bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Understanding factors for benchmarking adoption
Authors: Pin Lee Yean , Zailani Suhaiza , Lin Soh Keng 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo explain the factors of benchmarking adoption as experienced by companies in Malaysia in which benchmarking is one of the way to create a sense of urgency by telling them where they are, how good they have to be, and what they have to do to get there.Design/methodology/approachDiscriminant analysis was used to determine whether statistically significant differences exist between the average score profile on a set of variables for two a priori defined groups and so enabled them to be classified. Besides, it could help to determine which of the independent variables account the most for the differences in the average score profiles of the two groups. In this study, discriminant analysis was the main instrument to classify the benchmarking adopter and non‐adopter. It was also utilized to determine which of the independent variables would contribute to benchmarking adoption.FindingsThe finding from discriminant analysis revealed that employee participation was the most influential factors on benchmarking adoption, followed by top management commitment and role of quality department, whereas benchmarking limitation and customer orientation did not contribute significant impact on the adoptions.Research limitations/implicationsOne of the limitations of this study is that the conclusion drawn from the data is principally due to the variety of interpretations of what the term “benchmarking” actually means.Practical implicationsFrom an organization point of view, attention should be given to improve employee participation and quality department should play a proactive role in adopting benchmarking as a strategic tool.Originality/valueThis paper fulfils an identified information/resources need and offers practical help to an organization to promote the acceptance and implementation of benchmarking. Government body can therefore focus on these factors for further development of benchmarking.
The benchmarking of information systems supporting the university administrative activities
Authors: Manzini Raffaella , Lazzarotti Valentina 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe issue investigated in this work is relative to the features of the information sub‐systems supporting specific university administrative processes (accountancy, personnel management, student services). This paper attempt: to develop a benchmarking model; and apply the suggested model to a group of Italian universities.Design/methodology/approachWhile the literature analysis has been useful to achieve the first goal, the empirical methodology of case studies has been employed for both the objectives. It means that there has been a full commitment of the involved universities also in the theoretical phase of the work.FindingsTwo types of specific results are expected through the application of the suggested benchmarking model. The first is the pertinent position of each university in respect with some observed features of the information sub‐systems. The second is the identification of possible trends that are widespread within the selected universities.Research limitations/implicationsGeneralization of the benchmarking trends is not possible, because trends arise from a limited group of universities.Practical implicationsThe universities involved in the project have discovered the importance of benchmarking as a means of improving their processes and systems.Originality/valueThis paper represents a first attempt at developing a model to compare the condition of the administrative information systems in a selected group of Italian universities.
Factors influencing hotel investment decision making
Authors: Newell Graeme , Seabrook Ross 
Published: September 2006

PurposeGiven the stature of international tourism, hotel properties are an important property investment sector. The purpose of this paper is to assess the importance of a range of financial, location, economic, diversification and relationship factors in influencing hotel investment decision making.Design/methodology/approachThis paper reports the findings of a survey of major hotel investors and hotel owners/operators in Australia regarding the factors influencing hotel investment decision‐making. The AHP multi‐criteria decision‐making methodology is used to assess the weights attached to each of the 30 factors influencing hotel investment decision‐making.FindingsThe main factors influencing hotel investment decision making were financial (weight of 37.0 per cent) and location (29.9 per cent) factors. These were followed by economic (14.5 per cent), diversification (12.0 per cent) and relationship (6.6 per cent) factors. This sees three levels of importance in the factors influencing hotel investment decision making. Differences were also found between the priorities for hotel investors and hotel owners/operators.Originality/valueOnly limited research is available concerning the hotel sector. This paper rigorously assesses the hotel investment process and assists hotel investors in prioritising the significance of 30 key factors and sub‐factors in hotel investment decision‐making.
The private finance initiative and value for money
Authors: Pitt Michael , Collins Norman , Walls Andrew 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe paper aims to define and measure value for money (VFM) within the concept of private finance initiative (PFI), and investigate the principal factors in which opinions are formed.Design/methodology/approachLiterature review of texts, published papers, and reports are used to identify relevant parameters to the research. The sources support the arguments of opinion within the paper.FindingsPFI is still perceived by the government as the most cost effect means of procuring public infrastructure. The positive aspects of PFI are the competition generated by the concept, and improved risk management. Negative aspects include the lack of agreed formulae by all stakeholders by which to benchmark VFM, and an increasing sceptical electorate to the PFI concept of providing short and long term VFM.Research limitations/implicationsBy virtue of PFI being a dynamic, changing, and complex means of procurement, this research will be valid in its own right. However more up to date government policies must be consulted to take the determination of VFM in any further research.Practical implicationsThe research and conclusions will provide add to the current debate as to the viability of PFI, with VFM the main key point as to the ongoing success of the governments strategy this method of procurement.Originality/valueThe paper adds, to the “VFM” drivers that have been identified by identifying principle factors in creating VFM. This will be a sound basis for the justification of VFM in PFI.
Addressing risk and uncertainty in property valuations: a viewpoint from Germany
Authors: Lorenz David , Trück Stefan , Lützkendorf Thomas 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to propose and discuss practical approaches on how to address risk and uncertainty within valuation reports, particularly when there is only insufficient comparable transaction evidence available.Design/methodology/approachA four stage approach to property valuation is proposed that can be particularly useful if there is insufficient comparable transaction evidence available: Identifying, measuring and expressing risk by making use of property rating approaches. Transforming risk into risk premia for calculating the yield on a risk free basis by partially making use of models of risk and return usually applied in finance. Simulating risk premia (since there is great deal of uncertainty involved in determining these premia) by making use of a statistical method commonly referred to as Monte Carlo Simulation. Using the derived yield's probability distribution in combination with further probability distributions for other valuation input variables (e.g. market rent) to calculate a range of possible outcomes of Market Value as well as a number of statistical measures that can be indicative of the valuer's perceived uncertainty regarding the valuation assignment.FindingsThe empirical part shows that due to data limitations determining idiosyncratic risk premia for property assets is not yet possible. This significantly hampers the development of robust yield pricing models and reinforces the need to create databases including information on both individual property returns and associated building characteristics.Practical implicationsThe paper postulates that there are few (if any) rational reasons for valuers not to use rating and simulation approaches as an indispensable element of the valuation process.Originality/valueA valuation approach that allows simultaneously addressing risk and uncertainty as well as sustainability issues within commercial property valuation practice is proposed.
An analysis of the UK development industry's role in brownfield regeneration
Authors: Dixon Tim , Pocock Yasmin , Waters Mike 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThis study aims to provide a review of brownfield policy and the emerging sustainable development agenda in the UK, and to examine the development industry's (both commercial and residential) role and attitudes towards brownfield regeneration and contaminated land.Design/methodology/approachThe paper analyses results from a two‐stage survey of commercial and residential developers carried out in mid‐2004, underpinned by structured interviews with 11 developers.FindingsThe results suggest that housebuilding on brownfield is no longer the preserve of specialists, and is now widespread throughout the industry in the UK. The redevelopment of contaminated sites for residential use could be threatened by the impact of the EU Landfill Directive. The findings also suggest that developers are not averse to developing on contaminated sites, although post‐remediation stigma remains an issue. The market for warranties and insurance continues to evolve.Research limitations/implicationsThe survey is based on a sample which represents nearly 30 per cent of UK volume housebuilding. Although the response in the smaller developer groups was relatively under‐represented, non‐response bias was not found to be a significant issue. More research is needed to assess the way in which developers approach brownfield regeneration at a local level.Practical implicationsThe research suggests that clearer Government guidance in the UK is needed on how to integrate concepts of sustainability in brownfield development and that EU policy, which has been introduced for laudable aims, is creating tensions within the development industry. There may be an emphasis towards greenfield development in the future, as the implications of the Barker review are felt.Originality/valueThis is a national survey of developers' attitudes towards brownfield development in the UK, following the Barker Review, and highlights key issues in UK and EU policy layers.
Technology foresight: creating the future of Thailand's industries
Authors: Wonglimpiyarat Jarunee 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe paper aims to deal with the application of foresight in devising strategic technology policies in Thailand.Design/methodology/approachThe paper examines the foresight exercise carried out by the Thai government, through the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) and the APEC Center for Technology Foresight, to examine the potential of the Thai industry and to devise development policies necessary to make the Thai industry successful by the year 2020.FindingsThe results of the foresight process provide a comprehensive overview of the trends of the Thai industry. The study contributes towards the formulation of feasible technological and industrial policies, which would enhance the country's ability to improve the competitive position for tomorrow.Originality/valueThe paper provides an overview of Thailand's comprehensive national foresight program.
Eliminating future shock: the changing world of work and the organization
Authors: Inayatullah Sohail 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo explore the alternative futures of work and the changing nature of the organization.Design/methodology/approachAlong with a long‐term macrohistorical approach, two futures methods are used: emerging issues analysis and scenarios.FindingsFour scenarios are developed: business as usual (pendulum of labour versus capital); social and innovative transformation (moving toward the triple bottom line and flatter organizations); gut‐wrenching globalization (outsourcing of everything and the end of the nation‐state); and the unknown world (dramatic changes in the nature of work and organization, particularly because of AI technologies).Originality/valueNovel approach in linking macrohistory to emerging issues to scenarios. Challenges litany approaches to work and the organization and links with deeper worldviews.
Technological foresight and technological scanning for identifying priorities and opportunities: the biotechnology and health sector
Authors: Antunes Adelaide , Canongia Claudia 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThis paper aims to present a methodology for technological foresight and technological scanning based on S&T and knowledge indicators.Design/methodology/approachThis proposal considers S&T and knowledge indicators, such as a patents indicator (technology), research and development indicator (science) and competencies indicator (human resources). International databases and a data‐and text‐mining tool are used to build up knowledge maps and reference tables to support decision making.FindingsThis study provides information about the use of technological foresight and technological scanning using the biotechnology in the health sector as a case study. In this paper, the trends observed in patents and articles worldwide clearly show the growth in biotechnology, which points to the need to prioritize this area, as well as opening up a variety of opportunities, especially when one considers the human competencies already consolidated in Brazilian universities and research institutes, which could be better harnessed by industry and could help ensure greater innovation and competitiveness.Originality/valueThe paper presents a methodology for the effective support of decision taking during the prioritization of strategic and/or technological areas by visualizing potential markets and partnership opportunities. Furthermore, it emphasizes the role of biotechnology as a catalyst for S&T and innovations in the world.
Foresight for the semiconductor industry in Taiwan
Authors: Yuan Benjamin J.C. , Chih‐Hung Hsieh John , Wang Champion 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThis paper explores the possible future business environment, industrial structure, technological transformation, and market for the semiconductor industry in Taiwan.Design/methodology/approachThis study applies the Delphi method to predict future trends in Taiwan's semiconductor industry in 2015.FindingsThe significant findings are as follows: the future business environment will focus on “industrial internationalization” and “strategic alliance”, and roughly half of Taiwan's production will move to China by 2015; the disintegrated model in Taiwan's semiconductor industry will still remain by 2015 and will require some adjustments, whereas the foundry service in Taiwan will retain its dominance globally; future core technologies in 2015 will comprise low voltage manufacturing (CMOS), High K, nanotechnology processes, and copper interconnection processes; the estimated value of IC industrial production for 2005 was US$32.1 billion, and will be US$61.0 billion in 2010 and US$108.8 billion in 2015.Originality/valueThis research can be utilized as a reference for government, academics, industry, and international investors.
Futures studies and public decision making in Sweden
Authors: Paillard Sandrine 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThis paper seeks to explore the interrelationships between futures studies and public decision making in Sweden.Design/methodology/approachBased on a series of interviews conducted in Stockholm in December 2003, this paper presents the main players involved in futures studies in Sweden. It focuses especially on the activities of the Institute for Futures Studies, and that of the Lindbeck Commission on the Future of Sweden.FindingsFutures studies are a decisive part of the public decision process in Sweden, where they appeared after the Second World War and gained momentum from the 1970s onwards. The paper gives a detailed account of the interplay between the various actors. There is a strong independence between the public decision‐making system and the producers of futures studies. Nevertheless, futures studies prove an important instrument for public policy in Sweden, as they raise awareness in the public debate, serve as a tool for consultation, and help define scientific and technological priorities.Originality/valueProvides an insight into the state of futures research in Sweden.
The change to VoIP and the introduction of TVoIP via xDSL
Authors: Frederiksen John 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the necessary analyses to be made by incumbents and other players in the telecommunication sector regarding the change from PSTN voice services to voice over IP (VoIP). This change will in many circumstances be combined with the supply of TV via the broadband access connection (TVoIP). Thereby, triple play can be offered.Design/methodology/approachThis paper provides a description of trends for demand and supply for VoIP and TVoIP and analyses of consequences for market structure, prices and regulation.FindingsPrice issues as well as strengths and weaknesses for the different players are presented. The introduction of VoIP and of TVoIP will also change the regulatory regime. Two‐way access interconnection problems will increase and the choice between the peering or termination payment needs to be made.Originality/valueThe paper provides a framework allowing different kinds of player to assess strategies of whether, how and when they might enter the VoiP market.
Assessing European national policies to support the competitiveness of information and communication technology producers
Authors: Friedewald Michael , Hawkins Richard W. , Kimpeler Simone 
Published: September 2006

PurposeIn the context of fears that the European information and communication technology (ICT) sector may be facing a period of crisis, this paper seeks to examine the changing role of national‐level policy initiatives to enhance the competitiveness of European ICT producers.Design/methodology/approachThe article is based upon a study of 176 national programs that are aimed specifically or in substantial part at ICT producer goods. This supply‐side focus provides a counterpoint to studies that concentrate on demand stimulation and aggregation measures, which generally make up a much larger share of national policy programs. A comparative analytical framework is used that takes account of the different composition and structure of the ICT industries in the EU member states.FindingsThe key findings are that technology development programs continue to dominate but that the emphasis is shifting from ICT producer goods as such to the application and coordination of ICT products and services across a wide range of industry contexts. This process takes different directions depending upon national political and administrative structures and historical national attitudes to industry policy.Originality/valueThe article gives evidence about sector specific strategies for supporting the competitiveness of the ICT sector and forms the basis for the identification of best practice examples.
The contribution of the mobile industry to economic development in Romania
Authors: Bonciu Florin , Williams Howard 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review the ways in which the regulation of the telecommunications sector has contributed to the economic development of the Romanian economy (as an example of a transition economy).Design/methodology/approachThe paper takes a case study approach, considering Romanias's transition to a market economy, a description of the telecommunications market, and demand characteristics of the mobile market.FindingsThe paper highlights the significant role that has been played by the mobile sector in terms of providing basic telephony services and in developing innovative services. The paper links the growth in the SME sector to the growth in the provision of mobile services. The paper also discusses the issue of a failed incumbent operator and how delays in embracing tariff reform in an increasing competitive environment have hindered the ability of the incumbent to compete and reform its activities.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper highlights the advantages that liberalization can deliver in a transition economy. The paper also suggests that allowing the incumbent to adopt a reform agenda ultimately is beneficial to the economy and the firm itself.Practical implicationsThe paper suggests that liberalization measures produce significant economic benefits in transition economies.Originality/valueThe paper provides original material on the telecommunications reform process in Romania, as an example of a transition economy.
Have internet message boards changed market behavior?
Authors: Leah Jones Anne 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThis study seeks to investigate the changes in stock market behavior between the pre and post internet/message board eras.Design/methodology/approachThe study examines the stock return behavior for a large subset of firms in the S&P 100 both before and after the implementation of the firms' message boards on Yahoo! Finance.FindingsThe data shows a significant increase in daily trading volume after a firm's message board was established which suggests that either new investors were drawn to the market or existing investors were induced to trade more frequently. The results also show that daily returns are significantly lower in the post‐message board era and that the market may have become riskier as the variance of these daily returns is significantly higher. These results hold after controlling for market and industry wide events and they are not unique to the stock market bubble of the late 1990s or the NBER‐dated recession of 2001.Originality/valueThis study builds on the work of Asthana and connects it to the message board studies conducted by Tumarkin and Whitelaw, and Antweiler and Frank by considering whether or not the internet in general, and message boards specifically, may have changed the underlying behavior of the stock market. It has important implications for those researchers studying market information efficiency and confirms the importance of studying internet information use by investors.