bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Entrepreneurial potentials of African‐Caribbeans in the United Kingdom
Authors: Okonta Patrick , Pandya Kaushik V. 
Published: November 2007

PurposeMany researchers attribute poor performance of African‐Caribbean business people down to their ethnic backgrounds and traits. The purpose of this research was to investigate if African‐Caribbean business people possess entrepreneurial quality.Design/methodology/approachA sample population of 400 (with 150 contributing) African‐Caribbean business owners in London was surveyed using a questionnaire. Selected business owners were also interviewed.FindingsThe analysis and tests carried out conclusively disproved the hypothesis that African‐Caribbeans are devoid of entrepreneurial attributes.Research limitations/implicationsThe data collection was limited to African‐Caribbean business owners in London. A generalisation should not be attempted to reflect on all African‐Caribbean business owners. Further research is planned in the near future.Practical implicationsThe results of this research show that African‐Caribbean business owners have entrepreneurial tendencies, and that financial institutions and authorities at national and regional levels may want to consider this in their business approaches.Originality/valueThe African‐Caribbean businesspersons were subjected to a “litmus test” in order to discover whether they are entrepreneurial. The authors developed an ANN and the E‐Factor models and both models offer the originality.
Team‐oriented women entrepreneurs: a way to modern management
Authors: Cantzler Ingmari , Leijon Svante 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to understand how women as small‐business owners build good internal and external relations and to what extent they develop their businesses and contribute to community development.Design/methodology/approachThis longitudinal study is ongoing. In the first broader study, personal interviews were made with 30 women business owners. To get a deeper understanding a case study was carried out with four of them. The result of this study was a typology with two categories.FindingsThe paper finds that the category Visionary entrepreneurs are genuine entrepreneurs and they work in teams within the company and also have a network around their business. The team‐oriented way of working develops their business as well as society. The dynamic process that supports the team is both stable and flexible and through openness, testing new ideas and discrediting habits, small changes take place all the time. The Visionary entrepreneurs represent a modern business role and are socially gifted. The Managing leaders, the other category representing a more traditional way of doing business, have not been able to create a team within the company or a network around it that could develop the business.Practical implicationsModern business management is characterised by a team‐based way of working. Building relations with customers, partners and employees takes time and much effort and you have to meet and communicate.Originality/valueThe internal team in a small business, or a network that is team‐oriented, is not often the subject of research. The team‐oriented working method, supported by a dynamic process, develops the business and helps to renew society.
Learning by costing
Authors: Lindholm Anni , Suomala Petri 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss life cycle cost management and highlight the practical challenges related to collecting adequate data and practicing long‐term cost management in an uncertain environment.Design/methodology/approachThe paper reports a case study conducted in the Finnish Defence Forces. As part of the case study, a life cycle cost model for a case product was developed.FindingsActivity‐based life cycle cost modeling can provide relevant information for varying product management needs at different stages in the life of a product. Quantification of uncertainty is one of the elements in the modeling that can improve the feasibility of LCC both for cost estimation and tracking purposes.Originality/valueOnly a few empirical studies on life cycle costing have been reported which focus on the defence sector. The paper contributes to our understanding of how LCC can be used in a continuous manner and depicts how LCC can produce a sharpened cost image of a particular product.
Modeling the logistics outsourcing relationship variables to enhance shippers' productivity and competitiveness in logistical supply chain
Authors: Qureshi M.N. , Kumar Dinesh , Kumar Pradeep 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to model the key variables of logistics outsourcing relationship between shippers and logistics service providers (LSPs) and to study their influence on productivity and competitiveness of the shipper company.Design/methodology/approachIn this paper, an interpretive structural modeling (ISM) based approach has been used to model the variables of logistics outsourcing relationship. Various variables, used by researchers and practiced by the shippers for effective management of logistics outsourcing relationship have been identified. These variables have been classified as enablers and outcome variable. Enablers are those variables that boost the “relationship bond” between shippers and LSPs, while outcome variables are the resultant variables arising out of outsourcing relationship between shippers and LSPs.FindingsA key finding of this modeling helps shippers as well as LSPs to take various initiatives, in order to have prosperous, outsourcing relationship between shippers and LSPs. Top management from both shippers as well as LSPs should focus, on improving on the enablers such as trust or commitment, direct assistance, long term contract, evaluation of supplier performance, practices of TQM and JIT to add distinctive values, and top management support.Originality/valueIn this research, an interpretation in terms of driving and dependence powers has been carried out for enablers and outcome variables of logistics outsourcing relationship. Those variables found possessing strong driving power in the ISM model, need to be taken care on a priority basis because of their impact on dependent variables. A variable emerging with high dependence contributes to productivity enhancement and competitiveness in a logistical supply chain.
Productivity and efficiency analysis of Taiwan's integrated circuit industry
Authors: Dash Wu Desheng , Ho Chien‐Ta Bruce 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate the productivity and efficiency of Taiwan's integrated circuit (IC) industry using DEA analysis and the Malmquist index (MI).Design/methodology/approachThe Malmquist index, as a total factor productivity index based on distance functions, is estimated using DEA in this study.FindingsResults indicate that as the asset size class becomes larger and larger, the associated companies become more and more inefficient. Also, results indicate a possible scale inefficiency in the IC industry investigated.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper presents a DEA study to investigate the productivity and efficiency in IC industry. This performance analysis is important because Taiwan's IC industry stands in a critical global position as indicated by analysis of market share across various sub‐components of the industry. The resulting analysis might provide valuable managerial insights.Originality/valueThe originality of this paper is its application of specific analytical techniques to the productivity and efficiency if IC companies in Taiwan's companies. The MI is appropriate for measuring the productivity change because it does not require the assumption of a possibly unwarranted functional form on the structure of production technology, as required by the econometric method.
The causes of productivity change in GCC banking industry
Authors: Al‐Muharrami Saeed 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine historic rates of productivity change in Arab GCC banks. The paper planned to answer the following research questions: How did productivity develop during the period 1993‐2002? What was the cause for this change?Design/methodology/approachUsing data of 52 banks over ten years, total factor productivity (TFP) changes were calculated using the Malmquist DEA. The Malmquist DEA productivity index measures the ratio of two distance functions pertaining to distinct time periods.FindingsThe Malmquist DEA slight downward shift in average efficiency of the banks in the sector during 1993 to 2002, stemming from change in the technical efficiency of banks (catching up effect), and technology equally decreasing during the period. Looking at the behaviour of total assets, deposits, and loans, the results revealed that there was a downward trend in total of assets, deposits, and loans.Research limitations/implicationsThese findings may have been a temporary effect, evident during the sampled period only. To draw firmer conclusions a longer sample period is needed.Originality/valueStudies of production performance in the developed economies banking are commonplace, however, to the researcher's knowledge, there has been no study conducted for GCC economies. In fact, this study is pioneer for the region in using pooled data of the six GCC countries to measure productivity change for ten years.
Re‐examining the training side of productivity improvement: evidence from service sector
Authors: Aghazadeh Seyed‐Mahmoud 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review past and current research on the productivity problems and how to alleviate it by appropriate training.Design/methodology/approachThe article presents the collective results of two experiments, a grocery store chain, and a top outsourcing provider to show the higher levels of productivity can be achieved by proper training methods.FindingsThe results of two experiments specify that businesses should incorporate proper training techniques in order to increase their productivity. If such an approach to generating high levels of productivity contingent on training is implemented, we expect that business should harvest the benefits.Research limitations/implicationsIdeally, the experiments reported on should be extended to comprise a measure of the amount of employer‐provided on‐the‐job training and training costs.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the current training and productivity literature by emphasizing, to both human resource practitioners and policy makers, inadequate investment in workforce training is related directly to poor employee. The results have offered practical implication to organizational training.
Reflections on the use of case studies in the accounting, management and organizational disciplines
Authors: Lee Bill , Collier Paul M. , Cullen John 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explain the background to the special issue and to provide an introduction to the articles on case studies included in the issue.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses a review of developments in both the qualitative tradition and case studies in management research to provide a backdrop for the articles that are included in the issue. The articles discuss: the merits of unique cases and singular forms of evidence within a single case; the comparability of case studies with tools in other areas; and methods of theorising from case studies.FindingsThe merits of case studies have often been understated. The articles in this issue highlight a broader variety of uses of case study research than is commonly recognized.Originality/valueThis guest editorial introduces the papers in this issue, which may be read either as individual contributions that have merits per se, or as part of a collection that this introductory paper helps to knit together.
A researcher's tale: dealing with epistemological divergence
Authors: Bryant Janet , Lasky Barbara 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe paper's purpose is to explore a theoretical and methodological dilemma.Design/methodology/approachCommencing doctoral research, and committed to an orthodox grounded theory approach, a unique story was uncovered which, to do it and the research justice, required an alternative form of representation. Intuition decreed that this should be narrative. However, grounded theory and narrative entail epistemologically and ontologically incommensurate paradigms. The paper seeks to consider whether inclusion of the unique story would compromise, or subvert, the already emergent grounded theory. An exploration of the relationship between different epistemological and ontological traditions is also to be made, based on the assumption that method “slurring,” and a more eclectic approach to using incommensurate paradigms, may be valuable.FindingsIn transcribing and coding data using strictly orthodox grounded theory methods, the researcher runs the risk of “stripping” the research story of some critical dimension(s). However, combining a narrative approach with that of grounded theory, the paper allows for the representation of an atypical “Maverick” case, along‐side other more typical cases.Originality/valueThe paper points out, to the early career qualitative researcher in particular, that it is legitimate to combine seemingly incommensurate methodologies, notably where not to do so would result in the loss of enriching and powerful insights into basic social processes.
Introducing strong structuration theory for informing qualitative case studies in organization, management and accounting research
Authors: Jack Lisa , Kholeif Ahmed 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to present a reinforced version of structuration theory, known as strong structuration theory, set out in Stones as a disciplined approach to qualitative case study research in the organization, management and accounting fields. This framework challenges the belief held by certain critics that structuration theory cannot be used in substantive empirical research but is only a sensitising device or analytical tool.Design/methodology/approachA conceptual discussion is the approach of the paper.FindingsThe key concepts of strong structuration theory are outlined and then put in the context first of two attempts to apply the framework to empirical research and second of two recent papers which address theoretically informed qualitative research and the use of structuration theory in IT studies.Research limitations/implicationsThere are some limitations of this paper. The framework offered was not used to set the original research questions in the two case studies employed as these cases were conducted before the publication of Stones' book in 2005. Also, as weaknesses in the framework can best be assessed using empirical findings, a full evaluation cannot be carried out until such research is undertaken.Originality/valueThis paper draws on recent research and thinking in sociology that have yet to be brought into case studies in the fields of accounting and management in particular.
Case study research and network theory: birds of a feather
Authors: Gummesson Evert 
Published: November 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to advocate that case study research needs to renew itself and employ its full potential as an innovative theory‐generating methodology in management disciplines; and to propose that a viable strategy for such renewal is to exploit the power of case study research and network theory as supplementary methodologies.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is a reflective and synthesising comparative study.FindingsIf one steps down from the tip of the iceberg and inspects the underwater properties of case study research and network theory a common core is found: the recognition of complexity. The methodologies supplement each other, case study research primarily using verbal language and qualitative data, while network theory uses a nodes‐and‐links language that opens up for verbal, graphic and mathematical treatment. Case study research is primarily associated with qualitative research in social sciences and network theory with quantitative research in both social and natural sciences. By abolishing the unfortunate categories of qualitative/quantitative and natural sciences/social sciences that have been set against each other, and letting them join forces for a common goal – to learn about life – people open up for methodological creativity.Originality/valueBy comparing case study research with network theory on a fundamental level, the paper offers a novel perspective on research. It is a contribution to an overriding desire to improve the understanding of management and society.
Diversity and conservation of on‐farm woody plants by field types in Paromo Subcounty, Nebbi District, north‐western Uganda
Authors: Okullo John B. L. , Waithum Gilbert 
Published: November 2007

AbstractA study aimed at assessing diversity and local conservation strategies for on‐farm woody plants (OFWPs) under different cropping systems was conducted in Nebbi District, north‐western Uganda in 2004. Forty farmers were randomly selected and interviewed on local conservation practices of OFWPs. One field per interviewed farmer was randomly selected and woody plants enumerated. On‐farm plants’ diversity was calculated using the Shannon–Weiner Diversity Index (H′). Results indicate that >87% of the OFWPs, majority being indigenous species, were utilized. The highest proportion of OFWPs was retained for poles, shade, fruits and medicine. The OFWPs were conserved by deliberately retaining them while opening the field. Woody plant diversity varied between field types. Fields associated with continuous cropping (H′ < 1.7) were less diverse than those associated with fallows (H′ > 1.7) as fallows allow species to regenerate. Poor access to planting materials of OFWPs, inadequate training on nursery techniques, lack of adequate extension services and markets for indigenous woody products limited their conservation. Farmers need to be trained on tree nursery techniques and provided with relevant extension information in order to diversify the production of OFWPs.
Diversity and distribution of bryophytes in three forest types of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Authors: Tusiime Felly Mugizi , Byarujali Steven M. , Bates Jeff W. 
Published: November 2007

AbstractAn ecological study was conducted in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda to determine bryophyte species richness, their distribution along the altitudinal range, along streamsides and trails within the forests. Lower altitude mature mixed forest, medium altitude tropical evergreen and high altitude montane bamboo forest types were studied. Transects of 1000 m were laid and a 1 × 1 m quadrant was placed along each transect at an interval of 50 m. Abundance was measured using visual estimates of percentage cover of the bryophytes. Statistical analyses were performed using multivariate statistical package. Of the 131 bryophyte species collected, nine were new records to Uganda, five to East Africa and one (Eurrhynchium meridionale) to tropical Africa. Bryophyte richness was negatively correlated with altitude except for the thalloid hepatics, which increased with altitude. Bryophytes occurred mostly along the streamsides than along trails. Human disturbance appeared to affect bryophyte diversity. The tropical evergreen forest was the most diverse in terms of bryophytes followed by the mature mixed and bamboo forests. In spite of the low diversity, bamboo forest is important for hosting exclusively 17.6% of the collected bryophytes in this study one of which is a new record for Africa.
Distinguishing forest tree communities in Kibale National Park, western Uganda using ordination and classification methods
Authors: Mucunguzi Patrick , Kasenene John , Midgley Jeremy , Ssegawa Paul , Tabuti John R. S. 
Published: November 2007

AbstractA study of spatial variation in tree community structure and species composition in the Kibale National Park, western Uganda was conducted. Tree communities were compared at five sites namely K‐14, K‐15 and K‐30 at Kanyawara in the north, Ngogo in the central part of the forest and Mainaro in the southern part. All trees ≥10‐cm diameter at breast height were censused along belt transects covering a total of 15 ha in all sites. Cluster analysis and principal component analysis were used to identify forest tree communities and species associations. Using cluster analysis, two species assemblages emerged: the Mainaro, Ngogo and K‐15 cluster and the K‐30 and K‐14 cluster. Principal component analysis revealed the descriptive species for the northern and southern sites.
Another case of Munchausen syndrome by proxy?
Authors: GALE CAROL A. , HORNER MOLLY M. 
Published: November 2007

Summary

Munchausen syndrome by proxy is a difficult to diagnose, complex form of child abuse. The subtleties of this type of abuse allow the parent to victimize the child by presenting a fictitious medical history, which then initiates a series of unnecessary diagnostic procedures and therapeutic interventions. By recognizing the warning signals of this syndrome health‐care professionals can intervene, and prevent its potentially fatal results.
Counselling of patients with HIV‐related diseases: what is the role of the nurse?
Authors: MELBY V. 
Published: November 2007

Summary

The need for counselling of patients with HIV‐related diseases has been clearly demonstrated in the literature.
This study aimed to elicit nurses', perception of their role in such counselling.
Nurses did not have a uniform understanding of the term ‘counselling’, viewing it mostly as ‘information‐giving’, however listening skills and allowing the person to deal with their own problems and fears were also central issues.
The doctor was seen as the most important health professional when it comes to counselling of AIDS patients. The nurse is viewed as a ‘number two’, surprisingly perceived as more important than priests, psychologists and social workers, despite being thought of as not being well trained and consequently not having the necessary skills for counselling interventions.
As a result, there was a clear need and wish for more general education on AIDS and counselling issues.
Partnership caring
Authors: STOWER SHARON 
Published: November 2007

Summary

‘Partnership caring’ emphasizes the current paediatric practices and their importance in paediatric nursing Today.
The importance in not compromising care in a rapidly changing health scene is described when shrinking resources and increasing constraints put pressure on the health services.
Important concepts such as pre‐admission programmes, creating the right environment for the child, family‐centred care, parent participation, family accommodation and supporting services, nursing documentation, the rights of the child and family, specialist and community nursing services as well as children's out‐patient services providing the vital link in the continuum of care are all emphasized. They show how these became ideas 5–6 years ago but are now firmly established in the philosophy of family‐centred care.
In the new health service today, paediatric nurses face new challenges which emanate from the children and parents served, but also from within new clinical directorate structures. ‘However, within our new world of clinical directorates and when the clinical director has the executive authority to make and influence decisions, and when segmentalization of paediatric services becomes a real threat (and in some places this is happening now!) paediatric nurses must remember the children. We must stand firm in our values and beliefs and above all we must not allow these changes to compromise the care we give to children and their families.’