bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of information literacy on the utilization of electronic information resources in selected academic and research institutions in Uganda
Authors: Annet Kinengyere Alison 
Published: June 2007

PurposeUganda has gone a step forward in ensuring that information resources available for researchers and students are maximally utilized. Academic and research libraries are participating in supporting and achieving the missions of their respective institutions by teaching the competency of information literacy (IL). This paper seeks to examine the effect IL has had on the usage of electronic information resources in academic and research institutions in Uganda. It aims to focus on the innovations that Makerere University Library (the biggest and oldest academic library in Uganda) has undertaken to ensure that library users (the Makerere University community and other collaborating universities and research institutions in Uganda) are trained on how to access a variety of available information resources, evaluate the information and apply it to address their needs.Design/methodology/approachData were collected for the study using interviews to both library staff and users of the selected institutions: two library staff in charge of e‐resources and ten students/researchers were interviewed from each institution. However, user statistics for the years 2004‐2005, as well as the IL training sessions conducted, were the main sources of information. The study focused on academic and research institutions – Makerere University, Uganda, Martyrs University, Nkozi and National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS). The researcher is physically involved in the IL program in Makerere University. The usage statistics were compiled and interpreted.FindingsThe paper finds that availability of information does not necessarily mean actual use. The study shows that some of the available resources have not been utilized at all. This means that users are not aware of the availability of such resources, they do not know how to access them, or they do not know what the resources offer. All this calls for continued information literacy programs. IL is very vital in influencing utilization of e‐resources. Information professionals are needed to pass on IL skills to library users, while library users should endeavor to find out what information is available online for their consumption. Their attitudes and perceptions also influence the level of utilization.Originality/valueThe paper shows the extent of information literacy and its influence on electronic resources in Uganda. It points out the challenges for the future and provides a number of recommendations for the way forward, which will be helpful both to the relevant communities in Uganda and to other academics in similar circumstances.
Networked e‐information services to support the e‐learning process at UAE University
Authors: Taha Ahmed 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to focus on how the e‐library interoperates with the e‐learning process within the academic computing environment (ACE) at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU).Design/methodology/approachThis paper is inspired by the existing findings of a questionnaire survey conducted by the Laptop Project at the UAEU (2002‐2003) and sequel research (2004‐2005) on the acceptance and adoption of the Blackboard, a web‐based instructional platform, by the students. Personal interviews were conducted with the instructors who were involved in the e‐learning initiative to find out the appropriate e‐information services that should be provided to support their respective Blackboard‐aided courses.FindingsThe paper finds that the instructors have viewed e‐learning as a sound instructional tool and an evolving genre capable of providing more than just textual information. According to their viewpoints, the e‐library could support e‐learning courses with a bundle of networked e‐information services such as development of course‐related electronic collections, virtual reference help, current awareness and SDI, online document delivery, etc. E‐literacy was found to play an essential role in fostering adoption and acceptance of e‐learning, whereas the language barrier has constrained e‐learning initiative in the colleges where Arabic is the teaching language, i.e. Blackboard does not support creation of Arabic contents and interface so far.Practical implicationsThe capabilities of the e‐library in providing networked e‐information services have made the integration with the e‐learning process a highly urgent requirement.Originality/valueA model representing the integration of the e‐library functions with the e‐learning process is presented in the paper. The proposed model could be applicable in learning settings within an academic computing environment.
Package deals unwrapped … or the librarian wrapped up? “Forced acquisition” in the digital library
Authors: Hellriegel Patricia , Van Wonterghem Kaat 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper sets out to give an overview of the history of electronic journal package deals in Flanders and the role of consortia. The influence of package deals on libraries' budget, collection management and their role in the advancing monopolization of the information market are highlighted. The article also seeks to clariy why package deals were so attractive in the beginning but turned into a poisoned chalice for many. As an illustration of why it is so hard to get out of a deal, an average package deal license agreement is described.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses personal experience and views supported with background literature.FindingsThe article advocates better co‐operation between libraries and directed communication with the scholarly community which hold the key to making alternatives work.Originality/valueA resource for those not (completely) familiar with package deals and their wide influence. The available alternatives and the remaining obstacles are described.
A wavelet‐integration‐free periodic wavelet Galerkin BEM for 2D potential problems
Authors: Xiao Jin‐you , Wen Li‐hua , Zhang Duo 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to present a wavelet Galerkin boundary element method (WGBEM) for solving 2D Laplace's equation in which the coefficient matrices are exactly computed through fast Fourier transform (FFT).Design/methodology/approachWhen Daubechies periodized wavelets are used to approximate smooth functions the wavelet coefficients can be exactly computed through FFT, and numerical evaluation of wavelet integrations is discarded. The same methods for computing the expansion coefficients of 2D function and singular function are derived.FindingsFor Daubechies periodized wavelets based WGBEM, two remarkable advantages over the existing WGBEM are: the coefficient matrices can be exactly calculated through FFT; a linear system with potential and flux values at dyadic points as unknowns can be gained. Thus, the mixed boundary condition can be enforced with ease. Sparse matrices with only O(N log N) nonzero entries are obtained by performing the fast wavelet transform (FWT) and the truncation of matrix entries.Originality/valueA wavelet‐integration‐free method for computing the wavelet coefficients is introduced into the WGBEM. The conventional numerical evaluation of wavelet integrations is avoided. Good performance and accuracy are obtained.
An empirical study of the motives and benefits of ISO 9000 certification: the UAE experience
Authors: Zaramdini Walid 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe aim of the paper is to analyze the different aspects of the motives and benefits of certified ISO 9001: 2000 companies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).Design/methodology/approachA total of 900 certified UAE companies were surveyed in April 2004 in UAE. The response rate was equal to 23.2 percent.FindingsThe paper finds that certified companies were more concerned by internal reasons like improving processes or products than by external reasons like pressure from customers or imitation of competitors. In addition, the certification process had generated more internal benefits than external ones.Research limitations/implicationsThese findings may indicate that the surveyed firms will sustain their quality efforts as continuous improvement is one of the cornerstones of ISO 9001: 2000 standard. In April 2004, when this survey was conducted, the number of certified companies listed in Dubai or in Abu Dhabi Stock Exchanges was still small. This limited the analysis of the certification's financial benefits.Originality/valueThis is one of the first papers trying to analyze the motives and benefits of ISO 9001: 2000 certified companies in the UAE. The selection of the motives and benefits were validated through statistical analysis and the relationship between expected and perceived benefits was discussed.
Total quality management and performance
Authors: Joiner Therese A. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between the extent of total quality management (TQM) implementation and organization performance, and the moderating effect of co‐worker support and organization support on the TQM/performance relationship.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire survey was developed and distributed to a sample of firms selected from the motor vehicle parts and accessories industry.FindingsAnalysis of the data supports a strong positive relationship between the extent of implementation of TQM practices and organization performance. This study also found that co‐worker support and organization support moderated the relationship between TQM implementation and organization performanceResearch implicationsThis study has important implications for managers. First, it motivates managers (and provides a justification) to invest in the time and resources to implement TQM programs. Based on the results of this study, the implementation of TQM practices is associated with enhanced organization performance. Second, evidence from this study signals the importance of developing an environment or “culture” of support to further enhance the performance outcomes of TQM implementation. If employees do not feel there is acknowledgement and support from the organization and from work colleagues, then the implementation of TQM programs may be sub‐optimal.Originality/valueThere is increasing recognition of the importance of human factors in successful TQM implementation. Within this context, no previous research has empirically examined the synergistic moderating effect of co‐worker support and organization support on the relationship between TQM and performance.
Google in China: government censorship and corporate reputation
Authors: O'Rourke James S. , Harris Brynn , Ogilvy Allison 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper examines the communication strategies organization, and tactics of Google as corporate executives and staff planned and began executing the company's global expansion strategy with entry into the Chinese market.Design/methodology/approachThe paper takes the form of a case study.FindingsTo do business in the Chinese market, Google had to comply with Chinese Government censorship restrictions. The company's decision to do so was announced in the wake of Google's very recent refusal to provide user information to the US Government case against child pornography. Wall Street's response confirmed the profit potential of the venture, as the company's share price rose 3.6 percent in just one day, and continued rising to record heights. However, the company's announcement brought strong reaction from the press and human rights organizations. Within days, headlines were screaming across the USA and around the world, accusing Google of abandoning its principles in pursuit of profit.Originality/valueMass media in the USA and throughout the developed world heaped scorn and criticism on Google for its decision to censor searches from its servers inside China. Various NGOs took up the drumbeat of criticism, implying that Google could not be trusted with personal data, including search topics. At the same time, however, Wall Street continued to reward the company with a seemingly endless streak of record share price postings. The question appears simple: does the pursuit of profit in the developing world trump the need for ethics and values in business operations?
The advantages of mildly alkaline immersion silver as a final finish for solderability
Authors: Li Fang Jing , Chan Daniel K. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis study seeks to examine the advantages of mildly alkaline immersion silver as a final finish for solderability in order to combat the shortcomings of acidity in some popular immersion silver solutions.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes in detail the necessary steps in the mildly alkaline immersion silver process.FindingsThe process can overcome the problems of conventional acidic immersion silvers, especially in thermal shock and stress testing. Also it does not affect soldering or aluminium wire bonding.Originality/valueThis is arguably a pioneering study in that it posits the benefits of mildly alkaline immersion silver as a final finish for solderability.
Optimal structures for social systems
Authors: Schwaninger Markus 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to propose an innovative approach to the assessment of the effectiveness of organizational structures.Design/methodology/approachExplores a concept for the measurement of the fractal dimensionality of living organisms, applying it from biology to social organizations.FindingsThe fractal dimensionality of an organization normally lies in the range of 2.2‐2.3, if it is optimal.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper's limitations lie in the fact that it is not yet based on experimental evidence from real‐world organizations.Originality/valueThe findings of this paper give valuable impetus to the methodology of organizing.
Beyond hierarchy: a complexity management perspective
Authors: Espinosa A. , Harnden R. , Walker J. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to contribute to current research on complexity management by re‐visiting Beer's paradigm on control and self‐organization and explaining its usefulness to support non‐hierarchical organizations and networks and its complementarities to new development in complexity sciences.Design/methodology/approachThe paper explains the current crisis of hierarchical structures and then summarises new proposals on non‐hierarchical organizations from the perspective of complexity sciences. It then summarises Beer's provenance of control and, in particular, the ideas of requisite variety and meta‐systemic management. It explains how these ideas transform the way of approaching management and presents examples of real‐life businesses transformed by following this approach.FindingsThe analysis highlights limitations in current management theory and practice that can be overcome by embracing the paradigm of control suggested by some of the pioneer cybernetitians. It shows that the model has unprecedented powers to describe and analyse the network characteristics of contemporary social organizations from the perspective of effective management and lays down a new and democratic paradigm of control.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper concentrates on explaining the main arguments of meta‐systemic management suggested originally by Beer and exploring its implications for managing complex networked organizations; more applied research would be convenient to experiment the suggested model.Originality/valueThis study hopefully has shown that core ideas from the tradition of cybernetics add diagnostic and design power to the other tools of complexity management, giving rise to new insights into how learning, networked structures can be brought to reality.
Technology learning systems as non‐trivial machines
Authors: Wene Clas‐Otto 
Published: June 2007

PurposeConsidering the technology learning system as a non‐trivial machine, this paper seeks to take a first step to ground experience and learning curves in cybernetic theory.Design/methodology/approachAssuming operational closure, feedback regulation and a constant elasticity of output/input ratio to cumulative output makes it possible to calculate eigenvalues for the self‐reflecting loop in the learning system.FindingsThe results imply a zero mode learning rate of 20 per cent with higher modes providing learning rates smaller than 8 per cent. The results reproduce the grand features of technology learning.Research limitations/implicationsThe NTM approach provides basis for work to understand improvements in grafted technologies and effects on learning from radical innovations.Practical implicationsFurther inquiries into the learning system need complementary organisational analysis.Originality/valueBased on the theory of the non‐trivial machine, this paper takes the first step to ground the experience and learning curves in cybernetic theory.
The effects of risk disclosure and ad involvement on consumers in DTC advertising
Authors: Kavadas Constantina , Prevel Katsanis Lea , LeBel Jordan 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe importance of consumer involvement is well recognized in marketing theory, but has been absent from past inquiries in consumers' processing of DTC advertisements. The authors believe it is necessary to account for varying levels of involvement between consumers in order to better appreciate their responses to DTC advertisement claims. The present study aims to shed additional insight into the relationship between consumer involvement and the processing of risk information in DTC advertising.Design/methodology/approachThe study was a between‐subject factorial design and consisted of 156 students from a North American university. It used an instructional manipulation designed to compare how low and highly involved consumers perceive DTC drug advertisements and more specifically the benefit and risk information contained in such advertisements.FindingsFindings indicate that consumers' perception and processing of DTC advertisements resembles consumers' reaction to fear appeals. Furthermore, consistent with previous studies, consumers react negatively to DTC advertisements containing a high content of risk information. Findings indicate that greater differences in consumer processing of risk information is observed when the sample is categorized as high versus low involved, rather than sufferer versus non‐sufferer, and that this consumer characteristic is important enough to include when examining consumer reactions to DTC advertisements.Originality/valueThe relationship between amount of risk information and consumer responses has not been empirically examined while controlling for the potential role of involvement. This study is a first step in addressing this gap.
Exploring the dynamics of customer value in cross‐cultural business relationships
Authors: Blocker Christopher P. , Flint Daniel J. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeA recent development in customer value research is building theory that can help the field go beyond understanding what customers currently value to exploring how customers' perceptions of value change. This paper seeks to extend this emerging theory of customer value change to a global context by conceptually exploring the role of national culture as a key moderator of this phenomenon.Design/methodology/approachThe literature examining the role of national culture in business is reviewed for insights pertaining to buyers' tendencies for change in general and for clues suggesting how customers' embedded values in various cultural contexts might undergo value change in systematically different ways. Specifically, this paper employs Hofstede's cultural framework to explore how the lens of national culture might influence the value change process.FindingsBased on this integrative review, several links between the cultural dimensions in Hofstede's framework and value change theory are found to be supported by the literature. These connections suggest a moderating role for national culture, given the tendency for cultural factors to shape buyers' interpretation of environmental change drivers and their resulting feelings of tension which research shows are closely associated with customers' desired value changes from suppliers.Originality/valueThis paper offers several theoretical propositions and conceptual models for future empirical validation. These new insights into an emerging theory of customer value change can provide the building‐blocks for a number of future research directions designed to help managers exercise strategic foresight for changing global markets.
Environmental management systems as an embedding mechanism: a research note
Authors: Albelda Pérez Esther , Correa Ruiz Carmen , Carrasco Fenech Francisco 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the interplay between strategy, environmental management systems and environmental accounting, and their role in improving environmental performance.Design/methodology/approachBy engaging with organisations through field research, this paper analyses the aspects of the European Community's Eco‐Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS), an environmental management system (EMS), that act as catalysts for change through the development of intangible assets that improve environmental performance. Evidence is collected from semi‐structured interviews with environmental managers and management accountants from ten Spanish EMAS registered sites.FindingsThe embedding mechanisms of EMAS are considered. From the analysis, six valuable intangible assets for improving environmental performance were identified: awareness of employees; environmental knowledge, skills and expertise of employees; the commitment of managers; cross‐functional coordination; the integration of environmental issues in strategic planning process; and, the use of management accounting practices. These intangible assets were used to define three levels of environmental embeddedness: primary, visible, and advanced.Practical implicationsThis paper provides insights into the interface between environmental management systems and management accounting and the implications of this for organisational change and environmental performance.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to fieldwork research within the environmental accounting literature by engaging with organisations in addressing the question of how EMAS improves environmental performance. Furthermore, it demonstrates that involvement primarily of internal, but also external, participants enhances further development of EMAS.