bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identifying competitive customer value propositions in retailing
Authors: Rintamäki Timo , Kuusela Hannu , Mitronen Lasse 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a framework for identifying competitive customer value propositions in retailing.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on existing literature on customer value and competitive advantage in order to form an understanding of the key dimensions of customer value, developing a hierarchical model of value propositions and establishing a link between customer value and competitive advantage.FindingsThe work suggests a framework for identifying competitive customer value propositions (CVPs) where four hierarchical key dimensions of customer value – economic, functional, emotional, and symbolic – are first identified. In the second stage, a CVP is developed on the basis of these value dimensions. In the third stage, the CVP is evaluated for competitive advantage. It is proposed that economic and also functional CVPs are more likely to represent points of parity, whereas emotional and social CVPs represent points of difference for retail companies seeking differentiation from their competition and gaining of competitive advantage.Originality/valueIdentifying competitive CVPs, the paper combines a hierarchical perspective on customer value and the concept of competitive advantage in a manner that offers managers a strategic positioning tool that links the customer's value needs to company resources and capabilities.
Culture and service quality expectations
Authors: Kueh Karen , Ho Voon Boo 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe main purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of individual‐level cultural dimensions on Generation Y consumers' expectations of service quality.Design/methodology/approachService quality and individual‐level cultural values were measured using existing scales from the literature. Factor analysis was conducted to verify the factor structures of both constructs while structural equation modeling was employed to examine the measures for cultural values and service quality dimensions.FindingsFour out of the five hypotheses are supported and the last one is partially confirmed in terms of directional support. Service quality expectations are positively related to uncertainty avoidance and long‐term orientation but negatively related to power distance. Masculinity and collectivism did not have a significant relationship. Service quality was found to be a three‐factor construct consisting of tangibles, reliability and responsiveness/empathy/assurance. Cultural values were confirmed to consist of five dimensions according to Hofstede's typology. Generation Y consumers are found to be low in power distance and have high expectations of service quality.Research limitation/implicationsThe main limitations are that the study did not distinguish between different types of full‐service restaurants in its analysis and the sample consisted of undergraduate students only.Practical implicationsThe findings indicate the importance of measuring individual‐level cultural values which may be used as a segmentation variable to guide service delivery and resource allocation.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the scant research on service quality among Generation Y consumers in developing countries. It also assesses the five‐factor structure of the SERVQUAL scale in a new country setting, that is, Malaysia.
The role of intrinsic and extrinsic quality attributes on consumer behaviour for traditional food products
Authors: Espejel Joel , Fandos Carmina , Flavián Carlos 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze the perceived quality of two traditional food products with protected designation of origin (PDO). Specifically, we study the influence of perceived quality of intrinsic attributes (e.g. colour, flavour, smell, appearance) and extrinsic attributes (e.g. brand, denomination of origin, and image of traditional product) on consumer satisfaction, loyalty and purchasing intention.Design/methodology/approachData were obtained using a structured questionnaire to consumers of both food products. After the fieldwork, a screening process was performed to obtain 223 (olive oil) and 251 (air‐cured ham) valid questionnaires. Structural equations model was applied to relate the perceived extrinsic and intrinsic quality with satisfaction, loyalty and purchasing intention.FindingsIn relation to the influence of intrinsic and extrinsic quality attributes we have found. First, for the new PDO of olive oil, the results reveal the existence of a significant influence of intrinsic perceived quality on satisfaction and loyalty. Nevertheless, no evidence has been found to support the link of extrinsic attributes on satisfaction and loyalty. Second, for the consolidated PDO of air‐cured ham our results show that the influence of intrinsic perceived quality on satisfaction and loyalty are not significant. In contrast, the influence of extrinsic perceived quality is significant in this case.Practical implicationsThe results of this paper suggest the need to promote and increase the consumer knowledge of brands protected under the PDO and specially the PDO itself.Originality/valueThis paper analyzes the quality concept, adopting a double dimensional perspective (intrinsic and extrinsic attributes).
Human hazard analysis
Authors: Lawrence Philip , Gill Simon 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThis paper sets out to outline a human hazard analysis methodology as a tool for managing human error in aircraft maintenance, operations and production. The methodology developed has been used in a slightly modified form on Airbus aircraft programmes. This paper aims to outline a method for managing human error in the field of aircraft design, maintenance and operations. Undertaking the research was motivated by the fact that aviation incidents and accidents still show a high percentage of human‐factors events as key causal factors.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology adopted takes traditional aspects of the aircraft design system safety process, particularly fault tree analysis, and couples them with a structured tabular notation called a human error modes and effects analysis (HEMEA). HEMEA provides data, obtained from domain knowledge, in‐service experience and known error modes, about likely human‐factors events that could cause critical failure modes identified in the fault tree analysis. In essence the fault tree identifies the failure modes, while the HEMEA shows what kind of human‐factors events could trigger the relevant failure.FindingsThe authors found that the methodology works very effectively, but that it is very dependent on locating the relevant expert judgement and domain knowledge..Research limitations/implicationsThe authors found that the methodology works very effectively, but that it is very dependent on locating the relevant expert judgement and domain knowledge. Using the method as a prototype, looking at aspects of a large aircraft fuel system, was very time‐consuming and the industry partner was concerned about the resource implications of implementing this process. Regarding future work, the researchers would like to explore how a knowledge management exercise might capture some of the domain knowledge to reduce the requirement for discursive, seminar‐type sessions with domain experts.Practical implicationsIt was very clear that the sponsors and research partners in the aircraft industry were keen to use this method as part of the safety process. Airbus has used a modified form of the process on at least two programmes.Originality/valueThe authors are aware that the UK MOD uses fault tree analysis that includes human‐factors events. However, the researchers believe that the creation of the human error modes effects analysis is original. On the civil side of the aviation business this is the first time that human error issues have been included for systems other than the flightdeck. The research was clearly of major value to the UK Civil Aviation Authority and Airbus, who were the original sponsors.
Spatial recognition of a rock fall velocity model developed in C++ using Geographic Information Sciences (GIS)
Authors: Deka Ranjan , Pachauri A.K. , Bhushan Bharat 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to strive to develop a rock fall velocity model in C++ language and to give spatial attributes to the model using Geographic Information System (GIS) capabilities. Interaction between the parameters involved in the model is evaluated through GIS embedded techniques.Design/methodology/approachThe mathematical model developed in C++ is based on the physical law of gravitation pull, adjudging the potential fall between two points at different elevation. Further, parameters influencing the velocity gradient – namely local relief, coefficient of land use friction, slope amount and slope length – are incorporated in the model. GIS is used extensively to generate the data required for the model. GIS capabilities are also explored for visualisation and interpretation of the model output. Section profiles and a co‐relation coefficient further strengthen the velocity map.FindingsThe rock fall velocity map generated using GIS shows variations in the velocity gradient at selected sections. It is concluded from analysis that friction values play a pivotal role in drastically changing the velocity gradient.Research limitations/implicationsThe model presented is restricted to rock fall velocity evaluation for a rectangular matrix of input data and spatial extent, rather than for specific locations. Incorporating parameters to delineate source areas and runout zones would produce a more realistic scenario. Trials along this line are in progress and are expected to be executed successfully very shortly.Practical implicationsThe paper presents a versatile model with easily extractable parameters to compute rock fall velocity at a regional scale, conditioned for rugged terrain. The model has specific implications in infrastructure development and planning management for rocky terrain. Moreover, the model's output can be implemented effectively in preliminary investigations of the protection of forest development and erecting defensive measures in rock fall‐prone areas.Originality/valueNot many models are available for rock fall velocity estimation on a regional scale. The model developed through this research work provides a platform for a regional‐scale study using parameters that can be easily derived from DEM and a land use map. It is reiterated that the model output is helpful for land planners and managers engaged in mountain development. The model is an effective tool in the strategic development of hazard management plans in slide‐prone areas.
Intragroup conflict as a mediator between cultural diversity and work group outcomes
Authors: Vodosek Markus 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the extent to which intragroup conflict mediates the relationship between cultural diversity and group outcomes.Design/methodology/approachThree types of intragroup conflict were considered: relationship, process, and task conflict. Cultural diversity was defined as group members' dissimilarity in horizontal and vertical individualism and collectivism. Group outcomes were operationalized as satisfaction with the group and perceived performance of the group. Mediated regression analysis was used to test the hypothesized relationships with data from 76 science research groups.FindingsCultural diversity was positively related to relationship, process, and task conflict. In turn, the three conflict types were associated with unfavorable group outcomes. Further, the three types of conflict were shown to mediate the relationship between cultural diversity and group outcomes.Research limitations/implicationsPotential limitations of this study include its cross‐sectional design, common method bias, generalizability of findings, and use of three different questionnaire formats. The possible impact of these limitations is addressed.Practical implicationsAlthough this research implies that culturally homogeneous groups have better outcomes, it is often impossible and undesirable to assemble such groups. The targeted use of cross‐cultural training programs may help individuals function well in culturally diverse groups by lessening conflict and thus allowing more favorable group outcomes.Originality/valuePrevious research has either asserted a relationship between cultural diversity and unfavorable group outcomes or shown a relationship between intragroup conflict and unfavorable group outcomes. The contribution of this study is to show that intragroup conflict mediates the relationship between cultural diversity and group outcomes.
Contracts and conflict resolution strategies in foreign ventures: a transaction cost perspective
Authors: White George O. , Joplin Janice R.W. , Feras Salama M. 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a theory based on transaction cost economics to help explain how firms venturing into different foreign markets should properly formulate and implement contractual governance mechanisms to create greater efficiency, lower costs, and minimize conflict with partners.Design/methodology/approachDefines and discusses a conceptual framework of the determinants regarding contracts and strategies used to manage conflict in foreign ventures through the integration of foreign venture conflict resolution, contract, and transaction cost economics literature.FindingsSuggests that perceived transaction costs will predict which contractual governance mechanism and which conflict resolution strategy a partner firm will choose when resolving conflict in a foreign venture. Postulates that consistency of conflict resolution strategy with contract type will impact the performance of the foreign venture, and that cultural distance, relative power, and interest alignment will all play a moderating role in this process.Originality/valueThe model demonstrates the necessity of examining how coupling certain conflict resolution strategies and contract types will impact foreign venture performance.
Accounting for firms' training programs: an exploratory study
Authors: Antunes Brás Filomena , Lima Rodrigues Lúcia 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to analyse two competing approaches to accounting for a firm's investment in staff‐training activities: the accounting and labour economics approach (which argues that no asset should be recognized from training activity); and the human resources management approach (which advocates recognition of an asset).Design/methodology/approachA case study analysis was conducted in two large Portuguese companies where human capital is said to be a critical factor of firm success. The authors used document analysis and interviews to help understand the training phenomenon from a company's point of view. This meant knowing of motivations, training programme curricula, training practices and expected benefits of training.FindingsThe paper identifies and defines two situations concerning a firm's investment in human capital training: one, where no asset (value) is generated; and the other, where the accounting definition of an asset, requiring value generation, is satisfied.Research limitations/implicationsCase studies possess the strength of specific instance detail and interpretation, and the ostensible weakness of interpretation of a small sample. But such research can provide for a reframing of conceptual perspectives. They can stimulate additional efforts to improve accounting and financial reporting.Practical implicationsA guideline system for firm investment in training was developed. This system allows different accounting treatments of a firm's investment in training activity. It proceeds on the basis of perceptions of whether training activity undertaken by a firm generates, or does not generate, value.Originality/valueThis paper provides a much‐needed case‐based empirical analysis of accounting and human capital arguments, and asset recognition arguments. It clarifies the situations in which an asset should be regarded as being generated by training expenditure.
Economic and political inequality and the quality of public goods
Authors: Motiram Sripad , Nugent Jeffrey B. 
Published: November 2007

PurposeTo formalize and test the hypotheses that economic and political inequality tend to lower the quality of public education and thereby the overall quality of education in developing countries.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses both international cross‐section data and panel data from almost 100 countries to test these hypothesized effects of the two types of inequality on educational quality. Three different indicators of school quality, all at the primary level, are used. The paper tests the robustness of the findings to different estimation methods, specifications and the use of instruments for a potentially endogenous variable.FindingsThere is clear empirical support for the hypothesized negative effects of political inequality and ethnic fragmentation on educational quality. The evidence for the hypothesized effect of income inequality, however, is very weak at best.Research limitations/implicationsThe educational quality measures are crude and the analysis is at the country level. Future work can use more direct, achievement‐based measures of quality and data at the district or county levels.Practical implicationsRedistribution of income and democratization can have beneficial effects on educational quality.Originality/valueThe paper provides a theoretical model that formalizes the hypothesis that economic and political inequality can lower the quality of public education and thereby the overall quality of education. It empirically tests this model using panel and cross‐sectional data.
Supporting mobile worker networks: components for effective workplaces
Authors: Venezia Camille , Allee Verna 
Published: November 2007

PurposeTo better understand mobile work and the lives of mobile workers from the employee perspective and to identify aspects of mobile work that are working well or could be improved.Design/methodology/approachA survey of 557 respondents involved in mobile work, including managers and workers. Questions focused on how mobile workers identify roles and communicate socially/professionally; how they use space, technology, and collaborative tools; and how they feel about mobile working.FindingsIdentifies the workplace needs of mobile workers. Gaps in mobile workers' stated activities and work patterns are revealed in relation to current thinking about workspace utilisation. Considerable employee disenchantment suggests that office design is not supporting the new roles mobile workers are asked to fulfill.Research limitations/implicationsThis report summarises the findings of the first phase of a multi‐year research study which included 557 mobile worker respondents representing 84 world‐wide organisations.Practical implicationsDemonstrates the need to reconfigure physical infrastructure to support the rapid changes in business practices, such as mobile, flexible, and collaborative work. Results are useful to managers under pressure to make better use of existing resources, free up space, or grow without adding space.Originality/valueThe first multi‐year study of global mobile workers. Research has rarely examined the roles mobile workers play, the professional interactions they need to conduct, and differences in their output. Recent applications of network analysis in organisational settings have revealed that different roles can have very different needs for support of mobile work. Providing the necessary infrastructure by evaluating mobile worker roles creates new business opportunities and transforms the provision of space and services.
VAMP – laying the foundations
Authors: Creaser Claire , Conyers Angela , Lockyer Suzanne 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe the first phase of the SCONUL Value and Impact Programme (VAMP), carried out in 2006.Design/methodology/approachThis paper is a critical review of some of the major tools and methodologies available to measure the value and impact of, particularly academic, libraries, was supplemented by a survey of SCONUL members to ascertain the state of current practice in the UK.FindingsThe findings in the paper were synthesised by gap analysis, which found that, although there were some gaps in overall provision, a greater problem was a lack of knowledge and understanding of the tools available, and how they could be applied to demonstrate value and impact.Originality/valueThis paper is a brief description of follow‐up activity and the resulting SCONUL Performance Portal is given.
The DeLorean or the Mini?
Authors: Gorman G.E. 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe paper aims to examine the issue of the development of digital publishing and also the preservation of data.Design/methodology/approachThe paper looks at literature on this issue and examines the importance of storing digital data.FindingsThe paper finds that, as writers, publishers and readers become increasingly digital, there is a greater burden being placed on libraries and other repositories to deal effectively with digital artefacts. It also reveals that preservation of digital artefacts/media is a context‐specific activity.Originality/valueThe paper provides an insight into the dilemma of digital preservation facing libraries and other repositories.