bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancing performance through best HRM practices, organizational learning and knowledge management
Authors: Theriou Georgios N. , Chatzoglou Prodromos D. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the relationships between best human resource management (HRM) practices, knowledge management (KM), organization learning and organizational capabilities (OC) and their impact on organizational performance. The proposed framework intends to add to the understanding of the specific processes that mediate between best HRM practices and organizational performance.Design/methodology/approachA range of relevant literature is explored and a conceptual model is proposed and discussed.FindingsThis paper proposes an answer to “how” best HRM practices can influence performance. It is suggested that KM and organizational learning (OL) play their own unique role in creating OC, which lead to superior performance.Practical implicationsThe paper can help human resource managers to understand better the importance of OL and KM processes and the way best HRM practices, through the integration of these two processes, lead to superior and sustainable performance.Originality/valueThis paper attempts to shed some light on the processes through which HRM practices influence performance. The proposed conceptual framework is an original, complete model that will hopefully contribute towards the enrichment of the relevant literature. Moreover, it clarifies relevant terms and their relationship that seem to be surrounded by ambiguity.
A strategic approach to sustainable partnership development
Authors: Trim Peter R.J. , Lee Yang‐Im 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to make clear the role that marketing plays in the strategic decision‐making process; it highlights the influence that marketers have in the development of sustainable partnership arrangements; and outlines the link between organizational learning and strategy implementation.Design/methodology/approachA review of relevant literature and critical insights into various management theories are provided. A conceptual sustainable partnership development (SPD) model is outlined and placed in context.FindingsIn order to be successful, a partnership arrangement needs to be well resourced and effectively managed. Senior managers need to pay particular attention to the role that organizational learning plays and how strategic management knowledge is developed. They also need to understand the link between organizational learning and customer relationship management. The transformational leadership model can be embraced as it facilitates cultural change, promotes the collectivist decision‐making approach, and places product innovation within the context of a multi‐dimensional R&D strategy.Research limitations/implicationsAreas of management interest that need further attention include ways in which to assess an organization's level of vulnerability; the development and application of hybrid organizational models; and how marketing decisions influence R&D programmes. Industry specific corporate social responsibility models are of interest and can be researched also.Practical implicationsHybrid organizational cultures are evident in partnership arrangements and give rise to various types of communication problems. Senior managers need to be fully aware of how a partnership arrangement is to be managed in the long term in order that it can be viewed as sustainable. Attention also needs to be paid to the technical knowledge and skills required at each stage of development of a partnership arrangement.Originality/valueThe work integrates a diverse range of management knowledge and provides insights into what makes a partnership arrangement sustainable. The SPD model highlights the link between marketing and strategic management, and the body of marketing knowledge is interpreted from a management perspective.
Alternative perspectives on service quality and customer satisfaction: the role of BPM
Authors: Kumar V. , Smart P.A. , Maddern H. , Maull R.S. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to further investigate the linkages between business process management (BPM) and customer satisfaction. Also, to challenge the dominance of the customer contact perspectives on service processes and to propose a more systemic focus on the totality of service design.Design/methodology/approachThe research builds on the existing work of Maddern et al. through the use of structured equation modelling (SEM) tool. The multiple SEM models described here provide a more robust statistical approach for confirming/refuting the constructs found in the earlier research.FindingsThis paper presents the results of an empirical analysis, based on longitudinal data from a large UK bank on drivers of customer satisfaction. The results confirm that process management is a critical driver of technical service quality. This suggests that companies with reliability/dependability issues should not emphasise customer satisfaction programmes based on SERVQUAL intangibles until substantial improvements in process design have been achieved.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is limited to a single case study of a UK bank over a five year period. The generalisibility of these findings is therefore limited. Further work in other sectors and over longer periods would establish the reliability of the findings. The paper also highlights some limitations in the service operations literature, particularly the emphasis on customer presence within the service process.Originality/valueThe paper uses time series data to identify the importance of BPM in achieving higher levels of customer satisfaction. The authors provide a platform for further research based on the design of service delivery systems and their impact on customer satisfaction.
Examining the role of service climate in health care
Authors: Steinke Claudia 
Published: May 2008

PurposeUsing a modified version of the service profit chain, the purpose of this paper is to examine the mediating role of service climate (SC) by exploring predictors of SC (i.e. service training (ST), managerial practices (MP), physical design (PD), and job design ( JD), job satisfaction ( JS), and employee empowerment) on service quality (SQ), client satisfaction (CS) with service, and client empowerment (CE). The larger proposition being that certain structural variables, through their impact on SC have the potential to positively influence outcomes in health care.Design/methodology/approachRegistered nurses (N=180) from emergency departments across one province in Canada provided information about internal SQ (i.e. ST, MP, PD, and JD), JS, feelings of empowerment, and SC. Furthermore, these nurses provided information on external SQ, CS with service, and CE by responding to questions from the vantage point of the client. The data were analyzed using statistical package for the social sciences; structural equation modelling (SEM) was implemented using LISREL.FindingsSEM analyses showed that JS and empowerment only partially mediated the relationship between MP, PD, and JD and SC. In addition, SQ, CS with service, and CE were fully mediated by SC.Research limitations/implicationsA limitation of this study is that the researcher used only employee (nurses) data rather than employee and client data simultaneously in the research model. Future research should be done on the service profit chain theory to incorporate both viewpoints. In addition, research could be carried out in other service occupations and organizations to test the invariance of the research model.Practical implicationsThe results should lead health care managers to consider the importance of emphasizing internal SQ features that facilitate SC in health care.Originality/valueThis contribution of this research is apply the service profit chain framework in exploring the role of SC in health care. In addition, emphasize the importance of the PD of emergency department to creating a climate for service in health care.
The supply base reduction process: an empirical investigation
Authors: Ogden Jeffrey A. , Carter Phillip L. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThis research seeks to better understand the supply base reduction approaches and processes utilized by organizations.Design/methodology/approachIn‐depth case studies were conducted with ten organizations that recently reduced their supply bases. These organizations represented a variety of industries, type of product or service being purchased, and number of suppliers reduced from the supply base.FindingsThree different types of supply base reduction approaches are identified (systematic elimination, standardization, and tiering), examples of each are provided, and guidance is provided about situations in which each would be useful. A basic supply base reduction process is developed and outlined based on the similarities observed among these three different approaches.Practical implicationsA better understanding of these supply base reduction approaches and processes can help organizations successfully implement such efforts by learning from the experiences of other organizations.Originality/valueMany of the case study respondents commented on the lack of literature pertaining to supply base reduction approaches and processes. Consequently, many of the case study organizations had to perform extensive benchmarking or hire outside consultants to learn more about supply base reduction approaches and processes prior to implementing them within their various organizations. This paper is the first step in filling the void in the literature concerning supply base reduction approaches and processes.
Port‐centric logistics
Authors: Mangan John , Lalwani Chandra , Fynes Brian 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine traditional, current and emerging roles played by ports in the context of logistics and supply chain management practice and strategy. The paper also seeks to elaborate the emerging concept of port‐centric logistics.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws its insights and conclusions from a review of the literature, and an analysis of current trends and data concerning the ports and maritime transport sector.FindingsThe paper shows that ports can play a variety of different roles within supply chains and that they are not restricted to their traditional role of simple transhipment point for freight.Research limitations/implicationsWhile the paper reviews the roles played by ports in logistics and supply chain management generally, a useful next step would be to analyse specific flows and activities at/through ports within selected supply chains, thus allowing validation of a framework of roles for ports in the context of various supply chain strategies.Practical implicationsThe paper highlights the potential, which in many cases is still latent, for ports to engage in port‐centric logistics activities.Originality/valueThe paper both highlights (given the fact that the vast majority of freight at some point transits ports) and extends the understanding of the role(s) of ports within supply chains.
Modularity in developing business services by platform approach
Authors: Pekkarinen Saara , Ulkuniemi Pauliina 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThis study aims to explore the literature related to modularity in developing and manufacturing physical products in order to employ the idea of modularity into the business services context.Design/methodology/approachIn order to answer the defined research question, the authors construct an empirically grounded model for modular service platform. The research design follows an abductive logic beginning with the construction of a theoretical pre‐understanding and elaborating upon it empirically. Streams of literature that are applied are service marketing and operations and product development and modularity research including product architecture design. In the empirical part of the study, the authors elaborate on these issues through a qualitative single case study.FindingsThe results show that the developed modular service platform including four modularity dimensions: service, process, organisational and customer interface dimensions can be used to create value in business services.Originality/valueWith a reviewing literature of modularisation of manufacturing products and processes, an empirically grounded model of this paper shows how the business service providers can use modularisation in platform approach to identify, develop and deliver new services cost efficiently and more flexibly.
The mistreated teacher: a national study
Authors: Blase Jo , Blase Joseph , Du Fengning 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThis study seeks to identify 172 American elementary, middle, and high school teachers' perceptions of the major sources and intensity of the experience of mistreatment by a principal, the effects of such mistreatment, how these perceptions varied by demographic variables, teachers' coping skills, and teachers' perceptions of contributing factors.Design/methodology/approachParticipants completed a piloted, validated online questionnaire.FindingsThe participants reported experiencing a wide range of abusive principal behaviors that resulted in serious or extensive harmful psychological/emotional, physical/physiological, and work‐related effects to themselves, their work, and their families. An overwhelming majority (77 percent) indicated they would leave their job for another because of the harm caused by the principal's mistreatment. Mistreated teachers typically did not enact problem‐focused coping strategies. Differences were found among teachers of various demographic categories for several variables.Originality/valueThe findings of this current, quantitative study expand the authors' earlier qualitative research on the topic of teacher mistreatment; these are the only studies on this topic completed in the USA. Practical implications and suggestions for future research are included.
School context and individual characteristics: what influences principal practice?
Authors: Goldring Ellen , Huff Jason , May Henry , Camburn Eric 
Published: May 2008

PurposeAs they operate in complex schools principals must allocate their attention to numerous responsibilities. This paper seeks to ask three questions: how do principals allocate their attention across major realms of responsibility; to what extent do principals in different contexts emphasize different realms of responsibility; and to what extent do individual attributes affect how principals allocate their attention across realms?Design/methodology/approachA cluster analysis is applied to data from a daily log of principal practices to identify principals who allocate their attention across major realms of responsibility in similar ways. With the three groups identified in the cluster analysis a discriminant analysis is then used to examine the individual attributes of the principals and the contexts within which these groups work to identify those individual characteristics and contextual conditions that best predict each principal's cluster membership.FindingsThe data from the log indicate that principals are not as fragmented across numerous realms of responsibility as previous research suggests. Some principals do spend considerable time on instructional leadership. The cluster analysis revealed three groups: “Eclectic” Leaders (their activities are distributed more evenly across different activities); Instructional Leaders (they focused most on Instructional Leadership); and Student Leaders (they emphasized student affairs). In the paper's discriminant analyses no individual attributes distinguished amongst the three types of principals; only contextual conditions predicted membership.Research limitations/implicationsThe results point to the influence that context plays on school principals' practice; principals appear to prioritize and focus their actions under more challenging contextual conditions. The next step in the analysis is to determine how the leadership clusters and principal practices relate to important school outcomes.Originality/valueThe paper provides useful information on influences on school principals' practice.
Strategy in educational leadership: in search of unity
Authors: Eacott Scott 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine knowledge of strategy within the field of educational administration. It is intended to be the basis for future empirical research and inquiry into strategy in education by suggesting alternate ways of defining and researching strategy.Design/methodology/approachThe study examines the contemporary context of educational administration, the evolution of strategy as an educational construct, its definition and need within educational administration. Using this information the author identifies key conceptual and methodological issues in current research.FindingsThe paper finds that knowledge of strategy in education is incomplete and muddled because research and writing in the field have approached strategy from a narrow and conceptually flawed position.Research limitations/implicationsThe advancement of knowledge in the area will only advance with alternate conceptualisations and methodological approaches.Originality/valueRather than merely review literature, this paper proposes a redefinition of strategy as an educational administration construct, focusing on key features not words and actions. The hope is that fellow scholars and practitioners will continue to question and focus on the key features of strategy and the issues that confront them.
The power of femininity
Authors: Abu‐Rabia Quader Sarab , Oplatka Izhar 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe current paper aims to tell the stories of six female supervisors who have successfully managed to access this high‐level position in the Bedouin educational system, putting forward some implications for understanding and exploring the lives and career of women in patriarchal, minority groups.Design/methodology/approachSix female Muslim supervisors, who work in the Bedouin pre‐school system in Israel, participated in semi‐structured interviews conducted by the authors.FindingsThe stories illustrated a connection between “power” and “femininity” in leading positions in a patriarchal, tribal society different from the one constructed in the western literature on leadership. Thus, in spite of the inferiority of femininity in the traditional Bedouin society, the female supervisors perceived their femininity to be an advantage and powerful in, among other things, minimizing tribal‐professional conflict characterized by a contradiction between traditional and rational codes, and in taking on a social role in the empowerment of Bedouin women in all spheres of life.Practical implicationsThe paper puts forward some implications for the recruitment and employment of women leaders living and working in patriarchal social groups within a multicultural society.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors' knowledge, this is a first attempt to document the lives and careers of female leaders in Bedouin society which is embedded with entrenched norms in respect to gender and the “place” of women in the society. The paper, then, provides insights into alternative interpretations of female leadership, power and career.
RFID and buyer‐seller relationships in the retail supply chain
Authors: Boeck Harold , Fosso Wamba Samuel 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to understand why a collaborative innovation, such as radio‐frequency identification (RFID) technology, engenders seemingly opposite buyer‐seller relationship reactions among members of a supply chain.Design/methodology/approachThe researchers carried out a three year exploratory multiple case study using the grounded theory approach through participant‐observation and collaborative action research. The research project culminated in a fully functional RFID proof of concept solution which involved multiple layers of a retail supply chain. The researchers chose the retail industry for the study because it provided the ideal conditions to answer the research question.FindingsThe results highlight the role of supplier‐buyer relationships as both crucial antecedents that shape RFID infrastructure and the consequence of RFID implementation. Specifically, the impact on and of eight key dimensions was considered, namely communication and information sharing, cooperation, trust, commitment, relationship value, power imbalance and interdependence, adaptation, and conflict. The paper also positions open‐loop RFID projects as supply chain inter‐organizational systems and presents a model to analyze such initiatives.Research limitations/implicationsThe choice of methodology has provided the insight necessary to answer the research question. Other researchers are encouraged to validate these findings through replication with other case studies or through quantitative data to reach analytical and statistical generalizability. The authors also encourage future research on this topic in other industries.Originality/valueAs more supply chains move forward with collaborative RFID initiatives, it is important that these companies be aware of the strategic role of supplier‐buyer relationships as both crucial antecedents that shape RFID infrastructure and a consequence of RFID implementation.
The influence of general trust and specific trust on buying behaviour
Authors: Kenning Peter 
Published: May 2008

PurposeIn the last perhaps ten years the interest of marketing research in the subject of trust increased dramatically. Although well known in several scientific disciplines, in marketing research trust is often conceptualized without the concept of general trust. Therefore, one main aim of this paper is to broaden marketing research understanding of trust by showing how general trust (which has the character of a personal trait) and, in comparison, specific trust (which is associated with a specific retailer) affects buying behaviour.Design/methodology/approachAfter a review of trust‐literature the paper identifies two subcategories of trust, which might be relevant for buying behaviour: general trust and specific trust. It then aims to test their influence on retail food buying behaviour empirically. To do so, it uses for the first time in marketing research the ITS‐Rotter‐scale for measuring general trust.FindingsThe results, including data from about 331 subjects in the German food‐retailing market, indicate that general as well as specific trust positively affects buying behaviour. In contrast to expectations, it was found general and specific trust to be unrelated. Moreover, it was found that, the influence of specific trust on buying behaviour increases when customers scored lower on the ITS‐Rotter‐scale indicating lower levels of general trust.Originality/valueThis paper is the first in marketing literature which integrates the concept of general trust and uses the ITS‐Rotter‐scale for measuring general trust in a marketing related context. Accordingly, it provides for the first time evidence on the positive influence of general trust on buying behaviour. It shows that general trust is able to substitute lacking specific trust.