bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The application of a behavioural approach to building evaluation
Authors: Fleming David 
Published: July 2005

PurposeWhilst criticisms of current research methodology and method when assessing the performance of a building can be suggested, no practical or achievable alternatives have been found. It suggests that existing approaches fail to consider the often‐irrational perceptions of humans who inhabit the buildings. This paper proposes a change in both methodology and method when assessing building performance.Design/methodology/approachThe method developed for this research project involved a four‐stage process which was designed to achieve consistency with the methodology. Fundamental to the methodological approach taken and developed in this research is the concept of beta press. The variables used for analysis must be those chosen by participants in the building and not the alpha press variables of non‐participant observers. The method chosen for collection of the participant variables was focus group meetings incorporating a modified Delphi selection exercise. A survey sought information on the occupier's personal working space.FindingsThere are a number of variables that are performing well in terms of matching occupiers' rating of importance and their satisfaction with the subject building. There are also a number of variables where perceived performance exceeds importance. Only where there is a significant difference in the distribution is there an issue to be identified.Research limitations/implicationsFurther research could be to develop this methodological approach to investigate the possibility of correlating the results with investment performance of buildings. This may seek to establish relationships between yields, rent levels and occupancy rates with the perception mapping of the occupants. In the short‐term research of this nature may be used by organisations to better understand the behaviour of their workforce in the work environment. It can isolate issues or clusters of issues that can be addressed and immediate results can be considered.Originality/valueThis research has provided a justification and rationale for an alternative methodological approach to the evaluation of building performance. Previous research in this field has been largely positivist and has not considered a behavioural dimension.
Cost modelling of office buildings in Hong Kong: an exploratory study
Authors: Li Heng , Shen Q.P. , Love Peter E.D. 
Published: July 2005

PurposeThis paper presents a set of step‐wise regression models which can incorporate multiple factors in modelling the costs of office buildings. The models appeared to be more accurate than the traditional method.Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected from historical office building projects, which were then, adjusted using the construction price index. The step‐wise regression was conducted to produce the linear cost models.FindingsSeven RC office buildings and 11 steel office buildings in Hong Kong completed in different years were selected randomly to verify the accuracy of the regression models developed. The data of these buildings were not used in the development of the cost models. The result shows that the variability of percentage difference is ranging from −4.11 per cent (4.11 per cent underestimate) to +2.74 per cent (2.74 per cent overestimate) for RC office buildings. For steel office buildings, it ranges from −6.65 per cent (6.65 per cent underestimate) to +2.78 per cent (2.78 per cent overestimate).Research limitations/implicationsThis study presents a methodology that can be used in cost estimation of office buildings in Hong Kong at early stage of construction project. The regression cost models developed above are based on, in total, historical data of 30 completed office buildings in Hong Kong. The reliability of the cost models can be further improved by including more office buildings to develop the cost models. Furthermore, the application of cost modelling by regression analysis is not limited to office buildings. The same approach can be applied to residential and other non‐residential buildings as well. Regression cost modelling, with sufficient updating for new cost data available, can provide economic, quick and accurate cost estimation at early stage of construction projects. It will become rational guide supplementing judgmental forecast of cost advisors in near future.Originality/valueStep‐wise regression procedure was applied to develop the cost models. Jackknife re‐sampling was carried out and both of the models show stability. Cross‐validation shows that the developed regression models performed satisfactorily. The paper considers that it can provide economic, quick and accurate cost estimation at the early stage of construction project. In addition, the approach of this study can be adopted to develop cost models of other types of buildings in other locations.
An empirical study of TQM practices in Japanese‐owned manufacturers in China
Authors: Miyagawa Masahiro , Yoshida Kosaku 
Published: July 2005

PurposeThe main purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between TQM practices and the business performance of Japanese‐owned manufacturers in China.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, 200 companies out of the universe 1000 were chosen by random sampling in June 2002.FindingsA total of 52 usable questionnaires were received and the overall response rate was 26 percent. The survey results show that TQM practices influence overall company performance significantly in Japanese‐owned manufacturers in China. This implies that TQM is an effective method to improve business performance regardless of where the company might be operating as long as the TQM practices are implemented appropriately. In addition to the research data, findings from a field study also provide supplementary evidence to support this conclusion.Originality/valueThe findings based on the empirical research would be useful to both decision makers and researchers who are interested in this growing “factory of the world”.
3D PCB architecture for next generation high speed interconnections
Authors: Fjelstad Joseph , Grundy Kevin , Yasumura Gary 
Published: July 2005

PurposeTo review the challenges confronting the electronics interconnection industry as it transitions into the gigahertz frequency range and to describe novel prospective solutions designed to circumvent the problems by means of alternative interconnection architectures while remaining within the confines of the existing manufacturing infrastructure.Design/methodology/approachThe paper has been written in a manner so as to provide first a brief review of the history of interconnections as background reference, providing access and understanding to a broader readership of the significance of the area of investigation. From there, the paper describes the problems facing electronic circuit manufactures relative to the serious matter of assuring signal integrity of high speed interconnections. It then goes on to describe a general class of prospective solutions, which can be implemented through simple architectural changes in design and manufacture. Finally, the paper describes a prototype system which was fabricated using the concepts and the first‐order findings are provided.FindingsFrom operation of the prototype system, it was found that the concepts, relative to PCB architectural changes prescribed in the paper are capable of delivering performance levels beyond what is accepted when using traditional interconnection modalities. The 10 Gbps backplane prototype has proved capable of sending a 100 mV peak‐to‐peak signal a distance of 75 cm through a two wire single differential pair which pass through two industry standard connectors. The signal generated has a ∼65 percent margin indicating it could go much further and determining the limits an object of future study. The modulation is standard NRZ. With only two wires there was no cross talk in the system, however, the next stage of investigation will consist of a multi‐device assembly to see what cross talk effect there might be, if any.Originality/valueThe chief value of the paper resides in its disclosure of novel approaches to electronic interconnection involving simple changes in circuit architectural structures which extend the signal performance limits of copper interconnections, well beyond present consensus expectations of industry. Moreover, the paper provides first experimental results of the technology in actual operation as proof of concept.
Digital printing for printed circuit boards
Authors: Scott John G.V. 
Published: July 2005

PurposeTo review opportunities for use of digital printing in the printed circuit board (PCB) industry and to introduce background to ink jet printing, process development and applications in order to reduce costs, enhance efficiency and to enable PCB producers to operate in a more sustainable and flexible manner.Design/methodology/approachThis paper has been written to provide a review of ink jet printing applications in the PCB industry. Ink jet print technology background, ink development and the processes made possible by ink and print head improvements have been described together with a description of the benefits available through digital printing.FindingsIt was found that there have been significant developments over recent years in both hardware technology (print heads and accurate print platforms) as well as improvements in the design of inks both for ink jet print performance and functional characteristics. These improvements have been integrated to provide an exciting new technology which can be applied in the manufacture of PCBs to reduce manufacturing costs and increase flexibility of manufacture.Originality/valueThe value of the paper lies in its ability to provide information on the scope of opportunities for ink jet printing in the PCB manufacturing process through the use of a range of new inks having specific properties. The design and development of highly accurate machinery provides the opportunity to attain the desired print resolution.
Code of ethics and employee governance
Authors: McNutt Patrick A. , Batho Charlie A. 
Published: July 2005

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to add to the debate on governance and, second, to describe a value set theory of the firm.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology has centred on good governance amongst employees – management and workers alike.FindingsIt is noted that committees are appointed in firms to ensure that good governance is practised across a range of issues to do with audit, remuneration and appointment. However, the debate on governance has largely overlooked the importance of good governance amongst all employees. It was found that governance at the employee level requires a code of ethics that is not just about right and wrong, but emphasises a contractual sense of duty to fellow employees as stakeholders in the firm. This defines the essence of obligation and duty within the stakeholder firm, the s‐firm.Practical implications/limitationsOne practical implication of the paper is that the practice of good governance at the employee level should begin by asking whether the employees as rational individuals in a state of nature would freely have agreed to the contract or work arrangement within the firm that obligates them to do X. A value set theory of the firm could assist employees by allocating responsibilities among all employees in such a way as to maximise joint effort.Originality/valueThe paper proffers a new approach to understanding governance and it concludes that every rational being is in the state of being an end in itself – a firm should teach people morality. An s‐firm teaches people morality. This is the quintessence of employee governance. The paper should be of value to shareholders, workers, management, trade unions and commentators on the theory of the firm.
Thomas Hobbes and the displacement of political philosophy
Authors: Vinnicombe Thea 
Published: July 2005

PurposeThis paper aims to demonstrate the pivotal role played by Thomas Hobbes in the displacement of political philosophy by economic science.Design/methodology/approachThe focus of the paper is an analysis of Hobbes' most clear and accessible work, The Leviathan.FindingsThe paper shows that Hobbes was the first not only to enunciate comprehensively a mechanistic understanding of man as matter in motion but also, more importantly, to infer from this the logical conclusion that the only end for human kind is the preservation of the matter which the human race comprises. Economic science, being the science of material preservation, necessarily becomes, therefore, the true science of man and Hobbes the first political economist[1].Originality/valueHobbes' application of the methodology of mathematics to analysing human behaviour was not unique. What is original in his writings, and not clearly recognized in the literature on the history of economic thought, is the clear link made by Hobbes between this adaptation and its logical consequence in the science of material production (or economics) as the true science of man.
Farmer strategies and forest conservation: a case study from south‐western Madagascar
Authors: Casse Thorkil , Nielsen Uffe , Ranaivoson Socrate , Romuald Randrianamarivo Jean 
Published: July 2005

PurposeThis paper seeks to evaluate different approaches to forest conservation in the areas outside the national parks of south‐western Madagascar.Design/methodology/approachData from a household survey in the area are employed to analyse farmer strategies towards conservation of local forest resources, and present conservation strategies are evaluated in this light.FindingsIt is argued that the prospects for future forest conservation in the area are dim at best, and that any policy proposal intended to remedy this situation must as a first priority establish alternative livelihood opportunities for the local population in order to ensure a minimum of incentives for conservation on their behalf.Originality/valueThe paper is of value to all those interested or involved with sustainability issues.
A model of human behaviour for sustainability
Authors: Zabel Hans‐Ulrich 
Published: July 2005

PurposeThe paper aims to explicate the systematic creation of social and ecological scarcities within an absolutely monetised economy and derives the necessity to change the “rules of the game” for doing business towards sustainability. Therefore, a model of human behaviour is developed to explain, on the one hand, sustainability‐hostile behaviour and to contribute to sustainability‐supporting behaviour and “rules of the game” in dynamic interactions, on the other hand.Design/methodology/approachA model of human behaviour is developed, integrating socio‐scientific insights as well as socio‐biological and evolutionary‐psychological findings. The emergence of human behaviour is conceptualised as an interactive process using the theory of nested control loops including constructivist impulses.FindingsHuman behaviour is regarded as the result of three constituting components: cultural shaping (cultural artefacts, education, socialization, enculturation), genetic predisposition (pattern recognition based on instincts, needs, drives, etc.), and situational correctives. These components are connected and interlinked in an “inner model” with the help of four feedback loops (constructivist feedback loop, emergency and reflex feedback loop, interaction feedback loop, and adaptation feedback loop) in the unity of eco‐ and psychosphere.Research limitations/implicationsThe developed model of behaviour offers a relatively high degree of abstraction. Further research should consider in detail the constituting components of the model and scrutinise the underlying presumptions and conclusions.Practical implicationsConclusions arise for designing institutional arrangements, on the one hand, and management approaches and dialogue forms for shaping work processes in the dynamic interaction of individuals and institutions (companies and their units, NGOs, financial institutions, insurance companies, public authorities, etc.), on the other hand.Originality/valueBecause of the cybernetic interlock of the three constituting impulses for human behaviour cultural factors, genetic predispositions, and situational influences, the presented model provides possibilities to explain sustainability‐hostile as well as sustainability‐supporting behaviour within the dynamic interaction of individuals and institutions. The target group includes social scientists and economists as well as managers and persons with practical experience in business and politics.
Co‐sizing of an electromechanical device by using optimisation process
Authors: Ammar I. , Gerbaud L. , Marin Ph. R. , Wurtz F. 
Published: July 2005

PurposeThis paper deals with the collaborative design of electromagnetic devices over the internet network. The design is made by both mechanical and electrical engineers. So, the paper tries to show the importance but also constraints to size such a system using a collaborative optimisation process.Design/methodology/approachThe paper compares two approaches in order to size an electromechanical actuator between mechanical and electrical engineers. In the first one, each profession designs its part, and only common constrained are negotiated. This can result in a design process with many iterations. In the second one, electrical and mechanical engineers built together a common model of the structure and a common list of specifications: this allows a global optimisation that is more efficient.FindingsThe main result of the paper is that the second approach in which a global model is built between electrical and mechanical engineers is more efficient.Originality/valueThe originality of the paper is to explore the problems and difficulties of an optimisation of an electromechanical device between engineers of different culture working together over the internet network.
Philosophy of information and messages in DNA
Authors: Andrew Alex M. 
Published: July 2005

PurposeA recent discussion on the CybCom discussion list is reviewed, making a comparison of views of information due to Bateson and Shannon. The discussion extends to theories involving cellular automata and their relationship, as well as that of mathematics in general, to the real world. A recent suggestion that messages from extraterrestrials may be coded in DNA is discussed.Design/methodology/approachThe aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.FindingsThe discussion is essentially philosophical and thought‐provoking.Practical implicationsA passing reference is made to methods for pattern recognition, and to the Bremermann limit with its bearing on ultimate computing capability. Attitudes to information exchange have a bearing on sociological theories, and behaviour of cellular automata is claimed to model communication between bacteria. The final note on extraterrestrial communication via DNA may redirect activity in the search for such communication and is evidence of an increasingly liberal attitude to scientific publication.Originality/valueIt is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.
Dynamic analysis of a production‐inventory model
Authors: Wikner Joakim 
Published: July 2005

PurposeA production‐inventory system based on a model proposed by Axsäter is examined with the purpose of understanding the dynamic properties of the model.Design/methodology/approachThe information flow concept is discussed and a dynamic analysis using a system simplification approach is carried out to achieve an understanding of the dynamic behaviour of the system. Finally, the information flow is examined and analysed from a hierarchical perspective.FindingsThe model is extended to include an order decision rule and a production unit and it is shown that the extended model has the capability to represent the dynamics of a number of different system management principles. The three different model instances of base stock, kanban and material requirements planning character are analysed.Originality/valueDynamic modelling of production‐inventory and supply chain models are usually analysed at an aggregate level not involving any complex relations of materials or capacities. In this paper, this line of research is merged with an approach based on multiple information channels using matrix representation and it is shown how a system simplification approach can be used for this purpose.
Store visits and information sources among urban Chinese children
Authors: Chan Kara 
Published: July 2005

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to examine how often urban children in mainland China interact with different types of retail shops, how they learn about new products and services, and their attitudes toward different sources of product information.Design/methodology/approachA survey of 965 urban children ages six to 13 in four Chinese cities, including Beijing, Guangzhou, Nanjing and Shanghai, was conducted in November 2003 to May 2004. Questionnaires were distributed through eight elementary schools and local researchers were appointed to administer the data collection.FindingsThe three most popular retail shops among urban Chinese children were bookstores/stationery stores, supermarkets, and restaurants and fast food shops. Store visits and consumption varied greatly with age and gender. Generally speaking, urban children perceived personal sources as useful as, and more credible than commercial sources in obtaining information about new products and services. Older children found commercial sources more useful and credible than younger children. Older children also found more information sources useful than younger children.Research limitations/implicationsThree of the four surveyed cities were highly advanced in terms of economical and advertising development when compared with all other Chinese cities.Practical implicationsA very useful advice for marketers and advertisers to select the right type of retail outlets and media to reach urban Chinese children. Internet and children's print media can be good potential media for promotion.Originality/valueThis paper offers insight to design retail and media strategies to disseminate new product information to urban children in China.
Determinants of multiple channel choice in financial services: an environmental uncertainty model
Authors: Coelho Filipe , Easingwood Chris 
Published: July 2005

PurposeThe use of multiple channels is increasingly an option for many products. Yet, despite their popularity, little is known in a systematic way about such channel structures. In particular, there is a lack of research in respect of the reasons why multiple channels of distribution emerge. This work proposes to attempt to deal with this problem by developing and testing a model comprising a set of hypotheses regarding the circumstances under which companies go multi‐channel.Design/methodology/approachThe work draws on the organisational environment literature and, in particular, the sources of environmental uncertainty. Data were collected from firms in the UK financial services industry through personally administered questionnaires. Research hypotheses were tested using logistic regression.FindingsThe results suggest that customer heterogeneity, customer volatility and environmental conflict positively influence the choice of multiple channels, whereas intermediary heterogeneity and volatility may reduce the need to use such channel strategies.Research limitations/implicationsThe extent to which results can be generalised is limited by the relatively small sample size and by the focus on financial services. Additionally, it is also possible that channel typologies other than that considered in this study might have yielded different results.Practical implicationsThe degree of environmental uncertainty is an important issue affecting multiple channel choices, and should be considered at the channel design stage.Originality/valueThis study has helped understand the drivers of multiple channel strategies, a poorly understood topic.