bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Teams in organizations: a review on team effectiveness
Authors: Delgado Piña María Isabel , María Romero Martínez Ana , Gómez Martínez Luis 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review the research on organizational teams. The aim is delimiting the conceptual space of effectiveness and determining team‐level measurement issues.Design/methodology/approachA range of published works, which analyse the different variables of effectiveness for each type of team, is reviewed (the most used effectiveness criteria are shown in a table). According to the existence of different types of teams – work team, parallel team, project team and management team – the authors assess what variables and measures are more appropriate according to team type, analyse the problems in gathering data and measuring in this level of analysis and, finally, offer a proposal of measurement issues for future research.FindingsThe authors conclude that effectiveness is a multidimensional concept with three dimensions: performance, attitudinal outcomes, and behavioural outcomes. Regarding team‐level measurement issues, the authors also conclude that there is a need to use multiple data sources and multimethod analyses incorporating consensus and aggregation methods, as well as observation and key informants.Practical implicationsThe results of this work can support future research on teams. Although considerable headway has been made in the team effectiveness studies, there are things that still need to be done. The paper shows that a more complete measure of effectiveness must be developed, according to the three dimensions: performance, attitudinal outcomes, and behavioural outcomes.Originality/valueThe paper is a comprehensive review and provides a basis for researchers in the area of effective teams.
Achieving desirable group‐work outcomes through the group allocation process
Authors: Kelly Phil 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to consider how to form and compose work‐groups for teaching and learning in diverse classrooms comprising internationally mobile students.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses survey data from 150 MBA students from 25 countries.FindingsThe way members are allocated to a group impacts on both affective and performance outcomes.Originality/valueFor educators and trainers, these results emphasize the importance of group allocation and composition methods for affective and performance outcomes.
Longitudinal study of the results of continuous improvement in an industrial company
Authors: Marin‐Garcia Juan A. , Pardo del Val Manuela , Bonavía Martín Tomás 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to show a real experience of how a scheme of continuous improvement has been gradually transformed, from a very unsuccessful start, passing through different phases and finally delivering results for the firm.Design/methodology/approachThe authors analyse the evolution of the formal programs of continuous improvement of a firm in a traditional sector (food). The data for the research were gathered by means of participatory observation over the course of 18 months spent in the firm attending the meetings of the improvement teams.FindingsBoth programs (individual and group) have proved to be very profitable for the company. However, there is no magic formula for the correct operation of the system of continuous improvement. The existing system has to be continually improved, correcting faults and trying always to contribute something new to re‐launch the system regularly.Practical implicationsThis study has also permitted the authors to highlight the importance of continuous improvement in the firm from both the economic point of view and that of worker development.Originality/valueThe investigation aims to help to cover the lack of longitudinal case studies of continuous improvement.
Team performance and control process in sales organizations
Authors: Rajagopal  , Rajagopal Ananya 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the managerial perspectives of building, nurturing and evaluating sales teams in Mexico. This study discusses the impact of sales team design in reference to the underlying rationale of management control and team coordination as indicators of performance and sales unit effectiveness.Design/methodology/approachThe major focus of the study is to discuss the impact of sales team design and task coordination as predictors of effectiveness of sales unit performance. A sample of 258 respondents has been covered under the study, categorizing them in equal proportion into three broad areas,: type of sales team, type of product market, and type of sales operations. Four industrial streams in sales were covered while selecting the sample respondents: consumer goods, consumer durables, industrial products, and consumer services.FindingsThe study reveals the balance between team designing and team coordination in performing sales. Work environment is largely governed by team coordination effects for the salespeople. Sales team‐building process has a substantial effect on sales organization effectiveness both directly and indirectly through its relationship with salespeople's behavioral performance.Practical implicationsThe results of this study reveal that team performance largely depends on the effectiveness of team coordination, leadership and performance control through behavioral attributes. Sales managers may implement such controls effectively by establishing coordination, training, and feedback process rather than imposing command and control policy.Originality/valueThe thesis of the paper is developed around issues of the cross‐cultural variables and team management affecting workplace environment. The paper explores and maps the symbiosis between cognitive drivers of team members and team culture in performing the tasks.
Lessons from the Northern Rock affair
Authors: Keasey Kevin , Veronesi Gianluca 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThis paper seeks to analyse reasons behind the difficulties faced by Northern Rock (NR) and the UK financial system and proposes a return to a more traditional/prudent banking business model, based on a sound balance between sources and uses of funds.Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines the background to the credit crunch and presents a simple model of a bank and NR's business model. Conclusions and implications are drawn.FindingsIt is suggested that credit rating agencies should provide a better assessment of the risks involved in securitised instruments by focusing on clarity and transparency and hence allowing liquidity risk of loan originators to be comprehensively understood. Moreover, the efficacy of the existing regulatory framework requires the tripartite system of supervision (Treasury, Bank of England, and FSA) to assume a more alert role in order to avoid asset bubbles in the first place rather than intervening ex post.Originality/valueThe paper will give rise to a series of new research streams – all of which are much needed, given the fragile state of the financial systems.
The sub‐prime crisis, the credit squeeze and Northern Rock: the lessons to be learned
Authors: Hall Maximilian J.B. 
Published: March 2008

PurposeOn 14 September 2007, after failing to find a “White Knight” to take over its business, Northern Rock bank turned to the Bank of England (the Bank) for a liquidity lifeline. This was duly provided but failed to quell the financial panic, which manifested itself in the first fully‐blown nation‐wide deposit run on a UK bank for 140 years. The purpose of this paper is to analyse why these events unfolded and what can be done to prevent a repetition.Design/methodology/approachThis paper briefly explains the background to these extraordinary events before setting out, in some detail, the tensions and flaws in UK arrangements which allowed the Northern Rock spectacle to occur.FindingsNone of the interested parties – the Bank, the Financial Services Authority and the Treasury – emerges with their reputation intact, and the policy areas requiring immediate attention, at both the domestic and international level, are highlighted. Some reform recommendations are also provided for good measure, particularly in the area of formal deposit protection.Originality/valueThe analysis and recommendations contained in this paper are offered up as a contribution towards and stimulant of this wider debate which is urgently needed, given the continuing threats faced by the domestic and international financial system.
Diamond detail and gem fraud status
Authors: Boles J.D. 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an account of diamond detail and gem fraud status.Design/methodology/approachThe paper discusses diamonds and gem fraud in the context of global terrorism.FindingsIt was found that there is evidence of blatant fraud in diamonds around the globe.Originality/valueThe paper adds insight into the trade in diamonds in the context of global terrorism.
Regulation development and MiFID impact on collective investment in Spain
Authors: Torre Olmo Begoña , Sanfilippo Azofra Sergio , López Gutiérrez Carlos 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe objective of this paper is to review Spanish regulatory evolution in the collective investment area, which is very recent in its principal aspects.Design/methodology/approachThe paper assesses the way investment funds are impacted by the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) and the Spanish legislation.FindingsThe legal aspect of the Collective investment institutions (CII) in Spain has experienced a major renovation over the past four years. There were three basic principles: increased flexibility of the CIIs' regime, reinforced protection for investors, and improved administrative intervention regime. Although MiFID focuses its attention on financial markets and investment firms, it also implies an important change for collective investment institutions. New conditions arising after the introduction of this norm are imposing major challenges for financial entities, supervisory authorities and financial markets.Research limitations/implicationsThe unified regulatory system, even after the implementation of MiFID, remains fragmented, and the way in which it will apply to investment funds is not easy to disentangle.Practical implicationsAs a result of this process, it is hoped that levels of competitiveness will increase and transaction costs fall, which will ultimately result in improved conditions for investors and more efficient companies.Originality/valueThe paper establishes the implications of the MiFID and the UCITS Directives for the investment fund industry in Spain.
A practitioner's guide to mortgage regulation
Authors: Cummings Chris 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a practitioner's guide to mortgage regulation.Design/methodology/approachThe paper explores the mortgage code and the road to statutory regulation.FindingsIt was found that the future of mortgage regulation rests partly with those policy makers who decide that change is needed and partly with those who work in the industry. Good firms who strive to run better businesses and deliver improving service to their customers have little to fear from rising regulatory standards as they will always be at least one step ahead of the regulator. What is required is a weather‐eye on the changing market and economic conditions, a strong, unifying voice to campaign on behalf of the industry and a clear commitment to work for the good of the customer. That way, whilst some times will be good, and others will be less so, there will still be business to be done.Originality/valueThe paper offers practitioners a guide to mortgage regulation, advising on what firms need to do, key issues for mortgage intermediaries and the need to manage the sector's reputation.
European Court of Justice clarifies circumstances in which financial institutions may exchange credit information without breaching competition law
Authors: Houwen Fred 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe how The European Court of Justice's (ECJ) recent judgment in Asnef‐Equifax v. Ausbanc has clarified the circumstances in which financial institutions may exchange information regarding the solvency and creditworthiness of their clients without falling foul of competition law.Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines the background to the case, the judgment and provides a comment.FindingsThe judgment shows that in case of any doubt there is no substitute for a rigorous analysis of the affected market in light of the case law and general guidance from the Commission and national competition authorities, before engaging in any potentially controversial activity such as information exchange.Originality/valueThe paper provides insight into how financial institutions may exchange credit information without breaching competition law in the context of the ECJ judgment.
Company directors' disqualification proceedings following the failure of FSA‐regulated firm
Authors: Gray Joanna 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to report on the company directors' disqualification proceedings following the failure of FSA‐regulated firm.Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines the facts surrounding the decision and comments on the ruling.FindingsIt was found that this whole question of overlapping laws in highly complex and regulated business sectors is a real one and is set to become a growing problem for courts to manage and boards to predict.Originality/valueThe paper highlights the real, practical problems that can arise when different legal regimes criss‐cross the same factual domain.
Objection to terms of FSA decision notice heard by Financial Services and Markets Tribunal
Authors: Gray Joanna 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to outline the objections to terms of FSA decision notice heard by the Financial Services and Markets Tribunal.Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines the facts surrounding the decision and comments on the ruling.FindingsIt was found that this ruling shows the difficulty facing senior individuals who have worked in head of compliance and other senior management functions within firms which are subsequently subject to discipline and enforcement for breaches of FSA rules and principles in relation to corporate governance, systems and controls and other serious compliance failings.Originality/valueThis paper provides useful information for those working in a senior management role.
Response to activewear apparel advertisements by US baby boomers
Authors: Zurcher Wray Anja , Nelson Hodges Nancy 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the importance of cognitive‐ versus chronological‐age factors in activewear apparel advertisements targeting female baby boomers in the USA.Design/methodology/approachA total of 50 female participants aged 41‐65 were asked to view two print advertisements: one showing activewear apparel worn by a cognitive‐age model and the other by a chronological‐age model. Participants then responded to a four‐part questionnaire that included a measurement of cognitive age, physical activity, response to the advertisements, and purchase intent.FindingsThe responses indicated that the participants view themselves as younger than their chronological age and were more inclined to respond favorably toward the advertisement using the cognitive age model.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough this study focuses on only one consumer group – US baby boomers – it reveals their current attitudes toward advertisements of activewear apparel as well as their motivations for purchasing activewear apparel. More research on this age demographic and the impact of cognitive age vs. chronological age on their perceptions of advertising is needed.Originality/valueCurrently one of the largest age demographics in the USA, baby boomers are known for having higher amounts of disposable income as compared to other age cohorts and for their interest in physical fitness and leading active lifestyles. The results of this study point to the need to understand the age‐related perceptions of this consumer group in order to successfully market activewear apparel products directly to them.
Attitudes toward domestic and foreign luxury brand apparel
Authors: Phau Ian , Siew Leng Yip 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of the current research is to determine if status and non‐status seeking Australian teenagers differ in their attitudes toward buying domestic and foreign (i.e. Italy, Japan, China) luxury brand apparel.Design/methodology/approachA total of 365 teenagers participated in this study through a self‐completed questionnaire. Fishbein's Multi‐Attribute Attitude Model was used to measure and compare attitudes toward buying domestic and foreign made apparel. Repeated measure ANOVA and t‐tests were utilized to examine whether the groups differed with regards to their attitudes toward buying luxury brand apparel, using a comparison of apparels “Made in Australia” with those “Made in Italy”, “Made in Japan” and “Made in China”.FindingsThe research findings indicate that status‐seeking teenagers have overall, a more positive attitude toward foreign luxury brand apparel as compared to Australian luxury brands, with the exception of Chinese brands. On the other hand, non‐status seeking teenagers reported that they have more positive attitude towards Australian brands than foreign brands, and consider Australian luxury brands superior to all three foreign brands with regards to ease of care and comfort.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings is only limited to Australian teenagers and cannot be generalized to other nationalities or age cohorts.Practical implicationsThe study suggests that the Australian apparel industry should concentrate its marketing strategy on enhancing the attributes of “fashionable” and “brand name” of Australian apparel that both status and non‐status seeking teenagers prefer in foreign apparel.Originality/ valueThe paper fills a gap in the literature by validating the study in Australia and focusing on the attitudes of status (and non status) seeking teenagers.
Electronic integration in the apparel industry: the Charles Vögele case
Authors: Mossinkoff Marco R.H. , Stockert Andreas M. 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze a case where electronic date interchange implementation has been successful and to distill the main reasons for this success and understand how the actors involved dealt with the main inhibiting factors suggested by the information systems management literature.Design/methodology/approachThe aim of the paper being explorative and partially confirmatory, an “information rich” case was selected to generate new knowledge and review the extant literature on EDI adoption's antecedents and consequences.FindingsWhereas some suggestions from the literature were confirmed, others are to be reviewed. The main findings are the following: managerial commitment, technological readiness (both of the systems themselves as of employees) and unclear return on investment are the main inhibitors of EDI adoption. One inhibiting factor that, to the authors' knowledge, has not received enough attention in the literature is the fear of data disclosure. The main benefits are not a mere reduction in administrative costs by improved supply coordination and exceptions management. Finally, the personal relationship between participants is the most important for the success of an implementation.Practical implicationsThis case can be of value for vertically (relationally) integrated companies that aim to improve supply chain coordination through electronic integration in the apparel, but also in other, industries.Originality/valueTo the authors' knowledge there has not been any study yet analyzing EDI implementation in vertically integrated companies in the apparel industry so far. Also the authors feel that an in‐depth single case study considerably adds to the knowledge of the phenomenon in question because of the possibility of envisaging the relevance of contextual factors.
Characteristics of retailing internships contributing to students' reported satisfaction with career development
Authors: Paulins V. Ann 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore student perceptions of job characteristics of their internships – and to explore the relationship between these job characteristics and overall satisfaction with their retail merchandising internship experiences in terms of contribution toward career development.Design/methodology/approachThree internship site categories were identified: stores, corporate settings, and other types. Students completed surveys after their internship experiences.FindingsThere were significant differences observed between site types and overall satisfaction with internships. Desire to recommend to others, variety of tasks, repetition of duties, similarity of activities, pay, opportunities for networking with others, extent of dealing with other people, and extent of receiving information from supervisors were different among sites. Information and feedback from supervisors, variety of activities, closure with tasks, clear results of tasks, autonomy, and networking opportunities were related to internship satisfaction.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited to US companies and focuses on retail merchandising internships, so results may not be generalizable in other settings.Practical implicationsRetailers may use this information to enhance the structure and tasks associated with their internships. Students and professors may use this information as academic internships are sought.Originality/valueThis paper provides a comprehensive look at job characteristics as they related to satisfaction in an internship environment and offers insight to companies who offer internships as well as students who seek them.
Appreciation of apparel e‐tailing by Dutch fashion consumers
Authors: Spijkerman René P. 
Published: March 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an overview about the Dutch fashion retailers' use of internet sites and the Dutch consumers' appreciation of apparel e‐tailing.Design/methodology/approachA selection of apparel chain stores was made with the criterion of having more than ten shops to investigate fashion retailers' sites. The sites were rated by the results of Google's search engines on name. Six categories about the content of the site were taken to measure completeness and the developmental stage of these web sites.FindingsRetailer internet developments appear to be mainly complementary to their brick‐and‐mortar shop retail channel strategy. Of the interviewed consumers in The Netherlands 15 per cent had bought garments on the internet. Age and gender effects were not found. Inhibiting factors were security worries about payment, privacy and delivery, but the expected reasons such as fun, product information and fit, feel and look were less important.Research limitations/implicationsSince factors that inhibit buying on the internet are mainly connected to internet technology and insecurity, the prediction of 25 per cent of the consumers buying garments on the internet is only justified if internet use and buying becomes more generally accepted by larger consumer groups.Practical implicationsApparel internet sales by retailers is a significantly growing retail channel. To be successful, retailers should take five recommendations seriously.Originality/valueThis paper offers an overview of current apparel retail internet strategies and an analysis of consumer data about apparel buying. Results are interpreted to offer recommendations to apparel retailers in general.