bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exploring the sources of privatization‐induced performance changes
Authors: Wu Hsueh‐Liang 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study the variance of post‐privatization performance outcomes by three institutional arrangements taken place in the process of ownership transfer in Taiwan.Design/methodology/approachThe logistic regression models were used for the study to link the likelihood of performance improvements after privatization with a set of explanatory variables.FindingsThe findings from the research suggest an indispensable role of supportive policy measures, including market openness, post‐privatization involvement of government and corporate reforms prior to privatization, in the performance effects of privatization.Research limitations/implicationsBoth the sample size and time frame available for a quantitative analysis are constrained by the progress of Taiwan's privatization. A questionnaire survey, as part of a more integrated model, is suggested to follow this study and probe into organizational or strategic changes after privatization.Practical implicationsThe study shows that performance improvement of privatized firms cannot be taken for granted merely by ownership change; instead, the performance gains of privatization could be realized only in concert with other institutional arrangements, including market openness, the modest and short‐term bureaucratic control after privatization, and corporate health prior to privatization.Originality/valueThe study aims to add to the body of literature by identifying sources of performance changes in privatized firms, based on Taiwan's experience in privatization. Taiwan represents an interesting example of a country in the process of catching up in terms of economic development, as well as one whose institutional environment stands between western and transition countries. As such, the use of Taiwan's data may lead to an assessment of the generalizability of conclusions drawn from prior research conducted in both kinds of countries.
Why rules rather than discretion
Authors: Espedal Bjarne 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to explore why rules might be better than managerial discretion when the leadership intends to transform a desired policy into reality.Design/methodology/approachLeaders need discretion in order to deal with the great expectation demanded on them. However, discretion can open up to threats to the leadership's pursuits of rational acting. The first threat is related to emotion and impulsive behaviour and the second threat is related to conflict and opportunistic behaviour. The paper examines these threats.FindingsIn order to handle threats to rational acting the leadership has to establish and follow appropriate rules.Originality/valueThe paper challenges the notion that the leadership should be provided with ample discretion when they intend to transform an intended policy into reality. The paper claims that unbridled discretion might be risky and proposes that the critical and neglected challenge is to establish appropriate rules that channel and focus leadership effort.
Be(com)ing normal – not excellent
Authors: Skålén Per , Fougère Martin 
Published: February 2007

PurposeMarketing “from the intra‐organizational perspective” has been comparatively untouched by the critical turn in organization studies. The objective of the present paper is to contribute to a critical examination of marketing as a change discourse by focusing on service management scholarship. In particular, the paper focuses upon the gap‐model.Design/methodology/approachFoucault's disciplinary power concept is used to analyze how the gap‐model tends to objectify, subjectify and normalize.FindingsFocusing on service management contributes to the scarce critical examination of marketing in general and the almost non‐existent critical examination of service management in particular. Further, the paper contributes to the investigation of the potential production of subjectivity and normalization as an effect of marketing technologies.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper suggests empirical exploration of subjective responses to marketing discourse and associated technologies.Originality/valueCritical examinations of marketing discourse in general, and service management in particular, are very scarce. Specifically, the paper contributes to the understanding of how service management intends to fixate the subject.
The impacts of acquiring ISO 9000 certification on the performance of SMEs in Tehran
Authors: Bayati Ali , Taghavi Allahvirdi 
Published: February 2007

PurposeSmall to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) constitute 90 percent of all enterprises in Iran. Thus they have an important role in the development of the country. SMEs need to utilise management systems, especially quality systems such as the ISO 9000 series, in their operations. The purpose of this paper is to address the following questions: to what extent do the performances of SMEs change before and after acquiring the ISO 9000 certification and how far do they differ from non‐ISO certified companies?Design/methodology/approachThe authors have studied a sample of SMEs, comprising those that have acquired the ISO 9000 certification after the end of September 2004 and were located in Greater Tehran. Based on the literature review, the authors designed the following methodology to survey the selected SMEs: they developed a questionnaire containing 27 questions relevant to advantages of acquiring ISO certification and sent the same to the selected SMEs; then analysed the responses and performed non‐parametric tests such as sign‐test and chi‐squared test; and they used Minitab and SPSS to analyse the data.FindingsAcquiring the ISO 9000 certification appeared to improve the performance of SMEs in the sample studied. In other words, SMEs have benefited from achieving the ISO 9000 certification.Originality/valueThis paper will help the non‐ISO certified SMEs to consider investing in development and deployment of a suitable quality management system, preferably leading to certification under the ISO 9000 standard. It will also help the ISO‐certified SMEs to build on their success and move to apply a suitable performance assessment and improvement model such as the EFQM.
Mechanical simulation of the plain weft knitted fabrics
Authors: Vassiliadis Savvas G. , Kallivretaki Argyro E. , Provatidis Christopher G. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe present work aims to focus on the simulation of tensile, shear and bending deformation of the plain‐weft knitted fabrics in an analogous manner to the tests performed on the Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabrics.Design/methodology/approachThe simulation of the tests is based on the modelling of the fabric microstructure and the application of the boundary conditions and the equivalent loading that correspond to each mechanical test, with a respect to the contact phenomena. A three‐dimensional model consisting of three bodies in contact represents the unit cell of the fabric microstructure. Finite element analysis is used for the prediction of fabric performance since the complexity of the structure, the anisotropic properties of the yarns and the interaction phenomena between the yarns at the contact areas preclude the use of analytical methods.FindingsThe proper definition of the boundary conditions and the appropriate load is of great significance for the realistic simulation of the mechanical tests under examination. The results of the simulated deformations compared to the respective measurements of the laboratory tests are correlated very well and this enables the consideration of the computational analysis as a powerful textile design tool.Originality/valueThe prediction of the mechanical properties of the knitted fabrics based on the computational modelling supports the estimation of the fabric hand during the design stage and before its manufacturing.
Taxonomy development: assessing the merits of contextual classification
Authors: Milne Chris 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to share personal experience on the early stages of taxonomy construction, reflecting on the potential role of contextual classification techniques as applied by the records management profession as a tool in effectively organising information, resources and services within intranet and/or portal environments. The paper also aims to assess the additional benefits to be secured where linking content to business purposes can create or reveal new meaning.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on experience, personal opinion, published literature and discussions with peers to assess the applicability of contextual classification as a tool to support taxonomy development.FindingsThe paper concludes that classification of information, resources and services within intranet and/or portal environments using a citation order of function, activity, task, sub‐task is likely to be of significant value, requiring further investigation to fully assess impact and applicability. Contextual classification receives much discussion in general records management terms, however its applicability in supporting portal and/or intranet development appears to receive little attention. The requirement to generate improvements in information retrieval from a host of on‐line services (of which taxonomy development is one example) is reinvigorating the role of the informational professional. Given the criticality of improving the management and retrieval of information it is desirable that stronger interdisciplinary links are established across the information profession to further develop “information retrieval” as a subject discipline. Originality/valueThe article suggests that the role of contextual classification to organise information, resources and services within intranets/portals requires further investigation and reflection to assess its applicability, value and impact. Initial findings and reflection of the application of contextual classification in the design of elements of a university portal taxonomy have proven to be successful, suggesting that wider discussion and reflection is now required. It is also suggested that the information profession take steps to build stronger interdisciplinary links to advance the development of information retrieval as a subject discipline.
Hybrid filing schemes: the use of metadata signposts in functional file plans
Authors: Morelli Jeff 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to highlight the problems of using metadata to file electronic documents as well as the problems of using a purely functional filing scheme. It aims to explore how a functional file plan can be created from a business classification scheme by inserting “metadata signpost folders” at strategic points in the filing hierarchy to create a “hybrid functional file plan”.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on experience and published literature to discuss methods for creating a hybrid functional file plan.FindingsThe paper concludes that functional filing is the only method of filing e‐documents that can effectively support good information management practice, enabling all e‐documents to be managed in line with corporate information management policies, and that it may also be the only viable method of providing true “shared” filing in support of knowledge management and business efficiency.Originality/valueThe article shows that a functional filing scheme, retrieving, cross‐referencing and grouping documents by subject (or other metadata attributes) requires special measures and suggests that current IT, EDRM and related technologies may not fully meet the requirements by searching/sorting on metadata terms. It may be necessary to compromise a purely functional file plan by the inclusion of metadata “signpost” folders into the functional folder structure in order to create a hybrid functional file plan.
When ICT meets schools: differentiation, complexity and adaptability
Authors: Tubin Dorit 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to explore the interaction between information communication technology (ICT) and the school's organizational structure, and propose an analytical model based both on Luhmann's system theory and empirical findings.Design/methodology/approachThe approach of building a theory from a case study research along with an instrumental multi‐case study method were applied to analyzing nine Israeli schools that successfully implemented ICT‐based pedagogical innovation.FindingsThe findings suggest that ICT generates three kinds of differentiation within the school's structure: segmentation, stratification and functional differentiation. The type of differentiation correlates with the school's communication and set of contingencies which includes ICT usage types, leadership style, time and space arrangement, source of expertise, and the champions – those who bear the burden. All the differentiation types were found to increase internal complexity and enhance school adaptability, and in a recursive process, affect school communication and its sensitivity toward further ICT integration.Research limitations/ implicationsThe fact that the chosen schools demonstrated extreme cases of successful ICT integration might limit the generalizability of the findings, but nonetheless it offers a significant contribution to the development of a substantive ICT and school structure theory.Practical implicationsSupporting ICT integration called for intervention at the school's top management level; supporting an initial ICT‐based project enhances the school's control over the implementation process, and provides schools with additional resources.Originality/valueThis study bears a substantive theory regarding ICT and school structure, and fosters new insights and propositions for further research.
England's National College for School Leadership: a model for leadership education?
Authors: Riley Dan , Mulford Bill 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to critique the strengths and weaknesses of the National College for School Leadership (NCSL). The primary purpose of the NCSL is to improve student attainment levels through enhancement of leadership capacity within England's government schools. The critique aims to include the issues of strategic rethinking, definition of terms, leadership competencies, core competencies, selection criteria, and research needs.Design/methodology/approachThis article provides a review of literature related to leadership capacity building and challenges to the NCSL enhancement of student attainment levels in England's government schools.FindingsThe article indicates that the NCSL had numerous strengths adequate for the initial core activities of headteacher development. Subsequent broadening of those responsibilities to include all leadership development in government schools is a challenging task. The continued increase in expectations necessitates a strategic rethinking of NCSL capability.Practical implicationsThe number of potential school leaders warrants reflection on current practice. The “demographic time‐bomb” of the teaching profession has implications for succession planning and professional development. The NCSL has endeavoured to prepare additional school leaders. The increase in NCSL responsibilities regarding school leadership necessitates a sharing of responsibility with other providers.Originality/valueThe article is among the first to critique the NCSL and to identify lessons to be learned by educational leaders from the NCSL experience.
Developing leadership: exploring childhoods of women university presidents
Authors: Madsen Susan R. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeResearchers argue that much of who we are is developed during childhood. Yet, little exploratory research has been conducted regarding the childhood experiences, activities, personalities, and perceptions of successful leaders. This paper aims to address this issue.Design/methodology/approachIn‐depth, qualitative interviews were conducted with ten women university presidents to investigate perceptions and experiences related to the lifetime development of leadership skills, abilities, and competencies. The lived experiences of these women were investigated using the phenomenological research methodology so that “voices” could be heard and unique insights examined. This paper explores a portion of this research focused on childhood personalities, school and other activities, influential individuals, and significant events and challenges.FindingsResults support the growth‐task model of human development. As children, the presidents were generally obedient, reflective, observant, smart, self‐directed, competitive, and moderately to highly confident. It was important for them to live up to their own expectations and those of significant adults around them. These women were involved in a variety of helpful activities as children and thrived on learning and developing new skills, knowledge, and capabilities. Other than their own parents, influential individuals during childhood included predominantly women (elementary school teachers, aunts, and grandmothers). The most helpful learning experiences involved challenging and difficult situations or events (e.g. illness, relocation, and fear).Practical implicationsBy understanding these influences, practitioners can design more effective interventions dependent on an individual's background.Originality/valueThis paper provides valuable information for those interested in individual leadership development efforts centered on working with individuals interested in obtaining positions at the highest levels in higher education.
Consumer co‐operatives and retail internationalisation: problems and prospects
Authors: Davies Keri , Burt Steve 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the retail internationalisation activities of consumer co‐operatives.Design/methodology/approachConducts a survey of the available information on these internationalisation activities.FindingsA survey of the available information on these internationalisation activities shows that they have been restricted to a relatively small number of co‐operatives and that the “failure” rate has been very high. Some suggestions are made as to why the co‐operatives have been unable to convert their early‐mover advantages into sustainable retail networks.Research limitations/implicationsThe restricted nature of the sample means that these exploratory findings are primarily descriptive. Further, in‐depth work with a sample of these co‐operatives would help us to better understand the reasons for the moves into and out of various international activities.Practical implicationsExpands the literature on retail failure in general and also provides some more depth to the literature on the internationalisation of co‐operatives.Originality/valueWhilst there have been significant volumes of research into the internationalisation of investor‐owned retailers and of producer co‐operatives, particularly the “new generation” co‐operatives, there has been very little prior work undertaken in this area.
Biometrics in retailing
Authors: Jones Peter , Williams Peter , Hillier David , Comfort Daphne 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to offer a preliminary assessment of the potential role for biometrics within the retail sector of the economy.Design/methodology/approachThe paper begins with an outline of the origin and characteristics of biometrics and this is followed by a review of the possible retail applications and an outline of the current barriers to widespread adoption. The paper draws its empirical material from trade sources available on the internet.FindingsThe findings reveal that biometrics has a number of potential applications within retailing including combating identity theft, increasing transaction speed at the point of sale, reducing transaction processing costs for retailers and the development of more individually tailored marketing and customer loyalty systems. However, a number of major barriers need to be overcome if biometrics are to become an integral part of the retail scene. These include acquisition and installation costs, doubts about the accuracy and performance of biometric technologies and public concerns about personal privacy and civil liberties.Originality/valueThe paper offers an accessible review of the potential application of biometrics within retailing, which will interest academics working in retail, business and management and information technology departments in universities and colleges and students studying in these disciplines.
Labour turnover in the retail industry
Authors: Booth Simon , Hamer Kristian 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to identify key variables that influence the variability of labour turnover.Design/methodology/approachThe approach used in this research is a case study of a major retailer. The key data sources are an index for local competitive and labour market factors, an annual employee survey, and internal labour turnover data for each UK unit of the retailer. The method used for analysis is stepwise regression which identifies the key relationships that predict labour turnover.FindingsThe findings show that environmental factors such as local labour markets have a major influence on labour turnover. Organisational factors such as company culture and values are a significant influence. Management behaviour as seen through operational and control variables are also of importance. Individual employee variables are also important in decisions concerning turnover.Research limitations/implicationsThe statistical analysis accounts for 38.7 per cent of the total variance in labour turnover. There are, therefore, other factors which are not assessed in this paper which also contribute to labour turnover. Whilst this study is of retail units across the UK as a whole, it is of one organisation and statistical generalisations cannot be made from this research.Practical implicationsA significant paradox is found in which, as employees become more embedded and familiar with the organisation, its valency for them diminishes and labour turnover increases. This poses a challenge for retailers: how can they retain valued employees who find that as their self‐esteem increases they wish to search for better jobs elsewhere?Originality/valueThis research uses a statistical approach to provide new findings concerning the attitudes of individuals to their work and good explanations of the factors involved in labour turnover. It also provides statistical predictions which could be used by managers who wish to improve performance and decrease labour turnover at the retail unit level.