bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Viewing work historically through art
Authors: Doherty Elizabeth M. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo contemplate how the arts might inform organizational studies by investigating how historically based visual art images contribute to an understanding of workers' experiences during the Depression era (1930‐1941) in the USA.Design/methodology/approachInductively looked for patterns among collected visual art images pertaining to work during the Depression era to establish narratives about how workers experienced work.FindingsTwo contrasting characterizations of workers are revealed, namely the “manly worker” and the “beholden worker.” The former shows workers as healthy, robust, and well‐muscled, in control of the machine, and optimistic about the future. In contrast, the “beholden worker” images illustrate workers as tired and dejected, in servitude to the machine, and uncertain about finding a healthy balance between technology and person. Closer scrutiny of the results reveals how visual art images aid organizational scholars by providing useful information and raising new questions about the organizational environment during the Depression era, how workers might have behaved in this setting, the significance of the “beholden worker” characterization, and the meaning of work. Moreover, the approach taken by visual artists offers potential methodological contributions to organizational research namely through attention to description, worker and setting selection, and individual emotions.Originality/valueNeither of the image narratives of workers exist in the organizational literature suggesting that new management visions can come from revisiting the past and considering other disciplines. More specifically, the visual images help in better understanding the Depression era, and demonstrate how organizational studies could benefit by including an arts perspective.
Origins of lean management in America
Authors: Emiliani M.L. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a historical account of the significant role that Connecticut businesses and business leaders had in the spread of Lean management throughout the USA. The paper aims to describe what happens when managers do not understand and apply an important principle of Lean management.Design/methodology/approachSurvey of published and unpublished records, as well as personal communications with key figures.FindingsEstablishes the role and importance of Connecticut businesses and business leaders in the discovery and dissemination of Lean management in America since 1979, external to Toyota and its affiliated suppliers.Research limitations/implicationsThe accuracy of some past events necessarily relies on the recollection of key figures that were obtained by personal communications.Practical implicationsDescribes how an important principle, “respect for people,” was not understood by most management practitioners, thus hindering efforts to correctly practice Lean management and improve business performance.Originality/valueThe paper provides a historical account of Lean management in America, focusing on activities that occurred in the State of Connecticut post‐1979. Description and relevance of a key area of misunderstanding among practitioners of the Lean management system.
Venture adolescence
Authors: Bloodgood James M. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate how early internationalization and the use of generic strategies by new ventures affect the performance and internationalization efforts of those ventures as they move beyond the period of initiation.Design/methodology/approachA total of 37 venture capital backed new ventures within the USA were studied from 1991 to 1999. Annual 10‐K filings were used as sources for financial and management data about the new ventures. Industry data were collected from Dunn's Industry Ratios.FindingsResults suggest that ventures which internationalize early are more likely to continue internationalizing at a higher rate as they mature. Early internationalization did not affect sales growth or financial performance of new ventures in the period after initiation. In addition, generic strategies of these ventures affected internationalization and financial performance differently.Research limitations/implicationsThe importance of venture strategy and prior internationalization effort should be considered when investigating the internationalization patterns and outcomes of new ventures. The small size of the sample and the focus on a limited number of variables limit the generalizability of this study.Practical implicationsNew venture managers should consider the role of generic strategy and prior internationalization efforts when planning future internationalization.Originality/valueThis research provides an initial understanding of what happens to new ventures as they begin to mature and in particular, the effects of early generic strategy and internationalization on later venture performance are identified.
International market success among smaller agri‐food companies
Authors: Ibeh Kevin I.N. , Ibrahim Essam , Panayides Photis M. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe paper aims to explore the relevance of key marketing concepts, including market orientation, marketing competencies and resources, and competitive marketing strategies, in explaining international market success among smaller agri‐food companies.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents a multi‐case research, involving five small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), from different agri‐food sub‐sectors. The research employed a semi‐structured interview guide, and subjected the generated data to meaning‐oriented content analysis procedure.FindingsEvidence points to the influential impact of adopting a marketing orientation; developing advantage‐generating competencies in the product, channel and relationship management areas; leveraging strategically‐relevant managerial, production and brand/reputational resources; and deploying appropriate competitive marketing strategies.Research limitations/implicationsLimitations and implications of the research generally relate to the use of a small, non‐representative sample and the less than robust specification of the major constructs explored in the study. Future researchers should strive to obtain larger samples, develop a set of relevant hypotheses and test same using appropriate statistical techniques.Originality/valueFindings offer a set of important lessons for smaller agri‐food companies and policy makers seeking to improve performance levels in international markets. They also add to the limited body of knowledge on the key influences on international marketing success within the agri‐food sector.
Electronic mail and internal communication: a three‐factor model
Authors: Hewitt Paul 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how e‐mail may promote effective internal communication in three key areas.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents a case study of a service‐orientated group of social businesses in the not‐for‐profit sector, where a triangulated approach is employed, a three‐factor model of effective e‐mail use is proposed. Using focus groups, diaries and survey, the impact of e‐mail was investigated on four key dimensions of internal communication at Parkside Housing Group.FindingsWhilst overall e‐mail was found to be less influential than face‐to‐face communication, e‐mail was found to positively and specifically influence: the communication climate, where it provides a mechanism for staff to feed their views up the organisation; shared objectives and goal alignment, where it helps staff to understand the overarching goals of the organisation (the “bigger picture”); and perceived external prestige – the construed external image of the organisation – by helping the organisation to share positive publicity, and its successes, amongst staff.Practical implicationsWhen e‐mail is used in organisations according to the three‐factor model, it is proposed that it can have a positive impact on internal communication and subsequently organisational performance.Originality/valueThis is the first time the impact of e‐mail on internal communication has been investigated, from a corporate communicator's perspective, and with the number of mailboxes worldwide growing year on year, and an increasing awareness of the importance of employees as key stakeholders, this study is original, relevant and timely.
Financial supervision in the Republic of Cyprus: the case for reform
Authors: Athanassiou Phoebus 
Published: July 2006

PurposeAims to examine the current financial scenario in Cyprus and to suggest medium‐term reforms to the institutional set‐up of Cypriot financial supervision.Design/methodology/approachDetails the different sectors in Cyprus's financial set‐up and suggests measures necessary for remedial reform.FindingsThe suggested reforms should considerably enhance the consistency and extend the viability of the Cypriot financial supervision system without unduly upsetting its hitherto institutional balance or introducing unnecessary complications to its contemporary arrangements.Originality/valueThis represents a starting‐point for Cypriot financial reform, which has up to press been only marginally considered.
What are the perils of separating banking regulation from the central bank's orbit in Latin America and the Caribbean?
Authors: Demaestri Edgardo , Guerrero Federico 
Published: July 2006

PurposeAims to review the potential risks associated with the separation of banking regulation from the orbit of the central bank in Latin‐American and Caribbean countries (LAC).Design/methodology/approachSets out information on the banking regulators in LAC and on the current degree of involvement of the central bank in banking regulation; the main monetary policy issues connected to the separation of banking regulation from the central bank; and the main banking regulation issues involved.FindingsThe separation of banking regulation from the central bank would not present any great danger to LAC currently. However, the need to conduct the move in accordance with best principles must be emphasized.Originality/valueGiven the fertile ground offered by the countries of LAC, this paper presents arguably the most comprehensive examination to date of this “hot potato”.
Managing supply chains for competitiveness: the Indian scenario
Authors: Sahay B.S. , Gupta Jatinder N.D. , Mohan Ramneesh 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe paper aims to analyse research conducted for assessing the current state of supply chain management practices followed by Indian organisations and identifying important areas that need to be addressed in order to increase their competitiveness.Design/methodology/approachThe paper begins by proposing a framework for evaluating the supply chain strategy of an organisation along the three key dimensions – supply chain objectives, supply chain processes, and management focus on supply chain activities. Data collected through survey questionnaire for the three dimensions have been used to assess the alignment of supply chain strategy with the overall business strategy through statistical analysis.FindingsThe research findings reveal that most of the Indian organisations have aligned their supply chain objectives with their business objectives. They are now on course of aligning their processes and management focus. Enhanced level of competitiveness would require Indian organisations to manage the three‐dimensional alignment of achieving the agenda set by the business strategy.Research limitations/implicationsFurther research work should focus on: assessing the current level of supply chain processes; identifying critical supply chain focus areas for the business; and establishing specific performance measures for continuous measurement of supply chain efficiency improvement.Practical implicationsThis paper provides a detailed study to help supply chain managers improve supply chain efficiency through alignment of supply chain objectives with business objectives, supply chain processes with management tools and supply chain focus areas with management focus. Improved supply chain efficiency will help Indian organisations maintain competitiveness in a rapidly globalising economy.Originality/valueThe supply chain alignment model suggested in this paper provides a framework for realising true supply chain efficiency and competitiveness. Different organisations will align their objectives, processes and management focus as per the focal areas of their organisation depending on their capabilities and market situation. However, in every case Indian organisations need to act fast to capitalise on these opportunities to be competitive with the world market.
Supplier diversity and minority business enterprise development: case study experience of three US multinationals
Authors: Shah Mayank , Ram Monder 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the rationale for supplier diversity, constituent elements of each case study programme, actual performance of the initiatives and key challenges involved in implementing supplier diversity programmes.Design/methodology/approachThis paper goes beyond armchair accounts of the “American experience”, and presents evidence from three exemplars of supplier diversity in the USA – Ford Motor Company, JPMorgan Chase, and Unisys. Semi‐structured interviews with supplier diversity teams within these three case study firms were conducted to understand the rationale, drivers and challenges to implementing supplier diversity programmes.FindingsThe case studies highlight the importance of the “business case” in explaining corporate receptiveness to supplier diversity. This has particular force in light of the progressive “browning” of the USA. However, the role of the government as catalyst is not to be understated; a number of respondents identified governmental pressure as an important influence on the approach to supplier diversity. Sophisticated monitoring of supply chains and intense out‐reach activities with minority business enterprises were important features of the case study firm and provide a sharp contrast with the position in the UK.Originality/valueThe paper concludes by assessing the key elements of successful supplier diversity initiatives, and reflecting on the lessons that could be learned for the UK.
A framework for measurement of quality of service in supply chains
Authors: Seth Nitin , Deshmukh S.G. , Vrat Prem 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of the concept of service quality in a supply chain and present a framework for its measurement.Design/methodology/approachA literature review was conducted on key service quality models and measurement issues. Various dimensions related to the quality of service were explored. This was followed by in‐depth exploratory interviews at different levels. Based on the insights gained, a conceptual framework for measurement of quality of service in supply chain is presented.FindingsThe paper presents a conceptual model of service quality in supply chains based on gap analysis. These gaps are bi‐directional. The bi‐directional gaps cover both inter‐ and intra‐organizational transactions in the supply chain. They include the gap between supplier and focal firm, focal firm and distributor, and distributor and customer. Further, implications of various factors such as economic, politico‐legal, technical, socio‐cultural, competition, demographic are also highlighted. A novel methodology for the measurement of these gaps using various tools such as quality loss function, data envelope analysis, etc. is also presented along with segregating indicators in three categories, namely, quality of service indicators, quality of service and performance indicators, and performance indicators.Research limitations/implicationsThe assessment of quality of service in the supply chain is an attempt to cover the relatively less explored area. It is expected that this research will further motivate researchers to work in this area. This service quality framework will be beneficial to researchers and practicing managers in identification of opportunities for improvements in service quality.Originality/valueThis paper explores research in the less explored area and offers practical help to researchers and practitioners in providing a direction for service quality improvement in the supply chain.
Managing the distribution channel: the case of Scot Trout and Salmon
Authors: Wagner Beverly A. , Alderdice Andrew D.G. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeSmall and medium‐sized companies often struggle to achieve sustainable growth or access wider markets. This insight from industry aims to describe the case of Scot Trout and Salmon a company that acts as a distribution hub for a number of small and medium‐sized enterprise (SME) specialist fish producers in the west of Scotland.Design/methodology/approachThis article provides a qualitative case study method.FindingsA total of 90 per cent of Scottish companies are SMEs and with a fragile economy it is imperative that these SMEs can grow and flourish. The “loadshare distribution initiative” demonstrates one supply chain strategy by which this could be achieved.Research limitations/implicationsFurther research is required to extend understanding of the case through attention to the impact on the SME organisation in the longer term.Practical implicationsThe distribution initiative enabled all members of the supply chain to achieve the goal of cost reduction by simply sharing transport.Originality/valueThe case study illustrates a positive example of supply chain co‐operation.
Humanitarian aid: an agile supply chain?
Authors: Oloruntoba Richard , Gray Richard 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to investigate the nature of the humanitarian aid supply chain and discuss the extent to which certain business supply chain concepts, particularly supply chain agility, are relevant to humanitarian aid.Design/methodology/approachThe paper identifies elements of good practice in conventional business supply chains and applies them to the humanitarian aid supply chain, making use of published practice‐based literature and web sites associated with humanitarian aid. Particular emphasis is placed on the concept of “agility” in supply chain management. A model of an agile supply chain for humanitarian aid is developed.FindingsHumanitarian supply chains have similarities with business supply chains, but there are significant differences. Many humanitarian supply chains have a short and unstable existence with an inadequate link between emergency aid and longer‐term developmental aid. Unlike many business supply chains, typical emergency aid appeals assign inventory to a particular destination at the supply chain source.Practical implicationsThis research note is a starting‐point for empirical studies to test the agile humanitarian supply chain model.Originality/valueThis paper seeks to integrate humanitarian aid practice with concepts in the academic supply chain literature. In particular, proposes that humanitarian donors need convincing of the value of supply chain processes.
B2B commerce and its implications for the buyer‐supplier interface
Authors: Humphreys Paul , McIvor Ronan , Cadden Trevor 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to examine how electronic commerce can fundamentally change the inter‐organisational processes at the interface between the buyer and supplier.Design/methodology/approachFirst, an overview is provided of the evolution of B2B commerce and the typical business models that have been developed. Second, a number of factors are identified which impact on the buyer‐supplier interface in B2B commerce. Finally, the conclusions will examine the implications for managers involved in B2B commerce who have to interact across organisational boundaries.FindingsElectronic commerce not only enables the redesign of internal organisational processes but is extended into both the buyer and supplier organisations. Innovations in electronic commerce have a key role to play in managing inter‐organisational networks of supply chain members. It is also found that in many instances electronic commerce is radically changing the way in which organisations have traditionally traded. As well as impacting the external trading arrangements between buyers and suppliers, electronic commerce is also affecting the traditional roles of the functions involved in managing the buyer/supplier relationship.Practical implicationsIt is essential for top management to understand that the internet is more than a tool or technique, but rather something that is woven into the fabric of the organisation and the relationship with its environment. Adopting such an approach represents a drastic change from traditional management thinking and, more importantly, for management's behaviour.Originality/valueThis paper provides an improved understanding of how the internet represents a powerful technology for commerce and communication at the buyer‐supplier interface. This will be a useful insight for academics and practitioners alike.
Slotting and promotional allowances: red flags in the supply chain
Authors: Kaikati Jack G. , Kaikati Andrew M. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis paper seeks to provide an overview of the growing popularity of slotting fees and their potential for abuse that led to congressional hearings as well as investigations by the Federal Trade Commission and the General Accounting Office, respectively. It also aims to discuss the widespread use of promotional allowances and their potential for abuse, leading to accounting irregularities.Design/methodology/approachIt focuses on how promotional allowances have been improperly accounted for at Royal Ahold, Fleming Companies and AmerisourceBergen Corp. By reviewing how the Financial Accounting Standard Board (FASB) overhauled the accounting rules, it sheds some light on the magnitude of these practices.FindingsThe FASB failed to go far enough in its crack‐down. It reveals that heavy reliance on these allowances by financially weak retailers can be a red flag to current and potential investors, both professional and individual. However, the post‐Enron accounting rule changes and the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act are forcing CEOs and CFOs of publicly traded companies to rethink how to account for these allowances. Additionally, while the vast majority of grocery chains dabble in the slotting ritual, the world's largest retailer and the world's largest commissary do not demand and do not accept slotting fees.Originality/valueBy reviewing a limited sample of the literature, this study offers some guidelines for conducting future research.