bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Managing subcontractor supply chain for quality in construction
Authors: Karim Khalid , Marosszeky Marton , Davis Steven 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo provide a decision support tool for long‐term management of subcontractor supply chain for achieving better quality in construction.Design/methodology/approachDefects on three construction projects are investigated through direct observation, document analysis, and interviews. A method to analyse and present defects information as an aid to decision making in relation to subcontractor supply chain management is proposed, and its application is illustrated by using the information obtained from the study.FindingsThe importance of managing the subcontractor supply chain to reduce the incidence of defects is established. The nature and extent of the defects, along with what caused them, are discussed. Method for conversion of raw data into a decision support tool is presented.Research limitations/implicationsThe data collection method was limited in that it was not based on continuous full‐time observation. Such presence by independent observers for full duration of the project would provide more accurate information.Practical implicationsA useful tool for the construction industry in view of the fact that most of the construction work is now done by subcontractors and the head contractors primarily act as project managers.Originality/valueThe concept of using Pareto analysis/histogram for managing quality has been around for a considerable period of time. This paper converts it into a more efficient and useful decision support tool.
Task scenario effects on bank web site expectations
Authors: Waite Kathryn 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to explore whether consumer expectations of web site attributes differ according to information‐seeking or transaction tasks. Information seeking is a distinct online activity and is an important first stage of the Internet adoption process. However, there is little empirical research that compares online search and transaction behaviour.Design/methodology/approachThis pilot study focuses on retail bank web sites in order to select a service familiar to consumers for which a web site would serve as both an information source and a transaction channel. A self‐administered questionnaire collected data from a convenience sample of 160 UK adults in December 2005. The questionnaire measured normative and predictive expectations of systems and information quality.FindingsThe findings show differences between task contexts with regards to the requirement to supply personal details, the presence of a search engine and the inclusion of moving graphics. There are implications for studies informed by the SERVQUAL approach to measuring web site quality.Research limitations/implicationsThe acknowledged research limitations are the sampling method, sample size, sample composition and industry context, which contribute to the low generalisability of the results. However, the findings indicate that there are differences in task scenario worthy of investigation in broader studies.Originality/valueTask scenario differences mean that data collection instruments should specify to respondents for which task a multi‐functional web site is being measured. This will be of value to practitioners and researchers who are studying web site quality.
Anthropology and consumer research: qualitative insights into green consumer behavior
Authors: Tadajewski Mark , Wagner‐Tsukamoto Sigmund 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce a new qualitative method that is theoretically underpinned by cognitive anthropology. This research strategy is introduced to further advance the understanding of complex green consumer behavior – in this case life‐cycle analysis.Design/methodology/approachThis paper examines the contextual aspects of problem‐solving behavior of green, environmentally concerned consumers. Cognitive anthropology develops a different, yet complementary, understanding of consumer cognition to a psychological approach. Through the concepts of practical thinking and bricolage, cognition and behavior are conceptualized on a contextual basis. Such an approach encourages a reassessment of how consumer research has traditionally conceptualized problem framing, information search, information processing and related concepts. The paper draws upon in‐depth, qualitative interviews with a wide range of green consumers from both the UK and Germany.FindingsThe findings provide some interesting clues regarding the nature of information search and information processing. In the sample, the green consumers of the top clusters were able to see and retrieve life‐cycle information as it was offered by a shopping context and it was this context, as it is perceived by the bricoleur that ultimately limits information search and processing. Within the “objective” bounds of a choice context, skilful practical thinking and bricolage was shown in different degrees amongst the clusters, with considerable creativity shown in “seeing” life‐cycle information.Research limitations/implicationsGiven that the research outlined in this paper is mono‐paradigmatic, it is suggested that a future avenue for research in green consumer behavior would be the use of a multiple paradigm approach.Practical implicationsThe paper outlines a stepping approach to marketing communications directed towards the green, or potentially green consumer, suggesting that some form of community based social marketing program might be a useful educational tool given the findings presented.Originality/valueThe introduction of a new research strategy – cognitive anthropology to the study of green consumer behavior.
Identifying likeable attributes: a qualitative study of television advertisements in Asia
Authors: Fam Kim‐Shyan , Waller David S. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeNumerous studies investigate what contributes to advertising likeability; however, these are often based on quantitative research undertaken in western countries. This paper aims to report the findings of a cross‐cultural qualitative study undertaken across five Asian cities (Hong Kong, Shanghai, Jakarta, Bangkok and Mumbai) to discuss Asian consumers' attitudes towards television commercials in their respective country/city.Design/methodology/approachThe data was gathered from two focus group interviews (1 male and 1 female) conducted in each city. Each group comprised of eight people and the interview lasted between 40 and 60 minutes. In each focus group several of the most liked locally produced television commercials were presented to the participants and the discussion that followed centered around visual images that they most liked.FindingsThe results found differences in the likeable attributes between the five cities. These variations can be attributed to the differences in local culture, and to a lesser degree, other market‐related factors like attitudes towards advertising in general, cultural outlook and perspective, consumer confidence and hours of watching television per week.Originality/valueThis study uses informant driven data, rather than researcher driven, to identify cross‐cultural differences in the concept of advertising likeability. Further, it suggests that qualitative research can provide valuable results for international marketers and those who would like a better understanding of new markets, as long as they analyse the results keeping in mind the cultural context of the country, such as traditions, customs, values and religions.
A conceptual history of entrepreneurial thought
Authors: Murphy Patrick J. , Liao Jianwen , Welsch Harold P. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo interpret and explain evolution in entrepreneurial thought, using the application of history to unify the extant and wide‐ranging concepts underlying the field to detect a conceptual foundation.Design/methodology/approachA conceptual approach is taken, the paper undertaking a delineation of how past theory has brought about the field's current state and an identification of some conceptual areas for future advancement.FindingsThe importance and impact of the entrepreneurship field is increasing in academic and practical settings. A historical view on the conceptual development of entrepreneurial thought provides a lens for scholars as well as practitioners to interpret and explain their own entrepreneurial activity or research and formulate new questions.Originality/valueThe paper aids scholars and researchers to interpret and explain entrepreneurial activity.
Rules as received practice: historical perspective and implications for managers
Authors: Whiteley Alma 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo report on an exploratory study on unwritten rules carried out in Australia, place this study in the context of the historical development of thought on rules and discuss implications for management learning.Design/methodology/approachThis paper has three parts. The first part reviews the theoretical scholarly writings on rules as social structures from the early sociology of the nineteenth century to the organizational theory of the present day. Theories of structural functionalism and institutionalism are acknowledged as historical influences on rules and the assumptions likely to be made by managers about compliance and implementation. In the second part, the research is described in which staff members from five organizations were invited to technology‐supported focus groups. The data collection was supported by group support systems technology, which allowed anonymous inputs. Staff were asked, in various ways, about both official rules and unwritten rules. These included the use of scenarios, reported here. In the third part, the findings are discussed and three implications for management learning are suggested.FindingsThe research produced evidence that rules exist, are acted upon and require a view of the rule‐implementer as complex and holistic. The findings supported Giddens' theory of structuration which suggests that the individual rule taker draws on rules and also personal sensibility when involved in social encounters.Originality/valueThis paper provides contemporary data on rules as perceived practice which is presented within the context of the historical development of relevant management theory. Attention is drawn to three implications for management learning, which are: what rules mean, assumptions of managers, and deep listening as social responsibility. The future research agenda should be of value to those considering a practical contribution to this original field of institutional inquiry.
Raster milling tool‐path generation from STL files
Authors: Qu Xiuzhi , Stucker Brent 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThis paper presents an offset‐based tool path generation method for STL format three‐dimensional (3D) models. The created tool‐paths can be effectively used to near‐net‐shaped parts, in particular those created using rapid prototyping.Design/methodology/approachThe STL model is first offset by the distance of the selected cutter radius using a unique 3D offset method. The intersections between the top facing triangles of the offset model and tool‐path drive planes are calculated. The intersection line segments are sorted, trimmed and linked to generate continuous top envelope curves, which represent interference‐free tool paths.FindingsThe developed offset‐based algorithm can rapidly and successfully generate interference‐free tool paths as continuous lines, instead of a collection of discrete tool location points. The strategy of using adaptive step‐over distances based on local geometrical information can significantly increase machining efficiency.Research limitations/implicationsThe current tool path generation method only works for ball‐end mills. The entire surface of the STL model is treated as a single composite surface to be machined using raster milling. To improve machining efficiency, an automatic surface splitting algorithm could be developed to divide the model into several regions based on the characteristics of a group of triangular facets, and then machine these identified regions using different strategies and cutters.Originality/valueThe offset‐based tool‐path generation algorithm from STL models is a unique and novel development, which is useful in the rapid prototyping and computer‐aided machining areas.
Novel stereolithography system for small size objects
Authors: Xu Guangshen , Zhao Wanhua , Tang Yiping , Lu Bingheng 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo satisfy the demands for rapid prototyped small‐size objects with intricate microstructures, a high‐resolution stereolithography (SL) system is developed.Design/methodology/approachThis novel SL system consists of a single mode He‐Cd laser, an improved optical scanning system, a novel recoating system and a control system. The improved optical system consists of a beam expander, an acoustic‐optic modulator, a galvanometric scanner and an F‐θ lens; the recoating system consists of roller pump, resins vat with an integrated high‐resolution translation stage and part building platform and a scraper. Experimental studies were performed to investigate the influences of building parameters on the cured line width and depth.FindingsWith the SL system, a laser light spot with a diameter of 12.89 μm on the focal plane and resin layers with a thickness of 20 μm have been obtained. The experimental results indicate that cured depth and width increase with the ratio of laser power to scanning speed, and cured line with a width of 12 μm and a depth of 28 μm was built, which showed the capability building microstructures with this new SL system.Research limitations/implicationsThe building area limited to 65 × 65 mm, is smaller than that of current SL system.Practical implicationsSmall objects with intricate microstructures can be fabricated with the SL system.Originality/valueThe high‐resolution SL system provides a solution to the problem that has hampered the progress of SL process into a high resolution ranges below 75 μm.
Rapid prototyping: energy and environment in the spotlight
Authors: Mognol Pascal , Lepicart Denis , Perry Nicolas 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo discuss integration of the rapid prototyping environmental aspects with the primary focus on electrical energy consumption.Design/methodology/approachVarious manufacturing parameters have been tested on three rapid prototyping systems: Thermojet (3DS), FDM 3000 (Stratasys) and EOSINT M250 Xtended (EOS). The objective is to select sets of parameters for reduction of electrical energy consumption. For this, a part is manufactured in several orientations and positions in the chamber of these RP systems. For each test, the electrical power is noted. Finally, certain rules are proposed to minimize this electrical energy consumption during a job.FindingsIt is important to minimize the manufacturing time but there is no general rule for optimization of electrical energy consumption. Each RP system must be tested with energy consumption considerations under the spotlight.Research limitations/implicationsThe work is only based on rapid prototyping processes. The objective is to take into consideration the complete life‐cycle of a rapid prototyped part: manufacturing of raw material as far as reprocessing of waste.Practical implicationsReduction of electrical energy consumption to complete a job.Originality/valueCurrently, environmental aspects are not well studied in rapid prototyping.
The adoption of the internet by export firms in transitional markets
Authors: Nguyen Tho D. , Barrett Nigel J. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the factors that affect the intention to adopt the internet by export firms in transitional markets.Design/methodology/approachA sample of 144 export firms in Vietnam was surveyed to test the model. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data.FindingsIt was found that perceived usefulness, but not perceived ease of use, of the internet is a potential predictor of the intention to adopt the internet by firms for their export activities. It was also found that market orientation has both direct and indirect (mediated by perceived usefulness) impacts on intention to adopt the internet, and that learning orientation has a direct effect on both perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of the internet.Research limitations/implicationsA major limitation of this study is the use of a sample drawn from one transitional market. Cross‐national samples will be a direction for further research.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study suggest that export promotion programs should promote the usefulness of the internet as well as market and learning orientations to stimulate export firms to adopt the internet for their export activities.Orginality/valueThe major contribution of the study is to incorporate market and learning orientations in the technology adoption model to explain the intention to adopt the internet by export firms.
Publishing in socially oriented journals – the state of play in Asia
Authors: Polonsky Michael Jay , Mittelstaedt John D. 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine institutional publishing in six socially oriented marketing journals generally and then to explore the performance within Asian institutions and those within Australia and New Zealand, in detail.Design/methodology/approachAuthorships of Journal of Macromarketing, Journal of Public Policy and Marketing, Journal of Consumer Affairs, Journal of Non‐Profit and Public Sector Marketing, International Journal of Non‐Profit and Voluntary Sector Marketing, and Social Marketing Quarterly, from 1999‐2003, were tracked by institution and nationality of school. Results are reported for both number of authors and per cent of authorship.FindingsThere is a dominance of publishing by North American academics within the social area. Asian academics appear to be generally under‐represented, based on the region's size, although scholars in Australia and New Zealand perform relatively better than one might anticipate.Research limitations/implicationsA review of socially oriented publishing performance by institutions in Asia identifies that socially oriented research appears to be a focus in Australia and New Zealand across a range of institutions, but occurs less frequently in other Asian countries.Practical implicationsResults are useful for understanding the role of socially oriented research among scholars in Asia and the Pacific. While Australia and New Zealand have made marks in socially oriented research, it appears to be a potential growth area for marketing scholars in Asia and the Pacific.Originality/valueThis is the first paper to examine the role of geography in publishing among those interested in social issues in marketing.
Strategic intranets: the next big thing?
Authors: Denton Keith 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe the importance the intranet holds for the organization.Design/methodology/approachOutlines the uses of the intranet, including competitive benchmarking, real‐time feedback, group profiling, and strategy implementation using intranet supporting software.FindingsToday's intranet can become tomorrow's tool for reshaping organizations and helping add meaning and purpose to work.Originality/valueAdvocates the intranet as tool that helps us to make the right choices and behave in ways that are consistent with the purpose and objective of the organization.
The nature of corporate reputation and the measurement of reputation components
Authors: Şatır Çiğdem 
Published: June 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess whether corporate reputation can be analyzed or not with the present impressions related to “service quality that the customers have observed during the corporate's developing process”, “communication”, “experiences based on past actions”, “responsibility towards society and enviroment” and “trustworthy that is the total evaluation of all”.Design/methodology/approachThe analysis of corporate reputation, a field research, is a descriptive study. While forming the samples, judgement sampling method within non‐probability sampling is used and a questionnaire is applied to 300 patients having service in the 18 different polyclinics of a private hospital (ANDEVA) in Turkey.FindingsThe findings have confirmed the thesis that since the patients explain reputation with more than one sub dimension in their perceptions towards corporation, reputation cannot be explained by only one experience, contact or impression; and as stated in the literature, reputation consists of various components (sub dimensions). Also, there is a difference within the perceived components (sub dimensions) to explain reputation.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited with the measurement of corporate reputation basing the private health corporation AN‐DEVA's polyclinic patients.Originality/valueIt is important to deal with corporate reputation in a private health service sector. Because health sector where customer relations are very dense is the most problematic sector to provide customer satisfaction.
Numerical analysis of PBG via structures using FDTD algorithm
Authors: Tong Ming‐Sze , Chen Yinchao , Lu Yilong , Kim Hyeong‐Seok , Chang Tae‐Gyu , Sauleau Ronan 
Published: June 2006

PurposeTo study the photonic band‐gap (PBG) characteristics constructed by periodic conducting vias on various guided transmission‐line structures.Design/methodology/approachThe finite difference time domain (FDTD) method is adopted to analyze various PBG via structures. Conventionally, PBG characteristics on guided‐wave structures, such as microstrip lines or coplanar waveguides (CPW), are constructed through a series of perforations on the ground plane(s). PBG characteristics can, however, also be realized through periodic arrangements of conducting vias located on the respective ground planes.FindingsThrough studies of the scattering parameters, it has been found that all analyzed PBG via structures exhibit strong band‐gap characteristics in a particular frequency range. Different harmonic patterns are also observed when the dimensional sizes of the conducting vias vary with respect to the PBG period.Research limitations/implicationsResearch has been mainly limited to study solely the PBG via structures, guided‐wave transmission lines. More studies may be conducted in analyzing the overall performance when they are combined with other microwave components.Practical implicationsThe proposed PBG via structures can be applied to various microwave areas, ranging from signal suppressions in microelectronics and mobile communications, to electro‐magnetic interference studies in other practical electronic circuit structures.Originality/valueThe ideas of applying conducting vias on the guided‐wave transmission lines and the proposed via patterns to induce the PBG characteristics are the research's claim to originality one.