bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intangibles and sustainability in local government reports
Authors: Del Bello Adele 
Published: January 2007

PurposePublic sector entities are clearly catalysts, generators and managers of intangibles. However, they appear to be unaware so far of the possibility to prepare and use intangibles statements, but they often include information on the intangibles they produce and are concerned with in other forms of reporting they publish (e.g. social, environmental, sustainability reports). Accordingly, the first aim of the paper is to analyse the degree of disclosure on intangible resources and activities in public sector bodies' supplementary reports that have indeed different objectives from intangibles statements. In particular, the paper focuses on Local Agenda 21 (LA21), which is a local government sustainability report that is quite well known internationally. The second aim of the work is to evaluate whether, in more general terms, intangibles reports that are currently developed by private sector organisations would also be desirable for local public sector entities, and, if so, whether they could be integrated with LA21. This way, a more comprehensive report, including both sustainability‐ and intangibles‐related information, could be designed and fruitfully implemented.Design/methodology/approachThe tentative exploration for intangibles‐related information within Local Agenda 21 is conducted through an empirical study referring to the specific case of Agenda 21 prepared by the Commune and the Province of Ferrara (Italy) in 2003. The evaluation of the usefulness of intangibles reports for local public sector entities is based on the analysis of the scope of their possible use.FindingsA table is provided, including indicators that are drawn from the above sustainability report, and that could be also part of a potential intangibles statement of the local government units concerned. In generalising the results, some relevant intersection areas appear in the indicators used, even though intangibles reports and Agenda 21 serve different informational needs for diverse stakeholders. In this sense, an integration between the two documents seems possible. Indeed, a further relevant result that has also important practical implications is that intangibles reports are quite desirable for local governments as they could provide basic information that could be used not only in the perspective of communication with stakeholders, but also for internal managerial purposes of local government, such as the identification of weaknesses and assessment of the results deriving from intangibles investments and management.Originality/valueThis issue seems to be scarcely analysed, especially in the perspective proposed, by the existing literature.
Voluntary disclosure on project intangibles from R&D in business reporting
Authors: Riegler Christian , Höllerschmid Christian 
Published: January 2007

PurposeSpecific asset recognition rules often bar expenses for research and development (R&D) from recognition on corporate balance sheets. This tangible‐intangible accounting asymmetry has led to the development of intellectual capital reports (ICRs) for intangibles in general and for R&D in particular. Thus, two dichotomous reporting formats coexist in corporate disclosure. The purpose of this article is to bring together more closely the information on project intangibles from R&D provided by voluntary and mandatory reporting systems.Design/methodology/approachThe authors used an experimental case study approach in a joint research project with a non‐university research and technology organisation (RTO). The methods deployed in the project included semi‐structured interviews, Delphi techniques and normative reasoning.FindingsThe results show that it is possible to use financial reporting's systematic approach and typical layout to ally the presumed strengths of financial reporting (i.e. the existence of standardised ways of interpretation and an educated readership) and indicator‐based ICRs (i.e. the capability of capturing the generic features of innovation activity).Practical implicationsGiven the predominance of financial reporting's educated readership, it is useful to produce voluntary disclosures in such a form that the information can easily be embedded in the overall picture painted by financial numbers.Originality/valueInductive‐analytical ICRs are typically not intertwined with financial accounting. The article elaborates on linkages between financial accounting and inductive‐analytical reporting models and proposes a classification scheme for project intangibles from R&D based on information reliability.
Intellectual capital in universities
Authors: Paloma Sánchez M. , Elena Susana 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe growing interest regarding intangibles and intellectual capital (IC) has extended from firms to public institutions such as universities and research centres during the last decade. Since universities are considered critical institutional actors in national innovation systems, European higher education and research institutions are going through an important transformation process with the aim of making them more comparable, flexible, transparent and competitive. The objective of the paper is two‐fold. On the one hand, its aim is to address the importance of measuring and managing IC in universities to improve research management and contribute to comparative analysis in European universities, and on the other hand, to highlight some methodological and conceptual considerations in relation to the analytical framework developed within an ongoing experience – the Observatory of European Universities (OEU).Design/methodology/approachThe paper analyses a specific case within the OEU: the Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM) in Spain. The problems and difficulties within the process of applying the OEU analytical framework are examined.FindingsThis analysis provides some insight into the utility of the framework. From a conceptual point of view, we find some similarities between IC approaches and the OEU, but a different terminology is identified.Originality/valueThis paper argues that important benefits can be achieved when adapting the Observatory's framework to the IC approach and terminology, regarding the increasing impact of IC approaches at firm and political level.
The role of KIBS in the IC development of regional clusters
Authors: Smedlund Anssi , Toivonen Marja 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe paper seeks to introduce the concept of knowledge‐intensive business services (KIBS) in the context of regional networks and to analyze the roles of KIBS in regional development, especially from the viewpoint of regional intellectual capital.Design/methodology/approachRegional networks are presented as the networks of production, development and innovation in the region. Drawing from recent literature, the roles of KIBS in regional networks are discussed.FindingsIt is argued that networks for production emphasize explicit knowledge, networks for development emphasize tacit knowledge, and networks for innovation emphasize emergent, potential knowledge. It is further stated that KIBS provide the timely information needed in production networks, transfer best practices that support learning in development networks, and function as sources of innovation and facilitators of innovation processes in innovation networks.Practical implicationsThe paper provides an approach to reduce the complexity of regional networks into a more manageable level, and highlights the importance of knowledge‐intensive business services in regions.Originality/valueThe approach used in this paper addresses the following gaps in existing research: it argues that KIBS are important actors in the regional IC development, highlights that the roles of KIBS are different in production, development and innovation activities, and argues that a successful region needs all of these activities.
A simulation model using system dynamic method for construction and demolition waste management in Hong Kong
Authors: Hao J.L. , Hills M.J. , Huang T. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeAs construction and demolition(C&D) waste is one of the main solid waste generators in Hong Kong, its impact on the environment has become an imperative issue to the involved stakeholders. Although, C&D waste management has been receiving increasing attention from stakeholders and researchers since the early 1980s, how to manage C&D waste efficiently and effectively is, however, still in its early stages. Past research on C&D waste management has mainly focused on the separate aspects of waste management including waste reduction, reuse, recycle and response. A new approach is made in this paper to improve C&D waste management.Design/methodology/approachA simulation model is developed based on system dynamics methodology for strategic planning of C&D waste in Hong Kong by incorporating the relationship of major activities inherently involved in C&D waste management.FindingsFinds that such an integrated simulation model will have the potential to assist decision makers and practitioners to better understand the complexity of information and processes involved in managing C&D waste throughout a project's life‐cycle.Originality/valueThis has shown that management of C&D waste can be facilitated by means of system dynamics to provide a better understanding of the dynamic interactions and interdependencies of the key areas of the C&D waste management process.
The sustainable implant
Authors: van Timmeren A. , Sidler D. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to focus on a combined waste (or: wastewater)/energy system in the deep green housing district named “EVA Lanxmeer” in Culemborg (The Netherlands). An innovative mixture of “red and green” development is presented, together with a concept of building integrated decentralized technologies for wastewater and organic waste treatment with energy and nutrients recovery. The concept is called sustainable implant.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology of the research is based on Van Strien's “regulative cycle” in which theoretic parts, on the one hand, and practice‐related parts, on the other hand, are distinguished. The theoretical part concerns a flow analysis of existing and new sustainable technologies for preserving the (energy, water and waste) flows, an analysis of the different options for transportation, the accompanying technical infrastructure, and an analysis of possible levels or scales of implementation. The practice‐related part of the research consists of case studies and the final design of the sustainable implant for the district EVA Lanxmeer.FindingsIt is important to change the general attitude towards the different components of design, development, use and management of urban areas. A way to do so is the “interconnection” of different themes and cycles within cities. An example is the linking of sanitation to energy and food production. The paper shows the potentials of integrating solutions concerning energy and sanitation flows as near as possible to its origin of use and/or production. Introducing the analogy of the functioning of buildings (with respect to energy and sanitation flows) with that of a parasite.Research limitations/implicationsThe system layout and the dimensioning backgrounds are explained in this paper. Additional emphasis is put on maintenance, conservation and administration of the integrated whole, and the possible consequences for the district and its inhabitants. There are scale limitations concerning the proposed (and realized) systems. Besides that there is a matter of a unique situation with an “intentional community”.Originality/valueAlthough two similar systems, however small, have been realized, no other project (in process of realization) can be found worldwide in which there is a linking of urban agriculture, waste(water) treatment and energy production at the scale of an urban district.
Indoor climate guidelines in The Netherlands
Authors: van der Linden Kees A.C. , Kurvers Stanley S.R. , Raue Arjen A.K. , Boerstra Atze A.C. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper sets out to highlight several aspects of a project, aimed at developing an advanced thermal comfort guideline, based on the adaptive thermal comfort theory.Design/methodology/approachThe paper introduces the new Dutch adaptive guideline for thermal comfort. The initial method exceeding hours (TO) is discussed, as well as the more recent method of weighted temperature exceeding hours (GTO). An evaluation of the practical and theoretical shortcomings of the TO and GTO methods is discussed, as well as the rationale behind the adaptive ATG guideline. Furthermore, the results are presented of computer simulations in which the predictions of the different methods are compared. Productivity effects of the new guideline are also discussed, as well as the implications for cooling system sizing and energy efficiency.FindingsThe adaptive temperature limits (ATG) guidelines appears to be a more reliable method for the assessment of thermal comfort, in particular for passive, free‐running buildings, compared with the PMV‐based method of weighted temperature exceeding hours (GTO). Furthermore, the ATG method allows for a wider temperature range for Alpha type buildings and gives more opportunity for the development of sustainable, naturally ventilated buildings and limiting cooling energy.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the new ATG method shows promising results, more research is needed. The exact distinction between Alpha and Beta is still subject to further research, as well as the question whether a certain amount of exceeding hours of the ATG limits should be accepted.Practical implicationsThe ATG method is being used in The Netherlands for the assessment of thermal comfort in the design stage as well as in the assessment of the performance of buildings in use.Originality/valueThis paper discusses the first application of the adaptive thermal comfort theory in a practical guideline.
The development of an IFC‐based lifecycle costing prototype tool for building construction and maintenance
Authors: Fu C. , Kaya S. , Kagioglou G. Aouad M. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper intends to focus on interoperability issues in IT‐based the lifecycle costing (LCC) applications and on improving LCC decision making based on cost performances of various options of constructing techniques and materials, excluding energy calculations.Design/methodology/approachThis project mainly is an IT development project based on industry foundation classes (IFC) models. The LCC tool is fully compliant with the system architecture of the nD modelling tool, and is based on the integrated nD modelling interfaces, which are IFC compliant and integrated with an interactive virtual reality environment. The functions of the LCC tool also provide integrated costs, database management and automatic calculations of some complicated LCC algorithms.FindingsThe advantages identified are as follows: First, this IFC‐based LCC tool demonstrates the interoperable delivery of building design information across different CAD systems. Second, the development techniques adopted in this case are more practical and cost‐ effective due to the easily accessible auxiliary tools. This also promotes the flexibility of the IFC‐based development.Research limitations/implicationsThe lack of real historical data of LCC collected from previous projects is still a major barrier to applying this tool in practice. The future research and development of this LLC tool will look at the lifecycle costing of building service and energy consumption.Originality/valueThe paper introduces the development of IFC based applications in lifecycle costing.
An examination of the suitability of a UK PFI model within the Czech Republic, the Republic of Ireland, Palestine (Gaza‐West Bank), Portugal and Turkey
Authors: Eaton David , Akbiyikli Rifat , de Lemos Teresa , Gunnigan Louis , Ozen Kutanis Rana , Casensky Martin , Ladra Josef , El Sawalhi Nabil 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe objective of this research is to identify the cross‐cultural similarities and differences of the implementation of the UK PFI procurement process in different contexts.Design/methodology/approachThe research methodology adopted was the SLEEPT approach. The identified features are examined from source material of various projects within the stated nations. A Delphic approach of confirmation by national collaborators from each country is utilised. Confirming and disaffirming features are examined utilising exogenous cultural drivers.FindingsThe conclusion of this research identifies cross‐cultural features of six different cultures presented as a “cultural compass” which will inform the development of future private finance initiative (PFI)/public private partnership (PPP) projects. The impact of this research will have implications for the appreciation of cultural similarities and differences of national “construction cultures” for effective project delivery of future PFI/PPP projects.Originality/valueThis paper offers an approach that can be generalised for adoption by nations considering the introduction of PFI as a procurement process.
Financial profile of leveraged buy‐out targets: some French evidence
Authors: Le Nadant Anne‐Laure , Perdreau Frédéric 
Published: January 2007

PurposeSeeks to investigate whether the financial characteristics of leveraged buy‐out (LBO) targets differ from those of firms that have not undergone an LBO before the deal. Specifically, to examine the free cash flows (FCFs), income taxes, capital intensity, business risk, profitability, financial structure and asset characteristics of 175 French LBO targets that are mainly privately held and rather small companies, between 1996 and 2002.Design/methodology/approachPredictions derive from the FCF and the tax savings hypotheses, and from the criteria used by LBO firms in their acquisition rationale. Tests were conducted of differences between LBO targets and control companies and logit regressions run.FindingsResults show that LBO targets are less indebted, have more liquid (financial) assets, and exhibit higher business risk than their industry counterparts. A distinction between LOBs according to the vendor type shows that independent companies are smaller, more profitable, and have higher tax income levels, whereas former subsidiaries or divisions of groups are less profitable, and have more financial assets than their industry counterparts. Logit regressions suggest that LBOs of smaller independent targets that LBOs of smaller independent targets fit fiscal and succession motives, whereas LBOs of former subsidiaries address management issues.Research limitations/implicationsThe likelihood of an LBO is related to accounting ratios only. Further research could include other financial or strategic variables in the models.Practical implicationsThe unexpected risky profile of targets has implications for LBO firms.Originality/valueA new result is the risky profile of LBO targets prior to the deal. This could help to explain the underperformance puzzle after the deal already emphasized on the French market.
Investor reaction to regulated monopolies announcing going concern opinions
Authors: Schaub Mark 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis study aims to examine the industry reaction as determined by stock returns when firms in the electric services industry announced receipt of Going concern audit opinions from 1984 through 1991.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilizes standard event study methodology to test for significant excess performance.FindingsFrom 1984 to 1991, going concern opinion (GCO) announcements produce a contagion response in the industry on the announcement date more than half the time. Also, over the event window of the announcement date plus the five days following, six of the seven announcements were accompanied by significant negative industry reaction. Regression analysis suggests non‐announcing a firm's leverage and earnings correlation with the announcing firm significantly impact abnormal returns, as does the exchange on which the announcer's equity is traded, the size of the announcing firm and whether nuclear plant problems were mentioned in the announcement.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings suggest that audit opinions provide new information for investors in the electric services industry. Also, GCO announcements in this industry normally result in contagion among rival firms.Originality/valueThis paper provides insights into investor reactions to news contained in Going concern audit opinions in the electric services industry.
Accounting research in the French language area – second half of the 20th century
Authors: Degos Jean‐Guy , Mattessich Richard 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to offer a survey of accounting publications and research in the French literature from 1950 to the end of the twentieth century.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology is that of literary research, review and critique.FindingsFinds that over the period mentioned different aspects of accounting research have been examined in the literature – academic, social, matrix, events, historical. The leading researchers in these fields are covered in detail.Originality/valueSucceeds in offering problems the most comprehensive survey to date of the French literature on accounting and related research during the period under review.
Disaggregated earnings and the prediction of ROE and stock prices: a case of the banking industry
Authors: Alam Pervaiz , Brown Charles A. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to investigate whether disaggregated bank earnings better predict next period earnings than contemporaneous aggregated earnings.Design/methodology/approachFairfield et al.'s (1996) regression approach is used for predicting next period's return of equity (ROE) and stock prices using disaggregated earnings data.FindingsThe results show that the mean adjusted R‐square significantly increases with the progressive disaggregation of earnings. The results also demonstrate that disaggregated components are better able to predict next period earnings and stock prices than aggregated earnings.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings support the US Financial Accounting Standard Board's contention that disaggregated information may be more useful than aggregated information for investment, credit, and financing decisions.Practical implicationsInvestors and analysts should use disaggregated income statement information in predicting next period earnings and stock prices for the banking industry.Originality/valueThe main contribution of this paper is to demonstrate how fully disaggregated earnings explain ROE, stock prices, and analysts forecast error in the banking industry.