bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Forecasting demand from heterogeneous customers
Authors: Kalchschmidt Matteo , Verganti Roberto , Zotteri Giulio 
Published: July 2006

PurposeIn many industrial contexts, firms are encountering increasingly uncertain demand. Numerous factors are driving this phenomenon; however, a major change that is spreading among different sectors is the ever‐growing attention to customers. Companies have identified that customers are critical not only because they directly influence the success of specific products or firms, but also because they play a fundamental role in many internal processes. Although the role of customers in business processes has been deeply analysed, the issue of demand forecasting and the role of customers has not been fully explored. The present study aims to examine the impact of heterogeneity of customer requests on demand forecasting approaches, based on three action research cases. Based on the analysis of customer behaviour, an appropriate methodology for each case is designed based on clustering customers according to their demand patterns.Design/methodology/approachObjectives are achieved by means of three action research case studies, developed in cooperation with three different companies. The paper structures a general methodology based on these three experiences to help managers in better dealing with uncertain demand.FindingsBy means of proper analysis of customers' heterogeneity and by using simple statistical techniques such as cluster analysis, forecasting performance can significantly improve. In these terms, this work claims that focusing on customers' heterogeneity is a relevant topic both for practitioners and researchers.Originality/valueThe paper proposes some specific guidelines to forecast demand where customers' differences impact significantly on demand variability. In these terms, results are relevant for practitioners. Moreover, the paper claims that this issue should be better analysed in future researches and proposes some guidelines for future works.
Supply chain management: theory and practice – the emergence of an academic discipline?
Authors: Cousins Paul D. , Lawson Benn , Squire Brian 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo introduce the special issue focusing on the question: is supply chain management (SCM) an emerging academic discipline?Design/methodology/approachA brief discussion of the papers in the special issue.FindingsOutlines how the papers stimulate debate on the nature and development of SCM and indicates that there is an intense research effort being conducted around the world in this field.Originality/valueProvides a summary of the perspectives considered within the issue.
Extending green practices across the supply chain
Authors: Vachon Stephan , Klassen Robert D. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis research aims to extend the “collaborative paradigm” proposed by others in prior research beyond a supply chain's core operations. To date, this paradigm has generated relatively little empirical research on peripheral, non‐core areas such the natural environment. Antecedents (both plant‐level and supply chain characteristics) of green supply chain practices (GSCP) are examined. Among possible antecedents, prior research pointed to supply chain integration – both logistical (tactical level) and technological (strategic level) – as a potentially important determinant of green practices.Design/methodology/approachGreen practices are defined along the two dimensions of environmental collaboration and monitoring. The empirical analysis used data from 84 plants in North America surveyed in 2002. Validity and reliability of scales for new and existing constructs were assessed through factor analysis. Hierarchical linear regression was used to test the hypotheses for the antecedents of GSCP.FindingsTechnological integration with primary suppliers and major customers was positively linked to environmental monitoring and collaboration. For logistical integration, a linkage was found only with environmental monitoring of suppliers. Finally, as the supply base was reduced, the extent of environmental collaboration with primary suppliers increased.Research limitations/implicationsGreater supply chain integration can benefit environment management in operations, and the collaborative paradigm can be extended to this domain. A limitation is that the empirical analysis focused on one industry representing a single echelon.Originality/valueThis is one of the few studies that conceptualize and empirically test GSCP, and consider both and separately upstream and downstream interactions in the supply chain.
Supply management's evolution: key skill sets for the supply manager of the future
Authors: Giunipero Larry , Handfield Robert B. , Eltantawy Reham 
Published: July 2006

PurposeIn the last decade there have been dramatic impacts on, and changes within, the field of purchasing/supply management. Given supply management's new strategic role, this research seeks to examine the key skills and knowledge necessary for firms to improve in order to maximize the purchasing function's contribution to the organization. The research also aims to identifies the major shifts in supply management that have occurred in the last decade.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative study was conducted with a series of focus group meetings with 54 executives across the USA in order to construct theoretical relationships with which to develop a grounded theory of supply management skills evolution in a changing business environment.FindingsThe implications from this research indicate that supply management professionals will assume a more strategic role in the future. The data indicate that there are strong trends underlying this movement. These include the need for building strategic relationships, focusing on total cost and strategic cost reduction, yet collaborating and integrating with suppliers. While in the past these efforts may have appeared to be contradictory, with proper strategic planning they can be complementary.Originality/valueSupply managers of the future need to acquire strategic skills that add value and enable effective alignment with key business functions at a senior decision‐making level. Additional research is needed in the area to determine how best to recruit and train managers in these skills to move forward.
Fiscal policy in the European Union
Authors: Kollias Christos , Paleologou Susana‐Maria 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the revenue‐expenditure nexus in the case of the 15 members of the European Union.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses a VECM framework to determine the causal ordering between these two macroeconomic aggregates.FindingsThe empirical tests have yielded mixed results. The fiscal synchronisation hypothesis is supported for Denmark, Greece, Ireland, The Netherlands, Portugal and Sweden while, in the case of Austria, Belgium and Germany, the results point to the institutional separation hypothesis. Unidirectional causality from revenue to expenditure appears to be the case for Italy and Spain while the reverse causal ordering is found for Luxembourg. The findings also suggest the presence of the Buchanan‐Wagner hypothesis for Finland, France and the UK.Originality/valueThe determination of the causal ordering between these two macroeconomic aggregates has important implications for fiscal policy and the concomitant determination of budgetary balances. This is particularly true for the countries that participate in the eurozone and thus fall under the provisions of the stability and growth pact.
Automation, motivation and lean production reconsidered
Authors: Coffey Dan , Thornley Carole 
Published: July 2006

PurposeAims to present an alternative way of interpreting unfolding events as these pertain to the organisation of manufacturing practices in the assembly plants of the leading Japanese car assembler, Toyota.Design/methodology/approachThis is an analysis of assembly plant automation in the automotive industry.FindingsFifteen years ago, it was argued that the lean car assembly plants of the future would be comprehensively automated, but that in the meantime organization rather than automation was the watch‐word for efficient plants. Today it is possible to invert this prognosis as it applies to the leading “lean” car assembler, Toyota. Automation certainly played a much larger role in accounting for high labour productivity in the late 1980s than has generally been understood; but in the subsequent years priority has been given to managing the manual component in car assembly, and aggressive automation as a preferred strategy has been put on ice.Originality/valueThe findings raise new questions about future trends in the world automotive industry.
What's happening with machine safety standards and networks?
Authors: Piggin Richard 
Published: July 2006

PurposeRecently there has been considerable technological change in the way in which safety‐related control may be engineered. A series of standards based upon IEC 61508 are under development. This paper discusses these changes and highlights their relevancy to machine safety.Design/methodology/approachAn overview of technological change is given; from safety relays, to programmable safety controllers, safety‐related networks and the trend to combine safety and control functions in controllers and networks. Topics to consider when choosing between technologies are put forward, followed by a review of standards that incorporate functional safety.FindingsThe development of safety‐related standards, such as IEC 61508 provides general guidance on the design of safety‐related systems across a wide range of industries, with specific machinery implementation of the same principles in IEC 62061. There is overlap between IEC 62061 and ISO 13849‐1. The same functional safety principles are also implemented in IEC 61800‐5‐2 for adjustable power drive systems. IEC 61784‐3 embodies the functional safety concept in specific network technologies. Significant opportunities arise from the combination of technology and standards development to facilitate design, engineering and cost improvements.Practical implicationsConfusion is apparent in the application of emerging safety standards, coupled with dramatic changes in the approach to safety engineering. Areas of overlap between developing standards are highlighted, along with draft amendments intended to reduce potential conflict and perplexity. Incorporating functional safety into automation and industrial networking technologies enables engineers to produce innovative solutions that can lead to further improvements in machine safety, functionality, productivity and afford design, commissioning and maintenance benefits. Similar benefits are unlikely to be achievable with traditional safety technologies.Originality/valueAreas of overlap between developing standards are highlighted, with amendments intended to reduce confusion in the intended audience. This paper seeks to raise awareness in the methods and benefits of incorporating functional safety into automation and industrial networking technologies.
Africana resources in four selected US academic research libraries
Authors: Paulos Afeworki , Holley Robert P. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo explore the relationship between the importance of African studies programs and the acquisition of African imprint titles in four selected American academic libraries.Design/methodology/approachThe paper examines the characteristics of the African studies programs in four universities in comparison with library holdings including the percentage of holdings from four major English‐language African publishers.FindingThe four research libraries acquire substantial numbers of African monographs in keeping with the importance of their African studies programs.Originality/valueThe paper provides information on four major African studies programs and the library holdings that support them.
Is win‐win just pie in the sky?
Authors: Newall Ian 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo discuss the conflict between British Airways and Gate Gourmet in 2005, and analyze the type of negotiation skills that could have been used.Design/methodology/approachThis briefing is prepared by an independent writer. Reflects on the news coverage of the strike action and negotiation skills.FindingsOver the years, BA used its bargaining muscle to drive down the costs of Gate Gourmet's services. It was clear that, from Gate Gourmet's perspective, the deal was not sustainable and the only way out was to cut its own costs.Practical implicationsGives a good overview of the strike, and an insight into different negotiation skills and tactics.Originality/valueA condensed and easy‐to‐digest format, concentrating on a recent well‐publicized topic. Gives a good insight into negotiation tactics.
An interview with Mr Akbar Al Baker
Authors: by Alistair Craven Interview 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo share the views and experiences of a chief executive.Design/methodology/approachThe article is an interview with Akbar Al BakerFindingsAkbar Al Baker, has been Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways since 1997 following a very successful career within the State of Qatar’s Department of Civil Aviation. The airline is recognized as one of the fastest growing in the world.Originality/valueProvides insights into one CEO’s management experiences.
Spectroscopic and Analytical Developments Ltd fingerprints brand spirits with ultraviolet spectrophotometry
Authors: Connolly Christine 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo review the innovative products of a particular UK company.Design/methodology/approachLooks at the history and philosophy of the company, the design and advantages of their brand authenticator product, and then presents their latest spectrophotometric instruments.FindingsStarting in the field of miniature spectrophotometers, which soon became very competitive, the company found a niche market and developed an instrument well‐suited to that market. Their latest products build on that success.Originality/valueAn encouraging report for technologists and entrepreneurs.
An overview of EPC technology
Authors: Thiesse Frederic , Michahelles Florian 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis paper aims to provide an overview of the electronic product code (EPC) and related RFID standards that are currently being rolled out in the retail industry.Design/methodology/approachIt considers the EPC numbering schemes, air interface protocols, middleware aspects as well as scenarios for practical use.FindingsIdentifies possibilities and limitations of EPC standards, the current status of technology adoption and future fields of application.Originality/valueOf interest to those concerned with RFID technology selection and infrastructure development.
Characterization of anomaly detection in hyperspectral imagery
Authors: Chang Chein‐I , Hsueh Mingkai 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe paper aims to characterize anomaly detection in hyperspectral imagery.Design/methodology/approachThis paper develops an adaptive causal anomaly detector (ACAD) to investigate several issues encountered in hyperspectral image analysis which have not been addressed in the past. It also designs extensive synthetic image‐based computer simulations and real image experiments to substantiate the work proposed in this paper.FindingsThis paper developed an ACAD and custom‐designed computer simulations and real image experiments to successfully address several issues in characterizing anomalies for detection, which are – first, how large size for a target to be considered as an anomaly? Second, how an anomaly responds to its proximity? Third, how sensitive for an anomaly to noise? Finally, how different anomalies to be detected? Additionally, it also demonstrated that the proposed ACAD can be implemented in real time processing and implementation.Originality/valueThis paper is the first work on investigation of several issues related to anomaly detection in hyperspectral imagery via extensive synthetic image‐based computer simulations and real image experiments. In addition, it also develops a new developed an ACAD to address these issues and substantiate its performance.
A hybrid randomized protocol for RFID tag identification
Authors: Simplot‐Ryl David , Stojmenovic Ivan , Micic Aleksandar , Nayak Amiya 
Published: July 2006

PurposeRadio frequency identification (RFID) is a technology for tracking objects that is expected to be widely adopted in very near future. A reader device sends probes to a set of RFID tags, which then respond to the request. A tag is recognized only when it is the only one to respond to the probe. Only reader has collision detection capability. The problem considered here is to minimize the number of probes necessary for reading all the tags, assuming that the number of tags is known in advance.Design/methodology/approachWell known binary andn‐ary partitioning algorithms can be applied to solve the problem for the case of known number of tags. A new randomized hybrid tag identification protocol has been proposed, which combines the two partitioning algorithms into a more efficient one. The new scheme optimizes the binary partition protocol for small values ofn(e.g.n=2, 3, 4). The hybrid scheme then appliesn‐ary partition protocol on the whole set, followed by binary partition on the tags that caused collision.FindingsIt is analytically proved that the expected number of time slots in the hybrid algorithm with known number of users is less than 2.20n. Performance of these algorithms was also evaluated experimentally, and an improvement fromento approximately 2.15nwas obtained.Originality/valueThe algorithm shown here is efficient both by theory and practice and outperforms existing ones.
A process to fabricate micro‐membrane of Si3N4 and SiO2 using front‐side lateral etching technology
Authors: Alvi P.A. , Lourembam B.D. , Deshwal V.P. , Joshi B.C. , Akhtar J. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo fabricate submicrometer thin membrane of silicon nitride and silicon dioxide over an anisotropically etched cavity in (100) silicon.Design/methodology/approachPECVD of silicon dioxide and Silcion nitride layers of compatible thicknesses followed by thermal annealing in nitrogen ambients at 1,000°C for 30 min, leads to stable membrane formation. Anisotropic etching of (100) silicon below the membrane through channels on the sides has been used with controlled cavity dimensions.FindingsLateral front side etching through channels slows down etching rate drastically. The etching mechanism has been discussed with experimental details.Practical limitations/implicationsVacuum sealed cavity membranes can be realised for micro sensor applications.Originality/valueThe process is new and feasible for micro sensor technologies.
Fibre‐optic‐based sensors bring new capabilities to structural monitoring
Authors: Connolly Christine 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo examine the range of fibre‐optic sensors available for monitoring the integrity of buildings and civil engineering structures.Design/methodology/approachExplains the need for structural monitoring and reviews the types of fibre‐optic sensors. Concentrating on elongation and temperature sensing, shows how each technology works, which companies supply the products, and gives an overview of their technical specifications.FindingsFibre optics are able to provide integrated, single‐point and distributed sensor systems. The fibre is a communication channel as well as a sensor, and in some systems, carries highly multiplexed data over considerable distances to a central monitoring station. The take‐up of this technology in structural sensing is helped by appropriate packaging that assists attachment to buildings. Durability and measurement stability give a continuity of measurement that was not previously possible.Originality/valueAn introduction to the range of sensors applicable to structural monitoring, of general interest to scientists, but particularly to civil and constructional engineers.
Asians in the UK: gender, generations and enterprise
Authors: Dhaliwal Spinder , Kangis Peter 
Published: July 2006

PurposeAsian immigrant entrepreneurs in the UK have been used as examples of what can be done through free enterprise. Academic interest is developing in the changes taking place as newer generations emerge. Seeks to address these issues.Design/methodology/approachA small‐scale qualitative study was undertaken with interviews of five men and five women entrepreneurs of the second generation. The issues explored included their background, the factors that have influenced, facilitated or inhibited their decision to become self‐employed, their experiences of entrepreneurship and the particular issues that confronted them. Female entrepreneurs in the sample were older and felt inhibited and more constrained than their male counterparts in their freedom to act.FindingsBoth males and females of second generation entered business through attraction for the opportunities rather than as their only option in an unknown environment. Notwithstanding expectations, later generations did not enter activities adding much greater value than those of the first generation, even though they were better integrated with their environment. Boundary stresses between first and second generation are likely to lead to further studies of succession planning and of the influence of culture and gender on attitudes to enterprise.Originality/valueMethodologically the study is novel in so far as the researcher (an Asian female from a typical family business background) has taken care to observe the cultural proprieties often noted within this particular group. Hence, the data are arguably more authentic than previous studies undertaken by distant researchers.
American gay and lesbian student leaders’ perceptions of job discrimination
Authors: Kirby Susan 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis research explores the extent to which expectations of discrimination affect American undergraduate officers in gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered (GLBT) groups.Design/methodology/approachUsing structured interviewing, I conducted both phone and face‐to‐face interviews without gay and lesbian student officers in GLBT student organizations on campuses all across the USA. I specifically wished to discover their expectations relating to discrimination and information about their job seeking behaviors through analysis of the participants’ detailed oral descriptions of their viewpoints and experiences.FindingsOverall, the data reveal that when students search for professional positions they often expect discrimination, but many will not let that fear force them back into the closet. It is interesting to note that while some students fear discrimination and hide their sexual orientation and leadership activities in GLBT groups on their résumés, many state that they will be out at work and risk discrimination in the long run because being true to themselves is worth the risk.Research limitations/implicationsThe main limitation of this study relates to data collection and the resultant small sample. Additionally, this study is limited to the exploration of the conditions in the US labor market and perception of American students.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study help us to understand the choices facing gay and lesbian students as they make hard decisions about how much to reveal about themselves in their search for employment.Originality/valueFor gay and lesbian job candidates there can be severe penalties for disclosing their orientation; therefore, decisions whether and how to identify one's self on a résumé and during interviews are extremely important.