bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Understanding the context for best practice facilities management from the client's perspective
Authors: Atkin Brian , Björk Bo‐Christer 
Published: October 2007

PurposeThe paper has the purpose of demonstrating that (business) process modelling can be used to portray facilities management as a hierarchical set of activities which combine to satisfy the business needs of the client organisation. The paper aims to show, through a top‐down approach, how service provision must be set in a wide context if its role in fulfilling those needs is to be successful. The question of whether or not to outsource services is given particular prominence. A secondary purpose is to show how best practice and attempts to improve current practice can benefit from the modelling approach.Design/methodology/approachBusiness process (IDEF0) modelling is used to portray the facilities management process from the perspective of the client organisation.FindingsService provision must be set in a wide context if decisions and their outcomes are to be consistent with the delivery of best value and customer satisfaction. The model of the facilities management process presented in the paper shows, for instance, where and how the decision to outsource or retain services in‐house fits into the total picture. The transparency afforded by the model and the procedures that can be derived from it will enable clients to reach a competent decision and not one based on incomplete consideration. Furthermore, clients are able pursue a policy of continual improvement and with that practices that can be regarded as “best” in their context. As a template of current best practice, the model is also the context for evaluating the worth of new insights and novel practices.Research limitations/implicationsThe model is limited to a top‐down approach to the facilities management process; as such, it does not consider very detailed issues.Originality/valueThere exists no authoritative model of the facilities management process from the client's perspective. The issue of context has not received adequate treatment in the literature.
Simulation application for resource allocation in facility management processes in hospitals
Authors: Sharma Vishal , Abel Jochen , Al‐Hussein Mohamed , Lennerts Kunibert , Pfründer Uwe 
Published: October 2007

PurposeThe increasing percentage of aging population (longer life expectancy) and the changing financial policies in the healthcare systems put governments under pressure to optimize its healthcare expenditures without compromising quality. One way to cut down the costs is through improving and optimizing the facility management processes. This paper aims to focus on the issues surrounding this.Design/methodology/approachTo demonstrate the application of the research, service management (SM) process which deals with the building services related requests from the customer, one of the facility management (FM) processes, is taken as the focus of this paper. The study applies the lean principles to the SM process to identify the value added and non‐value added activities in the process. Process logistics flow is modified to comply with the lean theory. The collected data from six participating hospitals in Germany for the two months of the year 2002 are also used as inputs for the simulation model.FindingsSimulation is used to quantify the impact of the lean principles proposed changes on the system performance. The simulation analysis has proved to be an effective tool in the selection of optimum resources for the SM process in hospitals. The implementation of lean and simulation will assist the facility manager in the selection of the optimum crew size in various sub processes, thus eliminating the trial and error approach.Research limitations/implicationsTo develop a generic model for all categories of hospitals, substantial data are needed for the simulation model. In this paper, the SM process results from one category of hospitals are presented.Practical implicationsThe methodology can be extended to the other FM processes in different hospitals, with proper modification.Originality/valueThe simulated process model was useful to analyze “what if” scenarios for the decision‐making regarding optimum resource allocation.
Using the semantic web for project information management
Authors: Ruikar D. , Anumba C.J. , Duke A. , Carrillo P.M. , Bouchlaghem N.M. 
Published: October 2007

PurposeThis paper has the purpose of exploring the use of the semantic web to support project information management. It aims to discuss the development of a semantic web based framework for shared definitions of terms, resources and relationships within a construction project. These can be used to help and support intelligent collaboration.Design/methodology/approachThe paper explores the scope of using the semantic web to manage information management processes in the construction industry. It develops the hypothesis that information can be managed using appropriate tools and techniques and develops a roadmap that shows the way in which a solution can be achieved.FindingsThe discussion provides information on the technology that can be used to manage construction project information and the development of ontology is provided in detail.Originality/valueThe paper makes an original contribution of exploring an area (information management tools and techniques) that is at the forefront of discussion in academe and industry in the UK.
Valuation of AW: modeling the impacts of distractions
Authors: Roper Kathy O. , Juneja Parminder 
Published: October 2007

PurposeAuditory and visual distractions originating in the workspace have been shown to negatively impact the performance of knowledge workers on complex tasks. The paper aims to theorize that an adaptable workspace (AW) can mitigate the negative impacts on performance.Design/methodology/approachA conceptual multi‐attribute utility model is presented to facilitate decision‐maker's choice between a static and an adaptable workspace. A mathematical model is presented to evaluate the net present value (NPV) of deploying AW in a knowledge organization. The significance of valuation model is an integration of costs of distractions into the NPV calculations. Negative impacts of distractions are modeled as performance costs. The model also captures the costs of deploying AW so that a comparative benefit of adopting AW over a static workspace is recognized.FindingsThe significant positive results for NPV justifies investments in AW over a standard open workspace with the exception for distraction‐free work environments. These calculations can be performed to compare a number of alternatives so that an informed decision is made for the type of a workspace to be designed.Research limitation/implicationsAuditory and visual distractions originating from workspace surroundings are only part of the complete list of distractions in a workplace, but are considered for this model because these are cited as significant problems in knowledge organizations. The model variables are identified based on the existing literature; further development is proposed for future research.Originality/valueResearch to quantify the value of elimination of distractions can have practical and valuable applications for facility decision makers, architects, engineers, and knowledge organizations.
Client influence in residential property valuations: an empirical study
Authors: Amidu Abdul‐Rasheed , Tajudeen Aluko Bioye 
Published: October 2007

PurposeIn recent years, studies have established that valuation estimates are likely to be biased estimates of market values due to client influence. These studies, which have made a significant contribution to real estate literature, were based mainly on UK, USA and New Zealand experience. The purpose of this paper is to examine the prevalence of client influence and the impact on valuation in Nigeria.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire survey was administered to estate surveyors and valuers to gauge their professional opinion with regard to client influence, sources of such influence and types of threats used by clients. A behavioural experiment, incorporating two non‐valuation factors, was also included for the respondents to role‐play the decision of an estate surveyor and valuer subject to an ethical dilemma.FindingsThe survey revealed that nearly 80 per cent of estate surveyors and valuers claimed some knowledge of client influence, mostly from a private individual. The results of the logistic regression model also indicated that the decisions of estate surveyors and valuers as to whether to alter valuation outcome upon clients' request are not affected by either of the two non‐valuation factors (client size and value adjustment).Research limitations/implicationsIt is recognised that the findings from the behavioural experiments (role play) utilised in the survey, may or may not be a true reflection of the real world responses of estate surveyors and valuers.Originality/valueThe paper contributes significantly to the empirical literature on behavioural real estate research. In particular, the findings from the study could serve as a framework for improving Estate Surveyors and Valuers Guidance Notes of 1985 to ensure transparency in the valuation process.
RAT online: martial arts learning resources
Authors: Yates Steven 
Published: October 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to document the development and evaluation of a multimedia resource for the principles, techniques and syllabus content for Rough and Tumble (RAT) – a South African martial art.Design/methodology/approachThe researcher uses the Eclectic‐Mixed Methods‐Pragmatic Paradigm (EMMPP) as the theoretical framework. Development research provides the basis for varied research methods and instruments, which tie into the practical and complex nature of the EMMPP. The researcher uses both a quantitative and qualitative approach, but the study is mostly qualitative in nature, due to the small numbers of participants. Data and findings are triangulated with a wide variety of methods, instruments and participants. Methods include expert reviews, observation, records, and learner feedback.FindingsExperts, learners and users report favourably on the usefulness, usability, functionality, appeal, and effectiveness of the RAT CD‐ROM as a learning and reference resource. Observation (cognitive walkthrough) reveals that inexperienced users experienced problems with navigation.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is limited by its small numbers of participants, making it difficult to conduct useful quantitative analysis. As the project matures the researcher is creating a version of the RAT CD‐ROM on the WWW, which requires further evaluation.Practical implicationsThis research is useful in the domain of online learning, as it shows that support for kinaesthetic kinds of learning can occur in computer mediated environments.Originality/valueThis study is not the only work being done on martial arts learning on the WWW, but it is unique in that the researcher has created complex learning environments that allow learners to create, contribute, and demonstrate new knowledge, skills and attitudes. The RAT CD‐ROM has value for learners and teachers of RAT, as they have useful, effective learning and reference resources. Other martial artists may benefit from the RAT CD‐ROM, as several other martial arts systems have been included on the RAT CD‐ROM.
Malware: the new legal risk
Authors: Etsebeth Verine 
Published: October 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to show that companies world‐wide are being placed under increasing pressure by an onslaught of cyber risks and malware is one of the most common sources of security failures at present. The position in South Africa is no exception and malware presents a very real danger to corporate South Africa's information assets, resources and systems, as it has the capacity to undermine firewalls, hijack Virtual Private Networks (VPN's) and defeat digital signatures. The threats associated with malware have several salient legal issues embedded in it and these are elaborated in the paper. Unfortunately, corporate South Africa is still largely ignorant of the range of tools available to the “Darkside” and the potential legal consequences which may ensue if this cyber risk materialises. The article helps in the understanding of the problem.Design/methodology/approachThis paper examines malware, and more specifically legal liability for malware from a South African perspective. The account contained in this contribution deals with the question whether or not a company who falls victim to a malware attack or unwillingly facilitates such an attack, may be held legally liable. This is done by giving a brief overview of the nature of the cyber risk malware, before moving on to observe the consequences which may ensue if a malware attack occurs. Corporations who fall victim to malware attacks or unwittingly facilitates such an attack may suffer: direct damage; indirect damage; and physiological damage.FindingsIt will be pointed out that malware attacks may result in legal liability in civil law for the “victim” company because of its failure to take reasonable steps to secure the information assets, resources and systems of the company.Research limitations/implicationsIt will furthermore be observed that companies who unwillingly facilitate malware attacks, where for instance the company's own employee uses company resources to launch a virus attack, may be faced with legal liability in the form of vicarious liability.Practical implicationsSuggestions are made on how to avoid legal liability for failed information security.Originality/valueNo such a study has yet been undertaken in South Africa as most view the law and technology as strange and perhaps dangerous bedfellows. The study will also be of use, value and interest to the library and information community outside South Africa since it raises an issue of real significance.
Web access for IT staff: a developing world perspective on web abuse
Authors: Seymour L. , Nadasen K. 
Published: October 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to address increasing levels of web misuse, high internet costs and decisions regarding restricting web access, this research set out to identify factors that contribute to positive web use or reduce web misuse in the work environment.Design/methodology/approachThe theory of planned behaviour has been used in previous research to investigate factors that contribute to web abuse in the workplace. These factors, potential demographic factors that could impact web abuse as well as factors that make the advantages of the web possible were surveyed amongst information technology (IT) professionals in the Western Cape IT sector in 2004. The 94 responses were then analysed quantitatively.FindingsResults showed that higher levels of web access increased perceptions of information literacy and information access. None of the subjective norm or attitudinal antecedents showed significant support for reducing web abuse. Interestingly, close managerial supervision displayed significance by increasing web abuse. Demographic factors of firm size, number of years internet use, age and profession showed significance in predicting web abuse.Research limitations/implicationsAttitudinal factors such as playfulness, self‐efficacy and internet addiction were not included in this study and could be useful in future research. Many factors followed the expected trends but failed to show significance, a larger and more diverse sample size could have improved the results.Originality/valueThe research findings are of interest to practitioners trying to manage web abuse and are also relevant in the context of high cost internet access and low bandwidth prevalent in many developing countries.
A study on the model to link the Korean University Library OPAC with search portals
Authors: Cho Jane 
Published: October 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to show that the dependency on search portals as a gateway for internet navigation is increasing. This phenomenon is also occurring in the academic information resource market of Korea. As a result, it is necessary to positively review linking library services with search portals. In particular, a plan to link the services of university libraries (which are recognized as private facilities of universities) is needed, utilizing them actively as public facilities connected with the local community. In this context, this study discusses a model to link the Korean University Library OPAC with search portals.Design/methodology/approachAnalyzes the present status of cases in foreign countries – already vigorously active – and raise several points. In consideration of analysis, sets basic directions about linking library OPAC to search portals. Proposes a detailed model to link search portals with University Library Union Catalogs and manifestation of Deeplink to local University Library OPAC in consideration of technical situation of Korean Library OPACs.FindingsA major problem from established cases is that portal search engines cover all areas so retrieval results are generally vast. Users cannot easily find a path accessing library resources through search portals without special equipment.Originality/valueThis paper proposes models to link library catalogs through special sub domains or book services of portal sites using University Library Union Catalogs as a gateway. It also proposes three alternatives of Deeplink implementation to local OPACs.
Elucidating user behavior of mobile learning
Authors: Huang Jen‐Hung , Lin Yu‐Ru , Chuang Shu‐Ting 
Published: October 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to propose and verify that the technology acceptance model (TAM) can be employed to explain and predict the acceptance of mobile learning (M‐learning); an activity in which users access learning material with their mobile devices. The study identifies two factors that account for individual differences, i.e. perceived enjoyment (PE) and perceived mobility value (PMV), to enhance the explanatory power of the model.Design/methodology/approachAn online survey was conducted to collect data. A total of 313 undergraduate and graduate students in two Taiwan universities answered the questionnaire. Most of the constructs in the model were measured using existing scales, while some measurement items were created specifically for this research. Structural equation modeling was employed to examine the fit of the data with the model by using the LISREL software.FindingsThe results of the data analysis shows that the data fit the extended TAM model well. Consumers hold positive attitudes for M‐learning, viewing M‐learning as an efficient tool. Specifically, the results show that individual differences have a great impact on user acceptance and that the perceived enjoyment and perceived mobility can predict user intentions of using M‐learning.Originality/valueThere is scant research available in the literature on user acceptance of M‐learning from a customer's perspective. The present research shows that TAM can predict user acceptance of this new technology. Perceived enjoyment and perceived mobility value are antecedents of user acceptance. The model enhances our understanding of consumer motivation of using M‐learning. This understanding can aid our efforts when promoting M‐learning.
E‐book reading groups: interacting with e‐books in public libraries
Authors: Landoni Monica , Hanlon Gillian 
Published: October 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe an experiment in introducing fiction e‐books in two reading groups run by a public library.Design/methodology/approachA user study involving two reading groups run over a period of three months. Electronic versions of titles of interest to each group were given out to each participant on Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Readers were then asked to fill in a satisfaction questionnaire and discuss their experience with the rest of their group.FindingsReaders were not too negative about using a new tool/gadget like the PDA but they did not see any advantage in reading an electronic version of the selected book.Research limitations/implicationsIt was realised quite earlier on that the target readers were emotionally so attached to physical books to feel as if they were betraying them when reading them electronically. A different sample of users more inclined to use technology and more open to different publishing models would have possibly provided a better insight.Originality/valueThe group reading approach introduced a social side to the adoption of e‐books and it was hoped that that would have made a difference. It was also one of the first attempts to look into the use of fiction e‐books in public libraries as opposed to an already existing number of studies looking into e‐books and their use in education and academic libraries. As such it can benefit both publishers and librarians.
Spirituality, stewardship, and financial decision‐making
Authors: McCuddy Michael K. , Pirie Wendy L. 
Published: October 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a theory of intertemporal stewardship that incorporates stewardship, based on a foundation of spirituality, into financial decision‐making models.Design/methodology/approachArgues that stewardship, which shares some common ground with sustainable development, must become an integral component of financial decision‐making. Using agency theory as a point of departure, discusses the Anglo‐American and Continental European‐Japanese models of financial decision‐making, and how they can be reformulated to embrace stewardship and the spiritual foundation upon which stewardship is based. The key to linking spirituality and stewardship is our concept of self‐fullness – the simultaneous pursuit of reasonable self‐interest and reasonable concern for the common good of all human beings. The reformulated model of financial decision‐making is labeled intertemporal stewardship theory.FindingsThe merger of spirituality, stewardship, and financial decision‐making is crucial for the survival and prosperity of businesses and the people they serve. The failure of businesses in the new economy can be traced to the loss of values regarding spirituality and stewardship.Research limitations/implicationsEmpirical research must be conducted to test the validity of the proposed intertemporal stewardship theory.Practical implicationsIt is essential that managers base their decisions on internalized spiritual and stewardship values that they do not “park at the door” when they arrive at work. Managers should never lose sight of these values, and their decisions should always be grounded in these values. Without such grounding, it is very possible that once again managers will be caught in a cycle of “irrational exuberance”. Therefore, it is critical that these values become not only an integral part of financial decision‐making but also an integral part of education for financial decision‐making.Originality/valueThe financial bottom line is that financial decision‐making can no longer be devoid of spiritual and stewardship considerations if an organization is to survive and prosper over the long term. Neither can business organizations deny spirituality and stewardship considerations if they are to be socially responsible members of society, contributing to and upholding a moral existence for all humanity. In this sense then, the conception of intertemporal stewardship theory that is offered in this paper takes a step toward realizing these greater goals.