bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Determining a cost‐effective customer service level
Authors: Jeffery Mariah M. , Butler Renee J. , Malone Linda C. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an approach for determining inventory levels that result in a minimum cost customer service level for specific products based on their demand characteristics and profit margin.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses logistic regression to quantify the relationship between customer service level and inventory on‐hand in relation to forecasted demand, as well to estimate the impact of factors such as forecast accuracy, customer lead‐times, and demand variability on this relationship. It then performs financial analysis in order to associate a cost with customer service level.FindingsEmpirical results based on data from a semiconductor manufacturer indicate significant cost‐savings can be achieved by applying the proposed method over the organization's current ad hoc practices.Research limitations/implicationsThe minimum cost customer service level identified via the methodology is based on values of dynamic factors that are specific to the time when data were collected. Therefore, frequent updating is necessary to ensure the customer service level remains close to the minimum cost. Future research could identify the ideal frequency for updating inventory levels based on cost minimization and production stability.Originality/valueThis research presents an inventory management methodology for organizations with variable, non‐stationary demand. In contrast to much of the current inventory modeling literature, in which service level goals are selected in an ad hoc or a priori manner, this research determines an ideal (minimum cost) customer service level from the supplier's perspective based on products' unique characteristics.
Relative effects of design, integration and information sharing on supply chain performance
Authors: Sezen Bülent 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe aim of this study is to empirically investigate the relative effects of supply chain integration, supply chain information sharing and supply chain design on supply chain performance.Design/methodology/approachData collected from 125 manufacturing firms in Turkey are used for analyzing the relationships between the study variables. Regression analyses are used to find the relative impacts of predictor variables (design, integration and information sharing) on flexibility, resource and output performances of a supply chain.FindingsAccording to the results of regression analyses, the only significant effects on resource and output performances belong to supply chain design. Integration and information sharing are correlated with performance measures, but their relative effect sizes are lower than supply chain design.Originality/valueThe construct of supply chain design developed in this study reveals a significant impact on resource and output performances of a supply chain. Therefore, this study can be viewed as an attempt to increase the level of awareness on supply chain design issues.
Supply chain planning using multi‐stage stochastic programming
Authors: Nagar Lokesh , Jain Karuna 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the functionality of multistage programming approach on network supply chain structure.Design/methodology/approachThe general supply chain structure is considered and the supply chain planning model is developed using a two stage programming approach. The same model is extended to cover the applicability and advantages of a multi‐stage programming approach.FindingsA multi‐period supply chain model for new product launches under uncertain demand for supply chain network structure has been developed. The model allows simultaneous determination of optimum procurement quantity, production quantity across the different plants, transportation routes and the outsourcing cost in case of shortages. The proposed multi‐stage model is compared with the standard two‐stage model by examining the difference between the objective values of two solutions. The research clearly shows the importance of the multi‐stage model as compared to the two‐stage programming model.Research limitations/implicationsThe models developed here are limited to covering demand uncertainty, whereas real supply chain exhibits different uncertainties like capacity, processing time, etc. This can be the future direction for extending the work.Practical implicationsThe model is very useful in designing and planning the supply chain in an uncertain environment. The model allows the adjustment of the production plan as time progresses and uncertainties become resolved.Originality/valueThe model uses a scenario approach to address the supply chain planning problem for a supply chain network structure under an uncertain environment and compares the two‐solution approach for a set of problems. Generally supply chain costs are in millions of dollars and the saving using multi‐stage programming can be significant.
Purchase of clothing and its linkage to family communication and lifestyles among young adults
Authors: Lu Hsu Jane , Chang Kai‐Ming 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine how family communication patterns and lifestyles are linked to purchases of sports shoes and casual clothing for young adults.Design/methodology/approachThe survey was conducted in 2005, and total valid samples were 576. Differences in purchasing decisions among various segments of young adults are analysed for two product categories: sports shoes and casual clothing.FindingsThis study segments the respondents into two clusters, pragmatic and fashion‐cognisant. The family communication patterns for respondents in the pragmatic cluster are more likely to be low concept‐oriented, Protective and Laissez‐faire. The respondents in the pragmatic cluster purchase sports shoes and casual clothing less frequently, and pay less attention to marketing‐related information. The fashion‐cognisant respondents pay special attention to the marketing‐related information and brands can be influential in decisions. These fashion‐cognisant young adults are considered to be opinion leaders, and purchase sports shoes and casual clothing more frequently with higher budgets. The family communication patterns of respondents in this cluster are high concept‐oriented: Pluralistic and Consensual.Practical implicationsStrategic marketing designed to attract pragmatic young adults can follow two directions: atmosphere in stores and discounts. For young adults who are fashion‐cognisant, directions of strategic marketing are to strengthen the brand image and utilise advertising to disseminate information.Originality/valueThis study provides new insights into the area that has not been studied exclusively, the linkages of family communication patterns and lifestyles to purchases of sports shoes and casual clothing.
The effects of facial image and cosmetic usage on perceptions of brand personality
Authors: Guthrie Michelle , Kim Hye‐Shin , Jung Jaehee 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine women's perceptions of brand personality in relation to women's facial image and cosmetic usage. This study seeks to develop a better understanding of how various factors influence perceptions of cosmetic brands.Design/methodology/approachAn electronic survey was administered to a sample of 225 female participants at a mid‐Atlantic university in the USA. The survey included items measuring facial image, cosmetic usage, brand personality, and brand attitude. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to determine the relationship among variables.FindingsWhile the brand personality of competence was found to be important across all three brands, consumer perceptions pertaining to the remaining brand personality traits differed. This study found that consumers' facial image influenced the total quantity of cosmetics used but not the variation in quantity in different situations. Results also indicate that a relationship exists between facial image and brand perceptions. Also, it was found that a different group of brand personality traits influenced brand attitude for each cosmetic brand.Research limitations/implicationsBy examining how facial image and cosmetic usage determine brand perceptions, companies can improve their marketing strategies to enhance customer satisfaction and increase their customer base. Moreover, by identifying the brand personalities that attract consumers, companies can pin‐point the characteristics customers look for in a product, which in turn can be used to enhance brand image. Further research on different age groups and cultures should be conducted to better understand cosmetic consumers.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the body of knowledge in the area of consumer behavior and cosmetics. From this study, a better understanding of cosmetic consumers is gained and the results provide brand marketers with valuable information.
Advertisements: interpreting images used to sell to young adults
Authors: Dana Adomaitis Alyssa , Johnson Kim P. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to identify images used in advertising directed toward young adults, investigate what young adults thought of these images, and explore how young adults used these images.Design/methodology/approachA content analysis of 674 apparel and cosmetic advertisements located in four fashion magazines (Elle Girl, Seventeen, YM, and TeenVogue) resulted in eight categories. Participants (n=32) viewed advertisements representative of the categories and answered questions related to their thoughts about the model depicted in the advertisement and their use of the images.FindingsParticipants' used the models as a point of comparison. Participants primarily commented on their own weight relative to the thin models and expressed a need to lose weight to appear like them. With two categories of advertisements depicting average weight models participants noted that the model appeared realistic. However, they did not draw comparisons between themselves and these models.Research limitations/implicationsYoung adults do make comparisons between themselves and models used in fashion advertising. These comparisons were primarily downward. Use of average‐sized models may not be a solution to negative impacts on body image, as these participants did not make use of the average‐sized models as a point of comparison.Originality/valueYoung women do compare themselves with models used in advertising. They recognize average weight women in advertising but do not make the same types of comparisons with these models, suggesting that the use of average weight models may be a solution to advertising's impact on developing negative body images in young adults.
A study of the pyjamas purchasing behaviour of Chinese consumers in Hangzhou, China
Authors: Rahman Osmud , Zhu Xiuli , Liu Wing‐sun 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThis study aims to explore and understand consumers' perceptions and behaviour towards pyjamas in the People's Republic of China (China).Design/methodology/approachA quantitative analysis and comparative methods were used for this study. From a large body of literature, seven product attributes were identified and used to measure and evaluate what constitutes consumers' purchasing decision for pyjamas. A total of 203 usable surveys were compiled, analyzed and collated.FindingsThis study shows evidence that consumers are more conscious of the functional values of a low‐involvement product than the symbolic values. The results of this survey indicate that comfort, fabric and quality are significant attributes, whereas country‐of‐origin and brand are relatively insignificant determinants for purchasing a pair of pyjamas.Research limitations/implicationsLimitations of this study include the use of a convenience sample of female college students and confinement to a specific product – pyjamas. The results of this study are useful for fashion designers and marketers to understand Chinese consumers' perceptions of pyjamas.Originality/valueThis study is one of the few consumer research studies on a low‐involvement and privately consumed apparel product – pyjamas. The findings of this study provide insight and implications for fashion practitioners to develop their product and business in China.
Purchasing global luxury brands among young Korean consumers
Authors: Park Hye‐Jung , Rabolt Nancy J. , Sook Jeon Kyung 
Published: May 2008

PurposeSince South Korea has widened its market doors to global trade, demand has been continuously on the rise for foreign luxury brands, especially from young South Korean consumers. This study aims to identify the determinants of young South Korean consumers' purchasing intentions toward foreign luxury fashion brands and their relative importance.Design/methodology/approachThe data used in this study were gathered by surveying university students in Seoul, South Korea using convenience sampling, and 319 questionnaires were used in the statistical analysis. In analyzing data, factor analysis, correlation, and regression were conducted.FindingsThe results showed that all determinants, except for vanity, were significantly related to the purchasing of foreign luxury fashion brands. Regarding their relative importance, purchasing frequency was the most influential factor followed by conformity, age, consumer ethnocentrism, social recognition, and pocket money, in that order.Originality/valueFor the luxury brand marketers, practical implications of why young South Korean consumers have increasing demands for foreign luxury brands, the potential market growth, consumer profiles, and marketing strategies were discussed.
Evolution of the Los Angeles County apparel industry
Authors: Bailey‐Todd Allyson , Eckman Molly , Tremblay Kenneth 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze business patterns in the Los Angeles County apparel industry, with the primary focus being globalization, trade policy and offshore sourcing, to establish how trade policy may affect small or mid‐size apparel manufacturers.Design/methodology/approachThe method was a qualitative analysis of telephone interviews with apparel firms and associations in Los Angeles County. In total, 25 executives were interviewed. Analysis of the interviews enabled the investigation of the impacts of trade policy on apparel manufacturers and afforded an understanding of the viability of transitioning to a capital‐ and technology‐intensive industry.FindingsThe Los Angeles County apparel industry can succeed with both high and low value‐added activities. This combination will allow its infrastructure to survive while simultaneously growing and evolving in design and marketing.Research limitations/implicationsThe apparel industry in Los Angeles County has historically been made up of immigrant workers, labor‐intensive production activities and low cost apparel products. Continued analysis of the industry concerning possible continued decline is warranted.Practical implicationsThe Los Angeles County apparel industry is re‐positioning to become increasingly design‐ and marketing‐intensive, outsourcing many low value‐added activities to offshore contractors. Integration of the data may provide insight into ways in which trade policy changes alter offshore sourcing practices in Los Angeles County.Originality/valueThis study is a benchmark for the Los Angeles County apparel industry to measure its evolution. The replication of this research in subsequent years will provide a timely profile of a dynamic industry.
Towards a model of work engagement
Authors: Bakker Arnold B. , Demerouti Evangelia 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to provide an overview of the recently introduced concept of work engagement.Design/methodology/approachQualitative and quantitative studies on work engagement are reviewed to uncover the manifestation of engagement, and reveal its antecedents and consequences.FindingsWork engagement can be defined as a state including vigor, dedication, and absorption. Job and personal resources are the main predictors of engagement; these resources gain their salience in the context of high job demands. Engaged workers are more creative, more productive, and more willing to go the extra mile.Originality/valueThe findings of previous studies are integrated in an overall model that can be used to develop work engagement and advance career development in today's workplace.
The role of career history in gender based biases in job selection decisions
Authors: Hareli Shlomo , Klang Motti , Hess Ursula 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of the present research is to test the hypothesis that hiring decisions are influenced by the perceived femininity and masculinity of candidates as inferred from their career history.Design/methodology/approachTwo job selection simulation studies were conducted in which students with and without personnel selection experience assessed the suitability of male and female job candidates for male and female sex‐typed jobs. The candidate's CVs varied with regard to the gender typicality of the candidate's career history.FindingsAs predicted, when they previously had occupied another gender atypical job, both men and women were perceived as more suitable for a job that is more typical of the opposite gender. These decisions were mediated fully for women and partially for men by the impact of the gender typicality of the candidate's career on their perceived masculinity or femininity. In addition, men who had a gender atypical career history were perceived as less suitable for gender typical jobs. Thus, for men a gender atypical career history can serve as a “double edged sword.” Importantly, experienced and inexperienced decision makers were equally subject to this effect.Originality/valueCareer history provides individuating information about a candidate over and above the skills and experiences they are likely to have. Gender type is one such information that is pertinent in a job market that divides jobs into male and female typical and makes hiring decisions on this basis. Previous research has largely ignored this aspect of career history.
Factors that influence informal learning in the workplace
Authors: Berg Shelley A. , Chyung Seung Youn (Yonnie) 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to investigate factors that influence informal learning in the workplace and the types of informal learning activities people engage in at work. More specifically, the research examined: the relationship between informal learning engagement and the presence of learning organization characteristics; and perceived factors that affect informal learning engagement.Design/methodology/approachWorkplace learning and performance improvement professionals were invited to respond to an anonymous online survey, and 125 professionals volunteered to participate in the study.FindingsThis study did not find a significant correlation between informal learning engagement and the presence of learning organization characteristics. While age and education level did not impact informal learning engagement, it was found that older workers tended to engage in more informal learning. There were also certain types of informal learning activities in which they were most likely to engage. The findings also include rank‐ordered lists of personal and environmental factors that workers perceived to influence their engagement in informal learning.Practical implicationsThe rank‐ordered lists of factors that influence informal learning engagement are likely to be useful to practitioners for prioritizing informal learning interventions. The results of this study suggest that the degree of engagement in informal learning alone would not be a sufficient construct for predicting the presence of learning organization characteristics.Originality/valueVery little empirical research has attempted to connect individual learning to the learning organization concept. This research addresses that gap by examining the relationship between individual informal learning engagement and the presence of learning organization characteristics.
An integrative model of organizational learning and social capital on effective knowledge transfer and perceived organizational performance
Authors: Rhodes Jo , Lok Peter , Yu‐Yuan Hung Richard , Fang Shih‐Chieh 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to set out to examine the relationships of organizational learning, social capital and the effectiveness of knowledge transfer and perceived organisational performance. Integrating organizational learning capability with social capital networks to shape a holistic knowledge sharing and management enterprise framework is a significant strategy to achieve organizational success.Design/methodology/approachAn integrative framework is used to determine the relationships of key variables of organizational learning such as learning intention, shared values, absorption capacity, integration capability, and social capital variables such as network structure, network stability and network relational quality on the effectiveness of knowledge transfer in organizations. In this research, senior management (Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer) from 650 firms were randomly sampled and surveyed from the register of the Industrial Technological Research Institute; 111 respondents are used in this study.FindingsThe results indicated that absorption capacity, learning intention and integration capability in organizational learning had the greatest positive relationship with process innovation in knowledge transfer. The findings suggest that organizational learning processes are more important than social capital networks within the integrated knowledge transfer framework and that management could utilize their limited resources better to improve on organizational learning levers for greater effectiveness in knowledge transfer.Originality/valueThis paper focuses on the existing gap in empirical work on the relationships of organizational learning, social capital variables and the effectiveness of knowledge transfer. The results of this paper could assist management in strategic decisions in resource allocation particularly in promoting and sustaining knowledge transfer to enhance organizational performance.
“Grey” areas and “organized chaos” in emergency response
Authors: Taber Nancy , Plumb Donovan , Jolemore Shawn 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to explore the interaction between organizational policies and daily work practices of paramedics and firefighters within two emergency response organizations.Design/methodology/approachData were collected in a case study consisting of interviews, focus groups, and observations. The theoretical grounding for this research is framed by learning in practice through legitimate peripheral participation.FindingsAnalysis of the data found that paramedics and firefighters value learning in their daily work above initial qualification training. They learn in practice through increasing collaboration with others, and in the broader context of legitimate peripheral participation. Organizational policies can help in guiding their decision making processes, but learning in practice and relying on experience is most helpful in their daily work.Research limitations/implicationsThe notion of situated learning is insufficient to explain the dramatic performance of emergent, creative, and autonomous actions often required of individual emergency personnel in crisis situations.Originality/valueThis study adds to the current literature on communities of practice and legitimate peripheral participation. It applies learning theory to emergency response organizations to demonstrate the need to focus on practice and understandings in workplaces. The research also offers a greater understanding of the unique job of emergency response personnel who must often make instantaneous decisions in critical situations and must therefore understand their practice to ensure positive outcomes.