bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of Singapore construction contractors on construction risk identification
Authors: Hlaing N.N. , Singh D. , Tiong R.L.K. , Ehrlich M. 
Published: August 2008

PurposeRecent changes in corporate environment coupled with emerging challenges as a result of turbulent economy have exposed participants in the construction industry to more and more surprises in project management. As a result, the construction industry has witnessed significant changes particularly in procurement methods with clients allocating greater risks to contractors, making risk management a necessity, with organizations needing to look across the whole life of a project from inception to occupancy. To minimize or optimize all these risks, formulating an effective risk management system is a crucial challenge faced by any construction contractor. This paper aims to investigate contractors' perceptions of risk.Design/methodology/approachThe perception of risks at estimating and tendering stage was investigated through a survey among construction contractors operating in the Singapore construction industry. The preferences of risk identification procedures and techniques are observed. Factors which are dominating constraints for the implementation of risk management elements are assessed. The process of risk identification from the standpoints of contractors and their preference of various risk response strategies to reduce the likelihood of occurrence of the identified risks and their impact were evaluated.FindingsThe findings from the study highlight that risk factors having great impact on the financial aspect of the project, namely lack of financial resources of the contractor, financial stability of the client and cost overruns due to delay are considered most important by contractors and that risk response methods are favored in the order of risk reduction, risk transfer, risk avoidance and risk retention.Originality/valueThe findings may help construction contractors in reviewing decision factors they consider when making bidding decision at estimating and tendering stage, and also be useful for improving their risk management plan in line with important risk factors considered by the construction industry.
Protecting capital investment in plant and equipment: case study observations of post‐theft recovery
Authors: Edwards David J. , Holt Gary D. 
Published: August 2008

PurposePlant and equipment theft (PET) is inherent throughout the construction sector. Its effect places direct financial burden on those who have invested in such assets, but additionally, induces “indirect” costs for many other stakeholders including project owners, plant hirers and construction managers. The paper's objective is to take and discuss a snapshot of PET, the overriding aim being to aid greater understanding of it and in particular, the application of (post‐theft) recovery technologies.Design/methodology/approachDescriptive case study data are considered along with informal, anecdotal evidence provided by practitioners. These data are qualitatively considered; observations are discussed; a model representation of PET and recovery is developed; and conclusions are drawn.FindingsPlant and equipment thieves are shown to be audacious and determined, but it is identified that in addressing these characteristics, recent advances in plant security and recovery technologies (PSRT) have been significant. Arguably, PSRT are not being adopted as broadly as they should be to offset the PET problem.Research limitations/implicationsThe formal model of PET might help inform future academic endeavour in the subject of plant and equipment management generally and PET specifically.Practical implicationsThe model suggests that more widespread use of PSRT may not only help defeat plant thieves, but additionally help recover stolen assets and identify organised criminal networks.Originality/valueThe work is novel in setting and will be of interest to both academics and practitioners in the field.
Examining the use of bid information in predicting the contractor's performance
Authors: On Cheung Sai , Wong Peter S.P. , Fung Ada Y.S. , Coffey W.V. 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the use of bid information, including both price and non‐price factors in predicting the bidder's performance.Design/methodology/approachThe practice of the industry was first reviewed. Data on bid evaluation and performance records of the successful bids were then obtained from the Hong Kong Housing Department, the largest housing provider in Hong Kong. This was followed by the development of a radial basis function (RBF) neural network based performance prediction model.FindingsIt is found that public clients are more conscientious and include non‐price factors in their bid evaluation equations. With the input variables used the information is available at the time of the bid and the output variable is the project performance score recorded during work in progress achieved by the successful bidder. It was found that past project performance score is the most sensitive input variable in predicting future performance.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper shows the inadequacy of using price alone for bid award criterion. The need for a systemic performance evaluation is also highlighted, as this information is highly instrumental for subsequent bid evaluations. The caveat for this study is that the prediction model was developed based on data obtained from one single source.Originality/valueThe value of the paper is in the use of an RBF neural network as the prediction tool because it can model non‐linear function. This capability avoids tedious “trial and error” in deciding the number of hidden layers to be used in the network model.
The impact of developmental relationships on the learning of practice competence for new graduates
Authors: Lombardozzi Catherine , Casey Andrea 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThis study of the impact of relationships on the development of practice competence in new graduates entering the workforce aims to contribute to the understanding of relational learning activities and enrich the knowledge about the overall process of learning practice skill.Design/methodology/approachThis research used a qualitative interview methodology with thematic data analysis.FindingsFindings revealed that the process of learning through relationships involved an iterative interplay between specific developer‐led teaching activities, learner‐led activities in interaction with others, and learner action and cognitive processing.Originality/valueA model for the process of learning through relationships specifically for new graduates who have academic backgrounds in their fields of practice is proposed.
The pitfalls of collegial coaching
Authors: Truijen Karin J.P. , van Woerkom Marianne 
Published: August 2008

PurposeCompetent clinical teachers are essential for clinical teaching. According to the literature, coaching can contribute to improved levels of reflection and better performance of clinical teachers. By engaging in a dialogue about coachee's teaching behaviour, coaches can stimulate reflection of novice teachers. This study aims to gain insights into the effectiveness of coaching processes in which experienced clinical teachers act as coaches for less experienced teachers.Design/methodology/approachA case study was conducted in a Dentistry Faculty of a University Medical Centre in The Netherlands. Semi‐structured interviews with nine coaching couples were conducted.FindingsThe findings indicate that only one coaching couple succeeded in using coaching as an effective tool for stimulating reflection and the performance of the beginning clinical teacher. Instead of discussing and analysing coachees' teaching behaviour, the other couples merely discussed the knowledge and experience of the coach.Originality/valueThis study provides insight into the pitfalls of collegial coaching, and discusses various factors that might affect coaching such as a hierarchical relationship between coach and coachee, the academic climate, the personality of coach and coachee, and finally the importance of using the right coaching model.
Organizational socialization of women in the Italian Army
Authors: Atzori Milena , Lombardi Luigi , Fraccaroli Franco , Battistelli Adalgisa , Zaniboni Sara 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThis study aims to examine the organizational socialization of women soldiers in the Italian Army.Design/methodology/approachFollowing an interactionist interpretation of socialization, a model was tested to determine the influence of organizational socialization tactics, proactive behaviours, supervisor support on organizational identification, and cohesion of teamwork. This study used a comparative research design. The sample consisted of 324 soldiers, 43 per cent of whom are men and 57 per cent per cent are women.FindingsStructural equation models showed the influences exerted by general socialization and by the acquisition of organizational values/goals on the outcomes of socialization. Multisample analysis showed gender differences. Compared to men, women seemed to set greater value on tutoring by expert colleagues. Women also seemed to value the support provided by their superiors for learning the organizational values and goals on which the degree of identification with the military structure depends.Practical implicationsThese findings could add new information concerning the organizational socialization strategies (e.g. newcomers' training, tutoring/shadowing programmes) giving some guidelines for the insertion of woman newcomers in a non‐traditional organization.Originality/valueIn a systemic perspective the present study explored the process of organizational socialization using the content of organizational learning. The research highlighted the gender difference regarding the socialization process in a male‐dominated organization.
Psychosocial factors as predictors of mentoring among nurses in southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Salami Samuel O. 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the psychosocial factors that predict mentoring among nurses.Design/methodology/approachThis study adopted a survey research design. Questionnaires were used to collect data on self‐esteem, locus of control, emotional intelligence and demographic factors from 480 nurses (males 230; females =250) from five states in southwestern Nigeria. Data analysis included regressing mentoring behaviour on the psychosocial factors.FindingsResults revealed that self‐esteem, locus of control, emotional intelligence, age, job status and tenure are linear predictors mildly associated to mentoring but gender is not.Practical implicationsAn implication of the findings from this study is that counselling and industrial psychologists should let the employees know the importance of mentoring and the factors that predict it among nurses in the workplace. It is suggested that formal mentoring should be introduced into the various work organizations and career counsellors employed to counsel the workers on what they stand to gain from developing mentoring relationships.Originality/valueThis study is able to demonstrate that some psychosocial factors are linear predictors mildly associated with mentoring among nurses in Nigeria. Career counsellors, personal psychologists and nurses will find the results from this study useful when they are considering factors that could predict mentioning relationships among nurses.
Cross‐disciplinary contributions to e‐learning design: a tripartite design model
Authors: Hutchins Holly M. , Hutchison Dennis 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review cross‐disciplinary research on e‐learning from workplace learning, educational technology, and instructional communication disciplines to identify relevant e‐learning design principles. It aims to use these principles to propose an e‐learning model that can guide the design of instructionally sound, usable, and interactive e‐learning courses and programs for workplace learning.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is a review of empirical and conceptual e‐learning literature from human resource development, workplace learning, educational technology and instructional communication.FindingsThe paper presents a current review of e‐learning design research, identifies convergent areas of e‐learning design practices, and proposes a tripartite e‐learning design model. Design principles identified in the literature review include adherence to instructional design principles based on adult learning principles, ensuring human‐technology interface (usability) guidelines, and supporting online immediacy (social presence) attributes.Practical implicationsAn expanded view of e‐learning design strategies grounded in a learning sciences perspective and encompassing research on behavioral, cognitive, constructivist and humanistic theories is offered.Originality/valueThe study provides an integrated e‐learning design model that represents main areas of e‐learning research and suggests competencies for e‐trainers.
Organising communities‐of‐practice: facilitating emergence
Authors: Akkerman Sanne , Petter Christian , de Laat Maarten 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe notion of communities of practice (CoP) has received great attention in educational and organisational practice and research. Although the concept originally refers to collaborative practices that emerge naturally, educational and HRD practitioners are increasingly searching for ways to create these practices intentionally in order to stimulate learning and professional development in specific fields. This paper aims to gain insight into ways in which communities of practice can be deliberately organised.Design/methodology/approachThe study concerns a multiple case study of the deliberate initiation of 15 communities of practice of small and medium‐sized companies in the tourist sector, located in seven European countries. The analysis focuses on how meaningful, shared and coordinative activity is organised in each of the 15 cases. A multiple case study allowed for comparison between the various cases in order to target fruitful conditions and actions in organisation processes.FindingsIn the initiation of a CoP it is important that before an outsider starts to organise and coordinate activities questions such as “How are we relevant to one another?” and “Who are we and where are we going?” are answered first, and by the group itself. These questions relate to the development of meaningful activity (domain) and of shared activity (community). Following this, any coordinative system, any practice, should be subordinated to the motives of the group.Originality/valueBesides identifying various actions for human resource developers who aim to apply the concept of CoP in professional work, the study contributes to the scientific formulation of pedagogical notions around communities of practice.
Supporting instructors in innovation: a three‐component approach
Authors: Margaryan Anoush 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThis paper seeks to advance an approach to supporting instructors in adopting new models of teaching, particularly when new technology is involved. The approach comprises three components: conceptual principles underpinning new learning models; process by which instructors are supported in understanding and applying principles; and a technological platform which facilitates sharing of experiences and knowledge about the process and outcomes of innovation (3Ps approach).Design/methodology/approachThe design research methodology involved joint identification of problems with practitioners (target users of the approach), iterative testing of solutions in real‐world settings and refining them based on practitioner input. Data collection methods involved walkthroughs, a questionnaire‐based survey, and semi‐structured interviews.FindingsThe 3P approach was evaluated in relation to the key requirements – validity, practicality, and systemic aspects. The findings show that the approach is valid and practical in terms of its purpose of enhancing knowledge sharing and peer learning within and across the subject disciplines, as well as in terms of enabling contextualised professional development. However, sustainability and ease of adoption of the approach were perceived by instructors as somewhat problematic. Organisational and cultural factors that could impact the sustainability of the approach were identified.Practical implicationsIt is argued that the 3Ps approach could enable eliciting reflections on and instruments for successful practice and provide a forum for sharing, discussing or extending practice.Originality/valueThis generic approach could be adapted to support professional development of instructors in a range of different contexts, both in companies and in educational institutions.
Experiential learning in retrospect: a future organizational challenge?
Authors: Olsson Annika , Bjöörn Urban , Jönson Gunilla 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe a retrospective reflection over unconscious, emergent learning among employees of an organization and to suggest how to capture these moments of experiential learning for future organizational learning.Design/methodology/approachAction research in organizations is undertaken in interaction with the employees of the organization studied. The outcome is characterized by a deep understanding of the individuals as well as of the course of events in the system. The paper therefore applies action research, focusing on the experiential learning from daily actions in the case organization at Volvo Cars’ production plant in Sweden.FindingsThe conclusion is that an evolution toward a learning organization, as exemplified by the case studied, is not identified until after it actually happens, i.e. in retrospect. It is suggested that the competence build‐up recognized in retrospect should become an integral part of future educational programs. The multidisciplinary competence established should also be considered when teams are set up for new projects.Practical implicationsFuture strategies for capturing learning are provided and summarized, to structure the capturing of learning as it takes place in the daily operation, to identify the individuals who initiate changes and let them act as learning ambassadors, to integrate multidisciplinary competencies in the early stages of projects, and to facilitate multidisciplinary cooperation along organizational processes, within and between firms.Originality/valueThe paper's contribution is the identification of and reflection about emergent learning that takes place in daily work tasks. It also provides suggestions for future strategies of capturing these experiential learning occasions.
Exploration of a contextual management framework for strategic learning alliances
Authors: Dealtry Richard 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThis article aims to take a further step forward in examining those important business factors that will shape the future of best practice in the quality management of internal and external strategic alliances.Design/methodology/approachThe article presents a speculative scenario on the future of strategic alliances in education, training, development and business, inspired learning by applying information and data from well‐established professional alliance management sources as the underpinning context for its guidelines.FindingsMany different attempts have been and still are being made by business and academic institutions to set up working relationships that are intended to work well for both parties. These relationships travel under various titles, with the term “partnership” being the most common. Problems of sustainability and/or quality of outcomes are prevalent as a result of the alliance management perspective being taken on a limited understanding of the total relationship dynamics for success; too narrow a perspective on what dynamics have to be managed. Models for success are, however, readily available.Research limitations/implicationsIn the broader context there is a wealth of research, best practice and practical experience in the field of strategic alliance management. iPCo's current research is therefore focused on how this professional resource and experience can be adopted to provide a quality framework of management practice that will enable business management to ensure that they make the right choices in the selection and construction of their strategic learning relationships both internally and externally.Originality/valueThe need for major innovations in the management of lifelong training and learning is now well established. Trying to achieve the successful implementation of these developments on a piecemeal basis has, however, proved to be an unrewarding process for many managers. The inertia of large institutional bodies and the “not invented here” syndrome have been proved to slow down or sideline major innovations. Knowing the size of the problem in each situation and how to deal with it effectively and efficiently at the right level is now one of the main strategic imperatives for corporate university managers.
Role of leadership in knowledge management: a study
Authors: Singh Sanjay Kumar 
Published: August 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship as well as the impact of leadership styles on knowledge management practices in a software firm in India.Design/methodology/approachThe research involved collection of quantitative data on leadership styles and knowledge management practices by using two psychometric instruments, namely organizational leadership questionnaire and knowledge management assessment tool. The survey consisted of 331 knowledge workers working for a software firm in India who had a minimum of one year of working experience in the organization. The data which were collected underwent statistical treatment to obtain the results for the stated objectives of the study.FindingsThe research findings indicate directive as well as supportive styles of leadership to be significantly and negatively associated with the art of knowledge management practices. It also depicts that consulting and delegating styles of leadership are positively and significantly related with managing knowledge in a software organization. Finally, only the delegating mode of leadership behaviors was found to be significantl in predicting creation as well as management of knowledge for competitive advantage in software firms in India.Research limitations/implicationsThere are a few limitations which may affect the scope of the study. First, the study was conducted in only one software firm situated in the national capital territory of India. Hence, blanket generalization of the findings of the study to each and every software firm in India should be done with caution. Second, it was leadership styles alone more than any other variable which was taken to study its impact on knowledge management processes and practices. Therefore, it is suggested that future research, if any, in the area of knowledge management should take note of these two important limitations for the benefits of the industry as a whole.Practical implicationsThe research investigation offers several recommendations/suggestions for helping knowledge workers as well as top management to design and implement knowledge management architecture for organizational excellence.Originality/valueThe paper offers unique empirical directions to manage knowledge in a software company in India. As there is a dearth of empirical research in the area of knowledge management in India, the empirical evidence obtained in this paper will be of use to organizations wanting to become knowledge management companies.