bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Elementary schoolteachers' use of instructional materials on the web
Authors: Wu Ming‐der , Chen Shih‐chuan 
Published: November 2008

PurposeStudies have shown that schoolteachers are familiar with instructional materials on the web and integrate them into classroom teaching. In Taiwan, there are a number of online instructional materials, with the Learning Fueling Station being a leading web site. Using this popular site as an example, this study seeks to investigate how schoolteachers navigate online instructional materials and for what types of instructional materials they are looking.Design/methodology/approachA total of 30 elementary schoolteachers were interviewed in their offices using computers to connect to the Learning Fueling Station web site, and web pages were visited as needed during the interview. Participants were asked to search for any topic in which they were interested, and the interviewer observed and recorded their search behavior.FindingsAll schoolteachers reported that they use the internet prior to designing their instructional activities. The two main reasons they gave for using the internet were to refer to other teachers' materials and to obtain up‐to‐date information on their subjects, especially in areas related to science and technology and social studies. Source materials (e.g. photographs and video clips) and ready‐to‐use instructional packages were two popular items that the schoolteachers search for online. Participants appreciated Learning Fueling Station's commitment to quality but reported that the quantity of information available on the site was insufficient to meet their needs.Originality/valueRelatively few studies have dealt with issues concerning teachers' use behavior. The findings of the study could be helpful for those who are responsible for organizing or maintaining instructional materials web sites on the internet. School librarians may have a better understanding of teachers' behavior and work out a more useful library instruction program.
Measuring e‐CRM service quality in the library context: a preliminary study
Authors: Wang Mei‐Yu 
Published: November 2008

PurposeCustomer relationship management (CRM) indicates a comprehensive strategy and an interactive process intended to achieve an optimum balance between corporate investment and the satisfaction of customer needs to generate the maximum profit. E‐CRM refers to CRM using internet technology plus a database, OLAP, data warehouse, data mining, etc. In order to gain an understanding of the efficiency of implementing an e‐CRM system within the library context, to develop theoretically and empirically an evaluation process for the e‐CRM system and survey its impact on service quality, a pilot scheme was initiated in 2004. The pilot scheme was to design and implement an e‐CRM prototype system for a particular academic library in Taiwan and to survey the system's performances. This paper aims to discuss this matter.Design/methodology/approachThe case study methodology was chosen for this preliminary study. A prototype e‐CRM system was designed and built for an academic library in Taiwan. To measure its service quality, a questionnaire survey was conducted.FindingsIt was found that the respondents have the relatively highest perception scores related to the library's trying to improve its service quality, and the relatively lowest perception scores for the system's capability of keeping a promise. In general, the respondents' perception toward e‐CRM service quality was either neutral or positive.Research limitations/implicationsA workable methodology for measuring the e‐CRM service quality in a particular academic library is presented, and information about the service being evaluated is gathered.Originality/valueTwo strengths of the preliminary study are that a prototype e‐CRM system is designed and implemented in an academic library and a measurement instrument is devised. These will both be useful to other libraries.
Surface finishes in a lead‐free world
Authors: Milad George 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to detail the changes needed to ensure compatibility of printed‐circuit board (PCB) surface finishes with the use of lead‐free solders and in lead‐free assembly processes.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes the various popular solderable surface finishes that are currently available. It then reviews them in terms of the required adaptations necessary to meet the requirements of the Restriction of Hazardous Substance (RoHS) Directive and to ensure compliance, whilst meeting the performance needs of the product.FindingsSome of the available and popular finishes, such as organic solderability preservatives and tin require modifications while, others including silver, direct immersion gold and electroless nickel immersion gold are transitioning well into the world of lead‐free. Electroless nickel, electroless palladium, immersion gold is one finish that performs better with lead‐free assembly than it did with conventional eutectic solder‐based approaches.Originality/valueThe paper provides a concise overview of the implications for specific surface finishes when making choices for use with lead‐free and RoHS compliant PCB soldering and assembly.
Finite element modelling of a thin‐film bulk acoustic resonator (FBAR)
Authors: Buccella Concettina , De Santis Valerio , Feliziani Mauro , Tognolatti Piero 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe paper aims to propose a three‐dimensional (3D) finite element analysis to evaluate the electrical performances of a FBAR (thin‐film bulk acoustic resonator) resonator.Design/methodology/approachThe piezoelectric theory that uses an equivalent circuit is able to evaluate the thickness‐extensional vibration modes in simple 1D configuration but it is not adequate to predict spurious modes with lateral wave vector. Therefore, a fully 3D finite element analysis has been carried out to evaluate the characteristics of a real FBAR prototype that has been fabricated in a research center.FindingsThe measured characteristics of the FBAR prototype are compared with simulations obtained by the 3D finite element analysis. The agreement between experimental and numerical results confirms the accuracy of the proposed technique.Originality/valueThe paper proposes a 3‐D numerical approach to design and analyze the electrical characteristics of a real FBAR which has been fabricated following the guidelines obtained by the proposed numerical design.
Distributed computing finite element electromagnetic analysis of traveling wave tubes
Authors: Coco Salvatore , Laudani Antonino , Pollicino Giuseppe 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe paper's aim is to focus on the utilization of the GRID distributed computing environment in order to reduce simulation time for parameter studies of travelling wave tube (TWT) electron guns and helix slow‐wave structures.Design/methodology/approachTwo TWT finite‐element analysis modules were adapted to be run on the GRID, for this purpose scripts were written to submit a collection of independent jobs (the parameter study) to the GRID and collect the results.FindingsA 25‐job electron gun parameter study runs on the GRID in 30‐40 min instead of 7 h locally. A 16‐job slow‐wave structure parameter study runs in 1 h on the GRID instead of 8 h locally. Turnaround time on the GRID was limited by priority levels presently set by GRID management for the various jobs submitted.Practical implicationsThe procedures guarantee a remarkable reduction of the computing time.Originality/valueFor heavy‐computational cost tasks such as the above finite element electromagnetic calculations, the effective use of a heterogeneous, distributed, computing platform (the GRID computing platform) is very advantageous. The paper shows the development of new generation collaborative tools.
Monte Carlo method application to evaluate the infinite integrals of underground cable earth‐return path impedance
Authors: Vahidi B. , Hemmatian B. , Hosseinian S.H. 
Published: November 2008

PurposeTo find an easy and accurate method for evaluating the Pollaczek's integral in earth‐return path impedance calculation.Design/methodology/approachThe Monte Carlo method of evaluating the Pollaczek's integral is introduced.FindingsThe Monte Carlo method is easy and accurate method for this computation.Research limitations/implicationsUsing proposed method in cases of earth stratification.Practical implicationsThe proposed method can be used in power system transient software.Originality/valueThe proposed method introduces a computation method for calculation of Pollaczek's integral which is valuable for power engineers.
Epistemological role of case studies in logistics
Authors: Aastrup Jesper , Halldórsson Árni 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop the paradigmatic justification for the use of case studies in logistics research. The argument is based on a critical realist (CR) ontology and epistemology. The current logistics paradigm's flat ontology – based on regularity – is replaced by an ontology emphasising structures and mechanisms underlying actual events in the form of logistics practice and performance.Design/methodology/approachThe approach takes the form of desk research, conceptual work and theorizing.FindingsBased on this CR view of the logistics domain it is argued that the justifications for conducting case studies lie in their ability: to reach the causal depth required for revealing the real domain of logistics activities and performance: to reveal the working of mechanisms in loosely coupled structures showing open systems characteristics through a constant alternation between abstract and concrete reasoning and; to include the causal powers and effects of agents' ascribed meanings. Also, it is argued, in contrast with Yin's work which refers to the possibility of generalising case studies, that the justification of case studies not only must refer to their complementary role in research but also must build on groundings that allow this form of research to take a primary role in knowledge creation.Practical implicationsThe arguments have direct implications primarily for the scientific justification for case studies in logistics. CR thinking in this respect offers a view in which case studies should be seen as a more legitimate method in logistics inquiries. Second, the paper has implications for further work on the methods of using case studies in logistics: between what types of case studies can one distinguish, and which practical guidelines regarding design and reasoning can be developed based on the CR view?Originality/valueThe paper problematizes current research methodology in logistics. Based on critical realism, it presents a thorough and systematic justification for using case studies as a research approach.
Assessing poor quality service: perceptions of customer service representatives
Authors: Helms Marilyn M. , Mayo Donna T. 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to explore the variables most often associated with customer dissatisfaction and to discern which variables result in customer defection. Identification of these variables can aid managers as they develop strategies to prevent their occurrence.Design/methodology/approachThis exploratory study examined customer service dissatisfaction from a respondent group of customer service representatives employed by a call center. These employees deal with customers as their exclusive job function and are trained to correct customer concerns. The customer service respondents were surveyed and asked to list their top service complaints. From this list they were also asked to indicate the top ranked poor service issue that would cause them, as customers, to defect and select a competitor to provide a substitute product or service.FindingsResults of the study parallel those in other customer dissatisfaction research and indicate interesting characteristics of customer dissatisfaction arising from service failure. Interestingly, the top four categories (rude employees/poor attitudes; overall poor service; employees socializing and not paying attention to customers; and slow service) were noted most often as service problems by respondents and also ranked as the top reasons for defection. Areas for future research are also considered.Practical implicationsBy understanding and anticipating poor service delivery, managers can regard these complaint categories as critical market research information. In addition, such information may help managers anticipate customer needs. They can re‐structure service experiences and train employees to avoid problem behaviors and actions.Originality/valueWhile past research has focused on end‐user customers and their dissatisfaction, this research considers the opinions of consumers who are trained in, and work in, customer service.
Exploring the effects of gender, age, income and employment status on consumer response to mobile advertising campaigns
Authors: Leppäniemi Matti , Karjaluoto Heikki 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the effects gender, age, income and employment status on consumer response to short message service (SMS)‐oriented direct‐response requests or a call‐to‐action tactic in a television advertisement or program, consumer's participation in SMS sweepstakes or other competitions, and consumer uptake of mobile services such as ringtones, logos, screensavers and wallpapers ordered by SMS message.Design/methodology/approachThe data used in this study were collected via an online survey. A total of 4,062 consumers responded to this survey. Cross‐tabulation and binary logistic regression were used to examine the associations between the explanatory variables and responses to mobile advertising campaigns.FindingsThe results suggest that women are more active than men in their responses to SMS call‐to‐action campaigns. In addition, the results indicate that mobile advertising is not only for teenagers. For instance, consumers in the 36‐45 age group were most likely to respond to SMS calls‐to‐action in a television program and participate in SMS sweepstakes and other competitions. However, the youngest consumers most actively ordered mobile services using SMS. In addition, it was found that employment status had a substantial impact on consumers' SMS campaign activity.Research limitations/implicationsSelf‐report survey data are the bases of the findings discussed in this article. Substantial evidence exists in previous research that many respondents are inaccurate in reporting their own attitudes and past behavior. Thus, additional research relying on, for instance, SMS delivery measures (e.g. number of messages sent, number of replies, and – where an identifiable offer is promoted via mobile phone – the exact purchase rates), should be executed. Such experiments go beyond consumer reports by providing useful estimations of the impact of SMS text advertising based on customer inquiry and actual behavior.Practical implicationsThis study clearly demonstrates the prevalence of SMS advertising campaigns and provides important insights into consumers' engagement with SMS advertising activities. Basic demographics such as gender, age, income, and employment status are useful in modeling and predicting consumer behavior in relation to SMS call‐to‐action campaigns. Thus, the findings reported in this paper should help marketers to design campaigns that focus more closely on the target audience.Originality/valueWhile building on and maintaining continuity with extant work, this paper provides results that do facilitate research efforts focused on mobile media and aid practitioners in their quest to achieve mobile advertising success.
Proactive policing and the assessment of organised crime
Authors: Verfaillie Kristof , Vander Beken Tom 
Published: November 2008

PurposeContemporary policing and the control of (organised) crime involve priority setting, strategic planning and the use of strategic planning tools. The purpose of this paper is to make a contribution to the fast‐growing body of literature on intelligence‐led policing, and explore new concepts and methods to aid the strategic decision making of actors involved in policing organised crime.Design/methodology/approachThis paper argues that priority setting and strategic planning in the field of organised crime is inherently characterised by uncertainty. The authors examine to what extent policymakers can plan and anticipate coming organised crime threats. It is argued that, while predicting such issues is impossible, policymakers can prepare for them. It is suggested that the field of scenario studies can provide tools that can support strategic planning and the assessment of security challenges in the field of organised crime control. A scenario study is presented on the vulnerability of economic sectors to illustrate and develop this claim.FindingsScenario studies do not predict the future of organised crime, nor do they replace information‐gathering methodologies and crime intelligence applications that support concrete criminal investigations. Scenario studies are sensitising tools that force strategic planners to examine the assumptions and knowledge base on which they base their decisions. To that end, scenario studies combine the analysis of law enforcement data and scientific analysis of organised crime with analysis of issues most vital to societies, regions, cities, etc. The analytical focus shifts from targeting concrete offenders to detecting opportunities and weaknesses in structural processes that may not always be visible to police organizations, but pose significant security risks if left unattended. The scenario study that is presented on the vulnerability of economic sectors in the EU illustrates that scenario studies can amend traditional crime intelligence in this manner.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper is limited to a conceptual study and a concrete scenario study. Future research might shed more light on implementation/evaluation issues of scenario‐based planning.Practical implicationsThe paper offers a conceptual and methodological framework for scenario‐based strategic planning.Originality/valueThe paper intends to advance the debate on organized crime assessments in light of the development towards intelligence‐led policing strategies. To that end, new concepts and a different methodological framework are suggested.
Intra‐firm decision‐maker perceptions of relocation risks
Authors: Marja Rasila Heidi , Nenonen Suvi 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to understand the risk perceptions of persons responsible for business relocation.Design/methodology/approachThe empirical material consists of interviews in companies that have considered relocation seriously or have recently relocated. The empirical material is augmented by a literature review.FindingsThe risk perceptions can be divided into five categories. These are: financial risks, functional risks, corporate culture risk, interest group risk and future risk.Practical implicationsWhen a company relocates, the stress and anxiety of the persons responsible for the process should be considered. Also, when doing relocation‐related business, reducing relocation risks should be considered when planning the business model and marketing.Originality/valueThis paper combines relocation literature in a multi‐disciplinary manner and adds empirical understanding of the phenomena in question.
Determinants of internet‐based corporate governance disclosure by Spanish listed companies
Authors: Gandía Juan L. 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyse the corporate governance information disclosed by Spanish listed companies on the internet, with the objective of assessing the extent and the influence of several corporate characteristics on the level of information voluntarily disclosed.Design/methodology/approachThe study took as its reference the existing literature on the examination of the quality of web sites and the importance of content as a key variable in determining web site quality. To quantify the corporate governance information disclosed by Spanish listed companies, three transparency indexes were designed. To contrast which variables determine the information provided online, the investigation based itself on studies about voluntary disclosure in companies, and three lineal regressions models and an ANOVA analysis were performed.FindingsThe empirical evidence obtained reveals that the firms that score highest for transparency are also those that are most likely to use the internet as a channel for the disclosure of corporate governance information. The results show that disclosure levels depend on the degree to which firms are followed by analysts, their listing age, their “visibility” and the fact of belonging to the communications and information services industry.Practical implicationsThe need for this study was clear in view of the increasing interest shown by supervisory authorities for the oversight of the European and US capital markets in regulating not only the content but also the manner in which corporate governance information is disclosed over the internet. During the coming years, regulatory stock market agencies will have to strive to take advantage of the opportunities that the internet offers to increase both the relational and informational capacity of company web sites.Originality/valueCorporate governance research has focused mainly on the analysis of the information that firms ought to disclose and the effects of disclosure generally, without considering the media involved. This paper suggests a new approach that examines the relevance of technology, particularly the internet, and orients supervisory authorities in the direction to follow for improving corporate governance transparency in listed companies.
The impact of online store environment cues on purchase intention
Authors: Hsin Chang Hsin , Wen Chen Su 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investige whether online environment cues (web site quality and web site brand) affect customer purchase intention towards an online retailer and whether this impact is mediated by customer trust and perceived risk. The study also aimed to assess the degree of reciprocity between consumers' trust and perceived risk in the context of an online shopping environment.Design/methodology/approachThe study proposed a research framework for testing the relationships among the constructs based on the stimulus‐organism‐response framework. In addition, this study developed a non‐recursive model. After the validation of measurement scales, empirical analyses were performed using structural equation modelling.FindingsThe findings confirm that web site quality and web site brand affect consumers' trust and perceived risk, and in turn, consumer purchase intention. Notably, this study finds that the web site brand is a more important cue than web site quality in influencing customers' purchase intention. Furthermore, the study reveals that the relationship between trust and perceived risk is reciprocal.Research limitations/implicationsThis study adopted four dimensions – technical adequacy, content quality, specific content and appearance – to measure web site quality. However, there are still many competing concepts regarding the measurement of web site quality. Further studies using other dimensional measures may be needed to verify the research model.Practical implicationsOnline retailers should focus their marketing strategies more on establishing the brand of the web site rather than improving the functionality of the web site.Originality/valueThis study proposed a non‐recursive model for empirically analysing the link between web site quality, web site brand, trust, perceived risk and purchase intention towards the online retailer.