bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transferring Western HRM practices to developing countries
Authors: Baddar Al‐Husan Faten Z. , Brennan Ross , James Phil 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThis paper seeks to explore the nature of the human resource reforms introduced by a French multinational into a privatized Jordanian utility and the impact of these reforms on worker experiences, attitudes and behaviour.Design/methodology/approachThe approach takes the form of a single‐company case study using longitudinal interview data (44 interviews over a period of two and a half years) and a staff survey (202 completed and usable replies).FindingsEmployees had experienced changes as a result of the HR reforms and these experiences were, at the aggregate level, associated with a number of positive attitudinal and behavioural outcomes. There were marked differences between different categories of staff in these respects, with more senior staff and those with higher educational qualifications being those most likely to report positive attitudinal and behavioural outcomes.Research limitations/implicationsStudies of the transfer of Western management techniques to developing countries cannot treat the workforce as homogeneous. There are likely to be important differences between groups based on demographic criteria such as education, job category and length of service. However, this project used a single‐company case study and so is capable of only limited generalization.Practical implicationsThe differences between employee groups in attitudes towards the HR reforms are best seen as the outcome of “deliberate intent” on the part of the French MNC rather than intra‐organisational variations in “cultural receptivity”. They indicate that, to some extent, MNCs can successfully pursue different human resource approaches in respect of different categories of staff. However, some employees felt that they were adversely affected by the reforms.Originality/valueThe paper contributes an in‐depth empirical study to the important but relatively under‐researched area of the transfer of management techniques by MNCs to companies in developing countries.
Work‐family conflict among female employees in Israeli hospitals
Authors: Cohen Aaron , Liani Efrat 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present studies on how the demands of work impact the family – the work‐family conflict (WFC) – and how the demands of family life impinge on the workplace –the family‐work conflict (FWC). The goal of this paper is to examine the antecedents of the WFC and the FWC in a different cultural setting–Israeli health care administration.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from a sample of 168 female employees in two public hospitals in Israel.FindingsThe findings showed a strong relationship between work attitudes, particularly job satisfaction, and the two conflict variables. A higher level of job satisfaction was related to lower levels of WFC and FWC. The relationship of organizational support to the two conflict variables was weak and not in the expected direction.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is based on a sample taken from one occupation, dominated by public employees.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest that an effective way to reduce the WFC and the FWC is to create positive attitudes among employees regarding their job and work setting.Originality/valueThe paper examines common antecedents of WFC and FWC such as background and role variables, together with two antecedents rarely considered in the literature – organizational support for work‐related activities and organizational support for non‐work activities.
The impact of job performance on employee turnover intentions and the voluntary turnover process
Authors: Zimmerman Ryan D. , Darnold Todd C. 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to estimate the strength of the relationship between job performance and intentions to quit (ITQ), identify moderators to this relationship, and calculate the direct and indirect effects that job performance has on ITQ and turnover.Design/methodology/approachData from 65 studies (n=17,918) were meta‐analyzed to estimate the performance‐ITQ relationship. This overall sample was separated into subgroups for moderator analyses. Meta‐analytic path analysis was used to test the hypothesized model of turnover.FindingsSupervisor ratings of performance had the strongest relationship with ITQ (ρ=−0.16), followed by self‐ratings (ρ=−0.14), and objective measures (ρ=−0.02). Employee nationality and job type also acted as moderators. Poor performers are more likely to quit even after controlling for job satisfaction and turnover intentions, indicating that they are more apt to engage in unplanned quitting. Good performers were slightly more likely to intend to quit after controlling for job satisfaction.Research limitations/implicationsLimitations on the number and type of studies available prevented a test of how performance level acts as a moderator to the job performance‐turnover relationship and may cause some of the moderator analyses to be unstable.Practical implicationsThe findings provide for a better understanding of how employees' job performance affects their turnover decisions and how organizations can control turnover.Originality/valueThis is the first meta‐analysis to estimate the relationship between performance and ITQ and to test a meta‐analytic path model of the job performance‐job satisfaction‐ITQ‐turnover relationships.
User dynamics in a Dutch cafeteria system
Authors: van der Meer Peter , van Veen Kees 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to contribute to the empirical literature on cafeteria systems within employment relations by analysing employees' decisions on whether or not to participate, which employees chose what options and how the factors vary over time.Design/methodology/approachThe approach takes the form of a longitudinal case study involving 4,700 employees during a period of four years. The employees' choices are analysed by applying logistic regression.FindingsThe analyses show that use of this specific cafeteria system is not high, strongly in favour of one option and restricted to a subgroup of employees. Additionally, it is shown that the dynamics in use of the system is much more the result of changing participation decisions of individuals over the years and much less of changes in preferences of long‐term users.Research limitations/implicationsA case study restricts generalizations, although some comparisons with other organizations are presented. Further extension of systematic analysis to different sets of cafeteria systems in different contexts would be interesting.Practical implicationsThe analysis is particularly useful for HR managers/policymakers in this area to assist them systematically in evaluating new policies related to cafeteria systems or to adapting existing ones.Originality/valueThe participation decision as well as the chosen options are analysed in terms of an extensive set of individual employee characteristics.
The recruitment value of work/life benefits
Authors: Foster Thompson Lori , Aspinwall Kimberly R. 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThis study sets out to investigate the influence of four work/life benefits on job choice and to examine individual differences that moderate the effects of work/life benefits during recruitment.Design/methodology/approachParticipants (n=125) completed an internet self‐efficacy survey measuring their sense of competence in being able to use the internet effectively. They also filled out a demographic questionnaire and a policy‐capturing survey which asked them to read numerous job descriptions and rate how likely it was that they would accept each job. The levels of four benefits (childcare, telecommuting, eldercare, flextime benefits) varied across job advertisements. Analyses examined the degree to which these four independent variables affected the willingness to accept a job offer.FindingsChildcare benefits influenced the job choices of 58 per cent of the sample. This exceeded the influence of flextime (33 per cent), telecommuting (26 per cent), and eldercare benefits (33 per cent). Childcare attracted women more than men. Internet self‐efficacy predicted the attractiveness of telecommuting.Research limitations/implicationsIt is important to consider the degree to which these findings generalize to non‐US job seekers, as well as applicants in more naturalistic settings.Practical implicationsKnowledge of influential work/life benefits (e.g. childcare) can enhance recruitment efforts in a competitive marketplace. Data on variables that moderate the attractiveness of work/life policies will enable organizations to further tailor their benefits to the types of applicants they seek.Originality/valueIn practice, work/life benefits are commonly offered in the hope of recruiting new employees. Yet, little is known about which benefits best attract new graduates. Moreover, research has only begun to examine individual differences that moderate the effect of work/life policies on recruitment outcomes. The present study addresses these gaps in the literature.
Organizational culture and performance: a Brazilian case
Authors: Victoria Garibaldi de Hilal Adriana , Wetzel Ursula , Ferreira Vicente 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this research project is to focus on the acquisition of a Brazilian state owned energy distribution company by a Spanish conglomerate during the privatization process. It aims to verify if the performance indicators implemented by the acquiring company during the post‐acquisition phase were compatible with the organizational culture (OC) dimensions identified by Hofstede et al. It tries to identify if the values and practices fostered by the company transformation plan (such as democratic management, results orientation and focus on people) were in agreement with the organizational identified culture dimensions.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology used in this study is based on a research design that combined quantitative research with a qualitative exploratory procedure.FindingsResearch results indicate the existence of substantial OC differences, as perceived by managers and by the bulk of employees, as shown by the existence of two OC clusters. Moreover, results also suggest the need of improving the coherence between performance indicators and the OC dimensions.Originality/valueEmerging markets are the growth engines of the world economy. There is increasing evidence that cultural incompatibility is the single largest cause of lack of projected performance, departure of key executives and time‐consuming conflicts in the consolidation of business.
Effect of product category on promotional choice: comparative study of discounts and freebies
Authors: Banerjee Subhojit 
Published: January 2009

PurposeMarketers have been using discounts and freebies for sales promotion strategy for a long time, yet a dilemma concerning better promotion remains. The paper tries to address this issue through empirical research by classifying sales promotion based on their utility and relatedness to the product to which they are bundled.Design/methodology/approachTwo hypotheses were drawn: there is a distinctive preference of sales promotional offering, when it is bundled with a product, and the preference of promotion varies with the product category it is bundled with; discounts by retailers are preferred over advertised discounts, but they negatively affect the credibility of the product The hypotheses were tested by a double‐staged experimental protocol. The first stage standardized the perceived price of the freebies, and the second stage consisted of a 2 × 2 × 2 mixed model experiment. The first hypothesis was tested with Friedman's Test and Wilk's λ, and the second hypothesis was subjected to t‐test and factor analysis on a four‐item scale.FindingsPromotion type influences the rate of increase in market demand and is product category dependent. Promotional offerings which can be readily converted into monetary terms are more preferred to freebies but in the long‐run, they can affect the overall value of the product. Retailer discount is preferred over advertised discount but has a negative perception. Hedonic freebies are least preferred; but have a higher perceived value.Research limitations/implicationsThe study deals with the promotional choice of consumer durables and consumables. It is applicability to other product categories needs confirmation.Practical implicationsThe findings can be useful for marketers in designing promotional strategies, especially in the consumer retail segment, new product marketing and brand extension situations.Originality/valueThe paper will help marketers design better and appropriate promotion vis‐à‐vis a product and its target consumers.
The development of mutual fund market in Russia
Authors: Lukashin Yurij , Lukashin Ivan 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe development of Russian mutual fund (MF) market, to suggest and apply methodology of statistical analysis of management quality, to evaluate profitability and risks of the market. Design/methodology/approach – Statistical research applies: descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, regression analysis, cluster analysis, ratings, transition probability, optimal portfolio theory.FindingsRussian mutual market is growing both in number and in aggregate value of net assets. Profitability and risks of the market are high.Research limitations/implicationsStatistical research was fulfilled on the data for 2004‐2006.Practical implicationsThe results of the investigation are useful for investors and for managers of the funds.Originality/valueThe paper represents an attempt of statistical investigation of Russian MF market, its profitability and risks, classification and rating of MFs and analysis of rating stability.
Post‐merger corporate performance: an Indian perspective
Authors: Kumar Raj 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the post‐merger operating performance of acquiring companies involved in merger activities during the period 1999‐2002 in India. It attempts to identify synergies, if any, resulting from mergers.Design/methodology/approachThis paper uses the operating performance approach, which compares the pre‐merger and post‐merger performance of companies using accounting data to examine merger related gains to the acquiring firms.FindingsIt is found that the post‐merger profitability, assets turnover and solvency of the acquiring companies, on average, show no improvement when compared with pre‐merger values. So it seems that, contrary to common beliefs and expectations, mergers usually do not lead to improve the acquirer's financial performance.Research limitations/implicationsFurther studies may develop some alternate measures of merger‐related gains as financial measures have limitations to capture the full impact of merger on corporate performance. Moreover, a study providing detail insights into the reasons and patterns of post‐merger corporate performance across the types of mergers and industry would be useful.Practical implicationsThe results show that mergers are not aimed at maximizing wealth of owners. This result suggests the need for managers to better focus on post‐merger integration issues in order to create merger‐induced synergies, rather than simply acquiring bigger size and achieve hidden objectives.Originality/valueThe value of this research is its extension of the mergers and acquisitions performance research, which has been conducted on mostly American and European firms, to Indian firms.
Internationalisation of Essel Propack Ltd (EPL)
Authors: Pillania Rajesh K. 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study the internationalisation of an Indian company. It examines how a company from an emerging market becomes a leading player in the global packaging (tube) industry.Design/methodology/approachThis is a case study approach for studying the process of internationalisation in one particular firm.FindingsThe case study shows how a company based in an emerging market converts tubing industry into an innovative and high‐tech industry and becomes a leading palyer. The company has followed the traditional stages process of internationalisation and accumulated learnings in the process.Practical implicationsThe traditional stages model of internationalisation and focus on accumulating learnings in the process and using them has helped the firm and other firms and managers can learn from this case. For academicians, it further support the famous stages approach of internationalisation process.Originality/valueIncreasing number of companies from emerging markets are now turning to international markets and in the process turning into multinationals. These firms are giving tough competition to established multinational companies from developed countries. Most of the research and case studies focus on big firms like Lenevo etc but there are increasing number of firms like Essel Propack which are also a big success in international markets.
Does good corporate governance matter? Best practice in Poland
Authors: Aluchna Maria 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between compliance with corporate governance best practice and corporate performance within Poland.Design/methodology/approachThe analysis is based on the regression of corporate governance compliance rating and corporate performance on a sample of Polish public listed companies for years 2004‐2006.FindingsThe research indicates that complying with corporate governance best practice in Poland is associated with lower return on investment (the whole sample). However, the tendency changes into negative but statistically insignificant for the second and third years, and positive but statistically insignificant when only rated companies are included in the research sample. The relationship between proxy of Tobin's q and corporate governance rating remains statistically insignificant and is negative for the whole sample and positive for first and third year as well as for rating companies.Research limitations/ implicationsThe next step of research should include other performance variables (e.g. operating performance) methodological approaches into the analysis (e.g. event study) to test the relation.Practical implicationsCompliance with best practice of corporate governance, particularly in a transition country, may incur substantial costs, particularly during the first years of implementing new standards. Additionally, the main area for corporate performance improvement may be, for these countries, rooted in other aspects such as management or marketing, and not corporate governance.Originality/valueThe paper indicates that implementing corporate governance standards is a complex process in terms of costs, investor activism and companies awareness. Its importance increases along with the development of institutional regime as well as market participants’ skills and experience.
Reality revisited: leading people in chaotic change
Authors: Karp Tom , Tveteraas Helgø Thomas I. 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe a way for leaders to lead chaotic change. By chaotic change it is meant changes in an organization when the external and internal complexity and uncertainty are high.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on a conceptual discussion.FindingsThe paper contributes to concepts of change management in organisations faced with increased complexity in internal and external environment. The study challenges mainstream change management concepts and its chance of success when faced with increased complexity. The authors make suggestions on how to lead chaotic change by influencing the patterns of human interaction. It is recommended to focus change management on people, identity and relationships by changing the way people talk in the organisation.Research limitations/implicationsThe authors contend that change management effectiveness is low because leaders underestimates the complexity of change, focusing on tools, strategy and structures instead of paying attention to how human beings change by forming identities through relating.Practical implicationsSuccessful change management practices must take better account of unpredictability, uncertainty, self‐governance, emergence and other premises describing chaotic circumstances. For a leader this necessitates paying attention to how people form identities in organisations, avoids design oriented command‐and‐control managerial interventions, as well as keeping at bay the anxiety caused by not being in managerial control.Originality/valueThe principal contribution is a conceptual discussion on how to lead people in change by influencing the development and direction of change by changing the on‐going communication in organisations. Theoretical and managerial ideas and insights into change management are provided for organisations faced with increased complexity.
Social entrepreneurship in a transitional economy
Authors: Poon Patrick S. , Zhou Lianxi , Chan Tsang‐Sing 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the institutional and social determinants, and consequences of social entrepreneurship with respect to China's rural enterprises. It also attempts to provide a conceptual framework concerning how rural Chinese enterprises act as social entrepreneurial institutions and contribute to both business development and social welfare of local communities.Design/methodology/approachThe conceptual framework is developed through a critical review of literature and an integration of multiple disciplinary studies, with a focus on the perspectives of institutional governance, managerial networks, and market orientation.FindingsThe study identifies three framework layers for the development of China's rural enterprises, which are fundamentally driven by market preserving authoritarianism, local state corporatism, community culture, social entrepreneurship and market orientation.Practical implicationsThe proposed framework can help contribute to the theoretical development of strategic issues of social entrepreneurship in transitional economies. It may also provide insights about local state governance, ownership structures and market competition in China.Originality/valueAs China's rural enterprises are widely regarded as a phenomenon related to the core nature of a “socialist market economy”, an ideology embraced since the beginning of Chinese social‐economic reforms, a study of institutional and entrepreneurial nature of this kind serves as a stepping stone for understanding the emerging phenomenon of the country's social entrepreneurship, which is characterized by open market mechanisms and socialist legacies.