bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multiple effects of human resource development interventions
Authors: Rowold Jens 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThis study aims to explore the simultaneous impact of employees' participation in non‐technical training, technical training, and coaching on subsequent job performance, job involvement, and job satisfaction.Design/methodology/approachThe present study was based on a sample of German call center employees and on a longitudinal, multiple‐sources‐of‐data research design.FindingsIt was found that non‐technical training impacted subsequent soft skills and that technical training predicted subsequent hard skills as well as job involvement. Moreover, employees' participation in coaching predicted job satisfaction.Research limitations/implicationsThe present study was the first to demonstrate positive effects of technical training on job involvement, and of coaching on job satisfaction. In sum, validity of several developmental interventions was highlighted.Practical implicationsOrganizations designing and implementing various developmental interventions should pay attention to the relative effectiveness of these interventions on various organizational‐relevant outcome criteria.Originality/valueFor the first time, the simultaneous impact of multiple human resource development interventions on several outcome criteria was tested empirically.
Influences of amine‐terminated oligomers on glass fibre‐epoxy composite
Authors: Samanta B.C. , Maity T. , Dalai S. , Banthia A.K. 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate the mechanical properties of glass fibre reinforced epoxy composites modified with amine‐terminated poly (ethylene glycol) benzoate (ATPEGB) along with their thermal stability.Design/methodology/approachATPEGB prepared from poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) of different molecular weights (200, 400, 600, 4,000 and 20,000) were used as modifiers for glass fibre epoxy composite here. For toughening, 12.5 parts per hundred grams (phr) of epoxy resin of each ATPEGB was added to epoxy and pre‐reacted with it. The impact, tensile and flexural strengths of modified and unmodified composite were characterised and compared for each ATPEGB.FindingsModified resin displayed a significant improvement in fracture toughness with glass fibre over unmodified epoxy. The modification caused the formation of oligomer domains having relatively round shapes in the matrix. These oligomer domains led to improved strength and toughness due mainly to the “rubber toughening” effect in the brittle epoxy matrix. The optimum results were obtained for composite modified with ATPEGB‐2 prepared from PEG of molecular weight 400.Research limitations/implicationsIn the present context, only 12.5 phr concentration of each ATPEGB was used to modify composite and the composites were made sing three layers of glass fibre. Besides, modification could also be done using other concentrations and more layers of glass fibre could also be used to make composite.Originality/valueThe method for enhancing toughness of epoxy glass fibre composite was novel and finds numerous applications as surface coatings, casting and adhesive onto an intricate structure, etc.
Anticorrosion properties of glassy‐crystalline borophosphates in water‐borne coating system
Authors: Mošner P. , Veselý D. , Koudelka L. , Kalendová A. 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to synthesise glassy and crystalline Ca‐Zn and Sr‐Zn borophosphates.Design/methodology/approachAnticorrosion pigments on the basis of glassy and crystalline borophosphates formulated as 20CaO‐30ZnO‐20B2O3‐30P2O5 and 20SrO‐30ZnO‐20B2O3‐30P2O5 were synthesised. The pigments prepared were characterised by means of X‐ray diffraction and their physical‐chemical properties were determined. The pigments synthesised were used to prepare water‐borne styrene‐acrylate coatings with a 10 per cent anticorrosion pigment content. The coatings underwent corrosion tests in a humid environment with SO2 content and a test in a salt mist environment. The corrosion tests results were compared with industrially produced pigments.FindingsAs the glassy phase reduces the anticorrosion efficiency of the coatings with the Sr‐Zn borophosphate content decreases too. In case of the Ca‐Zn borophosphates, the maximum anticorrosion efficiency was detected with regard to a pigment containing 75 wt% of the glassy phase.Practical implicationsThe pigments synthesised can be conveniently used in water‐borne coatings to protect metal bases from corrosion.Originality/valueThe application of the synthesised glassy‐crystalline borophosphate pigments in anticorrosion water‐borne coatings to protect metal bases from corrosion presents a new method. The use and the method of synthesising these anticorrosion pigments are beneficial.
Effects of social variables on urban children's consumption attitude and behavior intentions
Authors: Samsinar  , Abdul Rahman Mohd K. , Abdul Rashid Zabid , Othman Nor , Abu Bakar Ainul Z. 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of age, gender and city of dwelling on children's consumption attitude and behavior intentions.Design/methodology/approachA total of 300 children were interviewed in four different cities in Malaysia. Samples were selected using purposive sampling.FindingsFindings indicated that age and city of dwelling were significant influence on children's consumption attitude and behavior intentions.Research limitations/implicationsThis study has looked at consumer behavior of the younger members of Malaysia households whereby only Malaysian children between the ages of nine and fourteen years old have been examined, the study however did not consider the teenagers.Practical implicationsThese findings would help increase marketers' understanding of family decision‐making process. By understanding the decision framework and the various influencing factors affecting children's consumer attitude and choice, marketers will be able to plan and execute effective marketing strategies to maximize sales for selected children's products in Malaysia.Originality/valueThis research provides meaningful information on children consumption attitude and behavior intentions.
Understanding gender differences in professional service relationships
Authors: Bhagat Parimal S. , Williams Jerome D. 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThe study of relationships in marketing has received much attention of researchers over the past decade. This paper examines whether men and women exhibit differences in the strength of their relationships with a service provider, based on self‐reported behavioral measure, and whether there is a qualitative difference in the type of motivation that led to such a difference.Design/methodology/approachTwo key independent variables are shown to influence the outcome variable – relationship strength – moderated by gender. It is hypothesized that women will exhibit higher levels of intrinsic interpersonal commitment and lower levels of structural bonds in the relationship with their service providers than men resulting in higher levels of Relationship Strength. A total of 150 structured interviews were conducted. The Likert‐type seven‐point scale was used for each of the key variables. Each scale was tested for reliability.FindingsThe results of the Chow test provided statistical evidence of the moderating role of gender in influencing relationships.Research limitations/implicationsFurther research is needed in testing the significance of the masculine (“instrumental”) and feminine (“expressive”) traits in the partner's gender role identity on the relationship outcomes.Practical implicationsResults have direct implications for the professional service provider in terms to time and resources allocated to each interaction. This is especially true in health care relationships where face‐to‐face time with client is shrinking.Originality/valueThis study examines the nature and source of differences between men and women in a consumer professional services context.
Domestic consumption: rational, affective or normative choice?
Authors: Vida Irena , Reardon James 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThis study focuses on consumer choice behavior in the context of a new European Union (EU) member state by examining cognitive, affective and normative mechanisms in consumer preference formation for domestic vs imported products.Design/methodology/approachData is drawn from a survey of 714 adult consumers. The research instrument included construct measures adapted from previous studies. The measurement model of domestic consumption was tested via covariance analysis. Once the construct reliability and validities were established, the structural model was evaluated to test the hypothesized relationships.FindingsThe findings suggest that affective and normative constructs (i.e. consumer ethnocentrism and patriotism) are stronger determinants of domestic consumption than rational considerations (the cognitive mechanism) such as perceptions of relative product quality of domestic vs imported products. The role of patriotism and cosmopolitanism as factors fuelling ethnocentric tendencies are confirmed.Practical implicationsOur results, showing the considerable relative strength of patriotism and ethnocentrism on domestic consumption suggest that managers of local brands and domestic institutions should be able to enhance their communication programs and develop close bonds with their consumers. This finding is an important signal to international entrants in positioning their international offerings, particularly as strong local brands are gaining market share in many emerging consumer markets.Originality/valueIn view of emerging transnational groupings such as the EU, this study examines possible consumer resistance to economic integration. It uses realistic data set drawn from adult consumers and focuses on a relatively homogeneous country with a small population allowing for a good external validity of findings.
Strategy revitalization in academe: a balanced scorecard approach
Authors: McDevitt Roselie , Giapponi Catherine , Solomon Norman 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a unique version of the balanced scorecard developed and applied by the faculty of a university division.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses a case study approach and uses the experiences of the faculty of a business school to describe the process and benefits of developing a custom balanced scorecard.FindingsThe unique version of the scorecard revitalized the faculty and resulted in a process model of organizational change based on the balanced scorecard that can be used in many academic divisions.Practical implicationsThis unique version of the scorecard helped to establish a program of continuous improvement and facilitated the formulation of strategic initiatives. The documentation provided in the scorecard supports requests for increased budgets and grant applications.Originality/valueUniversity and faculty administrators can use the model developed in this paper as a basis of a change program that can help design improvement programs, facilitate strategy development, and support funding requests.
Assessing the universal basic education primary and Koranic schools' synergy for Almajiri street boys in Nigeria
Authors: Usman Lantana M. 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to show how Nigeria's current Universal Basic Education on primary schooling targets Muslim Almajiri street boys for basic literacy acquisition. The paper examines the policy's management implementation practices and challenges, as well as provides policy options that may minimize discrepancies for effective management.Design/methodology/approachThe discussion is guided by preliminary qualitative studies using phenomenology research philosophy to better understand the social realities of the boys' schooling. Using a descriptive case study approach, two schools in a major city of northern Nigeria served as research sites. Data collection process involved informal interviews, active observations, and discussions with a purpose with four boys, and two teachers as primary participants. Data analysis engaged the generation of themes from the transcribed interview and personal observation field notes, with major ones as challenges and policy options of the program implementation.FindingsMajor findings include the boys' adoption to the free lunch feeding policy as motivation to partial school attendance. Management shortcomings of the synergy include ineffective communication and collaboration, poor instructional supervision and cultural insensitivity to boys' school retention. Remedies to the shortcomings are reviewed as policy options in the article.Research implicationsThe paper concludes that effective management strategies as communication and collaboration with community stakeholders, frequencies of instructional supervision are vital to schooling inclusion of the boys in primary schools. The article provides workable data for future modification of the policy.Originality/value of paperSo far, no program assessment on this schooling synergy has been investigated. This article attempts to bridge the gap between ground level realities and policy implementation methodologies of the government on the schooling of Almajiris.
The impact of Public Private Partnerships on education
Authors: Gibson Helen , Davies Brent 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the implications of Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) for education delivery, attainment, attitude, behaviour and attendance. Partnership success factors are identified, and transferable lessons extracted. Barriers to the success of the partnership are explored and suggestions for improvement are made.Design/methodology/approachCase study of the first PFI school in the UK. This involved a systematic literature review and collation of data on impact on Victoria Dock Primary School, four face‐to‐face in‐depth interviews with Sewell Group Plc and Victoria Dock Primary School staff, and three face‐to‐face in‐depth interviews with experts in the education sector.FindingsFindings suggest that the impact of the partnership on education is positive. Pupils perform significantly better than both the average Hull and national primary schools. There appears to be a positive impact on attitude, behaviour and attendance.Research limitations/implicationsCaution is issued regarding generalisability of findings on account of this being a single case study.Practical implicationsThe findings have implications for those involved in PPPs, or those considering entering such a partnership. A very useful source of information and advice about the ingredients required for successful partnerships.Originality/valueThis study adds evidence to the existing limited evaluative work that has been completed on PPPs with regard to their impact on education. This includes delivery, attainment, behaviour and attitude, and attendance.
The role of involvement and attachment in satisfaction with local government services
Authors: Scott Don , Vitartas Peter 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to report on the development and testing of involvement and attachment constructs, which are then used to investigate the effects of involvement and attachment on perceptions of satisfaction with services delivered to residents by a local government body.Design/methodology/approachData collected by means of a questionnaire‐based survey of residents' satisfaction with local government services were used to test involvement and attachment constructs for validity and reliability. The relationship between these two constructs and satisfaction was then evaluated.FindingsThe findings in this paper indicated that the levels of involvement and attachment felt by residents did have both a direct and a combinatorial effect on perceptions of satisfaction with local government services. The larger attachment influence was positively associated with satisfaction, while involvement showed a weak negative association with satisfaction. A significant interaction effect also existed.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper shows that, on average, residents with greater levels of attachment were more satisfied with local government service provision but those with more involvement were less satisfied.Practical implicationsThe paper shows that, when they aim to improve perceptions of satisfaction with their service delivery, local government service providers need to address involvement and attachment effects.Originality/valueThe paper has developed valid and reliable constructs that can be used to measure the effect of residents' levels of community involvement and attachment on their satisfaction with local government service provision. It has also identified an unexpected negative association between involvement and satisfaction. The newly developed constructs provide psychometrically sound measures for use in local government research.
Value adding in foreign markets
Authors: Pehrsson Anders 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to extend our knowledge of industrial firms' international strategy implementation by exploring key associations pertaining to types of value adding in foreign markets. The questions are: how are types of value adding in foreign markets associated with differentiation attributes? How are the types associated with the performance of foreign units?Design/methodology/approachA hypothesized model is developed. The key terms (type of value adding, differentiation attributes, financial performance) are operationalized. A questionnaire was used to collect the quantitative data necessary to test the hypotheses using ANOVA analyses. The questions were answered by managers of 191 subsidiaries of Swedish manufacturing firms in Germany, the UK and the USA.FindingsFirms with product development in foreign markets are associated with a limited focus on product attributes in trying to receive orders compared with firms without such local value adding. Local customer services are related to a limited emphasis on product attributes as well, but such services are associated with an emphasis on customer flexibility attributes. Foreign product development and customer services are associated with high performance. Interpretations of the findings are discussed.Practical implicationsThe study contributes theoretically as it extends our knowledge of international strategy implementation. In the search for the type of value adding in a foreign market, the industrial firm is recommended to be aware of the general associations among the types, and the differentiation attributes and performance established in the study.Originality/valueThe application of a local perspective goes beyond what has been done in the dominant head quarter studies in previous research. Another key value is the analysis of perceptual data collected from managers responsible for foreign subsidiaries.
Building three‐dimensional objects by deposition of molten metal droplets
Authors: Fang Ming , Chandra Sanjeev , Park Chul B. 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to determine conditions under which good metallurgical bonding was achieved in 3D objects formed by depositing tin droplets layer by layer.Design/methodology/approachMolten tin droplets (0.18‐0.75 mm diameter) were deposited using a pneumatic droplet generator on an aluminum substrate. The primary parameters varied in experiments were those found to most affect bonding between droplets on different layers: droplet temperature (varied from 250 to 325°C) and substrate temperature (varied from 100 to 190°C). Droplet generation frequency was kept low enough (1‐10 Hz) that each layer of droplets solidified and cooled down before another molten droplet impinged on it.FindingsIn this paper, a one dimensional heat transfer model was used to predict the minimum droplet and substrate temperatures required to remelt a thin layer of the substrate and ensure good bonding of impinging droplets. Cross‐sections through samples confirmed that increasing either the droplet temperature or the substrate temperature to the predicted remelting region produces good bonding between deposition layers.Originality/valueThis paper used a practical model to provide reasonable prediction of conditions for droplet fusion which is essential to droplet‐based manufacturing. The feasibility of fabricating 3D metal objects by deposition of molten metal droplets has been well demonstrated.
Constructing narratives of enterprise: clichés and entrepreneurial self‐identity
Authors: Down Simon , Warren Lorraine 
Published: January 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to extend the repertoire of narrative resources relevant in the creation and maintenance of entrepreneurial identity, and to explore the implications for understanding entrepreneurial behaviour.Design/methodology/approachThe empirical research is based on a two and a half year ethnographic study of a small UK industrial firm.FindingsThe study describes how clichés used by aspirant entrepreneurs are significant elements in creating entrepreneurial self‐identity. In contrast to entrepreneurial metaphors, the study of which has highlighted and revealed the extraordinary components of an entrepreneurial narrative identity, examination of the clichés provide us with a means by which to understand the everyday and ordinary elements of identity construction in entrepreneurs.Research limitations/implicationsFurther qualitative research in other entrepreneurial settings will be required, exploring the generality of cliché use amongst entrepreneurs.Practical implicationsApplying the implications of our findings for pedagogic and business support uses is not explored and will need further development; we do however suggest that narrative approaches that make sense of entrepreneurship as an achievable aim may have some practical use.Originality/valueThe application of cliché as a distinctive linguistic feature of entrepreneurial self‐identity construction is highly original and reflects analogous work on entrepreneurial metaphors. Because of its ethnographic data, the paper develops empirically and conceptually rich insights into entrepreneurship.