bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancing supply chain solutions with the application of chaos theory
Authors: Stapleton Drew , Hanna Joe B. , Ross Jonathan R. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to expand the base of supply chain knowledge by applying chaos theory principles to selected supply chain functions.Design/methodology/approachResearchers borrow chaos theory from the natural sciences, provide a basic explanation, and then examine how it may be applied to enhance supply chain management techniques.FindingsChaos theory principles are used to assist in the examination of forecasting, product design, and inventory management challenges currently facing supply chain practitioners.Research limitations/implicationsApplication of chaos theory to various supply chain issues and key functional areas may produce an increase in the level of understanding of supply chain ambiguity and how chaos theory may provide valuable insight into the effective management of supply chain networks.Practical implicationsWhen applied correctly, chaos theory shows potential to be a tool that can be instrumental in helping explain why unpredictability occurs within nonlinear systems. A better understanding of this phenomenon may help researchers to develop better, more accurate models to assist managers in making better supply chain management decisions, benefiting organizations and customers by simultaneously enhancing cost‐effectiveness and improving customer service levels.Originality/valueThe principles of chaos theory have been introduced as a method that shows early promise as a tool to enhance supply chain effectiveness. Specific applications must now be examined through empirical research.
Managing product introductions across the supply chain: findings from a development project
Authors: Holmström Jan , Korhonen Hille , Laiho Aki , Hartiala Helena 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to propose a planning process that takes into account that manufacturers of original equipment have products at different stages of the product‐life cycle, and utilizes sales and inventory information collected from distributors and retailers.Design/methodology/approachThe research paper describes the construction and testing of a planning process.FindingsTrials in a case company indicate that supply chain responsiveness can be improved in product launches using the proposed process. Supply chain efficiency in the maturity phase can also be improved.Research limitations/implicationsThe usefulness and effectiveness of the proposed process depend on the assumption that product mix changes can be modeled and point‐of‐sales and channel sell‐through data are available regularly and reliably.Practical implicationsModeling and monitoring the variant mix on the total market level can be used to improve supply chain responsiveness to mix changes in product launches. The introduction of this planning process reduces the need for planning in the sales units.Originality/valueThe paper shows how the quality of variant forecasting for an original equipment manufacturer can be improved with access to channel visibility in the market introduction phase.
A methodology for benchmarking replenishment‐induced bullwhip
Authors: Disney S.M. , Towill D.R. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe aim of this article is to provide a concise methodology for the design of a widely used class of decision supply systems (DSS) which will enable precise control of bullwhip variance and inventory variance induced within a supply chain echelon.Design/methodology/approachThe study exploits recent research that derived analytical formulae for calculating these performance metrics germane to the delivery process when the demand is randomly varying about a constant mean value. These formulae have been verified via extensive simulation‐based cross‐checks.FindingsThe design methodology focuses on the specification of bullwhip variance as an input. The output is to identify combinations of parameter settings to meet this target. Hence these parameters may be mapped to provide a visual display of competing designs with their associated inventory variance.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the analytical solutions apply only to the case where the pipeline error and inventory error correction terms are equal, this is not a severe limitation. Both theoretical studies of dynamic response and industrial experience support this feedback gain equally as enabling good practice.Practical implicationsDesign of this particular DSS to control bullwhip is now greatly simplified, and guaranteed via extensive verification tests. The formulae are equally sound as a means of establishing system robustness.Originality/valueThe methodology is unique in enabling transparency of both bullwhip variance and inventory variance computation. Not only are system design time saved and normal performance guaranteed, but considerable management insight is generated thereby.
Fashion stores between fun and usefulness
Authors: Scarpi Daniele 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyse the relation between hedonic/utilitarian shopping behaviour and a number of key variables, such as store loyalty, perceived value, purchase frequency, money spent, price consciousness, age and gender. The paper aims to provide useful managerial implications for managers of fashion specialty shops.Design/methodology/approachFactor analysis, analysis of variance and structural equation model, depending on the nature of the considered variables, their theoretical robustness, background and potential implications. Data collected by means of a questionnaire in a natural setting; sample size of 300 respondents.FindingsProvides information about the effects of hedonic and utilitarian behaviour, indicating which variable is affected and how, and suggesting that playfulness pays back, but is not predetermined by gender or age.Research limitations/implicationsFashion stores for apparel have been considered only: further research could consider also different retailing formats and product categories.Practical implicationsA useful source of information and advice for managers operating in fashion specialty shops. The paper suggests what retailers should focus on and why.Originality/valueThis paper conducts a detailed analysis of suggestions addressed in the relevant literature, providing empirical support and highlighting new findings and relations.
Identification of overseas vendor selection criteria used by Canadian apparel buyers
Authors: Thaver Ismat , Wilcock Anne 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to determine the criteria used by members of the textile and apparel chain to select overseas vendors. Of specific interest is the value (if any) of ISO 9000 registration, i.e. whether Canadian apparel buyers are influenced by such registration, and whether there are determinants of how buyers respond to registration when selecting vendors.Design/methodology/approachA list of 16 criteria used by textile and apparel buyers to select overseas vendors was generated based on the literature, in‐depth interviews, and content analysis of a major industry publication. The criteria were tested for importance by use of a survey of representatives of the textile‐apparel supply chain in Canada.FindingsCriteria relating to a vendor's flexibility and responsiveness were most important. Registration to a quality program such as ISO 9000 was not considered important nor did it seem to give an overseas vendor a business advantage over its domestic non‐registered counterpart. Two factors, category of apparel firm and the firm's use of quality programs, were potential determinants of favorable responses to registration.Originality/valueThis study furthers the understanding of importer behavior and overseas vendor selection criteria as well as the importance of ISO 9000 registration to buyers in the soft goods industries.
Variations in Canadian women's ready‐to‐wear standard sizes
Authors: Faust Marie‐Eve , Carrier Serge , Baptist Pierre 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo demonstrate that the current weaknesses in women's ready‐to‐wear size standardization charts originate not only in the obsolescence of the base data but also in the non‐adherence of order initiators to the suggested standard sizes.Design/methodology/approachTrouser manufacturers were selected in such a way as to cover the full price‐range spectrum. They provided their waist standard measurements and confirmed that they use the same measurements for all product lines. In‐store measurements were done. Garments were chosen at random from the selection offered in store and measured systematically. The specifications provided by the order initiators, the standard measurements prescribed, and the garment measures were all measured.FindingsResults clearly indicate that order initiators do not adhere to the standard sizes charts and garment manufacturers are incapable or unwilling to produce garments that meet the order initiators’ specifications.Research limitations/implicationsProduct selection and limited sample do not allow generalization yet clearly confirm this hypothesis.Practical implicationsQuestions the pertinence of investing heavily in the modernization of standard sizes charts if the industry and the governments are not ready to impose adherence by order initiators.Originality/valueFills an important void in the existing literature as, although a number of authors have stated that garment manufacturers do not respect the standard sizes proposed by different national organizations or governmental agencies, the authors could not identify one research demonstrating this fact.
The promise of demand chain management in fashion
Authors: Jacobs Dany 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss the actual state of demand chain management compared with its promises of a few years ago.Design/methodology/approachThe most important literature on demand chain management of recent years is confronted with recent findings on strategies of the main supply and demand‐oriented firms in the fashion industry and on consumer behaviour.FindingsFollowing Hoover et al. the demand chain is defined as “the chain of activities that communicates demand from markets to suppliers”. In this paper some interesting contributions to this debates are reviewed. Then, on the basis of remaining problems in the fashion industry in the realm of failing customer satisfaction, questions whether the promise of demand chain is not a consequence of shortcomings in the field of marketing – which apparently has moved too much into the direction of strategic positioning and information push instead of market research.Research limitations/implicationsEven when some of the most interesting approaches to demand chain management and key developments in the industry are confronted with one another, these selections cannot claim to be exhaustive.Practical implicationsThe conclusion, proposing to concentrate on efficient supply chain management, on the one hand, and better understanding consumers, on the other hand, helps fashion firms to focus their attention more clearly.Originality/valueNo such overview and confrontation, as presented in this article, existed until now. Also, the view that demand chain management in a way tries to fill the gaps left by market research sheds new light on these discussions.
Growth opportunities in luxury goods and real estate
Authors: Preiholt Håkan , Hägg Claes 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe paper aims to discuss some similarities between design activities related to luxury goods and real estate.Design/methodology/approachThe paper discusses some similarities between design activities related to luxury goods and real estate. The focus is on new market opportunities and on shareholder value similarities for those two industries.FindingsThe paper finds that there is a fundamental similarity between the luxury goods and real estate industries. The common characteristic is the role played by designers and architects. They function as personified options in the sense that they give their firms opportunities to launch new projects at appropriate points in time.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a theoretical discussion backed up by cases from two types of industry. A broader empirical research can broaden the picture of this out of the ordinary field of research.Practical implicationsThe paper is a very useful source of information and impartial advice for those who are interested in luxury goods, fashion design, architecture, financial marketing, investor relations, and real estate.Originality/valueThe paper fulfils and identifies two fields of research, the real estate and the luxury goods industry. In the real estate industry, architects create new opportunities when they work with old buildings or with vacant land. In the luxury goods industry designers have a similar role.
Trends in public relations and communication management research
Authors: Raupp Juliana , van Ruler Betteke 
Published: July 2006

PurposeWithout doubt, communication management is an expanding and diversifying discipline and the demand for a strategic functioning is rising. Accumulation of knowledge can be seen as a major prerequisite for the development of its practice. The purpose of this paper is to examine the state of the art of, and trends in, communication management research in Germany and The Netherlands.Design/methodology/approachFollowing on from a Europe‐wide Delphi research project, this study focused on two countries – Germany and The Netherlands. The study was limited to PhD theses on communication management and compares the characteristics of the doctoral research of the two countries.FindingsThe range of disciplines that study aspects of communication management is enormous and most dissertations start almost from scratch, assuming that there is no relevant research that the project can take as a starting point. This fragmentation of research hinders the development of communication management as a theoretically sound and empirically grounded academic discipline.Originality/valueBy comparing the development and current trends in Germany and The Netherlands, the paper provides a context for transnational reflection of the relationship between research on communication management and the professional development of communication management as an occupational field.
The ideal lobbyist
Authors: McGrath Conor 
Published: July 2006

PurposeLobbying and lobbyists have for some time been regarded with suspicion and even outright mistrust by journalists and the wider public. While to some extent, popular (mis)perceptions about lobbyists are understandable, they are also regrettable: lobbyists operate in every political system, and generally do so in an entirely proper fashion. This paper seeks to consider the personal characteristics which effective and successful lobbyists require.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on 60 interviews with lobbyists in Washington, London and Brussels; the approach used here is simply to allow lobbyists themselves to discuss at some length their views about the issues they feel are important in a practical sense.FindingsThe paper examines a range of personal qualities including skills such as listening, observation, and relationship‐building, as well as issues surrounding gender/sexuality, courtesy, honesty, integrity and credibility.Research limitations/implicationsWhile it is unrealistic to claim that 60 interviews constitute a fully representative sample of the entire lobbying industry worldwide, it is true that they offer a first‐cut overview of key factors. This area does not yet feature prominently in academic research, but will increasingly.Practical implicationsThis paper is a contribution to the discussion which the lobbying industry must engage in more explicitly as to the qualities required by lobbyists. In order to produce a reasonably definitive “person specification” for a lobbying position, the next step would be to involve those responsible for recruiting people to such posts, to establish which elements of the personal mix discussed (alongside other professional competencies) are of priority across a range of organisations and levels of seniority.Originality/valueThe paper helps to set an agenda for both academic and professional debate.
“PRP culture”
Authors: Hodges Caroline 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo advance the cultural approach to public relations research and practice through linking societal culture and occupational culture of public relations to the communication practices of practitioners, in the aim of understanding the contribution made by public relations to the development of contemporary cultures.Design/methodology/approachThe discussion identifies some of the limitations of recent thinking regarding the nature public relations within a global context, particularly as regards professionalisation. An alternative framework for international research is then proposed – one which advocates understanding public relations as an occupational group and emphasises the need to recognise the role of public relations practitioners as agents, or “intermediaries” in the development of culture.FindingsRather than focus on developing codes of practice, it is recommended that the public relations industry should establish its current functions and potential for meeting human needs within differing cultural contexts.Originality/valueThe paper advocates a fresh approach to the debate surrounding international professionalisation of public relations.
Embracing PR theory: an opportunity for practitioners?
Authors: Moncur Charles 
Published: July 2006

PurposeAs the public relations industry seeks professional status and a more meaningful role in the strategic management of organisations, survey evidence suggests reluctance among practitioners to embrace theoretical frameworks and to study other management disciplines. The purpose of this paper is to examine this issue.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is written from the perspective of a practitioner. Following a brief review of some current theoretical concepts, it is argued that practitioners can benefit substantially from theoretical frameworks.FindingsHaving noted an apparent reluctance on the part of fellow practitioners to embrace theoretical frameworks as learning tools, or to acquire wider management skills, it is suggested that such attitudes might inhibit the development of PR as a profession and as a strategic management discipline. This paper suggests that a change of mindset on these issues – allied to a closer working relationship with relevant academics – could both enhance PR's professional standing and its relevance to an organisational management and strategy. Overall the view is taken that PR theory can provide practitioners with a language and conceptual frameworks by means of which they can both appraise and evaluate there own activities, and present their disciplines to organisational leaders within the context of wider management strategies.Originality/valueThe paper highlights how embracing PR theory can provide an opportunity for practitioners.
Factors influencing job satisfaction among state conservation officers
Authors: Eliason Stephen L. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this research was to identify and describe factors associated with job satisfaction among conservation officers.Design/methodology/approachThe study took a qualitative approach to data collection that included a survey and 24 in‐depth interviews with Kentucky conservation officers. Data were examined with the intention of identifying common themes.FindingsFour categories associated with job satisfaction were identified: enjoyment of the outdoors, independence, job diversity/variety, and meeting people. The majority of conservation officers found their work very satisfying.Research limitations/implicationsThe results are not generalizable, given the qualitative nature of the research. To allow the generalizability of findings, future research should include quantitative measures that could specify how additional factors are related to job satisfaction among conservation officers, such as age, years of service, rank, and education. Future studies should also examine job satisfaction among female conservation officers.Practical implicationsA useful source of information for individuals who are considering a career in conservation law enforcement.Originality/valueThis paper extends understanding of job satisfaction among police, and should be of particular interest to state wildlife agencies as well as those interested in rural and specialized policing.
A risk management analysis of the claims, litigation, and losses of Michigan law enforcement agencies: 1985‐1999
Authors: Ross Darrell L. , Bodapati Madhava R. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to show that claims filed against law enforcement agencies alleging the violation of constitutional rights continue to plague police administrators, officers, agency trainers, and risk managers. This technical paper seeks to report on the analysis of 151 police and sheriff departments' claims, losses, and litigation in order to assess the trends, costs, and nature of these claims.Design/methodology/approachUsing official records of a risk management entity in Michigan, 15 years of incidents were analyzed in order to identify the trends in third‐party claims, liability, and losses of police and detention centers.FindingsThe general findings of 11,273 claims are provided as well as a detailed analysis of 2,929 claims, representing 25 common categories in police work and detention facilities. The findings illustrate the current trends in police liability and reveal important managerial concerns which can direct administrators in revising policy and procedures, in focusing training endeavors, and incorporating risk management strategies in order to reduce the risk of police liability.Originality/valueThe findings will be useful for police trainers in structuring their training efforts. Suggestions for future research which examine successful risk management practices and avert liability are also discussed.
Teaching style and the application of adult learning principles by police instructors
Authors: McCoy Mark R. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to describe the teaching style of the faculty of a Police Officer Standards and Training (POST) organization in a Midwestern state and the degree and method of application of adult learning principles by the POST faculty. The move of law enforcement to community‐oriented policing (COP) requires that police officers develop communication and problem‐solving skills. The application of adult learning principles in law enforcement education can help prepare officers for their role in COP.Design/methodology/approachIn this mixed method/descriptive study, 85 instructors completed the Principles of Adult Learning Scale (PALS) and 21 instructors participated in in‐depth interviews.FindingsMajor findings in the study related to POST instructors' strong preference for a teacher‐centered style of teaching as measured by PALS and a disconnect between what instructors do in the classroom and what they feel is effective instruction.Practical implicationsOffers suggestions related to the nature of the field and for instructor development. Recommendations were made related to professional development and the application of adult learning principles to law enforcement education and training.Originality/valueThis research fills a void in the field by beginning to give a formal description of teaching style in law enforcement education and training. It also details the value of applying adult learning theory in law enforcement instruction and the implications for community‐oriented policing.