bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Capability sequencing: strategies by township and village enterprises in China
Authors: Li Lee , Qian Gongming , Ng Peggy 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis study aims to identify and assess the strategies of township and village enterprises in China to capture competitive advantages.Design/methodology/approachThe paper employs a self‐administered questionnaire survey approach, involving a sample of managing directors of township and village enterprises in the Fujian Province, China.FindingsThe analysis identifies the causal linkages across time between firms' different capabilities. Labor‐intensive industries and rural locations offer township and village enterprises (TVEs) opportunities to create capabilities to minimize costs. The cost minimization and systematic learning capabilities, in turn, lead to low‐priced innovator positioning. It also suggests that the co‐evolution and co‐existence of different capabilities contribute to capability inimitability.Research limitations/implicationsFuture studies on Chinese TVEs should expand the empirical database and include TVEs in underdeveloped areas and to investigate how firms survive within severe resource limitations.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study indicate that dynamic capabilities are important not only for firms in rapidly changing environments, but also for those in relatively stable industries, such as labor‐intensive industries. Firms should develop different capabilities over time and combine these into complex capabilities bundles.Originality/valueThe findings from this study indicate that firms in developing countries can achieve cost leadership and differentiation, but the route to the destination has a path‐dependent history.
The partial shock mode in reforms of local state‐owned SMEs
Authors: Wang Haisu , Yang Weidong 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe paper aims to examine the sufficient and necessary conditions upon which the innovative “partial shock model” was implemented in China.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a multi‐method approach, involving a case study of Wuhan city in 2004.FindingsEvidence suggests that implementation of the partial shock model in state‐owned small and medium‐sized enterprises (SOSMEs) is not only essential, but also feasible. More than 1,000 enterprises in Wuhan have restructured properties, and hundreds of thousands of workers have changed their state‐owned identity, which has resulted in positive social and economic outcomes in SOSMEs.Practical implicationsThe paper suggests that there is a need to combine business reorganisation with government's timely intervention so as to overcome potential problems such as unjust occupation of state assets and unfair distribution among different enterprises in the same city.Originality/valueThe paper explores the distinct Chinese experiences in reforms of SOSMEs, which is a relatively under‐researched area of entrepreneurship.
Rural cooperatives in China: policy and practice
Authors: Clegg Jenny 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe paper sets out to consider the impact of China's reform dynamics on its cooperative economy, examining developments both within the statist sector and beyond, in the variety of experimental quasi‐cooperative forms that have grown between plan and market.Design/methodology/approachThe paper employs a field study approach, examining the roles of farmers' specialised cooperatives within the agro‐industrial chain with experiments in Shandong province.FindingsThe paper shows that reforms in the cooperative economy have been gradual, uneven and jerky, favouring the more entrepreneurial or better‐placed farmers to pursue new market opportunities. Creating a sustainable mechanism that would protect and even enhance the interests of the poorer farmers is proving to be far more difficult.Research limitations/implicationsThe field study of this paper covers just one region. A further investigation of the impact that the reform dynamics has on the cooperative economy is planned for the near future.Practical implicationsChina's approach has favoured experimentation, encouraging initiatives from below and developing a more flexible relationship between government and farmers. This broad bottom‐up approach has allowed for a diversity of models adapted to local conditions, but has also led to uncertainties about the limits of local government influence and the extent of autonomy, with many cooperatives taking an investor‐oriented direction.Originality/valueThe paper adopts a broader social economy perspective that offers a fruitful way to evaluate developments and consider the future for China's cooperative economy.
Making markets in business development services for SMEs
Authors: Gibb Allan 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis study aims to examine the design of effective support systems for micro‐, small‐ and medium‐sized enterprise (MSME) development at the local and regional level in China.Design/methodology/approachThe paper calls on the experience of China, in fostering the fastest growing MSME sector in the world over the past 20 years, to suggest a paradigm based upon the Chineseguanximodel of relationships.FindingsThe paper argues that the extensive international experience has not been massively successful and that the application of a stricter market‐led approach to the provision of MSME business development services will not be successful if it ignores the way that western “institutionalism” dictates the supply offer.Practical implicationsIt is argued that the model of entrepreneurial networking and relationships demands a fundamental repositioning of policy support and a major reorganisation of the way that knowledge is made explicit and disseminated to MSMEs.Originality/valueThe paper explores what is termed as a stakeholder relationship model for the entrepreneur, the policy maker and the local delivery agent.
Justifying sustainable buildings – championing green operations
Authors: Roper Kathy O. , Beard Jeffrey L. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeA fundamental contribution that a corporate real estate (CRE) manager can make to the industry and to the world is the sincere attempt to implement green operations within their buildings portfolio. Reducing an organization's environmental impact is a strategic issue that not only reaches across each constituent part of its own operations and activities, but extends to include those of its suppliers and those who use its goods and services. Facility and real estate managers can demonstrate their value by participating in formulating and implementing policies for reducing the organization's environmental impact, redefining their role as one that underpins mainstream organizational and business needs, and bringing value to their organization while positively impacting the global environment. This paper seeks to address these issues.Design/methodology/approachA review of current literature on the topic of sustainability and the background of the sustainability movement in the US was undertaken to develop key findings.FindingsOrganizations that adopt environmental responsibility and then take action are capable of building more secure and prosperous positions within the global economy. Five significant factors were found to endorse the business case for sustainable building design and operation. These include resource efficiency, energy efficiency, pollution prevention, harmonization with the environment, and integrated and systemic approaches, including environmental management systems.Practical implicationsSince, real estate is a fixed capital investment, any improvement to the asset should be considered, especially one as significant as sustainability efforts that also contribute to improved organizational impact.Originality/valueConsidering the reality of financial pressures, this paper attempts to provide background and information for managers to develop their own sustainability objectives to improve the value of CRE assets.
Action research and networking benchmarking in developing Nordic statistics on woman entrepreneurship
Authors: Kyrö Paula 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to participate in the current debate on developing the theoretical basis for the concept and process of benchmarking. The paper aims to explore the prospects for a new form of benchmarking – networking benchmarking – and adopts, as the scientific framework of the process, an action research approach that combines scientific method and practical developmental work.Design/methodology/approachIn order to explore the possibilities of these new theoretical constructions, this study applies them in a Nordic project, in which the representatives of five Nordic countries studied together how to develop their national statistical procedures on woman entrepreneurship by benchmarking and developing best practices for use in the Nordic countries.FindingsThe results supported the idea that benchmarking is a special kind of action research. The results also indicated that the need for explicating and mutually sharing adopted theoretical frames turned out to be one of the key points in increasing the efficiency and innovativeness of the process. Consequently, networking benchmarking and the action research model indeed have potential both as a theoretical frame and a practical tool, thus encouraging their further development.Research limitations/implicationsIt should be noticed, however, that the present study is only a very minor effort and an example of the possibilities scientific knowledge can offer to the developments of benchmarking.Practical implicationsFrom the practical perspective as a whole, this study offers a large range of opportunities for Nordic co‐operation within the field of entrepreneurship data gathering.Originality/valueConsidering more specifically future research directions from this study, the results encourage studying both the networking benchmarking the action research approach in different contexts. On the other hand, the findings also give some ideas for further development of the action research model.
Profitability in professional sports and benchmarking: the case of NBA franchises
Authors: Nourayi Mahmoud M. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe aim of this study is to demonstrate suitability of the continuous improvement framework and use of benchmarking method in the context of sports.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses non‐financial performance measures that are indicative of performance and are closely related to the desired outcomes. Use of such measures seems necessary in the sports and appropriate in relation to professional sports organizations' recruiting, attendance, and profit maximizing objectives. Analyses of this study are based on data of National Basketball Association (NBA) games over three basketball seasons.FindingsThe results indicated significant correlation between attendance and winning percentages. Furthermore, the results suggest that a team can improve its winning percentages by changes in the roster that help it emulate superior teams. Comparing teams that advanced in a given season and reach the playoffs with those that did not, revealed the more important skill factors for success in the NBA. The results also indicated that some players' skills might be more critical for a given team in reaching the playoffs.Research limitations/implicationsThe results presented in this paper are influenced by the NBA's basketball rules. Because basketball rules are not the same for all leagues and such rules change over time, the findings are time‐specific and should be considered in that light. Additionally, the research design used in this study must be modified for other professional sports.Originality/valueThis paper provides an example for application of continuous improvement framework to professional sports.
Laboratory service evaluation: laboratory product model and the supply chain
Authors: Rynja G.M. , Moy D.C. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo describe a new approach to the performance evaluation and benchmarking of analytical laboratory services and their associated supply chains.Design/methodology/approachLife cycle and industrial process approaches are adapted for consideration of the environmental performance of multidisciplinary laboratories as found in large multifunctional facilities. Models are developed to facilitate performance evaluation.FindingsThe laboratory product model (LPM) considers laboratory service delivery from a whole‐of‐life perspective. It defines an information product as a standard unit of production that facilitates performance evaluation of laboratories using both normalised and absolute values. Performance evaluation boundaries are extended beyond the internal laboratory processes to incorporate the supply chain, i.e. from sample collection to the end use of the information product.Research limitations/implicationsApplication of the research is limited by the availability of relevant corporate data. Future work could address routine collection of data appropriate to environmental performance evaluation so as to reduce the need for extensive life cycle inventories.Practical implicationsFocus is on a practical approach to improving the environmental performance of laboratory services through objective evaluation of laboratory and facility performance. The research provides a means of comparing laboratories founded in different disciplines, e.g. chemistry and microbiology.Originality/valueAddresses laboratory supply chain issues by providing new tools for performance evaluation and benchmarking of laboratories. It uses new approaches to laboratory performance evaluation that help achieve sustainability.
Property depreciation in Government
Authors: Andrew Anthony , Pitt Michael 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo examine the way the Government accounting and capital charging system allows for depreciation. Like the private sector, it is designed as an accounting measure of the consumption of assets. Unlike the private sector, it has no tax implications. Beyond accounting for asset consumption it does not seem to be a particularly useful tool of asset management. This professional paper examines the role of depreciation in the public sector, notes some shortcomings and asks whether its role could usefully be developed.Design/methodology/approachIt examines the existing professional standards and guidelines within which public sector property managers work and looks at a selection of the literature on depreciation generally with a view to shedding light on public sector asset management.FindingsCurrently the utility of the measures of depreciation for asset managers is limited. With extra work and research, economic measures of depreciation could be devised which might provide a broad measure of the consumption of assets or the deterioration of larger portfolios of property that can be valued on a market basis.Research limitations/implicationsFurther research should focus on the stability of the model when other portfolios are used and for different periods of the real estate cycle. It would also be fruitful to dig deeper in the relation between capital expenses and property values.Practical implicationsWith further work measures of economic depreciation may be designed to provide broad indicators of the deterioration of large public sector portfolios of assets such as offices or housing.Originality/valueOf interest to asset managers, public sector finance managers and researchers in this sphere who have to deal with the long‐term investment in non‐specialised public sector property portfolios.
America still fighting the cold war in an era of global terrorism
Authors: Baker Schaffer Marvin 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe Second World War and the cold war led to a revolution in military affairs, but this article seeks to question whether the USA is equipped to respond to future conflicts in an age of global terrorism.Design/methodology/approachThe article considers recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as the tactics of terrorist groups, to explore how America's military forces should adapt to future needs, particularly in terms of technology and strategy.FindingsThe USA faces a military dilemma. The force numbers and the technology mix needed to cope with terrorist and insurgency warfare are currently insufficient. However, the overall US budget is too high, and defense expenditures are one of the principal causes.Originality/valueContributes to the debate on countering global terrorism.
Converging applications for active ageing policy
Authors: Compañó R. , Bock A.‐K. , Burgelman J.C. , Cabrera M. , Da Costa O. , Mattsson P. , Malanowski N. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis article attempts to match the future needs of older people with the possibilities arising from applications based on new technology.Design/methodology/approachThis article examines the implications of novel applications for active ageing policy. These applications are forecast to arise from the convergence of two or more previously separated science disciplines and technologies, including information and communication technologies, nanotechnologies, biotechnology and cognitive sciences.FindingsResearch on converging applications (CA) is largely driven by health applications, and is likely to spill over into the older generation's specific needs. Today, older people's most urgent needs require little CA. In the future, however, the role of CA will become more important as technology develops and is more widely used.Originality/valueOwing to demographic change and its expected social and economic implications, there is a need to investigate how upcoming applications could contribute to the future specific needs of the older population.
Public futures studies: themes and variations
Authors: Hérault Bruno 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe paper aims to present an analysis of today's key themes in the field of public futures studies.Design/methodology/approachCompares publicly available research results on futures activities in countries including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, The Netherlands, Quebec, Sweden, the UK.FindingsThe paper shows that there are striking similarities between countries in terms of themes and topics for public futures study and also that the themes are relatively stable over time. However, specific topics are determined by the challenges of the day: the themes are abiding, the subjects are changing.Originality/valueThe paper offers an interesting approach of the state's changing roles and priorities across the world. To help readers go further, links to web sites of the most relevant futures studies institutions are provided.
Policy issues in spectrum trading
Authors: Xavier Patrick , Ypsilanti Dimitri 
Published: July 2006

PurposeAn aspect of spectrum reform receiving increasing attention is the introduction of secondary markets for spectrum in order to enable more flexibility to reassign unused and underused spectrum to users that will use it more efficiently. This paper proposes to focus on the policy issues relating to the development of well‐functioning secondary markets for spectrum.Design/methodology/approachThe paper reviews developments in the debate over secondary markets for spectrum. It draws together key elements from the academic literature, various government and government‐commissioned reports, and the practical experience of the few countries that have already introduced spectrum trading. There is considerable focus on concerns and potential costs relating to the introduction of spectrum trading and liberalisation. This has a constructive aim – to draw attention to the need to address such concerns in order to facilitate the development of spectrum trading.FindingsWhile there is a persuasive case for spectrum trading, countries have been slow to introduce it because of a number of concerns. This paper identifies these concerns and the regulatory framework/policies needed to address them.Originality/valueThe paper distils the policy issues in the debate over spectrum trading and identifies the role that regulators will need to play in the introduction, facilitation and regulation of secondary markets for spectrum.
Secondary use of spectrum: a survey of the issues
Authors: Weiss Martin 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to construct a framework for discussion and future studies of the secondary use of electromagnetic spectrum.Design/methodology/approachThe paper establishes some useful definitions and then systematically applies them to the secondary use case. This is extrapolated to develop a framework.FindingsIt is important to be careful to circumscribe discussions around secondary use, as each component of the framework poses different problems for implementation and research.Originality/valueThe paper proposes a way to structure the discussion of and research into secondary use of electromagnetic spectrum, which can apply significant clarity to future work in this area.
Fixed‐mobile convergence
Authors: Curwen Peter 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the concept of fixed‐mobile convergence (FMC) with a view to assessing when, and in what form, it is likely to make an appearance.Design/methodology/approachVarious aspects of FMC are investigated including strategic aspects, the technology and the progress of trials. The overall concept is then subjected to analysis and conclusions are drawn.FindingsIt is concluded that there is both a demand for FMC and a willingness to provide it. However, there are several hurdles to overcome before its precise form(s) will become clear.Originality/valueThis is one of the many topics in telecommunications that are simultaneously difficult to pin down and technologically fairly complicated. This paper is an original attempt to analyse this topic in a manner that makes it comprehensible to the readers of this journal.
Overview of digital television switchover policy in Europe, the United States and Japan
Authors: Trinidad García Leiva Maria , Starks Michael , Tambini Damian 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review current policy and practice in management of analogue‐digital switch in broadcasting.Design/methodology/approachThe paper adopts a case study approach.FindingsThe paper finds that with regard the objectives of switch‐off, the broad policy aims of clearing spectrum, modernising infrastructure, and improving the services to the consumer are shared across the major countries studied. Uncertainty about the cash value and potential alternative uses of spectrum is natural given rapid technological change, but the common potential broadcasting uses include mobile television, high definition digital terrestrial television, and more digital broadcasters and channels, including regional and local developments.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is restricted to Europe, Japan and North America.Practical implicationsThe study has implications for assessment of European switchover strategies and role of Digital Terrestrial.Originality/valueThere are some overviews, but none of so up to date, nor with this geographical coverage.
Future public information infrastructure: lessons from four US case studies
Authors: Shin Dong‐Hee , Kim Won‐Yong , Lee Dong‐Hoon 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the current development of public information infrastructure in eastern USA. It proposes discussing lessons learned from four case studies of public information infrastructure projects to gain a better understanding of the challenges and implications of open access for broadband services and to provide a foundation for evaluating the advisability of mandatory open access policies.Design/methodology/approachFour cases were selected for in‐depth study in the eastern area of the USA. Multiple data collection methods were used – in‐depth face‐to‐face and telephone interviews with people associated directly with the projects.FindingsThe study recommends appropriate policy measures that can promote open access.Originality/valueThe case studies shed light on how future public information infrastructures may evolve within the larger context of national and global information infrastructure.