bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sharing Yalumba
Authors: Stephen Camilleri Cecil 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe paper seeks to outline the theory and practice of an action research program, which is aimed at redesigning and implementing a communications strategy that will effectively deliver an authentic environmental message to the stakeholders of the Yalumba Wine Company.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses recent communications literature to contextualise Yalumba's needs. The proposed action research is essentially, though not exclusively, an environmental strategic analysis of the wine company's current environmental communications efforts.FindingsThe Yalumba Wine Company has been operating in the rural environment for over 150 years, making it the oldest family‐owned wine company in Australia. It is committed to excellence across all its activities, from the vineyard to the consumer's table. By addressing those activities that have a significant environmental impact Yalumba ensures its employees and other stakeholders a healthy and productive life in an environment that is safe, aesthetically pleasing and ecologically functional. At Yalumba environment‐friendly sustainable activities are recognised as an intrinsic aspect of wine quality, and in order to progress this belief it must develop an environmental message that reflects authenticity, due diligence, product safety and credible environmental management.Originality/valueYalumba's commitment to sustainable winemaking can be more effective, sustainable and significant if environmental communications are employed effectively to convey to the organisation's stakeholders the corporate philosophy that expresses its corporate culture. In adopting this approach, context is critical and communication competence must be perceived in terms of action‐and‐reflection.
Constructing corporate commitment amongst remote employees
Authors: Jacobs Glenda 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to propose a framework for examining and understanding corporate commitment amongst teleworking employees that deconstructs and expands upon approaches to date. It seeks to propose a perspective from which apparent tensions highlighted in existing studies can be understood and explored, and to suggest new relationships and combinations of conditions that impact on the communication practices and assumptions of both managers and employees.Design/methodology/approachThe approach to data collection and analysis is qualitative and interpretive, with primary data obtained by means of semi‐structured interviews subsequently analysed using both open and focussed coding. This method was selected because the dimensions and implications of communication practices in this particular context were largely unknown.FindingsThis study illustrates the significance of distinguishing between the needs that underpin employees' choosing to continue the relationship and their readiness to act in the organisation's interests. It also demonstrates that categorising the nature of the organisational relationship by identifying employees' mental relationship models may be, if not more useful than identifying types of commitment, at least additionally useful in understanding how organisational commitment in remote workforces is constructed and perpetuated.Originality/valueThis study and the framework it proposes for understanding commitment adds to existing research into remote workforce commitment in that it suggests new ways in which to conceptualise and examine what studies to date have identified as its constituent elements and antecedents. In particular, it facilitates debate and discussion regarding the ways the range of influences on behaviours identified as “committed” interrelate, as well as regarding the way employees' disposition may alter the perceived meaning of such behaviours.
Communicating to a diverse workforce
Authors: Holtzhausen Lida , Fourie Lynnette 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to determine whether language proficiency, race and education levels influence employees' perceptions of symbolic corporate identity elements of Lonmin Platinum, a mining company operating in the development context of South Africa.Design/methodology/approachThe nature of the endorsed symbolic corporate identity was determined by means of personal observations and semi‐structured interviews with managers. To determine employees' perceptions a quantitative questionnaire survey was conducted with a stratified quota sample of 508 company employees. Questionnaires were divided between the five business units of the company, each with its own corporate identity. Facilitators (speaking a variety of languages) were used to assist semi‐literate and illiterate employees. The data were analysed by means of basic descriptive statistics such as frequency tables and contingency tabulations.FindingsIt seemed that race and educational level did not influence employees' perceptions of symbolic corporate identity elements. However, employees proficient in English, faired better when required to identify logos and company structures. This implies that when communication has a more informational character, Lonmin Platinum should consider communicating in different languages, suited to different educational levels.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings of this research could not necessary be generalised or be applicable to the whole mining sector.Originality/valueThis research is the first of its kind within the complex mining and minerals context of South Africa and provides a framework from where future research can be conducted and explored, which would provide a knowledge base for the management and communication of an endorsed symbolic corporate identity to a third world context with diverse workforces.
The construct validity of Schein's career anchors orientation inventory
Authors: Danziger Nira , Rachman‐Moore Dalia , Valency Rony 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to test the construct validity of the measurement model of Schein's Career Orientation Inventory, where entrepreneurship and creativity constitute two separate constructs.Design/methodology/approachA fairly representative sample of 1,847 Israeli working adults completed Schein's Career Anchor Inventory (COI) questionnaire, which probes career anchor constructs through associated indicator items. The data were subjected to confirmatory factor analysis to compare the fit of the proposed nine‐construct model with that of Schein's eight‐construct model.FindingsThe findings demonstrate that: the proposed nine‐construct model of the COI, which distinguishes between Entrepreneurship and Creativity and designates each as a separate construct, yields a better fit than Schein's eight‐construct model; and the nine‐construct model has convergent and discriminant validity and unidimensionality.Originality/valueThe study's contributions are threefold: first, it generally supports Schein's Career Anchor Theory, yet with nine anchors rather than with the original eight; second, it confirms the distinction between entrepreneurship and creativity; and third, it highlights the need to rephrase several existing items, and add new ones. The suggested changes and the conceptual framework of the nine‐anchor model will make the COI a more valid and reliable instrument, both for theory‐building and for practical and diagnostic use by career counselors.
Making sense of careers through the lens of a path metaphor
Authors: Smith‐Ruig Theresa 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to understand how participants make sense of career through the lens of a path metaphor. Inkson's three types of career paths are used as a framework to determine whether the participants followed either a traditional and/or boundaryless career.Design/methodology/approachThe research is based on interviews with 59 men and women employed in the accounting profession in Australia. The participants were asked to describe their career development to date.FindingsDuring the interview the participants often used metaphoric language to describe their career development, especially “path”, “journey”, or “road” metaphors. Analysis of these career metaphors revealed that the participants experienced aspects of both a traditional and a boundaryless career. On the one hand, the professional structure of an accounting career required some participants to follow a more traditional career path, whilst, on the other hand, the increasing desire for a better work‐life balance and for stimulating work meant that other participants followed a boundaryless career.Research limitations/implicationsThe study has implications for organizations trying to recruit, retain, and develop accounting professionals. The dilemma for individuals appeared to be focused on whether to follow a traditional career path, or pursue their own individual goals and carve out their own unique or boundaryless career.Originality/valueThe benefit of using the journey or path metaphor is that it helps to explain and illustrate the various career options open to individuals. The journey metaphor was derived from the participants' own explanation of their career trajectories, and thus was not a metaphor imposed by the researcher.
Do the self‐employed value autonomy more than employees?
Authors: Prottas David 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine whether the relations between perceived job autonomy and attitudes are stronger among self‐employed than employees.Design/methodology/approachFour samples (totaln=25,974), consisting of self‐report data from working adults, were used. In each, participants were classified under three work arrangements: owners of businesses employing others, independent contractors, and employees. The perceived job autonomy for each work arrangement was determined, as were the strengths of the relationship with attitudinal variables (job satisfaction, life satisfaction, professional commitment, and stress). Correlational analysis and hierarchical regression were used to test whether the strengths of these relationships were stronger among the self‐employed.FindingsIn all four samples, both types of self‐employed reported more job autonomy than employees. In all samples and within all work arrangements, the relationships between job autonomy were statistically significant and positive with respect to desirable outcomes and negative with respect to stress. However, the strengths of these relationships were no greater among owners or independents than among employees.Practical implicationsFrom a career advising and planning perspective, the research indicates that self‐employment, either as an owner or independent, is an effective tactic for individuals to increase their job autonomy. However, there was no evidence that the self‐employed differ from employees with respect to the benefit they receive from the job autonomy they perceive.Originality/valueThis study adds to the literature on career choice and self‐employment by comparing the strengths of relationships between job autonomy within and across work arrangements.
Political choices: the role of political skill in occupational choice
Authors: Kaplan David M. 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to investigate how political skill relates to career decisions and occupational fit.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilizes undergraduate business majors to determine how their level of political skill influences their choice of career/major in a Holland‐type framework. Hypotheses are tested using logistic regression.FindingsThe paper finds that there is general support for the proposition that political skill influences the pursuit of social and enterprising majors/careers.Research limitations/implicationsWhile choice of major is a strong indicator of occupational choice, it is not a direct measure of individual careers. However, the results provide insight regarding how organizational politics relates to individual careers and suggests the need for further study.Practical implicationsThe paper provides a valuable additional factor for assessing career fit.Originality/valueThis paper is the first to critically examine organizational politics with reference to career choices rather than career outcomes and provides insight into how these affect satisfaction and success.
Solutions to the five key brownfield valuation problems
Authors: Weber Bruce R. , Adair Alastair , McGreal Stanley 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to solve five key brownfield valuation problems.Design/methodology/approachThis aim is achieved by using doctoral research on integrating the scientific process into the appraisal process. The first objective is demonstrating why four of the problems require solutions prior to solving the first problem, a valuation procedure for formerly used sites. A second objective is to use empirical data from appraisals to reveal why existing methodology is not reliable – because it does not solve the four problems.FindingsThe resulting findings are that a developmental model that incorporates the Triad approach to quantifying environmental uncertainty, initially used in the USA, simulates a process used by buyers to establish the price paid for brownfields with contaminated land.Practical implicationsThe practical implication that results from this research is that valuers need to emulate the buyer's process when valuing this property type. Prescriptive procedures for valuation requiring the use of scientific methods, as used in the Triad process, need to be set forth to quantify the atypical uncertainties in valuing this property type. The results of this research should be of significant interest to all stakeholders that are involved in brownfield redevelopment, so that they can insure that their needs will be met by improved feasibility analysis.Originality/valueThis research is unique in that it is the first empirical test of the reliability of the valuation of brownfields that need to undergo a time‐consuming and often expensive soil remediation process.
The liquidity of direct real estate in institutional investors' portfolios: The Netherlands
Authors: Hordijk Aart , Teuben Bert 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe liquidity of direct real estate has been surrounded by mystery. Research in the USA and in the UK has contributed much to clarify the liquidity issue of direct real estate. In The Netherlands, not much research exists on this issue; however, a major ALM advisory firm in The Netherlands suggests a liquidity factor of 1.5 times the standard deviation of the ROZ/IPD real estate index, leading to a 50 percent higher risk compared to the current ROZ/IPD real estate index risk. This paper aims to investigate this issue.Design/methodology/approachThe paper investigates whether this is a reasonable assumption by approaching the issue from several perspectives. First, the transaction process, the effects of heterogeneity and the size of the property are reviewed. The market risk between the date of the decision to sell the property and the date on which it was actually sold is also reviewed. The last element reviewed is the reallocation risk, in other words missed opportunities that have arisen because it could take longer to sell property than to sell stocks or bonds. Extensive anonymous information from the main institutional investors in The Netherlands is used, as well as interviews with the main brokers in The Netherlands. The survey is placed in an international context by comparing the results as well as the methods to previous surveys in the UK.FindingsAs a result suggestions are presented about risk premiums as a protection against the liquidity risks which turn out to be quite low, much lower than the 50 percent increase of the risk premium on top of the ROZ/IPD real estate index's standard deviation of the total return. The results are compared to risk premiums for stocks and bonds at times of high and average returns.Original/valueSo far not many surveys have been done on this subject using the bottom up approach. If there were, those have been looked at in the literature review. The unique ROZ/IPD databank allows us to come up with real quantitative results related to the different types of real estate liquidity risks. The paper has identified five of those. The survey is restricted to results in a growing market because of the time frame and it is strongly recommended to repeat it after a depressed market.
Dual rate is defunct?
Authors: Mackmin David 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review the historic evolution of dual rate valuation practice in the UK from the nineteenth century to the present time.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on a review of published books, articles and letters dating from 1852.FindingsThe study establishes the fact that single rate was the only method in use in the nineteenth century and notes the overlap of two methodologies and beliefs in the first half of the twentieth century. It confirms that by the late 1930s dual rate had replaced single rate and an “establishment opinion” on the essential need to value leaseholds dual rate on the basis of a set of commandments had emerged without any apparent disagreement. This position, with some debated refinements for the effect of tax and treatment of variable profit rents, is shown to continue through the twentieth century and is reaffirmed in standard textbook teaching at the start of the twenty‐first century. The review touches on the criticisms noted by academics in the latter part of twentieth century. It identifies as a key issue the continuing persistent misconception amongst UK valuers that there is a reinvestment assumption in the present value of £1 per annum.Originality/valueDual rate principles are shown in the paper to be untenable and the profession is advised to remove the method from future training of valuers and to cease to make any use of the method in the valuation of leasehold investments.
Quality improvements in hospital flow may lead to a reduction in mortality
Authors: Gilligan Stephen , Walters Melanie 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of ths paper is to report that timely interventions to facilitate medical patient flow and reduce medical outliers may be associated with a reduction in hospital mortality.Design/methodology/approachInterventions to improve the flow of medical patients were used to unblock and facilitate the discharge process allowing a reduction in medical outliers. SPC run charts of mortality were used to quality control the changes.FindingsTimeliness in daily senior medical review and discharge planning, a level 1 medical ward, and outreach including ALERT training and early warning scoring allowed a rationalisation in medical beds and a reduction in mortality for emergency medical admissions, reflected in a lower hospital standarised mortality rate (HSMR).Practical implicationsInterventions to improve flow can also lead to a reduction in mortality.Originality/valueThis paper emphasises how quantitative flow improvements can also generate qualitative improvements.
Experience based design: a practical method of working with patients to redesign services
Authors: Pickles John , Hide Elaine , Maher Lynne 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe a study which aims to provide an alternative approach to clinical governance. This involves patients in redesigning services based on their actual experiences of health services. This will be of interest to front line health care staff and public and patient involvement leads.Design/methodology/approachThe paper illustrates Experience Based Design (EBD) as a structured, formal methodology with clearly defined roles, actions and timescales. A case study approach is used to describe the implementation of this model in a District General Hospital.FindingsThis study demonstrates how three theoretical components of good design: functionality, engineering and aesthetics can be used as a framework to improve performance, safety and governance and in addition, actual experience of the service for patients and staff.Research limitations/implicationsThe case study approach used has provided a good range of learning and transferable information; however, the results are currently based on a single site.Practical implicationsThe use of the EBD approach will ensure that healthcare services truly reflect the needs of patients and carers based on their specific experience. It provides a mechanism whereby patients' views contribute fully to the change process leading to safer, more effective and reliable care. This approach will require the application of the non‐clinical competencies included in the Medical Leadership Competency Framework and specific health and wellbeing dimensions in the Knowledge and Skills Framework.Originality/valueThis paper offers a new model that can be incorporated into service redesign. The model enables greater understanding of clinical governance as described by patients through narrative of their actual experiences.
Children and young people: reviewing practice and policies
Authors: Cowan Jane 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to draw attention to important new guidance from the GMC (General Medical Council) on the care of children and young people and its implications for updating and reviewing existing policies and practice.Design/methodology/approachThe paper assesses the applicability of new GMC guidance, 0–18 Years: Guidance For All Doctors, with regard to several aspects of healthcare professionals' responsibilities to children and young people – communication, immunisation and safeguarding children. Its compatibility with existing key guidance from the Department of Health is also examined.FindingsThe GMC's new booklet enhances and updates previously existing guidance regarding the care and treatment of children and young people. This is an opportunity for healthcare professionals to review their own practice, update their knowledge and improve their procedures and protocols where applicable.Originality/valueThis paper offers a viewpoint that should encourage healthcare professionals to familiarise themselves with current guidance and examine their own performance and responsibilities towards children and young people.
“Thumbs‐up is a rude gesture in Australia”
Authors: Tipton Frank B. 
Published: February 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to consider the role of culture in international business studies, viewed from the perspective of textbooks in the field.Design/methodology/approachThis paper analyses the separate chapters on the role of culture in 19 survey texts in international business at three levels: factual assertions; social and historical interpretations; and application of general theories.FindingsAlthough all textbooks in international business emphasize the importance of culture, the survey reveals serious weaknesses at all three levels, including straightforward errors of fact, more subtle errors of interpretation, and serious problems with definitions and application of theories of cultural difference. The weaknesses are strikingly consistent, and the paper examines a range of possible common causes. Imbricated in the professional structures of the field, the authors appear to be under pressure from publishers, they share a US‐centred bias, and they appear professionally isolated.Originality/valueParallel to theories of nationalism and some postcolonial theorists, it can be argued that the implicit purpose of the texts is not to engage sympathetically with actual cultural differences, but rather to mould the next generation of American managers into a common pattern, by identifying an exotic cultural Other against which students will form their new identity. One of the consequences is that it does not matter greatly to the authors whether other cultures are presented accurately, or not. In practical terms, however, cultural differences are important and are recognized as such in international business studies, and so there is reason to hope that the texts will be improved.