bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysing Google rankings through search engine optimization data
Authors: Evans Michael P. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify the most popular techniques used to rank a web page highly in Google.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents the results of a study into 50 highly optimized web pages that were created as part of a Search Engine Optimization competition. The study focuses on the most popular techniques that were used to rank highest in this competition, and includes an analysis on the use of PageRank, number of pages, number of in‐links, domain age and the use of third party sites such as directories and social bookmarking sites. A separate study was made into 50 non‐optimized web pages for comparison.FindingsThe paper provides insight into the techniques that successful Search Engine Optimizers use to ensure a page ranks highly in Google. Recognizes the importance of PageRank and links as well as directories and social bookmarking sites.Research limitations/implicationsOnly the top 50 web sites for a specific query were analyzed. Analysing more web sites and comparing with similar studies in different competition would provide more concrete results.Practical implicationsThe paper offers a revealing insight into the techniques used by industry experts to rank highly in Google, and the success or otherwise of those techniques.Originality/valueThis paper fulfils an identified need for web sites and e‐commerce sites keen to attract a wider web audience.
An approach to service‐oriented architecture using web service and BPM in the telecom‐OSS domain
Authors: Kim J.W. , Lim K.J. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeIn order to implement Service‐Oriented Architecture (SOA) in the telecommunication providers' Operations Support System (OSS) domain, this paper aims to propose an architectural baseline to design and implement the SOA based OSS model.Design/methodology/approachThe paper proposes an approach to SOA using Web services for the service delivery domain in the area of telecommunication OSS design and implementation. The paper defines the operational activities needed to serve customers, rearrange these activities to support autonomous services, and designs a systemic process that is composed of numerous services. The new OSS is implemented for wireless LAN services delivery process. In order to realize this SOA based OSS, the interfaces of these well‐defined services are described and each service is implemented within its own boundaries. Services can be orchestrated with a composite objective, so that operational expenditures for new business objectives can be reduced.FindingsThe paper finds that, through the implementation of the SOA‐based OSS platform, business agility can be achieved in rapidly changing market circumstances.Originality/valueThe paper shows that in the move towards service‐oriented computing, Service‐Oriented Architecture provides flexible, cost‐effective operations support solutions through interoperability, reusability and composability between loosely coupled services.
Synthetic worlds and the University: approaching the unknown
Authors: Abeles Tom 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThis is an introductory editorial for Volume 15 designed to challenge current thinking about the future in general and the future of post‐secondary education in particular, at a time when the world wide web is being populated by synthetic worlds.Design/methodology/approachUsing the emerging area of synthetic worlds, the essay challenges the current thinking, not about the virtual space occupied by these worlds, but the very world of the university currently inhabited by both faculty and students.FindingsCurrently traditional institutions are changing because of the ubiquity of the internet. The creation of synthetic worlds in the world wide web represents a substantive change similar to the shift in society as the horseless carriage transformed into the automobile.Originality/valueAs the synthetic “worlds” transition, the borders between a country on earth and these virtual environments become similar to today's political boundaries. Yet the physics, biology and social environment can be radically different with, as yet, unknown consequences.
Educational supply chain management: a case study
Authors: Lau Antonio K.W. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to implement the philosophy of supply chain management in the current higher education environment so as to suggest innovative management ideas in higher education management.Design/methodology/approachThis paper conducted an in‐depth case study approach in a university. This study follows Yin's approach to interview the personnel of a supply chain department and collected the university documents.FindingsThe study identified three supply chains of the university, i.e. commodity, special requested and outsourcing supply chains. Rearrangements of the existing supply chain are suggested to further improve the efficiency and effectiveness of higher education.Research limitations/implicationsThis research, which used a case study approach to examine a university, affects the research generalization. This research, which qualitatively reviewed the supply chain management in a university, failed to obtain objective instruments of the supply chain performance in the university.Practical implicationsTwo innovative ideas for managing the supply chain in the higher education environment are explored. The findings provide interesting and innovative ways for the manager in the education section to review their works.Originality/valueFrom an academic perspective, this research may be an innovative way to implement the latest business management philosophy into the higher education environment. This connects education management with general business management. From a managerial perspective, this research provides education management a new way to understand how supply chain management impacts on the performance of a university. It also identifies unanswered questions for further study.
Structure‐context alignment: evidence from a developing country (Sudan)
Authors: Mohamed Hesham E. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThis research seeks to investigate the relationship between structure and context in the manufacturing sector in the Sudan, as one of the developing countries. Hence, the “universality” of the relationship between context and structure could be tested by conducting cross‐cultural comparisons.Design/methodology/approachIn this study cross‐sectional research strategy is adopted in which 30 manufacturing firms are investigated. Hickson et al. (1969) measures were employed to operationalize the concepts of structure and context. Correlation analysis is used to test the significance of the relationship between the two variables.FindingsThis study could be categorized as a new advocate to the Aston Group's size imperative rationale. Also the findings suggest that the impact of the national cultures on the structuring of organizations is not as strong as perceived by some researchers.Practical implicationsThe implication of this research is that researchers and practitioners should overemphasize the impact of national culture on organizations’ structures and processes.Originality/valueThe value of the research can be attributed to the scarcity of evidences from developing countries as far as the relationship between context and structure is concerned.
Stakeholder activism through nonviolence
Authors: Dhir Krishna S. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to analyze instances of nonviolent strategies adopted by a class of stakeholders – the women of the Niger Delta region.Design/methodology/approachIt analyzes their successes and failures in terms of a set of prerequisite conditions that must be met for such strategies to be effective. These prerequisite conditions must be present in the environment, the agent, and the methodology of nonviolent action, for assurance of efficacy.FindingsThe experience of the women of Niger Delta with nonviolent action indicates that it is possible to meet the prerequisite conditions for assurance of efficacy and for formulation of nonviolent strategies to conflict resolution. It is, therefore, determined that nonviolent action offers a viable alternative for persuasion of the multinational oil corporations in the Niger Delta region.Originality/valueThis paper would be of value to researchers and practitioners, in the fields of corporate communication, organizational communication, public relations, and strategic management, seeking to promote, practice or otherwise influence socially responsible corporate behavior.
Studies on electrical properties of polymer thick film resistors
Authors: Srinivasa Rao Y. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe paper aims to study the variation of electrical properties like electrical resistivity and current noise of a polymer thick film resistor, namely, PVC‐graphite thick film resistor, with parameters such as volume fraction, grain size, temperature and high voltage.Design/methodology/approachA model is proposed to explain the observed variations, which assumes that the texture of the polymer thick film resistor consists of insulator granules coated with conducting particles and also having cavities. The resistivity of these resistors is controlled mainly by the contact resistance between the conducting particles and the number of contacts each particle with its neighbors.FindingsThe variation of resistivity with temperature and high voltage is explained with the help of the model and it is attributed to the change in contact area and number of contacts. The current noise of these resistors is controlled mainly by the average relative resistance fluctuations between the conducting particles and the number of contacts each particle with its neighbors.Originality/valueThe variation of current noise with high voltage has also been explained with the help of this model and it is attributed to the change in number of conducting particles and conducting layers.
Effects of die‐pad resonance on ultrasonic bond quality of wire bonds
Authors: Srikanth Narasimalu 
Published: February 2007

PurposeWire bonding is an important method of interconnection in microelectronics. Ultrasonic energy is known to soften metallic materials and hence when used in the wire bond process it is effective to decrease the flow stress similar to thermal energy. The paper aims to address this issue.Design/methodology/approachDetailed resonance studies show that some designs have closeby resonance compared to the bonding frequency which causes enhanced vibration resulting in such over squashed bonds. Hence, precautions in the design stage are necessary to understand the closeby resonance frequencies and corresponding mode shapes of the leadframe that are in‐plane in nature along the transducer axis that can be excited by the capillary's motion. This can be determined a priori using numerical methods such as finite element method. In this paper, one such case study has been dealt in detail to explain the overall methodology.FindingsTo minimize the effects of resonance, damping should be increased by bonding polyimide tapes to enhance damping and stiffness which results in better ball bonds with optimum bell shape.Originality/valueThe paper explains the methodology of wire bonding in microelectronics.
Study of the effect of substrate bias on the electrical properties of sputtered HfO2 thin film deposited on silicon substrate
Authors: Nahar R.K. , Sharma Aparna 
Published: February 2007

PurposeHfO2 has emerged as the most promising high k dielectric for an alternative gate material. As‐deposited HfO2 thin films have large number of defects resulting in increased oxide charge and leakage current. Film deposition condition plays an important role. This paper investigates the effect of sputtering voltage, bias sputtering and post deposition thermal annealing.Design/methodology/approachThe microstructure of the film is examined by AFM. The I‐V and C‐V characteristics is evaluated from Al‐HfO2‐Si capacitor structures and the effect of processing conditions is studied. The experimental results are reported and discussed for improving film properties.FindingsIt is found that applying substrate bias during film deposition improves interface and reduce leakage current and oxide charges.Originality/valueThe paper studies the effect of deposition voltage and thermal annealing on thin film deposition of HfO2 by rf sputtering.
Deposit insurance and credit unions: an international perspective
Authors: Hannafin Kevin M.G. , McKillop Donal G. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore why credit unions might need deposit insurance, how they might respond to its introduction and how this protection mechanism should be designed. The objective is to determine how successful the deposit insurance scheme has been in the context of Northern Ireland and whether it offers an alternative to the public provision of deposit insurance which appears to have been the model adopted by credit union movements elsewhere.Design/methodology/approachAs part of this analysis the paper considers the Northern Ireland experience where a subset of credit unions has been members of a private insurance arrangement since 1989.FindingsThe deposit insurance mechanism did not cause a propensity for member credit unions to engage in risk shifting behaviour. The analysis suggests that at present a universal blueprint in deposit insurance design may well be unnecessary in combating risk shifting behaviour.Originality/valueThis paper helps to fill a gap in the banking and finance literature where the study of deposit insurance in the context of credit unions has been given little attention.
Financial services and markets tribunal further clarifies scope of market abuse regime
Authors: Gray Joanna 
Published: February 2007

PurposeTo report and comment on the tribunal case James Parker v. FSA.Design/methodology/approachOutlines the facts and explains the decision reached.FindingsAn applicant's failure to abide by an employer's internal notification rules and clearance procedures applicable to personal account dealings led the Tribunal to doubt the honesty of that applicant and the plausibility of his proffered explanation.Originality/valueThe case highlights the factors that may influence a future Tribunal in deciding whether to reject or accept an applicant's arguments as to the motivation for and innocence or otherwise of his behaviour.
Measuring performance within the supply chain of a large scale project
Authors: Diran Wickramatillake Chandika , Lenny Koh S.C. , Gunasekaran A. , Arunachalam Subramanium 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the performance measurement methodology used by a real case company, namely Vanderlande Industries Ltd, for cost and progress capture for in‐house production, resale material and third party supplied material, in an effort to measure performance of the supply chain of a large scale project – the €6bn London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 construction project.Design/methodology/approachThe case study approach was adopted, which includes ethnography. This research is not about testing a theory; it is about gaining insight to the actual functioning and supply chain performance measuring of a large‐scale project. In that sense, the experiences reported could be shared with those dealing with performance measurement of large‐scale projects.FindingsEight key areas of concerns are found relating to supply chain performance measurement of a large‐scale project: performance measurement requirements, with forecasting and progress reporting not owned by suppliers; lack of detailed planning causing regular changes to baseline; detailed work breakdown structure causing unnecessary complications to performance analysis; organisational structure; performance measurement tool; data capture; timing of progress and cost capture affecting the analysing process; and scope change and traceability.Originality/valueThe paper is targeted at senior and middle managers involved in large cost reimbursable projects. Managers should manage more carefully the eight key areas of concerns identified. Recommended solutions targeting each area of concerns from the lessons learnt in the €6bn London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 construction project give a basis for improved project management and supply chain performance measurement for large‐scale projects.
Selecting the right planning approach for a product
Authors: Kaipia Riikka , Holmström Jan 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research paper is to offer a solution to differentiate supply chain planning for products with different demand features and in different life‐cycle phases.Design/methodology/approachA normative framework for selecting a planning approach was developed based on a literature review of supply chain differentiation and supply chain planning. Explorative mini‐cases from three companies – Vaisala, Mattel, Inc. and Zara – were investigated to identify the features of their innovative planning solutions. The selection framework was applied to the case company's new business unit dealing with a product portfolio of highly innovative products as well as commodity items.FindingsThe need for planning differentiation is essential for companies with large product portfolios operating in volatile markets. The complexity of market, channel and supply networks makes supply chain planning more intricate. The case company provides an example of using the framework for rough segmentation to differentiate planning.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper widens Fisher's supply chain selection framework to consider the aspects of planning.Practical implicationsDespite substantial resources being used, planning results are often not reliable or consistent enough to ensure cost efficiency and adequate customer service. Therefore there is a need for management to critically consider current planning solutions.Originality/valueThe procedure outlined in this paper is a first illustrative example of the type of processes needed to monitor and select the right planning approach.
Internal key factors in export performance
Authors: Eusebio Rossano , Llonch Andreu Joan , Pilar López Belbeze M. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThis is the first part of two papers which examine the Italian and Spanish textile‐clothing sector The purpose of this paper is to analyse the key factors in the international performance of textile manufacturing companies.Design/methodology/approachThe paper provides a comparative study of the main factors that have affected the export performance of the Spanish and Italian businesses. A wide range of factors has been studied, such as size, dispersion of sales and export experience. In order to compare Spanish and Italian cases, the empirical study used a standardized questionnaire for collecting data. The cases analysed were respective geographical zones with a great tradition in textile‐clothing industry in their country, Catalonian (in the Spanish case) and Lombardian business (in the Italian case).FindingsIt was found that international experience is the main factor in the export performance for both cases but the investment in R&D and the export experience have been the keys for explaining the major export performance of the Italian businesses.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample is formed basically for small textile‐clothing businesses (with less than five employees).Originality/valueThe paper explains why the Lambardian textile‐clothing companies export more, in relation to total sales, than the Catalan companies in the same sector. The general character of the study suggests new future lines of investigation.
Management perception and marketing strategy in export performance
Authors: Eusebio Rossano , Llonch Andreu Joan , Pilar López Belbeze M. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThis is the second of two papers which examine the Italian and Spanish textile‐clothing sector. The purpose of this paper is to focuse on the key factors in the international performance of textile manufacturing companies.Design/methodology/approachIn order to compare Spanish and Italian cases, the empirical study used a standardized questionnaire for collecting data. The cases analysed are respectively geographical zones with a great tradition in textile‐clothing industry in their country, Catalonian (in the Spanish case) and Lombardian business (in the Italian case).FindingsIt was found that international experience is the main factor in the export performance for both cases but investment in R&D and export experience have been the keys for explaining the major export performance of the Italian businesses.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample is formed basically from small textile‐clothing business (with less than 500 employees).Originality/valueThe paper is of value in that it provides a comparative study of the main factors that have affected the export performance of the Spanish and Italian businesses. A wide range of factors has been studied, including characteristics of the business, such as size, dispersion of sales and export experience.
Fashion marketing to women in Kazakhstan
Authors: Low Patrick , Freeman Ina 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore consumer behavior regarding women's decisions concerning fashion in the emerging marketing of Kazakhstan.Design/methodology/approachLiterature review formed the basis of the questions asked to several focus groups and in‐depth interviews of 48 Kazakhs representing the average age of Kazakhstan. The approach of the paper is exploratory as there is not a lot of research concerning the Kazakhstani marketplace.FindingsKazakhstani women are becoming aware of their rights to choose clothing and location of purchase. They expect to be treated with respect. The women are value conscious, thinking brand names enhance the value of clothing and will shop sales regardless of the actual discount. Kazakhstani women are extremely fashion conscious and look to the media for current fashions. They are wary of anything coming out of China. There are five market segments into which these women can be divided.Research limitations/implicationsThe study was done in Almaty and may not reflect people outside urban Kazakhstan.Practical implicationsKazakhstan is opening as a marketplace. In order to understand how to market in Kazakhstan, firms must understand what is wanted and this paper begins this exploration.Originality/valueThis market is unexplored both academically and by many clothing manufacturers. This market is opening and thus information concerning the marketplace is necessary.