAlthough there is nothing in principle hindering the development of universal service policies from those that include a specific service and its underlying network technology towards more general access, other policy measures are likely to become more important in practice for the fulfilment of the universal service goal. Wide diffusion and de facto universal service will, to a higher degree, have to rely on other measures: alternative funding mechanisms and a wider range of policy measures to expand broadband take‐up.Originality/valueThe value of the paper is in its combination of two issues often discussed separately: alternative funding mechanisms and universal access. Furthermore, the implications of NGN are examined.
Universal service obligations and spectrum policy
Authors: Cave Martin , Hatta Keiko 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine how spectrum policy can support the changing objectives of universal service in communications services.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents a review of current universal service obligations, analysis of how they will change, and identification of spectrum policy responses.FindingsThe study reveals that, in future, universal service will be delivered in a technologically neutral way; this will require a re‐appraisal of the way it is provided and the development of spectrum management techniques to ensure that it is provided efficiently.Practical implicationsThe paper contains advice to European and other regulators about medium‐term universal service policy.Originality/valueThe paper explores the linkage between two previously separated areas of research.
Widening universal service in Korea to include broadband and mobile communications
Authors: Kim Daeho 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore how the scope of universal service has been extended from voice telephony to include broadband and mobile communications in Korea. This paper addresses how Korea's approach to broadband and mobile service utilizes different strategies.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is an analysis of universal service policies. It applies five criteria for reviewing whether broadband and mobile communications could be included in the scope of universal service.FindingsThis paper addresses Korea's approach to broadband and mobile service utilizes different strategies. An information society policy was applied to broadband diffusion, while a regulatory policy was applied to mobile service diffusion. Korea's universal service expansion policy shows a government and industry integration model.Originality/valueThis paper shows Korea's unique approach for universal service. It deals with how universal service has been driven forward as a part of an information society plan and information divide bridging policy in Korea. With flexible approaches, broadband and mobile services could start to be regarded as universal services.
The eclipse of the universal service obligation: taking broadband to Australians
Authors: Given Jock 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate the success and continuing relevance of the universal service obligation (USO) in delivering voice telephony, basic digital data capability and broadband services to all Australians.Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines the background to the National Broadband Plan being implemented by the Labor Government elected in November 2007. The costs of this plan and other funding programs implemented since 1996 are annualized and compared to the cost of the USO.FindingsThe paper reveals that the USO has been eclipsed as a policy tool for making basic telecommunications services universally available in Australia, at least for the time being. It survives as a policy mechanism, but is contained to fixed line telephony, payphones and basic digital data capability. Its declared costs have fallen. The proposed national broadband network continues the trend towards using government funding to achieve telecommunications policy goals. This trend was initiated by the previous government with some of the proceeds from privatizing the former government monopoly, Telstra. The national broadband network also supplements this trend with a reversion to a degree of state participation in a facility (a fibre‐to‐the‐node network serving 98 percent of the population) likely to have strong natural monopoly characteristics.Originality/valueThe paper considers the USO as just one of many tools available to ensure basic telecommunication services are universally available and the debates about it in Australia less as arguments about where an old concept should go in the future, and more about what a very young concept really means.
Telecommunications universal service in Finland
Authors: Wirzenius Arno 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe how the objectives of telecommunications universal service have been achieved in Finland, largely without any formal universal service regulation.Design/methodology/approachThe approach is a historical one, showing the evolution over time of service take‐up and use, as well as legislative changes. A range of people were interviewed with first‐hand knowledge of the development of Finland's telecommunications sector, and drew on a range of published data sources.FindingsFixed telephony is now used by a minority of households in Finland, having been superseded by mobile and broadband. The paper finds that the European framework, which Finland was required to adopt added no value to previous practices. The potential for any losses due to universal service to be financed by the state in fact has created an adverse investment incentive.Originality/valueSince universal service has been a “non‐issue” in Finland, this is thought to be the first attempt to describe how universal service has in fact been achieved there. Besides displaying aspects of the Finnish experience that other countries could learn from, the paper raises a number of useful questions for policy makers.
Telecommunications universal service in France
Authors: Berne Michel 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThe paper aims to show how the introduction of the concept of universal service in the French telecommunications sector was impacted by the existence of a strong national tradition of public services. It also aims to show that universal service, as it is defined by the European telecom regulatory framework, was not the only possible set‐up. It also seeks to show how the concept of universal service was adapted to the French national situation and spread beyond the telecommunications sector.Design/methodology/approachThe approach of the paper is chronological, starting with an analysis of the French tradition of public services and then showing how the discussion developed in France on the topic of universal service in the telecommunications sector. Then the paper deals with the practical implementation of universal service in the telecommunications sector and other sectors in France.FindingsThe paper shows that even though the French traditional views on public services did not make it easy to implement the European version of universal service in the telecommunications sector, it nevertheless happened. Universal service even spread beyond the telecommunications sector in France.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper concentrates on French views on the topic and does not study the opinions of other stakeholders (the European Commission, other member states) as regards the French national tradition of public services.Practical implicationsThe paper can be used as a guide to ongoing discussions on the evolution of universal service in Europe as it provides alternate views on the topic.Originality/valueThe paper provides a comprehesive review of the topic.
Universal service: between socio‐political mythology and economic reality – an international cross comparison EU‐USA of the regulatory‐economic framework
Authors: Paul Simon Jean 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to compare the history of the notion of universal service in the USA and the EU.Design/methodology/approachThe paper takes the form of an historical account based on desk research and interviews.FindingsThe paper finds that the concept looks “universal”, so to speak, but is grounded in different legal and economic traditions. From an historical perspective, the conditions appear to be highly differentiated on either side of the Atlantic. Ironically, the main point in common, beyond the mere use of the same term, is the discrepancy between the alleged goal and the socio‐economic reality, which has existed for some decades.Originality/valueThe paper puts into an historical perspective the notion of universal service. It identifies strengths and weaknesses of the implemention in the EU and the USA.
Re‐thinking European universal service policy for the digital era: Editors' conclusions
Authors: Milne Claire , Feijoo Claudio 
Published: September 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to give conclusions from the papers in the special issue about “Re‐thinking universal service in the digital era”.Design/methodology/approachA summary of the themes, trends and new concepts about universal service is compiled from the varied viewpoints introduced in the issue. The editors also appraise the mobile and broadband universal service candidates under the different perspectives in the issue, point out a number of questionable assumptions and gaps in the universal service stories, and touch on the international currents of influence in universal service policy. Finally, a succinct vision of a universal service policy for Europe is outlined.FindingsThis special issue aims to provide support to the policy process with regard to universal service in a digital context. The papers in the issue highlight developments that are shaking up the current universal service model. They consider universal service from a set of different dimensions, encompassing both demand and supply side considerations. Also a comparative outlook draws lessons from a representative set of existing regulatory models.Originality/valueThe paper provides a summary of the main avenues for the upcoming universal service policy debate.