bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Creation of an e‐business requirements specification model
Authors: Dilworth John , Kochhar A.K. 
Published: July 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to describe the creation of an e‐business functional requirements definition model using a case study process.Design/methodology/approachThe creation of this model was the subject of a research project, the hypothesis of which is that it is possible to produce a model that can be used in real life situations to specify, using objective reasoning, the e‐business requirements of an organisation.FindingsThe research demonstrated a practical method of creating and refining this model and further was able to demonstrate that there were reasonable prospects of converging towards a stable model.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper has demonstrated that it has produced an acceptable model by using a case study process that gives sound results. It is also felt that it has validated the basic research method that was adopted.Practical implicationsAn innovative tool has been created whereby a specification of e‐business requirements can be created in a matter of a few hours, compared with the weeks' or months' worth of effort often involved in the use of the traditional business systems analysis process. Based on the operating characteristics of a company and the concerns of its management, the specification avoids the prejudices of consultants and vested interests of salesmen.Originality/valueThe computerised rule‐based system is easy to use and leads to a significant reduction in the time taken to generate an accurate functional specification. In addition, it provides a useful way of generating overall insights and communicating an e‐business requirements picture at a management summary level.
Demystifying data analysis: an alternative approach for managers of manufacturing SMEs
Authors: O'Regan Nicholas , Sims Martin 
Published: July 2007

PurposeEffective decision making is a crucial activity for manufacturing firms of all sizes. To this end, statistical techniques, such as variance theory, cognitive maps, heuristics and process theory, are widely used. However, such techniques rarely help chief executives to understand the dynamics of competitive behaviour, and often fail to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Indeed, from a small‐ and medium‐sized (SME) firm perspective, such techniques are rarely used owing to inadequate resources and/or skills. The paper seeks to address these issues.Design/methodology/approachThis paper proposes and tests a new approach to multivariate analysis based on the conditional formatting of spreadsheets. The analysis was confirmed using conventional statistical methods in order to validate the proposed methodology.FindingsThe results are depicted as a visual picture of the attribute(s) under consideration and can be visually analysed.Originality/valueSuch an approach can be used to complement and enhance current research techniques as well as facilitating data analysis.
Team‐based cellular manufacturing
Authors: Fraser Kym , Harris Howard , Luong Lee 
Published: July 2007

PurposeSocial factors are an under‐researched but important aspect in the success of manufacturing cells. This paper sets out to investigate the impact and importance of various human factors within a socio‐technical system such as team‐based cellular manufacturing (TBCM).Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire survey was designed to provide information about human factors in TBCM. The survey was conducted at four medium‐to‐large size organisations in Australia and Switzerland where participants were required to be working within a TBCM environment and included managers, team leaders, and operators. A set of research questions and hypotheses was developed and tested.FindingsIt was found that human issues account for a significant proportion of problems within team‐based manufacturing cells. Of the eight human factors tested in this survey, communication, teamwork and training were ranked the most important, while reward/compensation was ranked the least important. Testing showed significant relationships between factors such as companies, positions, experience and team size; therefore most hypotheses were supported.Practical implicationsTraditionally, the research focus has been on the technical aspect of socio‐technical systems such as TBCM. This study offers practitioners and academics a better understanding of the human issues associated with this important form of manufacturing, therefore improving the likelihood of its success.Originality/valueThis paper demonstrates the need for research into the social side of TBCM, while providing an understanding of the important human factors associated with this system.
A framework for implementing cost and quality practices within manufacturing
Authors: Tiwari Ashutosh , Turner Chris , Sackett Peter 
Published: July 2007

PurposeThe techniques that help organisations implement leading edge cost and quality practices in manufacturing operations management are typically disparate and generic in nature. There is a need to identify integrated practices at the right level of granularity, based on a clear definition of the existing operations practices. This paper proposes a novel framework for achieving and maintaining good cost and quality operations management practice within a manufacturing environment.Design/methodology/approachThe framework uses a new approach for identifying the profile of current activities and better practice activities for the roles of team leaders, cell leaders and operations managers within a manufacturing company.FindingsThe paper proposes a recommended set of context‐specific activities for these roles. These recommended activities are utilised to develop a cascade of deployable recommendations.Originality/valueThe framework is illustrated within a manufacturing environment producing complex product ranges. The implementation of the framework enables improved operational efficiency and effectiveness. It also enables the benefits of improved operational standardisation and consistency.
Application of hoshin kanri for productivity improvement in a semiconductor manufacturing company
Authors: Yang Tsung‐Ming , Su Chao‐Ton 
Published: July 2007

PurposeThe planning approach used is issue‐based planning or formal strategic planning, leading to local optimization and duplicated redundancy. An approach is presented in the rapid growth of the business scale which emphasizes both customization and effectiveness, not only operation efficiency. The paper addresses these issues.Design/methodology/approachA two‐phase approach is applied to obtain a smooth implementation. A lean operation concept is executed in the first phase to reduce the engineer's workload, and the business process re‐engineering (BPR) technique is used in phase two to transform the working model.FindingsThis paper presents an extension model of hoshin kanri to translate strategies into achievable policies and actions to fulfil the objectives of the enterprise. This model not only comprises a complete plan and executive structure which is simple and effective, but also conducts complicated communication processes at different levels to achieve the common goals as envisioned by the executive management.Practical implicationsA case study is introduced to show the complete policy deployment process and realize the actual “vital few”. This study has been successfully implemented in the case company, and the labor productivity was improved by 6 percent over a two‐year period.Originality/valueThe paper presents a successful application of hoshin kanri for a semiconductor manufacturing company within a rapid growth environment.
Adopting an ICT code of conduct
Authors: Bia Marie , Kalika Michel 
Published: July 2007

PurposeFollowing the example of Anglo‐Saxon companies, French companies are increasingly establishing codes of conduct specific to the use of information and communication technologies (ICT). A review of literature reveals that such codes have multiple goals, such as improving efficiency of use, IS security awareness, and ethics. This paper aims to identify organizational factors influencing the adoption and diffusion of a formal code of conduct.Design/methodology/approachA survey was administered to 505 companies. In order to highlight the emerging nature of this practice, the study was conducted in similar conditions for two consecutive years (2002 and 2003).FindingsResults indicate that though still marginal, the adoption of ICT codes of conduct concerns an increasing number of companies. This practice is related to the degree of standardization, technological context (the degree of virtualization and the strategic importance placed on ICT by the management) and size of the organization. However, the adoption of ICT codes of conduct is not associated with specific industry sectors and nationalities.Research limitations/implicationsThe study was conducted in France and a generalization of the results to other countries may be questionable.Originality/valueThe paper deals with a topic that has received little attention to date. The contribution of this paper is two‐fold: a previously unperformed review of research involving ICT codes of conduct, and empirical results describing the organizational factors of an ICT code of conduct diffusion. It allows a better understanding of this emerging IS management practice.
Information behaviour in e‐reverse auctions
Authors: Lösch Andrea , Siân Lambert J. 
Published: July 2007

PurposeThe study aims to explore information behaviour and its potential impact on buyer‐supplier relationships in electronic reverse auction (e‐RA). In spite of the widely assumed benefits of e‐RAs, recent studies have identified negative effects of e‐RAs on buyer‐supplier relationships.Design/methodology/approachThe research is based on nine interviews with automotive buyers and suppliers who use e‐RAs and 15 interviews with automotive companies who do not use e‐RAs. The interviews were analysed using the method of content analysis. The analysis process was supported relying on the qualitative software package Atlas/ti.FindingsOverall, the results indicate that differences in information behaviour may affect buyer‐supplier relationships. Particularly the inadequate treatment of suppliers and the reduced quality of the communication proved to be the major mediating factors for negative outcomes. Also, the use of e‐RAs is believed not to be as widespread as generally assumed.Research limitations/implicationsConsidering the limited scope of this research, further investigation of the above topic is required incorporating several sources of data, e.g. as part of a case study approach. Also, the generalisability of the results might be improved by obtaining responses from more buyers and suppliers through a larger scale survey.Practical implicationsThe paper suggests that the adequate consideration of context and the careful preparation of the event including strictly equal treatment of all participants and effective communication are key factors for obtaining benefits from e‐RAs.Originality/valueConsidering the limited evidence on how specific characteristics may affect buyer‐seller relations, this research provides a first step in opening up the e‐RA “black box”.
Developing an integrated management system for optimising project options
Authors: Doloi Hemanta Kumar 
Published: July 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to discuss the development of an integrated management system (IMS) by linking quantitative and qualitative decision parameters with a view to rank and optimise capital projects. Roles and impacts of the non‐financial criteria have been combined with traditional financial criteria for decision‐making and management processes in dynamic project environment.Design methodology/approachBoth tangible and intangible information associated over project life cycle have been integrated and the dynamic operating environment is evaluated in proactive decision‐making process. In this research, a closed loop feedback system incorporating stakeholder's input with project's business objectives has been developed. The triple bottom line has been employed as decision‐making criteria. While the architecture, communication protocols and conceptual modelling framework of the overall system are briefly discussed, modelling of soft issues and underlying impacts have been discussed in details. The overall functionality of the system has been established incorporating a multi‐criteria decision hierarchy module and a number of intelligent functions. Integration of the system is achieved through a common database and appropriate user's interfaces.FindingsThe capability and functionality of the system prototype have been discussed with the focus on a road infrastructure project. Implementation of the model has been highlighted with appropriate examples.Practical implicationsThe initial design of the model is based on data gathered from a real life project. The practical implication of the prototype is significant for holistic analysis of investment decisions on complex projects.Originality/valueThe stated modelling technique of soft issues (e.g. overall satisfaction level and stakeholders benefit values) along with project's financial objectives in an integrated framework will benefit all industry sectors.
Historical analysis of performance measurement and management in operations management
Authors: Radnor Zoe J. , Barnes David 
Published: July 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to take a historic perspective on performance measurement and management (PMM) within operations management (OM) across all sectors (manufacturing, service and public) in order to reflect on and undercover relevant lessons and issues about PMM in OM.Design/methodology/approachDrawing from a range of documents and experts, three historic phases were identified which reflected changing aspects of PMM in OM from the early twentieth century until today.FindingsThe analysis shows that most of PMM within OM derives from work study and productivity measurement within manufacturing during the industrial revolution. The general trend shows a movement away from performance measurement towards performance management. The paper illustrates how views of PMM have moved in three directions: the broadening of the unit of analysis; the deepening of performance measures; and the increasing range of performance measures.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper concludes by presenting four reflections and challenges including the fact that the drive for productivity still exists and there is a need to continue to develop measures across organisations which are also predictive. Finally, that lessons between private and public sectors regarding PMM are shared.Originality/valueThe paper argues that in order to evaluate the movement in the three directions effectively it is necessary to differentiate between the terms performance measurement, performance reporting and performance management.
A performance measurement system for facility management
Authors: Felice De Toni Alberto , Fornasier Andrea , Montagner Mattia , Nonino Fabio 
Published: July 2007

PurposeThis study sets out to introduce an innovative performance measurement system (PMS) for business process outsourcing in facility management (FM) industry and analyse, comprehend and explain the main criticalities in the relationship among the actors involved in an outsourcing non core services contract, which is typical of the FM business sector. The aim of the tool is to improve performances and enhance their integration towards a partnership.Design/methodology/approachA case study research has been carried out on a medical service authority and on its FM service provider in order to investigate, understand and explain the main criticalities in their relationships. Starting from a literature analysis on empirical applications of PMS, an adaptation of a balanced scorecard (BSC) has been realized to exceed the criticalities of the case study and to propose a PMS for facility management.FindingsAs highlighted in the case study, the need for an improved actors' partnership has been fulfilled through an innovative approach, i.e. a performance measurement system which shares some indicators among FM service provider and customer.Research limitations/implicationsThe limitation of this research lies in the fact that PMS has been designed from a single case study. Despite this fact, the PMS can be easily adapted for wide applications inside the FM business sector.Practical implicationsThe PMS allows a better integration and coordination of the actors involved in an outsourcing services contract. It could be implemented in FM software tools.Originality/valueThe proposed performance measurement system is an innovative integration between the balanced scorecard and service balanced scorecard (SBC) for the facility management service industry. Furthermore, it shares some indicators which solve the main criticalities in the relationships among the actors involved in an outsourcing services contract and enhance partnership.
A triple analysis of ISO 9000 effects on company performance
Authors: Martínez‐Costa Micaela , Martínez‐Lorente Ángel R. 
Published: July 2007

PurposeISO 9000 certification has a growing importance for companies, mainly in Europe but also in other countries. Several papers have analysed the effects of ISO 9000 certification on company results, with contradictory conclusions. The purpose of this work is to clarify these possible effects.Design/methodology/approachThis paper reports new findings on the topic following a study using data from 713 companies and using the two methodologies that have been applied in the scientific literature: the comparison of certified and non‐certified companies and a longitudinal study of the results of certification.FindingsThe data suggest that not only is ISO 9000 positive for companies but also it can actually reduce benefits and profitability.Practical implicationsSeveral reasons for these results can be suggested and constitute a critique of the almost compulsory character of ISO 9000 as a norm for performance in some markets. Companies should be aware that implementing ISO 9000 just for compliance does not constitute a competitive advantage.Originality/valueThis research uses objective measures of performance and combines two methodologies: the comparison between certified and non‐certified companies and a longitudinal analysis.
A review of work on rhizosphere microbiota in Uganda
Authors: Rwakaikara Silver M. C. , Nkwiine C. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThe rhizosphere is broadly defined as the soil volume under the influence of plant roots, enriched with exudates, secretions and mucilaginous materials. It supports an active microbial population distinctive from the bulk soil. Subsequently, there are many interactions between plant‐microflora, plant‐macro‐fauna, microflora–macrofauna and soil‐plant‐microflora. Some relationships are positive and others parasitic. Significant among the beneficial ones are symbioses between leguminous plant species and legume nodule bacteria and mycorrhizal association occurring widely among plants. The former has been extensively studied and substantial gain made in harnessing biologically fixed nitrogen. Mycorrhizal investigations are still inadequate, especially production of commercial inoculants. Similarly, plant disease and their causative agents raise great concern hence a lot of work has been done. There other benefits that have not been well tapped like production of growth promoting substances and bio‐control agents. Despite the evident importance of the rhizosphere there are no specific citations of deliberate studies on its micro‐biota in Uganda. Therefore there is urgent need for research to determine, the abundance, diversity and distribution of rhizosphere biota, their impact on natural and agro‐ecosystem functioning. The studies should also document indigenous knowledge, impact of current policies and build physical and human capacities to handle current and future challenges.
Reduced sulfation of chondroitin sulfate in thyroglobulin derived from human papillary thyroid carcinomas
Authors: Emoto Naoya , Kunii Yo Kidokoro , Ashizawa Masayo , Oikawa Shinichi , Shimizu Kazuo , Shimonaka Motoyuki , Toyoda Akiko , Toyoda Hidenao 
Published: July 2007

The presence of a chondroitin sulfate (CS) chain on human thyroglobulin (Tg) distinguishes it from Tg of other species; the role played by this chain in normal thyroid function is unclear. In the present study, we determined the structure of the CS oligosaccharides in human thyroid‐derived Tg. Q‐Sepharose anion exchange column chromatography of thyroid extracts indicated that the negative charge of human Tg was primarily due to the presence of the CS chain. Interestingly, the Tg of papillary carcinomas was less negatively charged, suggesting that its CS side chain was less sulfated. Structural analysis of the CS in Tg revealed that its most abundant disaccharide is the ΔDi‐0S unit (50.2 ± 18.3%), which is not sulfated. The ΔDi‐0S, ΔDi‐6S (31.7 ± 13.7%) and ΔDi‐diSD (12.8 ± 4.3%) units comprise more than 90% of the disaccharides in normal Tg. However, the ΔDi‐6S (0.0–21.2%) and ΔDi‐diSD (0.0–7.7%) units were significantly reduced in Tg extracted from papillary thyroid carcinomas, whereas ΔDi‐0S (86.0 ± 21.3%) was increased. These results suggest that the Tg in papillary carcinomas has a less sulfated CS side chain and, by virtue of that fact, is less negatively charged. What role this change in carcinoma cells has in their transformation and spread remains to be determined. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1577–1581)
Therapeutic strategy using phenotypic modulation of cancer cells by differentiation‐inducing agents
Authors: Honma Yoshio , Akimoto Miho 
Published: July 2007

A low concentration of differentiation inducers greatly enhances the in vitro and in vivo antiproliferative effects of interferon (IFN)α in several human cancer cells. Among the differentiation inducers tested, the sensitivity of cancer cells to IFNα was most strongly affected by cotylenin A. Cotylenin A, which is a novel fusicoccane diterpene glycoside with a complex sugar moiety, affected the differentiation of leukemia cells that were freshly isolated from acute myelogenous leukemia patients in primary culture. Tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) and its receptor DR5 were early genes induced by the combination of cotylenin A and IFNα in carcinoma cells. Neutralizing antibody to TRAIL inhibited apoptosis, suggesting that cotylenin A and IFNα cooperatively induced apoptosis through the TRAIL signaling system. Combined treatment preferentially induced apoptosis in human lung cancer cells while sparing normal lung epithelial cells. In an analysis of various cancer cell lines, ovarian cancer cells were highly sensitive to combined treatment with cotylenin A and IFNα in terms of the inhibition of cell growth. This treatment was also effective toward ovarian cancer cells that were refractory to cisplatin, and significantly inhibited the growth of ovarian cancer cells as xenografts without apparent adverse effects. Ovarian cancer cells from patients were also sensitive to the combined treatment in primary cultures. Combined treatment with cotylenin A and IFNα may have therapeutic value in treating human cancers including ovarian cancer. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1643–1651)