bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Achieving “information fulfilment” in the networked society
Authors: Burke M.E. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce the idea of information fulfilment. The networked society provides many opportunities for information flow. However, information professionals readily accept that, although one is surrounded by information of many sorts, in many formats, what is important is whether users consider that they ever achieve what is known as “Information Fulfilment”. i.e. occurrences when there has been information which is accurate, timely, current and presented in an appropriate and useful format to allow (work) tasks to be completed.Design/methodology/approachThis first paper contains a literature review which informed the study. The study (which will be reported in detail in a later paper) was interpretive and used ethnography (through participant observation) as the research tool. The research deals with issues surrounding organisation structures and examines levels of information fulfilment in micro substantive settings.FindingsThe paper serves to introduce background and cultural information from a small section of a larger European research project which involved five countries and was partially funded by TEMPUS and Leonardo da Vinci Socrates grants.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper introduces ideas concerning information fulfilment and addresses initial issues concerning a small section of results from a larger project. Phase 2 is now under way and more studies are planned. It is noted that organisation structures are only one variable that affects levels of information fulfilment and there are plans in the future to further extend the study.Originality/valueThe research attempts to link the levels of information fulfilment with types of organisation structures. This paper introduces the concept and gives the rationale for the project.
Stakeholder perceptions presage holistic stakeholder relationship marketing performance
Authors: Murphy Brian , Maguiness Paul , Pescott Chris , Wislang Soren , Ma Jingwu , Wang Rongmei 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo measure marketing performance in a holistic sense.Design/methodology/approachTo augment the prevailing customer relationship marketing paradigm, a holistic stakeholder relationship marketing paradigm is proposed in which holistic marketing performance is reflected in the delivery of long‐term economic, social, and environmental value to customer, employee, supplier, community, and shareholder stakeholders of a business in order to enhance sustainable financial performance. Present stakeholder attitudes are measured in a stakeholder performance appraisal within a stakeholder relationship marketing model, as timely, early warning signals of future stakeholder behaviour and concomitant future business performance.FindingsStakeholder performance appraisal results to date indicate that a holistic stakeholder relationship marketing orientation that incorporates triple bottom line philosophy significantly enhances business financial performance beyond that achieved by a customer relationship marketing orientation.Research limitations/implicationsThe stakeholder performance appraisal has been applied to only 33 businesses to date providing scope for wider application of this measurement system to demonstrate its practical usefulness in measuring holistic marketing performance and future financial performance.Practical implicationsThe stakeholder performance appraisal provides a perceptual overview of holistic marketing performance and concomitant business financial performance from stakeholders in terms of quantitative ratings of economic, social and environmental performance, and qualitative strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. These data enable a business to plan stakeholder relationship marketing strategies to enhance performance and to predict future financial performance.Originality/valueThe stakeholder relationship marketing model and the stakeholder performance appraisal are new, unique, managerially useful additions to existing stakeholder models and metrics.
The internet, consumer empowerment and marketing strategies
Authors: Pires Guilherme D. , Stanton John , Rita Paulo 
Published: September 2006

PurposeArguing that increasing use of information and communication technologies (ICT) is shifting market power from suppliers to consumers, the ensuing consumer empowerment is presented as an unintended consequence of marketing. Marketing implications arising from this consumer empowerment are examined in terms of a process where control and management by suppliers over consumer access and enablement are increasingly difficult.Design/methodology/approachConsumer empowerment is examined historically, using quality gap analysis to capture an ongoing power struggle between consumers and suppliers. This draws out the limitations of current marketing and management strategies. The different forms of marketing challenges in this new environment are discussed.FindingsThe role of marketing strategies in fostering controlled consumer empowerment is reflected in the development of information‐based consumer‐centric marketing strategies that seek to enable and control delegation. In designing such strategies, consumers' familiarity with and use of ICT are both strengthened and widened, emphasising the uncontrolled nature of the consumer empowerment process.Research limitations/implicationsThe approach is literature‐based, focussing on the ICT enabled process. It does not address the psychology of empowerment. Since, consumer empowerment may imply switching suppliers in search of better value propositions, business cannot afford to ignore it, justifying the need for further research of both elements.Practical implicationsMarketing strategy rests on a control premise and the analysis of the consumer empowerment process implies that current customer‐centric strategies are operating under a false premise. There is a need to regain control over the marketing process, that is, to either manage the technological empowerment of consumers, or to devise new strategies cognisant of the possibility that such technological empowerment cannot be managed. The valuation of consumer loyalty in this environment rises significantly.Originality/valueAn historical perspective to consumer empowerment exposes the tensions between suppliers and consumers arising from ICT usage. A separation of consumer access and enablement from control and management by suppliers is shown to have important marketing strategy design implications.
Assumed empowerment: consuming professional services in the knowledge economy
Authors: Newholm Terry , Laing Angus , Hogg Gillian 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThis paper considers the notion of consumer empowerment across the financial, legal and medical service sectors in the UK. Although the advent of the internet is generally seen as potentially enabling consumer empowerment, theoretical papers divide on the question of efficacy. On the one hand, it is argued the much‐vaunted internet opportunity must not be simply taken as evidence of change in the consumer‐producer relationship. On the other the change must not be unquestioningly be taken as advantageous to the consumer.Design/methodology/approachEmpirical data were generated through ten consumer focus groups and eight interviews with professionals.FindingsThe paper supports the contention that empowerment is partial and unevenly distributed among consumers. It is argued that characterisations of consumer indifference and producer discipline as preventing effective empowerment are too simplistic. Additionally, any taboo restraining the questioning of professional judgement is largely absent from the assumption of choice and of recognition/respect among the consumers participating in the research.Research limitations/implicationsFocus group research does not enable a judgement about the prevalence or distribution of empowerment assumptions among consumers.Practical implicationsIt is inevitable that in the broader consumer market professionals will be required to respond to a complex of consumer assumptions and these will include an assumption of empowerment.Originality/valueMuch of the services research in marketing has been set within the service recovery paradigm; given information, consumer power is an implied function of the market. In this paper, we see consumer empowerment as a process of negotiation partially facilitated by information.
Exploring differential effects of supervisor support on transfer of training
Authors: Nijman Derk‐Jan J.M. , Nijhof Wim J. , Wognum A.A.M. (Ida) , Veldkamp Bernard P. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to provide further insight into the relationship between supervisor support and transfer of training, by taking into account the effects of other transfer‐influencing factors in a systemic approach of the transfer process.Design/methodology/approachA review of studies on factors affecting transfer of training was conducted, with a specific focus on the effects of supervisor support, resulting in the development of a research model of the transfer process. All components of the model were measured by means of questionnaires for former trainees and their supervisors, and stepwise regression analyses were carried out to examine the relationships in the model.FindingsResults indicate indirect relationships between supervisor support and transfer of training, by means of both trainees' motivation to transfer and the transfer climate. The indirect effect of supervisor support on transfer of training is only slight, however. Learning results are shown to be the strongest predictor of transfer of training.Research limitations/implicationsOwing to the small sample size structural equation modelling techniques could not be used, thus limiting the possibility to test the model as a single entity. The use of perceptional measures implies the risk of response tendencies from trainees and supervisors. Further research using different measures and different timing of measurement during the training and transfer process is recommended.Practical implicationsResults of this study indicate that supervisor support that is intended to enhance transfer of training can best be directed at improvement of the transfer climate at the workplace.Originality/valueThe paper provides both researchers and practitioners with a further insight into the complex effects of supervisor support on transfer of training, indicating the importance of taking into account the effects of other transfer‐influencing factors.
Word of mouth, brand loyalty, acculturation and the American Jewish consumer
Authors: Steven Podoshen Jeffrey 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe intent of this article is to explore if there is a difference between American Jewish consumers and American non‐Jewish consumers in the use of word of mouth and brand loyalty in response to the purchase of durable goods (automobiles). Additionally, this article aims to explore if there is a difference in the use of word of mouth and brand loyalty among American Jews with differing levels of acculturation.Design/methodology/approachThis article utilizes survey data obtained from over 400 respondents with analysis performed using regression and chi‐squared analysis.FindingsThis study shows no significant difference in brand loyalty and word of mouth between all American Jews and American non‐Jews, however, a significant difference between highly acculturated American Jews and low‐acculturated American Jews was found.Practical implicationsThe article helps firms plan their marketing strategy in terms of how they will utilize word of mouth where American Jewish consumers comprise a significant part of the target market. Additionally, this research helps firms understand the context of brand loyalty in terms of looking at ethnic groups.Originality/valueLittle research on Jewish consumer acculturation has been published in the last 25 years. The spending power of the American Jewish consumer is significantly larger than that of the rest of the American population, which makes the study of this group particularly valuable.
Loyalty trends 2006: three evolutionary trends to transform your loyalty strategy
Authors: Ferguson Rick , Hlavinka Kelly 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine three evolutionary trends that are pushing the boundaries of loyalty marketing in 2006 and beyond. These trends incorporate the power of networks, the power of data, and the power of convergence.Design/methodology/approachThe paper thoroughly describes three new trends in loyalty marketing, which the authors believe have the potential to affect the strategies of all existing loyalty programs. Various programs that represent ongoing experimentation and innovation are used as examples of each of the trends.FindingsThe paper suggests that by incorporating some of the components of the three trends in loyalty marketing, marketers will see their boundaries expand and their strategies and tactics change. The results will power profits and growth.Practical implicationsIt may be true that the biggest revolutions in loyalty marketing happened in the past. But micro‐revolutions in loyalty marketing are happening everywhere. By examining those programs that are innovative and willing to experiment, marketers can learn strategies that can grow their own programs.Originality/valueThe paper takes a look at evolutionary trends in loyalty marketing, with suggestions on how to incorporate these trends into existing programs.
A critical appraisal tool for library and information research
Authors: Glynn Lindsay 
Published: September 2006

PurposeAs the interest in evidence‐based librarianship increases, so does the need for a standardized practice methodology. One of the most essential components of EBL, critical appraisal, has not been fully established within the library literature. The purpose of this paper is to outline and describe a thorough critical appraisal tool and process that can be applied to library and information research in an evidence based setting.Design/methodology/approachTo create a critical appraisal tool for EBL, it was essential to look at other models. Exhaustive searches were carried out in several databases. Numerous articles were retrieved which provided “evidence” or “best practice” based on a critical appraisal. The initial tool, when created, was distributed to several librarians who provided comments to the author regarding its exhaustiveness, ease of use and applicability and was subsequently revised to reflect their suggestions and comments.FindingsThe critical appraisal tool provides a thorough, generic list of questions that one would ask when attempting to determine the validity, applicability and appropriateness of a study.Originality/valueMore rigorous research and publishing will be encouraged as more librarians and information professionals adopt the practice of EBL and utilize this critical appraisal model
Connecting Patrons through Technology: Solutions Presented by Non‐Traditional MLS Students
Authors: Blackburn Gemma , Schaapveld Erica 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo report on the poster sessions from the Tri‐Conference 2006 held in Wichita, Kansas, on April 4‐7, 2006 presented by the graduate students at Emporia State University’s School of Library and Information Management entitled Kansas Libraries Connecting Patrons through Technology.Design/methodology/approachProvides a concise review of the poster session.FindingsThe poster sessions demonstrated the special technological requirements of distance learning and how libraries might use that understanding as they face an increasingly non‐traditional patron base.Originality/valueThis paper is a useful summary of the poster sessions of interest to library and information management professionals.
Promotion, turnover and preemptive wage offers
Authors: Block Walter , Lawson Robert A. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe reason for writing the paper is to cast doubt on the claim that the informational asymmetries uncovered by Bernhardt and Scoones constitute a market failure.Design/methodology/approachThe main method used is to quote these authors, and then critically comment upon their views. The theoretical scope of the paper is the premise that markets are efficient, effective and ethical.FindingsIt was found in the course of the work that Bernhardt and Scoones were in error in their contentions.Research limitations/implicationsSuggestions for future research; this paper is but the tip of the iceberg in terms of claims that markets perform badly, and are hence in need of governmental rectification. This entire literature cries out for more critical analysis.Practical implicationsThe public policy and practical implications emanating from this paper is that laissez‐faire capitalism is the best way to organize an economy.Originality/valueWhat is new in the paper is that the work of Bernhardt and Scoones on informational asymmetries has not before been subject to critical analysis from the perspective of advocates of the free enterprise system. This is valuable, in that, when claims are subject to critique, they become more reliable. It is only through dialogue and debate of this sort that one can get that in closer to the truth.
How effective is the monetary policy?
Authors: Shokoofeh Fazel 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide logical and empirical explanations as to why monetary policy is ineffective with respect to affecting mortgage rates, and thus investment and aggregate demand.Design/methodology/approachLogical and empirical evidence is provided in support of the hypothesis that changes in the money supply have no significant impact on interest rates in general, and particularly on mortgage rates. This empirical analysis is based on a simple regression of changes in mortgage rates on changes in the money supply, and covers the 1990‐2004 period.FindingsSupport was found for our hypothesis that changes in money supply have no significant impact on interest rates.Research limitations/implicationsThe conclusion of this paper should be incorporated in all macroeconomics textbooks. Lack of such analyses may leave a confusing or misleading impression about economic theories in the mind of economics students.Practical implicationsOne should not rely on monetary policy as an effective tool of stabilization policy.Originality/valueThe message of this paper is to readers of macroeconomics textbooks. This paper has an original value in that it communicates to readers that most macroeconomic textbooks fail to provide detailed and clear explanations as to why very frequently monetary policy does not achieve its objective of stabilizing the economy.
Why interest‐free banking and finance movement failed in Pakistan
Authors: Mansoor Khan Mohammad , Ishaq Bhatti M. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe main objective of the paper is to understand the reasons why Islamic banking failed in Pakistan despite lots of efforts being made to implement in contrast to its success in other parts of the world.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on a debatable conceptual approach. It provides a longitudinal view of the issue of replacing the interest‐based financial system in Pakistan with an interest‐free system by taking the religious, socio‐economic and political factors of the country.FindingsThe findings of the paper hold that piecemeal solutions to eliminate interest from the financial sector of Pakistan could never succeed. It concludes that all intellectual, practical, political, constitutional and legal efforts undertaken in Pakistan to enforce an interest‐free system were not meant in earnest and therefore they inflicted serious damage to the cause of Islam as well as Islamic banking. Interest is prohibited in Islam for its exploitative nature. In case of Pakistan, interest institution is not only deep‐rooted, but also strongly interlinked with other exploitative tools that are prevalent in the hands of some selected people to keep their control over political, economic and social spheres of Pakistan. There is an indispensable need to eradicate interest along with its allied forces from the polity of Pakistan. The practical success of interest‐free banking and finance movement in Pakistan could not be materialized unless the state and polity of Pakistan are not convinced seriously to discover the paradigm of their personal and state institutions based on Islamic guidance and principles.Research limitations/implicationsThe contents of the paper woven around normative and social disciplines and therefore, it is not possible to devise any statistical model to empirically test the contribution of these socio‐economic factors in a failure of interest‐free banking and finance movement for future research and any identified limitations in the research process.Originality/valueThe paper provides a broarder perspective over the issue of eliminating interest from the national economy and financial sector of Pakistan. The paper figures out some serious political, social and micro and macro economic constraints that should be first sorted out to pave the way for any viable strategy to succeed in replacing the existing system with risk‐sharing and alternative interest‐free mechanisms. The findings of this paper may be useful for the policy makers, researchers, academicians, financial experts, Islamic Shariah scholars, bankers, regulators, Islamic financial institutions and those Muslim countries who wish to undertake a similar kind of experiment as was attempted in Pakistan. This paper may also help the Western economist to think and debate about an alternative interest‐free economic and financial system of Islam.
Examining career development programs for the sales force
Authors: Jackson Donald W. , Hollmann Thomas , Gallan Andrew S. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to explore career development programs for the sales force including benefits, implementation and managerial implications.Design/methodology/approachCareer development programs are viewed through a conceptual model consisting of assessment, direction and development.FindingsThis paper provides a comprehensive list of the benefits of a career development program for sales forces.Practical implicationsThe conceptual model can serve as a checklist for sales managers to evaluate, add to or modify their programs. The conceptual model also provides a framework for tying together many disparate areas of career development that have been handled separately or ignored in the sales management literature.Originality/valueThis paper provides a comprehensive conceptual model of career development that has not been present in the sales management literature. This should be useful to sales managers in evaluating their own career development efforts. The framework should also be useful to sales management scholars who teach and do research in this area.