bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Entrepreneurial energy
Authors: Cato Molly Scott , Arthur Len , Keenoy Tom , Smith Russell 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe central suggestion of this paper is that innovation in the concept of entrepreneurship is overdue and that the concept of entrepreneurship needs to be extended to accommodate its often neglected collective or pluralistic dimension, a concept termed “associative entrepreneurship”. It has also been argued that there may be a natural link between sustainability and the co‐operative form. In this paper these themes are drawn together by considering the entrepreneurial potential expressed by the recent creation of mutual businesses in a range of renewable energy sectors in Wales. It is suggested that, at least in the renewable energy sector and perhaps in other sectors too, innovation in the direction of sustainability may require a development of the concept of entrepreneurship in the direction of mutualism.Design/methodology/approachThe paper takes the form of a theoretical discussion focusing around seven preliminary case studies.FindingsAs yet only a cluster of community‐based enterprises have been discovered in the renewable energy sector in Wales. The authors propose to study them in detail in the next stage of the research.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a developmental paper and many of its suggestions require rigorous testing. The authors would suggest that detailed case studies of the seven examples of associative enterprise in the renewable energy field outlined here, and others which may emerge during the research, would greatly enhance our understanding of what drives entrepreneurs in this field. Further research might also compare these examples with others organised according to more traditional business models.Practical implicationsIn view of the urgent need to move towards a low‐carbon economy and the expansion of the renewable energy sector this would require, understanding of the motivations of entrepreneurs in this sector is of great value.Originality/valueInnovation in the renewable energy sector may be being held back by the limitations of the concept of entrepreneurship.
Narrative construction of the social entrepreneurial identity
Authors: Jones Robert , Latham James , Betta Michela 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the process by which the social entrepreneurial identity can be constructed through narrative, concentrating specifically on the construction of the identity of the ideologically inclined social‐activist entrepreneur.Design/methodology/approachA case study approach is employed of a social‐activist entrepreneur who established a refugee help centre in a major Australian city. The data are presented through the genre of allowing the narrator to enjoy the primary voice in the form of an extended narrative.FindingsThe findings show how the social entrepreneur constructs his identity through crafted divisions based on oppositional and appositional principles of setting apart (a claim of separation) and bringing together (a claim of similarity). It is emphasised how the impact of the particular audience and the possibility of narrative omissions can both influence the narrative product as it is constructed by the social entrepreneur.Practical implicationsThe analysis has implications for our manner of understanding how ideologically inclined social entrepreneurs can experience the tension of lacing together potentially contrasting discourses while maintaining the overall integrative nature of their narrative.Originality/valueThe findings possess value and originality by making two major contributions to the extant literature. First, we challenge the central tendency in the literature to concentrate on dominant discourses by analysing the manner in which ideological social entrepreneurs construct their identity through their joint crafting of the discourses of “Me” and “Not‐Me”, and the non‐discourse of “Suppressed‐Me”. Second, we add to the literature on how informants deal with the tension of managing conflicting discourses by analysing the concept of “discourse suppression” as the narrative tendency of social activist entrepreneurs.
Social entrepreneurship in South Africa
Authors: Urban Boris 
Published: August 2008

PurposeVarious theoretical issues and debates were investigated in order to measure quantitatively social entrepreneurship (SE) activity (SEA), together with the different skills associated with successful SE in South Africa.Design/methodology/approachThis was primarily an exploratory study, using factor analysis and inferential statistical testing, based on a surveyed sample of 287 respondents, undertaken to measure SEA and concomitant SE skills. Empirical findings were interrogated in the context of existing research and comparisons with established SEA rates were made.FindingsThe findings were modest, particularly about the number of active and future social entrepreneurs. Moreover the validity and reliability of the instrument used to measure skills was established, offering insights into SEA and the types of skills associated with SE.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited by being in the early stage of theoretical development on the SE construct. The interpretation of the empirical findings, understanding SE and the associated skills, may serve as catalyst for this emerging and important activity in SA.Originality/valueSEA and skills were empirically measured for the first time. This initial South African investigation advances the topic to where it has much relevance.
The strategic fit of supply chain integration in the TFT‐LCD industry
Authors: Sha D.Y. , Chen P.K. , Chen Yung‐Hsin 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify what kind of supply chain integration strategies can support TFT‐LCD manufacturers seeking to break through the cost constraints and complex co‐operation relationships between manufacturers, suppliers and set plants/distributors, and further satisfy the market requirements in terms of cost, quality, delivery, and flexibility.Design/methodology/approachThe paper encompasses in‐depth interviews with 20 TFT‐LCD industry executives in three of the largest Taiwan TFT‐LCD manufacturing firms.FindingsSeveral different supply chain integration strategies have been identified for operational‐level improvement of TFT‐LCD manufacturing, including direct or indirect investment in suppliers; “made in‐house” and “made by resident suppliers” arrangements, “quasi‐cluster” formation, and new module assembly line set‐up at set plant.Research limitations/implicationsThis study involves only three multinational corporations of Taiwanese origin.Practical implicationsBased on the analysis of the TFT‐LCD supply chain structure, the strategic fit of supply chain integration leads to the improvement of TFT‐LCD manufacturers' capability to satisfy customer requirements and then attain competitive advantage. Their experience provides guidance for other hi‐tech industries.Originality/valueThe paper provides insights into the strategic formulation of supply chain integration in the real world of the TFT‐LCD industry and identifies directions for further empirical research.
Collaborative forecasting management: fostering creativity within the meta value chain context
Authors: Rodriguez Rodriguez Raul , Poler Escoto Raul , Mula Bru Josefa , Ortiz Bas Angel 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this research paper is to present a conceptual model for collaborative forecasting management (CFM) developed within a European project's context.Design/methodology/approachThis research follows a constructivist approach. After analysing different frameworks relating to such a thematic, and once their main weaknesses were identified, it was decided to develop the CFM framework that provides collaborative enterprises with a simple, efficient, robust and useful framework.FindingsThe paper describes a CFM model, which finds a place in the extended collaborative supply chain context, where several supply chains collaborate to deliver a product or service pack to final customers, thus forming the so‐called meta‐value chain, creating an extended value proposition.Practical implicationsEven though this proposal has been tested in one of the project's pilots, obtaining good results in terms of achieved and potentially achievable advantages, it should be tested further by implementing it in other collaborative organisations with the main objective of enriching and extending it to other sectors.Originality/valueThe CFM proposal came up as the result of applying innovative ideas between collaborative organisations supported by e‐collaboration practices, creating new paths for other disciplines.
Packaging design model from a supply chain approach
Authors: García‐Arca Jesús , Carlos Prado Prado José 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to present an integrated management model for packaging design.Design/methodology/approachThis model is the result of research of the concepts of packaging, logistics and “packaging logistics”. With this approach in mind, the design and development of packaging are structured on four basic corner‐stones, i.e. the definition and understanding of design requirements (logistics, marketing and environmental aspects), the definition of an appropriate organizational structure, the application of “best practices”, and, finally, establishing a control system.FindingsIt was found that the management model developed provides companies with a useful quantitative tool to find the “trade‐off” between the logistics costs reduction and the differentiation capacity linked to packaging.Originality/valueThe model proposed is designed to fill a gap in the measurement systems for making an evaluation of the detailed impact on the overall operation of the supply chain in certain packaging design decisions.
Opinion: Is America “the land of the future”?
Authors: Slaughter Richard A. 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to consider the view that America is “the land of the future”. It argues that, owing to its sponsorship of a model of development that is exploitive and unsustainable, this is no longer the case and that US futurists, in particular, need to consciously re‐evaluate their roles and work.Design/methodology/approachThe paper advances a cultural critique of US hegemony. It considers background myths and their role in creating “American exceptionalism” in various fields, including futures studies. It also critiques free market ideology, the role of corporations, market failures and the economics of exploitation. This leads to issues of truth and power and the view that a continuation of an ideology of “free enterprise” leads to the collapse of the global system.FindingsThe paper suggests a number of strategies for futurists to consider as ways of opening out their vision beyond current limitations.Practical implicationsA rationale is outlined that can support shifts in more progressive directions and moves toward more fruitful work.Originality/valueThe American futures enterprise is currently at risk from its uncritical association with dysfunctions in US society, culture and economy. The paper draws attention to some of these and indicates possible ways forward.
Really different? The future of future studies1
Authors: Goonatilake Susantha 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to outline the contours of futures studies that override the ethnocentric epistemological limitations of present studies, which are mono‐civilizational and extrapolations from Western experience.Design/methodology/approachThe paper shows by empirical and conceptual means the inadequacy of present futures studies – based partly on alleged American exceptionalism – which limit the imagination of futurists. The paper then uses a different philosophical base, namely Buddhist process philosophy, which puts change at its inner core to develop a new perspective.FindingsThe paper finds that the alleged American exceptionalism is based on founding myths and ground realities not necessarily present in other countries. Huntington and others evoked the role of civilizations before the rise of Asia was being fully noticed. Current US dominance is illustrated to some extent by “everywhere is America”, but in a reverse direction “everywhere is in America” as the world implodes back on the USA through migration and through globalization.Originality/valueThe approach suggested in the paper will provide a more penetrating epistemology for future studies than hitherto ad hoc approaches.
Un‐managing knowledge workers
Authors: Ehin Charles 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a conceptual and flexible framework for the management of knowledge workers in the current information economy.Design/methodology/approachResearch from such diverse fields as anthropology, evolutionary biology/psychology, paleontology, molecular biology, neurophysiology, and social network analysis are used in an attempt to find commonalities in these disciplines that will help determine the effects of various organizational contexts on human nature and the innovative capabilities of knowledge workers.FindingsProvides definitive explanations/reasons why knowledge workers should not be managed using Industrial Age management concepts and organizational structures. Also includes four clearly defined descriptive principles for the development of Knowledge Age organizations and social networks.Practical implicationsAn especially useful multidisciplinary source for the development of innovative enterprises capable of motivating and expanding the creative potential of knowledge workers.Originality/valueThe paper identifies critical needs and methodologies for managing knowledge workers in addition to providing fundamental principles for the advancement of flexible and innovation rich organizations.
Relevance of intangible assets to evaluate financial health
Authors: Sriram Ram S. 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the relevance of asset composition of a firm (tangible versus intangible properties), when evaluating its financial health. The paper argues that relevance of any asset is a function of how effectively it is used.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses two distinctive samples: a sample of traditional firms holding primarily traditional physical assets and a sample of technology service firms holding primarily intangible assets and examines the ability of intangible assets to surrogate as financial health signals.FindingsThe results show that when evaluating firms with significant intangible assets, using information about intangible assets to improve financial health evaluation. However, fundamental financial variables continue to be important in signaling financial health, regardless of asset composition.Practical implicationsThe results highlight the importance of both objectively‐measured and reported fundamental financial information and subjectively measured intangible asset values. The results would help managers and markets in using greater caution when evaluating firms with intangible assets.Originality/valueUnlike prior studies, this paper uses both fundamental financial variables and surrogates for intangible asset values in the model. The paper contributes by highlight the importance and limitations of intangible asset values.
The relevance of intangible assets in German SMEs
Authors: Durst Susanne 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study the perceptions of the advisors and valuers of German associations regarding the relevance of intangible assets in general, and for the purpose of company succession in particular.Design/methodology/approachTo perform this study German associations were examined, which play an essential role in company succession in Germany, from both sides of the process. Conducting a web‐survey, 51 answers were received (response‐rate = 42.5 per cent) which could be used for the analyses.FindingsAmongst others, the study showed that intangible assets are of a moderate relevance. However, a large proportion of respondents expect intangible assets to be of greater relevance in the future. The study highlighted that intangibles do have a great impact on the decision‐making process of an investor.Research limitations/implicationsThe total population of German Association is 135. The author received answers from 51 associations, which did not fulfil the statistical size to conduct advanced statistical methods. The specific relationship of German associations with small‐ to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) is rather unique compared to similar institutions around the world, therefore, the results may not be replicable in other countries.Practical implicationsThe results of this study will help practitioners as well as academics to better understand the relevance of intangible assets in SMEs.Originality/valueThis paper is pioneering in the analysis of the influence of intangible assets in German SMEs for the purpose of company succession.
Human capital disclosures and management practices
Authors: Ax Christian , Marton Jan 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the association between annual report human capital (HC) disclosures and HC management practices.Design/methodology/approachThe paper used two sets of data. Disclosure data were collected from annual reports. Data on management practices was collected by e‐mail questionnaire. Sixteen of the most traded companies on the Stockholm Stock Exchange (SSE) were included in the study.FindingsResults indicated that there is limited association between the two sets of data. Even though the association was significant on an aggregate level, more detailed testing showed no systematic associations. There was, however, a significant association between internal management practices and companies' perceived importance of disclosure, even though this was not reflected in actual disclosure.Research limitations/implicationsThe most important limitations of the study are that it was based on a small non‐random sample of companies from only one country and used annual report disclosures from a single year. Also, the study focuses on quantity rather than quality of disclosures.Originality/valueA feature of previous research is that it tends to focus on HC (intellectual capital) from either an external or internal perspective. This study is the first that links HC annual report disclosure and internal HC management practices.
A study of determinants of intellectual capital performance in banks: the UK case
Authors: El‐Bannany Magdi 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the determinants of intellectual capital performance in the UK banks over the period 1999‐2005.Design/methodology/approachMultiple regression analysis is used to test the relationship between the intellectual capital performance as a dependent variable and certain independent variables.FindingsResults indicate that the standard variables, bank profitability and bank risk, are important. The results also show that investment in information technology (IT) systems, bank efficiency, barriers to entry and efficiency of investment in intellectual capital variables, which have not been considered in previous studies, have a significant impact on intellectual capital performance.Research limitations/implicationsMore evidence is needed on the determinants of intellectual capital performance before any generalisation of the results can be made. In addition, the empirical tests were conducted only on the Major British Banks Group over the period 1999‐2005 and hence the results of the study cannot be assumed to extend beyond this group of banks or to different study periods.Practical implicationsThe study might help the banking regulators in addressing the factors affecting intellectual capital performance to take actions towards developing their performance and in turn maximise their value creation.Originality/valueThis paper adds to the literature on the determinants of intellectual capital performance in banks. In particular, it tests the theories that investment in IT systems, bank efficiency, barriers to entry and efficiency of investment in intellectual capital have impact on intellectual capital performance.
Do regulations matter? The effects of cross‐listing on analysts' coverage and forecast errors
Authors: AL‐Nasser Abdallah Abed 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to compare foreign listings on regulated and unregulated exchanges, and civil and common‐law companies to test the effects of cross‐listing (CL) on the firm's number of analysts and the accuracy of their forecast.Design/methodology/approachThe study is a comparative one. The empirical test employs both univariate and multivariate analyses and a sample of 584 cross‐listed firms along with the number of analysts and analysts' forecast errors (FE).FindingsAfter controlling for the firm's size, risk, earnings surprise, and industry, the results show that analysts become more active around CL on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) and PORTAL compared to CL on AMEX, NASDAQ, NYSE and over the counter (OTC). On the contrary, no statistically significant decrease in the magnitude of analysts' FEs was reported, suggesting no increase in the quantity of analysts' information. The results hold for both civil and common‐law countries.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited to the use of cross‐listed firms only. Future research should include non‐cross‐listed firms. As for the implications, the evidence indicates that the choice between CL on regulated or unregulated exchanges in the USA has no impact, either on the decision of an analyst to follow the firm or on the quantity of information available about that firm. In addition, the evidence suggests that analysts are more inclined to follow firms that cross‐list on the LSE than on the US regulated exchanges. Moreover, PORTAL, as an unregulated market, provides surprising evidence on the significant role of the US large institutional investors in attracting the highest number of analysts per firm compared to other regulated exchanges.Originality/valueThe paper compares CL on regulated and unregulated exchanges in the USA and UK for both civil and common‐law firms. It contributes to the existing literature on CL and information disclosure and has implications for academics, market regulators, professionals, and multinational firms.