bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Essential changes for knowledge management establishment in a country: a macro perspective
Authors: Jafari Mostafa , Akhavan Peyman 
Published: January 2007

PurposeBy now, change management programs for establishing knowledge management system at a national level for the countries have not been systematically explored. Available studies have derived their critical issues for change management from companies' perspectives and have not considered the needs of a larger scale such as a country and at a national level. This paper aims to fill this gap.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative case study technique has been used in this paper for data collection to gain insights into the topic being investigated. For that, “grounded theory” research approach has been selected by which the collected data from some case studies (European countries) are categorized and analyzed through specific stages. The extracted concepts can demonstrate critical issues of change management programs for knowledge management establishment at a national level.FindingsThe overall results from the case studies were positive, thus reflecting the appropriateness of the proposed concepts. In addition, ten concepts and a framework are the other findings of this research that clarify how to design and implement a change management program for knowledge management adoption at a national level.Practical implicationsThe set of critical factors (concepts) can act as a list of items for countries to address when adopting knowledge management through a change management program. This helps to ensure that the essential issues and factors are covered during design and implementation phase. For academics, it provides a common language for them to discuss and study the factors crucial for the success of change management program designed for knowledge management adoption at a macro level.Originality/valueThis study is probably the first to provide an integrated perspective of critical issues for change management program during KM adoption at a national level in the countries. It gives valuable information and guidelines which hopefully will help the governments to mange essential changes for accomplishing knowledge management through their countries.
Basic garment pattern generation using geometric modeling method
Authors: Kim Sungmin , Kyu Park Chang 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe generation of individually fit basic garment pattern is one of the most important steps in the garment‐manufacturing process. This paper seeks to present a new methodology to generate basic patterns of various sizes and styles using three‐dimensional geometric modeling method.Design/methodology/approachThe geometry of a garment is divided into fit zone and fashion zone. The geometry of fit zone is prepared from 3D body scan data and can be resized parametrically. The fashion zone is modeled using various parameters characterizing the aesthetic appearance of garments. Finally, the 3D garment model is projected into corresponding flat panels considering the physical properties of the base material as well as the producibility of the garment.FindingsThe main findings were geometric modeling and flat pattern generation method for various garments.Originality/valueParametrically deformable garment models enable the design of garments with various size and silhouette so that designers can obtain flat patterns of complex garments before actually making them. Also the number and direction of darts can be determined automatically considering the physical property of fabric.
Operational loss and new service design
Authors: Shulver Michael 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe understanding of operational failure (or loss generally) and its role as an imperative for service design is underdeveloped. This paper investigates external and internal loss categories (such as market failure, and unexploited resource development) and their relationship to the loss response; specifically, reactions to loss in the form of ex post loss control via new service design (NSD).Design/methodology/approachThe investigation consists of complimentary theoretical and empirical dimensions and includes the analysis of five service design cases. This analysis deploys a model based upon the extant service design and innovation, resource‐based view and operational risk literatures.FindingsThe findings question the universal applicability of extant normative and descriptive models of service design. After arguing that their use should be limited to specific contexts, the paper proposes a new, more general conception of service design modes.Originality/valueThe paper comments on patterns of service design practice not discussed previously. It highlights some dangers inherent in following conventional prescription on design processes, illustrates a positive role for loss in design, and proposes new frameworks for NSD that accommodate loss as a contributor to the process.
Online community: enhancing the relationship marketing concept through customer bonding
Authors: Szmigin Isabelle , Canning Louise , Reppel Alexander E. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo revisit relationship marketing in the context of the digital economy.Design/methodology/approachThe paper develops a conceptual framework (the customer bonding triangle) that enables greater understanding of the contributions of service delivery and online communities in the development of bonds in interactive relationships. The function of the three key elements of the framework (namely service value, technical infrastructure and interactivity) in enabling bonding via internet communities, is developed.FindingsSuggests that firms rethink the role and nature of the consumer and that in order to facilitate bonding firms must make use of systems that are tightly integrated yet can also incorporate flexibility to help develop better understanding amongst participants.Originality/valueProvides a framework to help understand key elements in interactive relationships.
A functional approach to appraisal and retention scheduling
Authors: Man Elizabeth 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper presents the approach being taken to appraisal and retention scheduling at the National Patient Safety Agency based on the principles of ISO 15489.Design/methodology/approachThe paper sets out the background to, and the factors affecting, the development of appraisal and scheduling practice. It then focuses on the use of a functional analysis approach to appraisal and scheduling within the context of a pilot project, describing the appraisal methodology, survey and scheduling techniques used within the pilot and evaluating their effectiveness in meeting relevant statutory and organisational requirements for records retention.FindingsThe pilot survey provided valuable learning. Functional appraisal and surveying techniques were found to be particularly effective for establishing the business context of records and identifying their primary values; that is the legal and organisational requirements governing their retention. However, they were less effective at recognising secondary values such as archival value or dealing with the legacy records.Originality/valueConsiders the lessons learned and how they are influencing the development of retention policy and practice.
What is the essence of records management?
Authors: Ryan David 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to share impressions of a witness seminar conference which explored the Essence of Records Management held in May 2006 in Newcastle upon Tyne.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on the concluding remarks made by the author as the conference rapporteur.FindingsThe paper concludes that the witness seminar format of the conference was very successful with much interaction between the speakers and participation from the audience; on the issues explored there has not been a paradigm shift; and that there are important areas which are still to discuss.Originality/valueThis paper shares impressions from a very different conference format which encourages debate amongst experts; it also raises some very important questions and challenges for records managers going forward.
Introducing information management into the workplace
Authors: Bedford Diane , Morelli Jeff 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe paper aims to provide a practical example of the implementation of a business classification scheme (BCS) within the Sector Skills Development Agency (SSDA)Design/methodology/approachThe case study encompasses the implementation of the BCS without an electronic document and records management system (EDRMS), the introduction of associated policies and procedures, training and upgrades to software and hardware during the first 18 months of the projectFindingsThe paper finds that it is now always appropriate for an organisation to implement an EDRMS in order to achieve compliance. The key is ensuring that a relevant and tested BCS is in place accompanied by related policies and procedures on its use.Practical implicationsPrior to embarking on implementing a BCS or EDRMS consideration should be given to the organisation's culture and structure. Achieving buy‐in from users is essential, which can be achieved through taking the time to understand users' ways of working and potential issues they may identify.Originality/valueThe paper provides a practical example of BCS implementation without the use of an EDRMS.
Toward the development of an integrated model of technology internalization within the supply chain context
Authors: Forman Howard , Lippert Susan K. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeIntegrating information technologies in supply chains is becoming increasingly more important and challenging. The purpose is to develop a framework for understanding antecedents to internalizing technologies in supply chains.Design/methodology/approachA literature review covering over 30 years of interdisciplinary research was used as the theoretical underpinning for developing the supply chain internalization model (SCIM). A series of 93 personal interviews with members of a major automotive supply chain were conducted, and detailed qualitative data collected, to identify a set of significant antecedents to technology internalization.FindingsThe results of the research is an empirically derived framework, the SCIM, including a comprehensive set of 79 directional antecedents useful for academicians and practitioners for understanding factors impacting how information technologies are internalized in organizations and supply chains.Research limitations/implicationsEmpirically testing the proposed directional relationships can be used to confirm their validity and measure the relative strengths of individual or interacting antecedents. The relationships outlined in the SCIM should be tested in a diverse array of industries in order to generalize the model. In addition, the relative strength of the factors should be tested since in different contexts. For more robust understandings, moderating and mediating effects amongst the variables should be identified.Practical implicationsPractitioners can use the SCIM as a source for established guidelines for developing strategies for implementing information technologies.Originality/valueThis paper lays the groundwork for facilitating the internalization of information technologies in supply chains and is flexible enough to accommodate future research into technology internalization.
A longitudinal examination of JIT purchasing practices
Authors: Giunipero Larry C. , Gopalakrishna Pillai Kishore , Chapman Stephen N. , Clark Ronald A. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo examine the changes in just‐in‐time (JIT) purchasing practices over time.Design/methodology/approachThe evaluation of changes in JIT purchasing practices was done through a longitudinal study. The first study was performed in 1989. The second study was performed almost a decade later. The empirical studies measured the managerial perceptions of the importance of nine different areas of JIT purchasing activities. Regression and bootstrapping were used for comparison between time periods.FindingsThe study found similar results from a decade earlier on all but 17 out of a total of 103 JIT purchasing practices. The only significantly more important item was the contract provision for delivery frequency. It appears that purchasing professionals have learned and are more familiar with JIT purchasing practices. As a result four problem areas were significantly lower and 12 other practices deemed less important.Research limitations/implicationsSample size is a limitation for the study. The analysis suggested certain influences of SCM on JIT practices. More rigorous measurement of SCM needs to be undertaken to explore the degree of integration of JIT with SCM philosophy.Practical implicationsThe study identifies best JIT practices from a decade of practice.Originality/valueThis is a longitudinal study. It tracks the changes in practices and identifies best practices for managers.
Management development and the supply chain manager of the future
Authors: Mangan John , Christopher Martin 
Published: January 2007

PurposeWith the growing acceptance of logistics and supply chain management (SCM) as critical business concerns, there is an emerging realisation that more investment is needed to develop appropriate managerial skills and competencies for supply chain managers. This paper explores the challenges for management development that arise as organisations seek to bridge the gap between current capabilities and those required for future success.Design/methodology/approachThree constituencies were of interest to our research: providers of education and training, students and participants on programmes, and corporates who purchase programmes. A triangulated research approach was employed in order to capture the views of each of these constituencies. This comprised a focus group, interviews and surveys, and a case study of logistics/SCM development at one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies.FindingsThe key knowledge areas and competencies/skills required by logistics and supply chain managers are identified. Preferred teaching approaches are also identified, as are optimum approaches for career development. The subtle yet significant differences that exist among the three constituencies in the various areas and approaches are highlighted. The results thus constitute a tentative skills profile for the logistics and supply chain manager of the future.Originality/valueThe research provides a multi‐stakeholder insight, set in the context of the key business transformations which are shaping logistics and SCM practice, into the development of the supply chain manager of the future. Practical recommendations emerge for all stakeholders in logistics/SCM development practice. Recommendations for further research are also made, particularly for (from a methodological perspective) more case study research, and (from a research focus perspective) research into learning styles and also linking individual, organisational and supply chain learning.
Impact of postponement on transport: an environmental perspective
Authors: Yang Biao , Yang Ying , Wijngaard Jacob 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper was to investigate the effects of postponement in the context of environmentally sound management.Design/methodology/approachThe paper examined the environmental issues for a postponement strategy, with transport as a mediating factor. It also investigated the impact of related practices (e.g. just in time, e‐commerce, vendor managed inventory and factory gate pricing) on transport.FindingsThis paper discussed ways of developing a postponement strategy which could benefit the economy, and which are not limited to taking into consideration the trade‐off between inventory and transport costs. Some thoughts were also presented on possible ways of mitigating the effects of the increase in transport on traffic congestion and pollution levels.Practical implicationsThe results of the research contribute to better designing the postponement strategy by placing more emphasis on environmental compatibility while conforming to the end market demand.Originality/valueThe paper emphasises the importance of environmental issues in a postponement strategy. It calls for a need to further understand the trade‐offs between optimal supply chain efficiency and its environmental impact.
Are supply (driven) chains forgotten?
Authors: Hull Bradley Z. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe supply chain literature highlights chains that are activated by actual or forecasted demand, and has largely overlooked those that are activated by the supply source. This paper aims to position supply driven chains as a distinct class and to develop their properties.Design/methodology/approachSupply driven examples are given and their structural and behavioral properties are developed. Their properties are compared with those of demand driven chains using Fisher's classification scheme. The paper is conceptual in nature.FindingsFour properties of supply driven chains are advanced. They show that supply driven chains differ significantly from their demand driven counterparts. As example, supply driven chains are prone to a reverse form of the standard bullwhip effect that is associated with demand driven chains.Research limitations/implicationsInvestigating supply driven chains opens several research avenues. Further properties and examples can be developed, along with methods to mitigate the reverse bullwhip effect. Research into synergies and boundary issues between supply and demand driven chains will likely yield operational efficiencies overall.Practical implicationsDifferentiating between supply and demand driven phenomena helps practitioners design more efficient supply chains. For example, superimposing a demand driven operational structure on a supply driven phenomenon can be disruptive. Also, an efficiently operated supply driven chain may enhance the operations of related demand driven chains.Originality/valueThis paper highlights and develops supply driven supply chains. It extends supply chain theory and practice by providing additional structural characteristics that can be incorporated into supply chain designs.
The role of transport flexibility in logistics provision
Authors: Naim Mohamed M. , Potter Andrew T. , Mason Robert J. , Bateman Nicola 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to develop a framework that rationalises transport flexibility into different types. In this way the role of the flexibility types in delivering specific strategic logistics outcomes can be determined.Design/methodology/approachThe authors undertake a synthesis of available literature related to flexibility to determine what types of transport flexibility are required and when.FindingsTwelve definitions and key components of transport flexibility are identified. These signify a proactive approach to the consideration of the subject within the context of a collaborative approach to relationships between carrier, supplier and customer.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a conceptual study developing definitions and models for transport flexibility. While these frameworks have been formed within the context of the literature, further research to determine the application of the model will need to be undertaken, to examine the benefits and costs associated with various degrees of flexibility.Practical implicationsWhile the definitions and models are conceptual, they are important as generic templates by which carriers may develop a logistics strategy, determining their competitive offering and hence defining their flexibility capabilities. They may then determine the degree of collaboration necessary. The results of this paper also inform further empirical research into the area of transport and logistics flexibility.Originality/valueThere is little research that addresses the issue of transport flexibility from a logistics perspective. Thus, there is originality in developing a framework that rationalises transport flexibility into different types. This will provide a foundation by which carriers and shippers may develop collaborative and information technology strategies.
Measuring the impact of inaccurate inventory information on a retail outlet
Authors: Waller Matthew A. , Nachtmann Heather , Hunter Justin 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis research aims to consider the impact of common inventory system inaccuracies that occur in retail outlets on the inventory levels, fill rate, and service level of those outlets by simulating daily customer demand and random error in the inventory system.Design/methodology/approachThe simulation experiments vary the amount of inventory system error, the frequency of inventory record error correction, the size of the daily demand, the number of days in the replenishment system's review interval, and the replenishment system's customer service level.FindingsInventory system error and the frequency with which the error is corrected are statistically significant for fill rate and service level. Thus, inaccuracies in inventory levels affect a retail outlet's ability to service its customers, though at the single SKU level, the results do not indicate a practical impact due to countervailing effects.Practical implicationsRetail outlets must be aware that error exists and can influence the behavior of their replenishment systems, but the overall impact may not be as significant as it might appear.Originality/valueThis research extends prior work on the effects of inventory inaccuracies and clarifies the debate pertaining to their ultimate effects on retail performance outcomes.
The environmental impact of changing logistics structures
Authors: Aronsson Håkan , Huge Brodin Maria 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to address how firms may contribute to environmental improvement through structural changes of their logistics systems.Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive literature review discloses the low interest that has been directed to environmental issues in logistics, and findings relevant for structural issues at a firm level are described. Three cases where firms have implemented different types of structural changes to their logistics systems support the analysis.FindingsA range of different measures to succeed in environmental as well as logistics performance are presented, comprising types of consolidation, logistics standardisation, and IS/IT solutions allowing a vast restructuring of logistics systems.Originality/valueThe discussion about logistics and the environment has mostly revolved around more environmental friendly technological solutions, concerning single firms as well as governmental support for technology development. The structural, more organisational issues, have been addressed on a societal level, where solutions concern infrastructure. There is a need to reduce the amount of transport in general. The paper discusses how logistics systems' environmental performance can be improved simultaneously with a non‐reduction of logistics performance in terms of costs and delivery service.
Predicting teacher absenteeism by personal background factors
Authors: Rosenblatt Zehava , Shirom Arie 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo examine the effects of specific personal and job characteristics on year‐to‐year (2000‐2001) changes in teachers' frequency of absences.Design/methodology/approachWith few exceptions, the population of elementary‐ and middle‐school teachers in the Israeli public education system (N=51,916) was studied. Hierarchical regression analysis was used.FindingsPrior absenteeism, age, education, and supervisory position were found to be significant predictors of absenteeism frequency, accounting for about 50 percent of the variance in absence frequency.Originality/valueThis study focuses on relatively stable individual‐difference predictors, including sociodemographic variables and work‐related characteristics, which have been downplayed in the literature. These predictors can be measured more reliably and validly, compared to complex psychological constructs, and are relatively easy to interpret and implement by decision makers.