bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Taking by storm: a breakout strategy
Authors: Lawton Thomas , Finkelstein Sydney , Harvey Charles 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to focus on “breakout” – a forceful emergence from a restrictive form or position – pursued through a structured and purposeful course of strategic action. The objective is to secure and retain business routes to double‐digit growth and market prominence.Design/methodology/approachThis paper addresses a key question foremost in the minds of all start‐up business leaders: how do I manage and consolidate what I have achieved and simultaneously continue to grow the business and expand my market? The paper is based on more than five years of research into over 100 companies around the world. This involved in‐depth interviews with strategic leaders, company observations and case analysis.FindingsFindings indicate that breakouts are led, from beginning to end, by dynamic strategic leaders and typically are accompanied by sudden and dramatic increases in output and levels of activity. For business entrepreneurs who want to raise a company from a subordinate to a more dominant market position, through meeting the challenge of double‐digit growth, it is crucial both to pursue the optimal strategy and excel in its execution.Originality/valueThe value of this paper is in the advancement of a step‐by‐step action framework for the delivery of accelerated growth, founded on strategic excellence from beginning to end, and providing a systematic route to market success.
The employee survey: more than asking questions
Authors: Sanchez Paul M. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeLeading organizations invest large amounts of time, energy, and financial resources in conducting employee surveys. Through Mercer Human Resource Consulting's work on more than 1,000 survey projects, ten key areas within the survey process have been identified that consistently stand out as potential stumbling blocks to survey success. The purpose of this paper is to make companies aware of these potential blocks, and show that by adopting best practices to avoid them, organizations can significantly improve the odds of conducting a successful survey.Design/methodology/approachAccording to Mercer Human Resource Consulting's What's Working™ research, upwards of 50 percent of employers in Sweden, Japan, Singapore, the USA, Brazil, Australia, Canada, the UK, and Ireland regularly conduct employee surveys. Employee engagement is more often the intended ultimate outcome of employee surveying. All the same, employee surveys often fail in their strategic aims. Through Mercer's work on more than 1,000 survey projects, ten key areas within the survey process have been identified that consistently stand out as potential stumbling blocks to survey success.FindingsThis article identifies the ten key stumbling blocks to employee survey success as: Project planning; Communication; Questionnaire design; Timing; Prioritization of issues; Engaging senior management; Data delivery; Follow‐up support; Monitoring and accountability, and Linking survey results to business outcomes. These stumbling blocks and methods of overcoming them are described.Originality/valueIt is becoming increasingly clear to organizations that employee engagement has a significant influence on organizational performance and can become a long‐term source of competitive advantage. An original connection is made between effective employee surveys and employee engagement, and best‐practice guidance is provided on ensuring survey success. Otherwise, a survey runs the risk of destroying rather than building employee engagement.
Failure analysis of electronic components and interconnection systems
Authors: Smith C.A. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe failure analysis of electronic components and interconnection systems such as integrated circuits, printed circuit board assemblies, and hybrid devices is discussed.Design/methodology/approachHow the analytical techniques used for physical and chemical analysis, which include X‐ray radiography, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, are used.FindingsExamples from recent case studies are given to illustrate the work.Originality/valueThe paper demonstrates how the failure analysis of an electronic component or interconnection system is conducted, and what can be learnt from the investigation.
Rural poverty alleviation through NGO interventions in Bangladesh: how far is the achievement?
Authors: Ahsan Ullah A.K.M. , Routray Jayant K. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to analyse the current poverty situation and poverty alleviation efforts of the NGOs in Bangladesh with emphasis on the impacts of two NGO programmes in two villages of Barisal district.Design/methodology/approachThis research has employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The research has primarily used first‐hand empirical data. In order to substantiate primary data, relevant secondary information has also been used. Data were collected through household survey by applying both open‐ and closed‐ended questionnaires. With a view to analysing data, inferential as well as descriptive statistics have been applied.FindingsThe findings revealed that the economic condition of the poor in the study areas has not improved much when judged against some selected indicators, namely, income, food and non‐food expenditure, productive and non‐productive asset, food security, and employment creation. The Foster Greer Thorbecke index shows that the majority of the NGO beneficiaries remained below the poverty line in terms of income and the overwhelming majority of them remained below the underemployment line (less than 260 days of work in a year). The regression analysis shows that the income of the households is determined by landholding size, family labour, days suffered from morbidities and employment opportunity. The qualitative data on the perception of beneficiaries on the causes of poverty endorse this finding.Originality/valueControversies over the issue of widespread poverty in Bangladesh have been revolving among the government, NGOs and the donor agencies as well. NGOs have been claiming the entire success of the economic wellbeing made to the rural poor. However, this study has directly challenged their claims by casting an empirical lens on the impact of their interventions. This study has detected the paucities of the NGO interventions and gaps between their objectives and their achievement.
Volatility driven changes in stock return correlation dynamics
Authors: Knif Johan , Pynnönen Seppo 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to study the relationship between stock return correlation and volatility.Design/methodology/approachUtilizing a logit‐type regression model, the paper analyzes the incremental effect of volatility on the level of correlation. The focus of the paper is set on the impact of the volatilities involved in the definition and calculation of the correlation as well as on the effects of external volatilities from other markets.FindingsIn the paper, an explicit model was constructed to investigate the contribution of the level of volatility on mutual correlations of the markets. The empirical results strongly support the findings that high volatility tends to increase correlations between the markets (see for example). An analysis of the small Nordic markets further showed that the local volatilities may play a role in the change of the level of correlation. However, it is the general world‐wide volatility level that mainly drives the changes in the correlations.Originality/valueParticularly, the results of the paper show that market correlations tend to be dependent on the general world‐wide volatility rather than on local volatilities of single markets. This approach gives us important information about the behavior of the correlation with respect to the level of each market's risk as well as to the general global market‐risk level. The results can be directly utilized by portfolio managers in planning portfolio diversification strategies in accordance with the expected future volatility.
An ethical basis for relationship marketing: a virtue ethics perspective
Authors: Murphy Patrick E. , Laczniak Gene R. , Wood Graham 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an ethical foundation for relationship marketing using a virtue ethics approach.Design/methodology/approachThe approach is a conceptual one providing a background on relationship marketing from both American and European perspectives. Earlier studies published inEJMon relationship marketing are featured in a table.FindingsThe proposed ethical relationship marketing approach has three stages (establishing, sustaining and reinforcing) that are paired with specific virtues (trust, commitment and diligence). These and other facilitating virtues are shown in a figure.Researchlimitations/implicationsThe model and its components have yet to be tested empirically. Some strategies for undertaking such research are discussed.Practical implicationsSeveral European and American companies that currently practice ethical relationship marketing are discussed.Originality/valueAlthough relationship marketing has been studied for a number of years by many scholars, the ethical basis of it has not been thoroughly examined in any previous work.
Geometrical singularities effects on the calculation of the magnetic force, an equivalent behaviour approach
Authors: Barre Olivier , Brochet Pascal 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce a simplified method to calculate an estimation of local forces acting on a body submitted to electric or magnetic fields. With experimentations, the method is thereafter evaluated.Design/methodology/approachWhen an external strength exists on a body, its deformation is an effect always observed. With materials with low elasticity modulus, such a deformation becomes visible and its measurement can be used to validate numerical simulations. Using similarities between electric and magnetic behaviour laws, magnetic problems can be modelled with an electric field approach and studied with an experiment that also uses an electric field.FindingsGeometrical singularities and their effects on calculations are not always well taken into account by a finite element resolution. An adaptive mesh refinement is often required. If such mesh refinement is refused, another solution can be explored. The goal is to know the external stress distribution induced by the field. The methods only focus on this stress distribution and assume that the magnetic or electric field distribution is imprecise when it is calculated near geometrical singularities. The stress distributions suggested are verified with experiments.Originality/valueUsing new materials with particular physical properties provides a new concept of experimental validation.
A coupled electromagnetic‐thermal model for the design of electric machines
Authors: Makni Z. , Besbes M. , Marchand C. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to describe a CAD tool of permanent magnet electric machines. The software tool is operational from the first design phases and allows to study coupled phenomena.Design/methodology/approachThe described design methodology is based on the association of analytical and numerical approaches. A coupled electromagnetic‐thermal model is used for the analytical study. The numerical one uses the finite element method.FindingsThe sequential implementation of the two approaches highlights their complementarities and improves the time consuming and the reliability of the design process. The thermal coupling allows to anticipate the overheating of the machine and to take it into account in the design process.Research limitations/implicationsThe simplifying assumptions made in the analytical model degrade the accuracy of temperature calculation.Practical implicationsThis is a useful tool for electric machines manufacturer planning to obtain a fast and reliable solution in response to datasheet specifications.Originality/valueThis paper describes a multidisciplinary design methodology which is performed by coupling methods and software tools at the aim to take advantage of each one.
Women: segmenting the home fitness equipment market
Authors: McKechnie Donelda S. , Grant Jim , Korepina Victoria , Sadykova Naila 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to question whether increased interest in exercise has truly generated a market for home fitness equipment in which women are a viable consumer segment. It is guided by two objectives: to what extent are female consumers a viable target market segment for home fitness equipment; and to what extent do women believe/disbelieve the advertising claims that are made about such products.Design/methodology/approachData collection included in‐depth interviews with salespeople at two retail sporting goods establishments. Following questionnaire development, 400 self‐administered surveys were distributed to women, only, at various locations including malls and standalone locations such as coffee shops. Respondents were qualified with a question about frequency of exercise.FindingsResults identify that women are a viable market. Cross tabulations and chi square significance note the associations between respondents' age, occupation, nationality and religion and the various equipment purchased including treadmills, workout equipment, stationary cycles and abdominal machines. Belief in advertising claims was higher for cardio equipment and least for abdominal machines. Post purchase satisfaction was greater for products that favoured noticeable physical changes and by businesswomen who arguably, may be more discerning shoppers.Originality/valueUndertaking this research in a country known for its extensive expatriate population enabled an international cross‐sectional view of women's consumer behavior using the various demographics information collected. Academically, it considers constraint theory while practically, it provides a gender specific profile for the home‐use sport and fitness equipment market. Limitations include the narrow scope of four demographic variables and four product groups.
Relative effects of dependence and trust on flexibility, information exchange, and solidarity in marketing channels
Authors: Sezen Bulent , Yilmaz Cengiz 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe extent of relational behaviors displayed by independent partners in channels of distribution is a critical determinant of the efficiency and effectiveness of distribution operations. The purpose of this study is to focus on the two key antecedents of relational behaviors in channel dyads, dependence on and trust in the exchange partner, and to explore the relative effects of dependence and trust on each of the three major relational behavior forms of flexibility, information exchange, and solidarity.Design/methodology/approachFormal hypotheses are developed in the study regarding the joint and relative effects of dependence and trust on each relational behavior. Data collected from 192 automobile dealerships in Turkey are used for testing the hypotheses through separate regression analyses.FindingsIn line with the main study thesis, the results suggest that the relative effects of dependence on and trust in the supplier differ across dealer flexibility, information exchange, and solidarity displayed toward the supplier firms. Theoretical and managerial implications are discussed.Practical implicationsFindings of the study provide guidelines to channel firms in regard to the policies and programs that need to be developed to evoke desired forms of behaviors within their distribution networks.Originality/valueConsidering each relational behavior separately, this study provides support for the view that the emergences of different forms of behaviors in channel relationships occur through different motivational mechanisms.
Huawei Technologies Corporation: from local dominance to global challenge?
Authors: Low Brian 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe paper aims to identify the challenges faced by Huawei Technologies, China's biggest telecommunications equipment manufacturer, as it makes the transition from an indigenously‐owned business to a potentially competitive global giant.Design/methodology/approachThis is an inductive, interpretative case study complimented by hands‐on experience with the industry.FindingsThe paper finds that Huawei lies at a crossroads in a transitional telecommunication sector that is no longer isolated from global reforms and advancement. Through internationalisation the company has learned to compete by adjusting their mechanisms, learning instruments and focus.Originality/valueThe paper is useful for practitioners in that it shows how indigenous companies in latecomer industrialising countries like China can overcome the late mover position in some of the advanced markets they have entered. For academics it highlights the role of government in helping to construct competitive indigenous firms that could take on global giants.
Reference service and resources in the age of instant messaging
Authors: Oberhelman David D. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to outline the use of instant messaging for communications.Design/methodology/approach – The paper describes studies carried out regarding the service, staffing, and economic and technological aspects of instant messagingFindings – Instant messaging was found to be a useful tool in helping to find relevant information to enquiries.Originality/value – The paper shows how developments in software and internet connections have made instant messaging a useful tool.
An assessment system for teacher education program quality improvement
Authors: Reusser Janet , Butler Loren , Symonds Matthew , Vetter Rheba , Wall Timothy J. 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to describe how one US Midwestern university implements quality principles, based on the value added premise in a teacher preparation program that yields accountability, teacher education standards attainment and ultimately improvement of teacher candidates and overall programs.Design/methodology/approachData pertinent to students were gathered in a systematic way as they declared a certification area. This data was used to identify students who needed tutorial support and class advisement to assure successful matriculation, program completion and success on identified critical assessments. The two assessments identified were teacher work sample (TWS) and the national physical education certification examination (Praxis II). Meaningful proactive advisement, data sharing and tutorial testing assistance program were the primary approaches used to improve teacher candidate competencies.FindingsSpecific course modifications and curricular redesign resulted in positive results on the TWS and Praxis II. The results have been improved teacher candidate performance on knowledge, skills and dispositions measures.Research limitations/implicationsAs result of sharing data, a cultural shift occurred within the program. Faculty became more accountable to teacher candidate competency attainment and teacher candidates became more attuned to becoming an effective prospective teacher.Practical implicationsBecause this particular teacher education programs implemented quality principles, utilized the value added approach to management and systematically used data that yielded positive results, it has become a model for other teacher education programs.Originality/valueThis study uses one program to provide examples of how management of accountability and standards attainment can lead to administrative, curricular, candidate and overall program improvement.
What accounts for students' loyalty? Some field study evidence
Authors: Helgesen Øyvind , Nesset Erik 
Published: February 2007

PurposePublic funding of institutions offering higher education is becoming scarcer, more complex, and to an ever‐increasing extent performance‐based. Concerning the teaching area the financing is partly based on student credits and professional degrees. Thus student loyalty has become an important strategic theme. The purpose is to study relationships between student satisfaction, students' perceptions of the reputation of an educational institution and student loyalty; hypothesizing positive relationships between satisfaction and loyalty, reputation and loyalty, and between satisfaction and reputation. Antecedents of student satisfaction and reputation are also included in the study.Design/methodology/approachThe data source is a survey among students at the bachelor level of a university college in Norway, analyzed by a structural equation modeling approach.FindingsThe findings strongly support the three hypotheses. The university college may be looked upon as being satisfaction‐driven. Still reputation management is of great importance. Significant antecedents are identified and discussed.Research limitations/implicationsThis research has been applied to a specific university college. The research should be expanded to other institutions offering higher education.Practical implicationsBased on a theoretical framework the study gives practical insight concerning drivers of student loyalty so that key success factors for the coming period of time can be identified.Originality/valueWhen determining the most appropriate management strategy, such insight is becoming even more important than earlier. By allocating resources to activities that are important for the students, the managers may increase the value offered so that student retention may be obtained, thus ensuring governmental funds in future.
Trade unions and employment relations in the context of public sector change
Authors: Martínez Lucio Miguel 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to study the impact of new types of market‐based management systems in Western European public sector industrial relations.Design/methodology/approachIt reviews the main literature on the topic and relevant policy texts.FindingsIt points to the different dimensions of public sector change in terms of industrial relations and outlines some of the contradictory outcomes and ongoing continuities.Research limitations/implicationsIt is a general overview of key developments.Practical implicationsIt is relevant for a discussion of the general trends and dynamic of public sector industrial relations.Originality/valueIt manages to take an overview of changes in the public sector and point to the uncertain development of a new market approach.
Changing industrial relations in the Swedish public sector
Authors: Thörnqvist Christer 
Published: February 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to provide an overview of changes in the context of the Swedish public sector.Design/methodology/approachIt reviews the main literature on the topic and relevant policy texts.FindingsIn short, even though the last decade and a half has been a most turbulent period in the history of the Swedish public sector, with its peak in two great strikes, the framework has remained substantially intact. Swedish path dependency has been so strong that the system has largely survived; it has moved towards “organized decentralization”, but it has not dissolved. It is probable that the end of that move has not yet been seen; the Swedish system is still transforming.Research limitations/implicationsIt is a general overview of key developments.Practical implicationsIt is relevant for a discussion of the general trends and dynamic of public sector industrial relations in Sweden.Originality/valueThis article manages to take an overview and point to the uncertain development of a new market approach.