bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Purchasing social responsibility and firm performance
Authors: Carter Craig R. 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis paper aims to examine how socially responsible supply management activities, a term labeled purchasing social responsibility (PSR) in the extant literature, affect a firm's costs. There has been much debate, and mixed empirical findings, regarding whether socially responsible behavior on the part of companies improves or reduces firm performance.Design/methodology/approachA survey methodology and structural equation modeling are used to assess the relationship between PSR and supplier performance, including the mediating role of organizational learning. The theoretical scope is developed through an integration of literature from logistics, corporate social responsibility, the resource‐based view of the firm, and organizational learning.FindingsNo direct relationship is found between PSR and costs; however, organizational learning and supplier performance act as key, mediating variables between PSR and costs, with PSR leading to organizational learning, improved supplier performance, and ultimately reduced costs.Research limitations/implicationsThe significant mediating roles of organizational learning and supplier performance provide one possible explanation for the past, conflicting findings of studies that have investigated the direct relationship between corporate social responsibility and firm performance.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest that PSR not only is the “right thing to do”, but also can lead to significant improvements in supplier performance and costs.Originality/valueThis is the first study to suggest and test the possibility of mediation between social responsibility and firm performance. The research also extends the integration of organizational learning and supply chain management.
Improving supply chain disaster preparedness
Authors: Hale Trevor , Moberg Christopher R. 
Published: April 2005

PurposeTerrorist attacks, natural disasters, and regional power outages from the past several years have all highlighted the low levels of disaster preparedness that exist at many firms. Supply chain disruptions caused by external events can have a significant financial and operational impact on firms not properly prepared. Therefore, improving disaster preparedness in supply chains is critical. One critical component of disaster management planning in supply chains is the storage of emergency supplies, equipment, and vital documents that will be needed in times of crisis. The goal of this paper is propose a decision process for establishing an efficient network of secure storage facilities that can effectively support multiple supply chain facilities.Design/methodology/approachThe authors use the five‐stage disaster management process for supply chains as the framework for a proposed decision process for secure site locations. The decision process combines recommendations from FEMA's Disaster Management Guide with a set cover location model from the location sciences field to help establish a network of secure site locations.FindingsStoring emergency supplies at every supply chain facility can be cost‐prohibitive. In addition, gaining access to emergency supplies that are stored at each facility may be prevented by some external events, such as fires or hurricanes, because items stored on‐site are destroyed or are inaccessible. Therefore, the proposed secure site selection process can balance operational effectiveness and cost‐efficiency by identifying the minimum number and possible locations of off‐site storage facilities.Originality/valueOne important contribution of the paper is that it combines recent recommendations for disaster preparedness in supply chains with established models in location sciences research to create an interdisciplinary solution to an important supply chain issue. Even though the storage of important documents, equipment, and materials is only one small part of disaster management planning, it is hoped that this model will do its share in helping supply chains become better prepared for the next emergency.
Evaluation of interventions to prevent gender‐based violence among young female apprentices in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Fawole Olufunmilayo I. , Ajuwon Ademola J. , Osungbade Kayode O. 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis intervention project targeted one vulnerable group, female apprentices in Ibadan, Nigeria, to evaluate the effectiveness of multiple interventions aimed at preventing voilence against women (VAW).Design/methodology/approachA baseline survey was conducted through face‐to‐face interviews with 350 young women recruited from apprenticeship workshops in Ibadan. The interventions consisted of skills training workshops for apprentices (323), sensitization training for the instructors of apprentices (54), police (30) and judicial officers (25) and the development/distribution of educational materials to reduce the incidence of violence. A follow‐up survey was conducted with 203 apprentices after five months of interventions.FindingsImprovements were found at follow‐up with respect to knowledge of types of violence and sexual forms of violence (up from 89.4 to 97 percent) (p<0.05), and appreciation of vulnerability to VAW increased (from 77 to 95 percent) (p<0.05). The prevalence of beating dropped from 65.4 to 23 percent. A significantly greater proportion (p<0.05) of the apprentices reported payment for vocation‐related work (8.9 percent compared with 16.4 percent). Only a slight decline was reported in rape (5.7 to 5.4 percent) and sexual harassment (22.9 and 22.7 percent). The proportion of victims of violence who sought redress increased from 40.2 to 72.7 percent.Research limitations/implicationsThere is a need for more research into interventions that can reduce violence towards women.Practical implicationsInterventions targeted at female apprentices were effective in reducing the prevalence of forms of violence. The data generated may be useful for practitioners and in guiding policymakers on the regulation of activities in the informal sector. There is a need for more intervention programs for this population.Originality/valueThis paper addresses the needs of a marginalized group about a public health problem which is often denied or covered up.
E‐enterprise security management life cycle
Authors: Shih Stephen C. , Wen H. Joseph 
Published: April 2005

PurposeOne of the purposes of this paper is to discuss special security concerns and new challenges at front‐end e‐business and back‐end supply chain operations. An e‐enterprise security management life cycle (eSMLC) is then proposed to ensure the unification and congruity of e‐enterprise security management.Design/methodology/approachTo demonstrate the practicality of the eSMLC, a case study is presented to depict the application and implementation of the methodology at a leading US heating, ventilating, and air‐conditioning manufacturing company.FindingsThe case study substantiates that the eSMLC methodology can be employed as a unified mechanism to provide central, cohesive control and global visibility. It helps security professionals in the company develop practical steps and sustainable solutions for tackling the unique security challenges arising in an open, unbounded e‐enterprise environment.Practical implicationsImplementing eSMLC can help the security specialists focus on different critical security management jobs in a sequential but interrelated and logical manner. Through the use of eSMLC, in‐depth understanding of the potential environmental risks can be properly acquired. The methodology also helps managers perform a proactive analysis of the consequences of security breaches in relation to risks.Originality/valueThe proposed eSMLC methodology provides a viable foundation for building a secure and manageable computing environment using a recommended set of solutions, processes, procedures, and technologies. eSMLC methodology renders a unified, structured framework which helps develop an actual security plan and solutions and/or improve currently used security standards, practices, and configurations in response to special security requirements and long‐term e‐business needs.
A conceptual model for enterprise resource planning (ERP)
Authors: Marnewick Carl , Labuschagne Lessing 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis article seeks to provide a conceptual model that explains the complexity of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to general and project managers in a non‐technical manner that is easily understood.Design/methodology/approachThe 4Ps business model serves as a starting‐point to derive the ERP model because most managers are familiar with it and can therefore relate to it with ease. An ERP system is divided into four major components, namely, the software, the customer mindset, change management, and the flow of processes within it. A fifth component, methodology, encircles these four components to ensure that they are integrated and implemented in an organised manner.FindingsERP is more than just software. Unless a clear understanding exists of the different components and their integration, ERP projects will continue to be plagued by failure. This model is applicable to any ERP system as it is generic and vendor‐independent and helps in determining the scope of an ERP project.Research limitations/implicationsThe suggested model is conceptual in nature and provides a holistic view of ERP. It does not attempt to provide a detailed, step‐by‐step approach for implementing an ERP system.Originality/valueThe conceptual model enables general and project managers to understand ERP systems better without becoming overwhelmed by product or technical detail. This will facilitate the successful implementation of ERP systems, thus ensuring project success and, ultimately, organisational success.
Dimensions of wine region equity and their impact on consumer preferences
Authors: Orth Ulrich R. , McGarry Wolf Marianne , Dodd Tim H. 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThe purpose of the study is to identify dimensions of wine equity in terms of benefits sought by consumers in wine.Design/methodology/approachThis study examines dimensions of wine region equity, measured in terms of benefits sought by consumers in wine. A survey was conducted in several US states to identify drivers of preferences and to determine relationships that may exist between those drivers, preferences for wine from a number of origins, and consumer lifestyles.FindingsThe findings suggest that wine region equity originates in six consumer motivational factors. Quality, price, social acceptance, emotional, environmental value, and humane value were found to be strong and significant predictors of consumer preferences for wine from three US states (California, Oregon, Washington) and six countries (Australia, Chile, France, Italy, New Zealand, Spain). Linking those dimensions of region equity to consumer lifestyle, demographic and behavioral variables allows for tailoring marketing communications strategies closely to markets.Originality/valuePractical applications of this study extend beyond the wine industry and include generalizations for the identification of markets and market segments that react more favorably to specific origins, the identification of equity dimensions to be included in regional umbrella brands, and the identification of lifestyle‐based persuasive communication means and executional cues for specifically targeting selected audiences.
From market entry to new product development in China: Environmental Systems Controls
Authors: Pitta Dennis 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThe paper plans to explore the global environment and its implications for new product developers.Design/methodology/approachThe case was written after in‐depth interviews with company managers.FindingsThe paper provides information and action approaches to new product developers engaged in global marketing.Research limitations/implicationsAs with most case studies, the situation, industry response and results are pertinent to this particular company. There may be limitations in generalizing to other industries or other countries.Practical implicationsThe paper demonstrates a competitive approach to new product development and marketing strategy. It serves as an example of one technique to compete in industrial marketing.Originality/valueThe case reflects an innovative attempt to increase customer service, decrease cost and increase competitiveness in an industrial setting. The specific techniques and decisions represent a potentially valuable response to global competitiveness.
Learning from collaborative new product development projects
Authors: Kleinsmann Maaike , Valkenburg Rianne 
Published: April 2005

PurposeIn an empirical study learning opportunities were identified. Learning opportunities are enablers or disablers for the achievement of shared understanding.Design/methodology/approachActors were interviewed about their communication process. The learning history method was used to analyze and structure the data. From the learning histories learning opportunities were derived. Finally, the learning opportunities were categorized.FindingsLearning opportunities were found on three levels: the actor, project and company level. They were also joined in six themes. Combining these two patterns showed that learning opportunities are interrelated.Research limitations/implicationsThe case study done was retrospective for the actors involved. Therefore, only conclusions could be drawn on the achievement of shared understanding. To be able to say more about the creation of shared understanding, following a NPD project real time would be desirable, in future research.Practical implicationsThis study shows the importance for managers of looking across boundaries. Only solving problems integrally within the organization will help to solve problems successfully. Knowing the learning opportunities of a NPD project finished, will help them to improve future projects. The explicit use of storytelling during a NPD project may help to create a learning organization with shared understanding between the actors.Originality/valuePrevious research showed, shared understanding is important, to be able to manage the integration of different knowledge domains. However, these studies do not describe learning opportunities for the achievement of shared understanding, which was done in this study.
Between policy and practice
Authors: Lindell Mats , Stenström Marja‐Leena 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis study considers the recently established higher vocational education reforms with Swedish advanced vocational education (AVE) and Finnish polytechnics in terms of organisational structure, the design of workplace learning, and furthermore, what kind of practical implications these new models of learning at work have resulted in.Design/methodology/approachThe research strategy includes three main steps. First, a number of domestic research studies, government reports and other policy documents were examined. Secondly, this study brings the most recent national data available. Thirdly, a conceptual framework for cross‐national analysis was developed.FindingsThe results suggest that despite differences which stem from the nations' political, economical and socio‐cultural background, the formal methods engaging educators and representatives of working life are rather similar. However, the general implications are different. While the Swedish AVE has focused more on a principally demand‐led system with de‐centralised planning and design of programmes to fit the specific needs of regional labour markets, the Finnish polytechnics have instead maintained a strong institutional framework, focusing more on research and development issues.Research limitations/implicationsThis study has some methodological considerations that need to be addressed. First, there are differences on the curricular level between the two systems. Secondly, although Swedish and Finnish labour markets have developed along similar patterns in terms of industrial sectors and the emergence of labour unions, and employer associations, differences do exist on how these various representatives view the role of training, as well as their requirements for granting work licences and certificates.Originality/valueProvides evidence that workplace learning can be decided by the complex relationship among the state, labour and capital.
Regions facing their futures
Authors: Godet Michel 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis article aims to treat contemporary economic development from a regional and European perspective.Design/methodology/approachThe article applies a French prospective (foresight) approach to the issues of employment, decentralization, and privatization as an antidote to the usual discussions of governance and globalization.FindingsThe article stresses the need for simple, appropriable methods and questions designed to help groups start futures exercises. It contrasts key concepts such as corporation and region, governance and its popular definitions to show how collective futures exercises are a vector in regional development and a form of participatory democracy. The focus is on the human factor, i.e. local initiatives, which improve regional dynamics and create strong ties. An appendix outlines current French priorities.Originality/valueThe article appeals to local “actors” to look toward the future together in a participatory, proactive process within regional and broader European frameworks.
The use of ICT in rural firms: a policy‐orientated literature review
Authors: Galloway Laura , Mochrie Robbie 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThere is much evidence that information and communication technologies (ICTs) are drivers of economic growth. As a result, government is keen to promote ICT take‐up, particularly where there is economic development need. The rural economy in most countries is regarded as that which requires intervention in order to foster sustainability and development, and there have been many empirical studies of both the value and the use of ICTs in rural areas. These are, however, highly disparate, often being industry‐, country‐ and, indeed, type‐of‐technology‐specific. Aims to draw together the highly eclectic literature on the use of ICTs in rural small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in order to provide an overview of generic issues, relevant to policy.Design/methodology/approachComprises a literature review, based on academic, government and agency publications, and provides commentary on emergent issues, particularly those relating to policy recommendations.FindingsFinds that there is a lag in rural uptake of ICTs and that the reasons for this include both supply and demand failures. From a policy perspective the review notes that intervention is best directed via a multi‐channel approach.Originality/valueThe value of the paper lies in the provision, for the first time, of a coherent review of findings and implications of the many research studies and informed commentaries on ICT up‐take by SMEs, particularly in rural areas, thus providing a more sound basis for understanding the implications for, and informing, those involved in policy intervention and support.
Why Do Some Democratic Countries Join More Intergovernmental Organizations Than Others?*
Authors: Rey Denis , Barkdull John 
Published: April 2005

Objective. This study investigates whether variations in democratic institutions influence foreign policy outcomes. Specifically, it examines whether democracies differ systematically in their inclination to join international organizations.Methods. The study performs negative binomial estimation analysis of the relationship between IGO membership and variations in democratic structure.Results. It finds that a more competitive party system and multiple legislative chambers, especially for wealthy and stable Western democracies, contribute to more IGO memberships.Conclusions. From our findings we infer that consensus democracies adopt a kinder, gentler foreign policy that includes more willingness to participate in multilateral, cooperative international institutions, relying on negotiation and compromise to reach mutually acceptable arrangements for dealing with common problems. This assertion fits with a fundamental Kantian thesis: that the more representative and accountable a society's political institutions are, the more peaceful that society is likely to be.
Black Homeownership: The Role of Temporal Changes and Residential Segregation at the End of the 20th Century*
Authors: Freeman Lance 
Published: April 2005

Objective. This study examines how the odds of a black renter becoming a homeowner changed during the 1990s, considering significant policy changes aimed at dismantling discriminatory barriers to nonwhite homeownership during that time period and various housing‐market characteristics, including the level of residential segregation.Methods. This study uses geocoded data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics and from the 1990 and 2000 Censuses to estimate an event‐history model of transition into homeownership for black Americans.Results. The results of this study suggest that blacks benefited from the changing home‐lending environment and were more likely to become homeowners during the 1990s. These improvements appear to be both absolute and relative to whites. This implies that the policy changes had some success. Nevertheless, blacks were significantly less likely to become homeowners during the study period—even after controlling for a variety of factors known to be associated with homeownership—suggesting that further reforms may be necessary to eradicate disparities in access to homeownership between whites and blacks. The analysis also shows that blacks residing in metro areas with the highest levels of racial isolation were significantly more likely to become homeowners than blacks residing in metro areas with the lowest levels of isolation.Conclusion. The study results show that the policy reforms of the 1990s likely had a salutary effect on black homeownership. The results also suggest that residential segregation matters to black homeownership in complex ways.
Household Composition, Family Migration, and Community Context: Migrant Remittances in Four Countries*
Authors: Sana Mariano , Massey Douglas S. 
Published: April 2005

Objectives. We study migrant remittances among households surveyed in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, testing expectations derived from the new economics of labor migration (NELM) and from the historic‐structural approach.Methods. We applied logistic regression analyses to survey data collected by the Mexican Migration Project and the Latin American Migration Project, focusing on the contrast between Mexico and the Dominican Republic.Results. In Mexico, remittances seem to be associated with the patriarchal traditional family, but in the Dominican Republic we verified the opposite. Receipt of remittances is positively associated with degree of development among Mexican households, but the association is negative in the Dominican Republic. In addition, Mexican remittances are negatively associated with the number of businesses in the local community.Conclusions. In Mexico, as predicted by NELM, the cohesive patriarchal family ensures the flow of remittances as part of a household strategy of risk diversification. Dominican remittances, however, seem to be mostly determined by lack of opportunities and household need.
Horizontal and vertical prism adaptation are different mechanisms
Authors: Brautaset R. L. , Jennings J. A. M. 
Published: April 2005

AbstractAs part of a study on subjects with convergence insufficiency (CI), their vertical and horizontal vergence adaptation was assessed and compared with age matched controls in order to investigate whether the horizontal adaptation system can be regarded as being independent of the vertical adaptation system. Using a flashed Maddox rod technique horizontal vergence adaptation was found to be reduced in CI subjects whereas no difference could be found in vertical adaptation. These results confirm that the vertical and horizontal adaptation systems can be treated as independent mechanisms.