bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Insurance sector dynamics: towards transformation into learning organization
Authors: Barkur Gopalakrishna , Varambally K.V.M. , Rodrigues Lewlyn L.R. 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to study the influence of five critical factors on service quality in the insurance sector. Having studied the influence of these critical factors, an attempt has been made to obtain a generic solution to enhance the quality of service by proposing a holistic framework of learning organization. As globalization and IT revolution have made the insurance sector highly knowledge‐intensive, customer expectations and perceptions have also grown exponentially. Hence, this research is timely and goal‐focused.Design/methodology/approachThe research is based on system dynamics methodology, which involves sequential phases including: problem identification, conceptualization, model formulation, simulation and validation, and policy analysis and implementation. Meta‐analysis of existing literature and rationalization are also a part of the framework development.FindingsThe results have indicated that the key parameters, e.g. past experience, personal needs, external communication, word of mouth, and active clients have significant influence on service quality of the insurance sector.Practical implicationsThe outcome of this study can be directly implemented in the insurance sector to enhance the quality of service, as it provides a means to convert the tacit knowledge in the organization into an explicit form. The knowledge managementsystem, as a component of the learning organization, acts as a central repository of organizational knowledge and enables the service providers to minimize the “service quality gap” as best practices, past experience, and solutions to problems of common occurrence will be available for common use.Originality/valueThis research is unique in the sense that it uses a system dynamics approach to service quality enhancement in the insurance sector. The research has immense value to the insurance sector, as its growth is a function of service quality.
Change in(ter)ventions to organizational learning: bravo to leaders as unifying agents
Authors: Yeo Roland K. 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to examine the relationship between change interventions and organizational learning. It seeks to identify the process through which team learning is developed, the factors that affect organizational learning and its influences on organizational effectiveness.Design/methodology/approachTwo groups of samples from a Singapore large manufacturing firm that had implemented change interventions for two years were selected. Qualitative data from 45 employees using the laddering, non‐directive interviewing technique, and 20 leaders using focus group discussions were gathered.FindingsChanges to organizational systems and structure have led to a state of not‐knowing which contributes to defensive dynamics. Learning begins with the unlearning of old habits by encouraging new thinking patterns through rigorous feedback loops. Expectations of leaders should also be redistributed to facilitate and integrate the various aspects of learning.Research limitations/implicationsChange interventions have led organizational learning to develop in reciprocal directions where the initial top‐down approach is subsequently supported and driven by a bottom‐up approach. The strategy is to engage employees in collaborative decision making embedded in constant dialogue and reflection.Practical implicationsOrganizational learning strategies, developed from the lessons learned, are based on organizational infrastructures with an emphasis on efficiency, effectiveness and transformation. One of the critical considerations is the institutionalization of learning as being integral to daily work practices.Originality/valueThe study extends the theoretical basis of the “fifth discipline” by incorporating the nominalist perspective such that organizations, as organisms, have the capacity to recreate themselves for the expansion of the shared vision.
Relative treatment of workers in Mexico vs China: implications for location decisions
Authors: Hess Susan , Prasad Sameer 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to help managers of multinational corporations (MNCs) in making location decisions by providing a relative comparison of the labor laws and their enforcement in Mexican and Chinese export processing zones (EPZ).Design/methodology/approachBy examining the relevant literature, the authors were able to identify differences and similarities among the two EPZs.FindingsChina is easier for MNCs to conduct business in because of the current lack of enforcement of the labor laws and the retention rate of workers is higher relative to Mexico. Also, wages in China are lower than in the Maquiladoras while at the same time the education level is higher in China than in Mexico.Research limitations/implicationsThis study was conducted across a broad range of industries at a certain point in time. Researcher might be interested in identifying differences on a sector‐by‐sector basis. In addition, it would be possible to conduct a longitudinal study for both countries to examine the trends in enforcement activities and effect on FDI investments.Practical implicationsThe research addresses the labor laws and treatment of worker in the Maquiladoras of Mexico and the special economic zones of China. By law, treating workers fairly and providing a safe environment is a priority in both countries. However, laws are often not enforced. A MNC that is interested in retaining employees and long‐term productivity has varied opportunities to provide incentives to ensure its success.Originality/valueThis research is the first study to compare the Mexican and Chinese EPZ in terms of labor laws and their enforcement.
The empirical study of CRM
Authors: Wu Wann‐Yih , Tsai Cheng‐Hung 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to address the research issue of how companies manage their consumers' identification to compete effectively in intensely competitive market places. Drawing on theories of social identity and organizational identification, this study proposes that favorable consumer purchase intentions often result from the consumer‐company identification (C‐C identification) which depends on several identity judgments like identity prestige and identity attractiveness.Design/methodology/approachA research model and 13 hypotheses are derived in this study. LISREL models are employed to identify the validity of the entire model and data are collected from ten direct selling companies.FindingsThe results of empirical analysis show that identity judgments positively affect C‐C identification and the degree of C‐C identification positively influences consumer purchase intentions. The moderating effects of identity trustworthiness and embeddedness have mild influences on the relationship between identification and purchase intentions.Practical implicationsThis study confirms that encouraging identification has not only been identified as a good employee retention strategy in organization management but also a good customer retention strategy in marketing management.Originality/valueThis study intends to go one step further to empirically test the viability of the C‐C identification model that is lack of empirical supported.
Determinants of audit fees: empirical evidence from an emerging economy
Authors: Naser Kamal , Nuseibeh Rana 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe study investigates the structure of audit fees in an emerging economy, Jordan.Design/methodology/approachThe following regression model will be tested: ADFEES = f (SIZE, AUST, COMP, INDS, PROF, RISK, YEND, TLAG). The model is tested by running a cross‐sectional linear ordinary least squares (OLS) regression of the audit fees on corporate size, the status of the audit firm, the degree of corporate complexity, profitability, risk, corporate accounting year end and the lag between the audit report and the end of the accounting year.FindingsThe results of the analysis revealed that corporate size, status of the audit firm, industry type, degree of corporate complexity and risk are the main determinants of audit fees. However, variables such as corporate profitability, corporate accounting year‐end (YEND) and time lag between YEND and the audit report date appeared to be insignificant determinants of audit fees.Research limitations/implicationsIn order to generalize the outcome of the study, the same study needs to be conducted over a long period of time (five years). Other variables such as the market share of the audit firm and the economic conditions of the country need to be included in the regression model in future research.Originality/valueThe outcome of the study can be used by audit firms to determine audit fees. Companies' management can also use the results of the study to predict the amount of audit fees that they will pay.
The initial US stock market effect on firms that announce corporate headquarters relocation
Authors: Cox Raymond A.K. , Schultz James D. 
Published: September 2007

PurposeTo examine the initial stockholder wealth impact of firms announcing corporate headquarters relocation.Design/methodology/approachThe LexisNexis Academic database were searched from December 1994 to April 2005 for US firms announcing headquarters relocation. The companies were then categorized according to the rationale (cost/consolidation, space, managerial interests, none given) for moving. Standard event study methodology, market‐model version of the capital asset pricing model, was employed to ascertain the impact of this event to stockholders.FindingsIn general, the stock‐market reaction is favorable for companies moving their head office. Moreover, stockholders react most positively to the managerial interest reason for such a shift. Nevertheless, the cost/consolidation reason and to some extent even when no reason is given shareholders viewed relocation announcements with an increase in stock returns. However, when space reasons are given for headquarters relocation, the stock returns are negative.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample is restricted to the USA and may not be reflective of other countries. Also, this study focuses on the initial stockholder wealth impact which may not be reflective of the long‐run effect of corporate headquarters relocation.Practical implicationsOrganizations considering moving their head office should evaluate their decision based on the perception of their shareholders and how they may react to such announcements. Changes in the market value of the equity, caused by headquarters relocation, will have a direct impact on the firm's ability to raise capital.Originality/valueThis paper updates empirical research in the field and provides contrary evidence of the rationale that generates a favorable stock‐market reaction.
Does diversity impact competitiveness? A cross country analysis
Authors: DiRienzo Cassandra E. , Das Jayoti , Burbridge John 
Published: September 2007

PurposeIn today's global economy, a country's level of competitiveness has emerged as an important policy tool for business leaders and the impact of many economic and institutional “hard” factors on competitiveness have been studied. The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact that diversity, a “soft” factor, has on a country's level of competitiveness.Design/methodology/approachUsing a sample of 102 countries, a multiple regression analysis is performed in which the relationship between a country's competitiveness, as proxied by the global competitiveness index, and diversity, as proxied by ethnic, linguistic, and religious diversity, are tested while controlling for other factors known to affect competitiveness. Further, a cluster analysis is performed in an effort to illuminate global patterns in competitiveness.FindingsThe results indicate that greater levels of ethnic diversity negatively and significantly affect a country's competitiveness, but greater levels of linguistic diversity positively and significantly affect competitiveness while religious diversity has no effect.Research limitations/implicationsThe reasons behind for the analysis results still need further research. For example, why do greater levels of linguistic diversity positively affect country competitiveness?Practical implicationsThe IMF, World Bank, and other investors of capital need to understand whether diversity will help or hinder aid and loan programs and corporations need to consider diversity when conducting global business and foreign investment.Originality/valueThis study is the first to examine the relationship between diversity and country‐level competitiveness and has value to global business managers and investors.
A study of economic growth and development in the economic and social commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) countries
Authors: Saab Gretta 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to attempt to highlight some issues in the development process of the economic and social commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) countries. The question that may arise here is whether these countries can translate the different policies of trade as well as their potential and comparative advantage and their internal policies, into something more robust and helpful to promote growth and development.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes the role of foreign direct investment, gross capital formation, manufacturing and agriculture value added, and assesses their impact on the economy in the ESCWA countries.FindingsIf foreign direct investment and capital formation are essential components to growth and development, their role cannot be fully persistent if not purposeful. Also the economic structure of these developing economies show some reluctance to growth and development, a fact that promotes clarifying the process of shifting from primary to industrial sectors in order to promote growth and development.Originality/valueUsing a regression analysis of the factors that can promote growth, the findings of this study highlight the importance of liberalization and openness to outside countries in order to have faster growth, improve the productivity and the (GDP)/per capita in the different sectors of the economies of the ESCWA region.
Networking for sales success in overseas government markets
Authors: Abeson Felix , Taku Michael A. 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between sales networks and effectiveness in overseas government markets with a focus on overseas home‐country officials, and local key government officials.Design/methodology/approachA random sample of American firms and their affiliates that have engaged or are engaged in project contracting with African governments was surveyed to collect data for the study using a mail survey.FindingsConnectedness to home‐country overseas actors is positively associated with network connections involving key government officials. This local network connection, in turn, has a positive effect on sales effectiveness.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited to bidding on projects and selling to government agencies in the African context. More research focusing on different industries and markets are needed to increase knowledge regarding the effect of network connections on international sales effectiveness.Practical implicationsThe practical implications of this study include the need for international sales managers to engage in networking involving their home‐country official overseas as well as local government officials. Therefore, exporting advocacy is important. Also, the education and training of international sales people should emphasize the concept of sales network.Originality/valueThe study extends understanding regarding the network approach to international sales in government markets.
Shopping in an age of terrorism
Authors: Predmore Carolyn E. , Rovenpor Janet , Manduley Alfred R. , Radin Tara 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to determine if consumers in two countries (Israel and the USA), which have experienced violence in the retail environment, would perceive risk in shopping on the internet and if so, to what extent. If there were perceptions of risk for shopping online, this paper wanted to report what differences there might be between Israeli and US consumers.Design/methodology/approachSurveys were distributed to 641 US consumers and to 50 Israeli consumers with a few modifications for differences in terms. The respondents ranged in age from 14 to 86. These surveys were distributed throughout the New York City tri‐state area and in Israel in a convenience sample using a snowball approach. The surveys were collected by the researchers and returned for analysis.FindingsWomen in the USA do consider buying online when concerned with physical safety, while Israeli women were very specific in their consideration of the type of site. For them, international sites like eBay were considered to be a safer alternative when the country was on a high‐security alert. Significantly more men are concerned about the possibilities of identity theft and financial fraud online than women while women think positively about buying online when concerned about physical.Research limitations/implicationsIn future research, it would be interesting to follow this focus of social norms for a preference for group social interaction and social norms for independent or individualization and the speed with which e‐commerce is infused within the culture versus using the internet to gather information or to communicate via e‐mail or blogs.Practical implicationsConsumers seem to want to reduce their overall perceived risk and evaluate what actions will lead to a lower total perceived risk. There are good reasons for a store to have both an online presence and a storefront. Stores with a physical presence that are known to the shoppers are more likely to be considered as safe for shopping online.Originality/valueThis is one of the first papers to contrast consumers from a country which has had years of experience with violence in the retail environment with the consumer experiences and perceptions in the USA.
The effect of personal characteristics on conflict management style
Authors: Shebeeb Al‐Ajmi Rashed 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the differences in choosing the conflict management style with regard to some personal characteristics.Design/methodology/approachUsing a questionnaire, survey data were collected from 420 full‐time employees working in five different government organizations.FindingsThe result indicates that there were significant differences found, in choosing the conflict management style, with regard to years of experience, managerial level, and gender, meanwhile these differences could not be found with regard to age. These results and its implications were discussed.Research limitations/implicationsThe research did not include employees in the private sector.Practical implicationsThe paper has implications for management and management development in Kuwait.Originality/valueThis paper presents original research into an unusual but serious problem facing the employees working in the Kuwaiti Government organizations. It investigates employee's choice of the conflict management style among employees working in the public sector and the personal characteristics that may affect it.
Corporate governance
Authors: Alkhafaji Abbass F. 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate recent corporate failures and their effect on financial statements, as well as the measures being taken to rebuild trust in corporate America.Design/methodology/approachLooks at how corporate governance in the USA is undergoing comprehensive reforms, particularly the significant Sarbanes‐Oxley Act.FindingsMeasures to rebuild trust in corporate America are being implemented.Originality/valueThe paper is of value by showing how the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act is by far is the most important legislative act governing business in the beginning of the twenty‐first century.
Do consumers perceive differences among national brands, international private labels and local private labels? The case of Taiwan
Authors: Ming‐Sung Cheng Julian , Shui‐Lien Chen Lily , Ying‐Chao Lin Julia , Shih‐Tse Wang Edward 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThis research attempts to investigate the differences of consumer perceptions on product quality, price, brand leadership and brand personality among national brands, international private labels and local private labels. It aims to use product categories as the moderator of the preceding perceptions.Design/methodology/approachData were collected outside the entrances of the main rail station of Taipei, Taiwan. A systematic sampling was adopted and 254 questionnaires were eventually collected.FindingsThe findings revealed that on the whole national brands were perceived as significantly superior to international private labels, while international private labels were perceived as being superior to local private labels in terms of all perceptions except price perception. The findings also revealed that product categories moderated price and brand personality perceptions across the three brand types, while product categories failed to moderate the effect of the three brands types on quality and brand leadership perceptions.Originality/valueThis research represents one of the few pioneer works that empirically investigate the aforementioned issues.
Message framing strategies for new and mature products
Authors: Arora Raj 
Published: September 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate the effectiveness of message framing and source credibility on attitudes, intentions and beliefs about attributes of teeth whitening products. Although each of these variables, message framing and credibility, has been explored individually, few attempts have been made to investigate them jointly. This study aims to base itself on a full factorial design that allows for testing of interaction effects. Similar investigations in marketing limit their inquiries primarily to attitudes and intentions as dependent variables. This study goes further in that it also aims to investigate the effect of framing and credibility on the salient attributes of products. Third, the market for whitening products is maturing, resulting in a target market that is gaining knowledge about these products. Thus, the paper seeks to use knowledge as a covariate in the above investigation to determine if the communication strategy should be changed as the product moves from introduction to maturity.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on a 2 × 2 factorial design with framing (positive‐negative) and credibility (high‐low). The setting for the study is a hypothetical brand name of teeth whitening products.FindingsThe results reveal that positive framing is more effective in changing attitudes and intentions. However, the effects of framing and credibility are significant in changing beliefs related to the product's attributes. Although the covariate knowledge is significant, the findings indicate that communication strategy need not change as the product moves from introduction to maturity.Research limitations/implicationsCaution is advised in extrapolating the results beyond the issues investigated in the study.Practical implicationsThe findings help marketers in formulating effective strategies.Originality/valueThe focus of most research studies in marketing is on changing attitudes and intentions. This research also includes the change in beliefs regarding the attributes of the product. Prior research on framing is tilted towards the use of negative framing. The findings of this study suggest using positive or gain‐framed messages.