ALBERT

Notes: Purpose - This article aims to show how communities with severe river flooding can develop sustainable flood plans that remediate environmental problems caused by previous river straightening and other structural flood controls. Design/methodology/approach - The article builds on a case study of the nationally recognized Napa River Flood Protection Project (USA), which incorporates an ecological living river strategy and builds on strong community participation to restore a river and its floodplain. After discussing the drawbacks of structural flood control measures, and especially of river straightening, reviews the contents of the Napa Flood Project and the public participation process necessary for its design, approval and implementation. Findings - The key lessons learned from Napa's flood project are that: undoing past structural works is difficult but feasible; ecological criteria can and should be used to design modern flood projects; involvement of a wide and diverse group of stakeholders is crucial to developing and implementing an environmentally sustainable flood management project; and the US Army Corps of Engineers can work with communities and depart from its typical, structural flood control approaches. Research limitations/implications - Information on straightened rivers is extremely limited. Furthermore, this study focuses on flood planning for US rivers, and may therefore be less useful elsewhere in the world where the frequency of river straightening may differ. Originality/value - This case study provides a critique on river straightening, which is a poorly documented but fairly frequent approach to flood control. This article helps to fill gaps in the knowledge of how communities can, and are, addressing environmental concerns associated with flood controls and river straightening.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to investigate the safety practices in some selected agro-allied industries in south-western Nigeria with a view to analysing the degree of safety awareness; adequacy of safety equipment; extent of enforcing safety rules; effectiveness of safety-related activities and economics of safety programme. Design/methodology/approach - A case study method of investigation, field study guidelines and binary variable were used and information gathered from 36 industries was documented. The data collected were analysed using mean, percentage and standard mathematical models. The analyses carried out on the data gathered are presented on the following: occurrence of accidents, causes of accidents, damages resulting from accidents, accident prevention activities and economic implications. Findings - Three classes of accidents are identified as fatal, serious, and minor. The results showed that minor accident has the highest frequency of occurrence of 304, while fatal accident has the least frequency of occurrence of 17. However, serious accident has the greatest economic implication, accounting for annual average loss of $4.97 millions. Also, nine causes of accidents are identified, out of which faulty equipment is common to all industries. And eight accident prevention activities are identified, amongst which standard operating procedure, good housekeeping and on-the-job training are commonly being practised, while provision of safety handbook and policy is least practised. Originality/value - This paper has described the safety practices in 15 agro-allied industries with an organised safety programme in South Western Nigeria. The study has investigated the extent of enforcement of safety rules; safety awareness; and economic implication of accidents from this sector for the national economy.

Notes: Purpose - The following conceptual exposition is presented in light of the growing number of scholars who indicate need for a comprehensive and coherent approach to disaster reduction, while practitioners seem to be continually faced with dynamic and seemingly contradictory goals and strategies. Design/methodology/approach - This article reviews arguments from an assorted collection of literature in order to increase theoretical understanding of disasters and attempts to integrate various concepts, paradigms and policy proposals. Findings - The discussion points out the strengths and weaknesses of alternative viewpoints about disasters, and suggests that a broad conceptualization of vulnerability may be best suited to assimilate findings for academia and simplify policy guidance for professionals in the field. Research limitations/implications - Because this is a cursory exploration of the casting of vulnerability management in terms of liability reduction and capacity building, additional research on the matter will undoubtedly be needed. Nonetheless, it is hoped that this article may pull together diverse academic frameworks, in order to avert recurring mistakes among those designing and implementing policy. Originality/value - By updating the author's prior work in this area with additional considerations regarding the natural hazards, civil defense, risk management and homeland security schools, this article may be useful for scholars and practitioners interested in reversing the trend of more frequent and intense disasters.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to review research findings on the effects of a variety of disasters, including the events of 9/11, on the general public and members of organizations. Design/methodology/approach - A literature search was undertaken. Three areas were targeted: impact on public attitudes and morale, on organizations and human resource management, and on organizational resilience. Findings - Four conclusions were drawn. First, disasters such as 9/11 have immediate negative effects on emotions and behaviors. Second, with the passage of time these effects dissipate for most people. Third, organizations directly affected by 9/11 immediately stopped functioning. Fourth, fortunately many of these firms bounced back surprisingly quickly. Research limitations/implications - Relatively little research has been conducted on the effects of 9/11, limiting our understanding of it. Practical implications - The people in these resilient firms, those more directly affected by the terrorist attacks, made the difference. Human resource management practices and cultural values already in place were the key factors in bringing about a speedy recovery. These factors can also be developed in other organizations as a precaution. Originality/value - This paper explores important yet still under-researched areas of management and organizational responses to terrorism.

Notes: Purpose - Proposes to analyze known case studies of information systems failure. Design/methodology/approach - Uses the organizational failure diagnosis model. Findings - Finds that there is the need to assess the organization's "health" prior to information systems development and to raise the organization's actual capacity for systems development to the necessary levels for success. Originality/value - Previous studying of these cases has underplayed the role of technical problems as the surface manifestations of deeper-rooted organizational pathologies causing the failure. The usefulness of the organizational failure diagnosis model is shown in recognizing these deeper-rooted issues and a number of suggestions are made for the prevention of failure.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to review the changes made to civil protection in the UK, both legislative and capacity building, that aim to make the UK more resilient. Design/methodology/approach - Reviews the background to changes in UK civil protection and compares these with the work being done by the broader disaster management community on the meaning and development of resilience to a range of threats. Findings - Finds that the UK approach has been deflected by the terrorist attack of 11 September 2001 and is clearly focused on organisational resilience. This top-down approach does not augur well in terms of promoting a more resilient society. The paper also questions if it is time to take a broader view of what constitutes an emergency. Originality/value - The recent changes in UK civil protection are in many ways welcome. But the promotion of more resilient communities requires a bottom-up as opposed to a top-down approach. Government funding is aimed mainly at institutional resilience. This raises the question of how to promote a broader agenda of more resilient societies able to respond to a broad range of threats.

Notes: Purpose - It is observed that the slow onslaught disasters do not normally catch media attention as these often do not result in human casualties. Inadequate media attention results in insufficient rehabilitation support for the victims. The paper aims at highlighting the problem of ground subsidence in the Himalayan terrain together with the hardships of the victims. Design/methodology/approach - The paper is based on the detailed field investigations carried out by the author in the remote Himalayan habitations of Garbyang in Dharchula block of Pithoragarh, Talla Dhumar and Umli-Bhandarigaon in Munsyari block of Pithoragarh and Bagi in Uttarkashi district in the state of Uttaranchal in India. All these habitations are being affected by ground subsidence and the inhabitants of these villages are facing severe resource crisis. Findings - Garbyang village in Central Himalaya is observed to be situated over the varve deposits laid down in the proglacial lake abutting against Chialekh ridge and is witnessing the problem of ground subsidence resulting in the destruction of the once thriving and prosperous habitation. The studies relate the subsidence at Garbyang with the seismicity in the region as also the subsequent toe erosion and downslope mass movement. The other sites discussed in the paper are witnessing the problem of ground subsidence due to the active toe erosion by rivers and streams. Research limitations/implications - There exist no records of the exact date of initiation of the ground subsidence in the investigated areas and these are grossly based on the information provided by the village elders. Originality/value - The article would help in making the disaster managers responsive to the problems the masses are facing due to ground subsidence in this fragile zone and this would result in mustering resources for reducing the hardships of the masses.

Notes: Purpose - To highlight the failure of the tsunami early warning system and the challenges of successfully responding to, and managing a transnational catastrophe of this nature. The paper also highlights unique challenges in the management of this catastrophe and suggests potential strategies for good disaster response and management in this response and beyond. Design/methodology/approach - Primary data collection was by telephone interviews with experts in the South and South-East Asian region, supplemented by a comprehensive literature review of scholarly journals, reports from relief agencies and United Nations situation reports and bulletins amongst others. The scope of the paper is limited to the issue of a warning not been passed onto appropriate authorities in the region, the unique challenges of the relief response and the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the affected communities. Findings - From the study, there is a need for further investigation into the catastrophic warning failure; as reasons proffered by the early warning officials for their inability to pass on a warning to authorities in the affected area appear weak at this stage. The study also found unique geographical, political, economic and social challenges facing the international relief and reconstruction effort. Specifically some of the challenges include the management of the media and information, logistics and coordination, needs and damage assessment, donations and safety and security issues amongst others. In summary, the author found that there is also a need for foreign assistance agencies to be seen to be fair, to build trust and ownership of relief and reconstruction efforts amongst the local populace, as well as use local people as much as possible. Research limitations/implications - The study was conducted only 21 days (three weeks) after the tsunami catastrophe of 26 December 2004, hence it is a snapshot of events in the days immediately after the catastrophe. The relief action is an on-going event and there may be changes as new information emerges from the field. Practical implications - A world wide network of integrated submarine earthquake and tsunami monitoring and early warning system should be set up. Critical warning information in any potential disaster should be shared as inclusively as possible. Relief workers must be seen to be politically and religiously neutral, especially in the civil conflicts of Banda Aceh Indonesia. Finally relief and aid should be given on the basis of sound humanitarian principles such as need, not just on wider economic criteria. Originality/value - The study highlights specific potential challenges which relief organisations must deal with in responding effectively to the disaster, and in assisting to reconstruct the region. The paper proffers specific strategies for effective management of the international assistance effort. Finally, the study adds to the literature on developing countries and is valuable for governments, emergency and relief workers, policy makers in both developed and developing countries.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to initiate a conversation within the disaster community about the applicability of "critical reflection" to the professional work of firefighters. "Critical reflection" is a term commonly used within the nursing and teaching professions. Although it has contested meanings, it generally conveys the sense of purposeful enquiry about one's professional conduct, ethics and decision making. Fire fighting labor is no longer blue collar, and firefighters in western fire fighting agencies require increasingly complex capabilities and accountabilities. Could "critical reflection" be added to post-incident debrief as a core professional capability? Design/methodology/approach - The paper draws on the concept of "critical reflection" as it has been developed within the professional fields of nursing and teaching. It then considers the applicability of and importance of this concept to the professional field of firefighting. Findings - The meanings and applications of "critical reflection" vary, but the inclusion of dialogue about it exists within many nurse and teacher education courses. It can be argued to provide professionals with an opportunity to engage in dialogue about their labor, and thereby scrutinise their professional conduct and the ethical dilemmas of their work. Practical implications - This paper calls for a paradigmatic shift in the approach taken by educators who work with firefighters. It argues that instructional methods based on rote learning, chalk and talk, and show and tell training are insufficient as a means of developing firefighters capable of responding and adapting to the complex demands implicit within increasingly professionalized firefighting labor. Future firefighters will need to be adaptive, reflective and accountable; able to demonstrate discursive and inquisitive capabilities; and engage in reflected actions both on and off the incident ground. Originality/value - High originality. This is the first time the intellectual traditions and debates implicit within "critical reflection" have been linked to the work of firefighters.

Notes: Purpose - Given the widespread lack of homogeneity, consistency and quality control in emergency planning, this paper sets out to offer some suggestions, guidelines and models for the processes of drawing up, testing, revising and utilising an emergency plan. Design/methodology/approach - The paper considers some definitions of the term "standard" and discussing the utility of the concept with respect to emergency planning. The subsequent analysis is based on the application of logical and observational criteria to the process of systematically building a framework on which to base a planning standard. Findings - The paper enumerates 18 principles that can be used to judge the quality of emergency plans. The principles are treated as basic criteria to be used when formulating a standard. Next, the paper reviews existing standards in civil protection, risk management, emergency preparedness and humanitarian relief. After a brief discussion of the consultative process used in preparing an instrument for measuring quality, the paper presents a draft standard for an emergency plan. This is broadly focused on the local authority level and on the generic, "all-hazards" approach. Finally, the paper describes a category-based methodology for applying the standard. Research limitations/implications - Standards may be viewed as unnecessarily restrictive and overly prescriptive. However, they can instead be regarded as a useful means of helping to guarantee the quality, content and relevance of plans. Practical implications - The application of a standard to the emergency planning process will help to make plans more functional and relevant and will ensure that their content is adequate for the task of predisposing resources during emergencies. It will also guarantee compatibility between plans made for different purposes or jurisdictions. Originality/value - As few model standards exist in emergency management and planning, this paper offers one of the first attempts to provide a set of generic, comprehensive guidelines for the process of creating, testing, using and revising plans.

Notes: Purpose - To develop a decision model supporting employee involvement in industrial vulnerability reduction. Design/methodology/approach - A synthesis review of some of the relevant extant literature on technological/industrial vulnerability, and their application within a normative decision-making model (i.e. the "Vroom-Yetton model"). Findings - The insights on vulnerability drawn from the literature are highly amenable to a systematic decision-making model for employee involvement. Various aspects of vulnerability, specifically with regard to substantial, social and temporal dimensions may be included in such a model. Research limitations/implications - New insights about the context-dependent aspects of vulnerability are offered by considering these within a contingency decision model. This suggests that vulnerability categories are not absolute, but have to be assessed in relation to a specific decision-making framework. Practical implications - The developed model provides a way of weighting various dimensions of vulnerability and making more appropriate decisions regarding leadership style in a range of circumstances. Originality/value - While decision models exist for assessing risk in organizations, no contingency model for employee involvement in vulnerability assessment has been presented to date.

Notes: Purpose - Over the past 50 years India has been experiencing rapid population growth, causing the migration of a large part of the population to the cities looking for livelihood. This resulted in massive increments of population in the cities that has led to the increase of pollution. Gujarat, being a highly industrialized state, is a case in point. The systems for treatment and water disposal of this state are highly challenged. The north-western state of Gujarat has no effective systems for treatment or disposal of waste water. The purpose of this article is to address this problem, introducing a geographic information system (GIS) approach to record the characterization, analyze the needs and generate a conceptual GIS database in the state. Design/methodology/approach - This paper outlines the background, suggested methodology for the development of a GIS database pollution dependent control of water pollution in the state of Gujarat in India. The present research is to install a document management system that has been developed in providing organizing chart, sorting, querying and retrieving of key data. A computerized laboratory information system on monitoring of quality of ambient air has been developed. Findings - An integrated GIS database has been generated involving creation of pollutant contours, querying and visualizing the query output in spatial and non-spatial form. Originality/value - The authors have created a complete geo-spatial database for the environmental monitoring for the whole state of Gujarat. They have dealt with nearly 36,000 different files from different sources and put them together to create the database. A computerized laboratory information system on monitoring of quality of ambient air has been developed. Front-end application programs have been developed in Visual Basic and the back-end database to integrate the laboratory data and the existing data in oracle database.

Notes: Purpose - Many villages in the vicinity of the hill township of Mussorie in the Indian Himalayas are witnessing signs of an impending disaster. These villages are witnessing active wastage that might take an heavy toll of human interest during the monsoon season and therefore the paper proposes examining this subject. Design/methodology/approach - A detailed study was undertaken in the area of Mussorie. Findings - It is suggested that a series of prevention and mitigation measures (both structural and non-structural) with the involvement of the local community are required for ruling out the possibility of any mishap in the area. Originality/value - This paper highlights the importance of having a disaster management strategies for the region and involving the community with these.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to present a new approach in viewing the control of safety at crude oil exploration platforms. Design/methodology/approach - The approach utilized in this work is the fusion of artificial neural network and fuzzy logic. The approach is adopted in view of the better presentation of solutions to the safety control problem that neuro-fuzzy exhibits. It is better than the individual application of either artificial neural network or fuzz logic to the problem at hand. The model captures uncertainties and imprecision that are prevalent in the quantification or data gathering stage of safety control measurement. Findings - It was demonstrated that the application of neuro-fuzzy is feasible. The results seem applicable to similar settings with similar system characteristics. Practical implications - Since more confidence is obtained with the use of this more effective tool, there is improvement in decision making based on reliance on the model. Thus, the improved quality of decision made would positively affect lives of workers at the oil platforms or the materials or equipment used for exploration purposes. Originality/value - The work is original in that it is the first time the neuro-fuzzy methodology would be applied to offshore oil platform safety control.

Notes: Purpose - To follow the modern movement of using "positive feedback" to explain companies' behaviour with special focus on historical accidents. Design/methodology/approach - To contribute to the emergence of new complexity theory as applied to management and prove that historical accidents matter, combining and bringing together literature sources. Findings - The concept of unique equilibrium has been seriously disputed - the selection process is shown, as is the path dependent process using probability theory. Practical implications - A location theory as case study is outlined - great for those fond of unique equilibrium. Originality/value - To show another theory, which is dynamic, non-linear, and complex as reality; to apply it to management underlying at the same time the role of historical accidents (random process).

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to consider the analysis of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks provided by the US National Commission on Terrorist Attacks upon the USA from the points of view of behavior analysis and systems analysis. The 9/11 Commission provides a detailed and provocative account of the structural flaws in the US security systems that enabled the 9/11 terrorists to completely subvert efforts to detect and prevent their attack. This paper considers the role of private-sector organizations in prevention of future attacks. Design/methodology/approach - This conceptual/theoretical paper explores how understanding verbal networks and the nature of verbal rules might contribute to understanding the issues involved in re-engineering work cultures in the face of continued terrorist threats. Findings - An understanding of verbal networks and ambiguous communications aids the re-design of management systems and emergency response processes so that adaptive organizational responses to terrorist threats are enabled. Originality/value - Private-sector leaders might conduct behavioral systems analyses and probe the limitations of their operations and seek to detect weak points and create contingencies that sustain more effective security and emergency response repertoires.

Notes: Purpose - The primary aim of this research is to investigate the application of open source geographic information system software, geographical resources analysis support system (GRASS) for landslide hazard assessment. Design/methodology/approach - Five parameters affecting landslide occurrence derived from topographical, geological and land use maps of Cameron highland were used for the assessment. Findings - The results showed that about 93 percent of the study area falls under zone II that is of low hazard, with less than 7 percent on zone III with moderate hazard and only less than 1 percent falls under zone IV, which is of high hazard. Research limitations/implications - The accuracy of the landslide hazard map needs to be assessed by cross-correlation with landslide occurrence in the field. Practical implications - The map produced showed the potential application of GRASS as a tool for producing landslide hazard assessment map. Originality/value - The major outcome of this research is the possible use of open source GIS software in the application of landslide hazard assessment. The capability of GRASS in performing such environmental assessment will certainly attract many researchers and organizations with limited budgets, especially in developing countries such as Malaysia.

Notes: Purpose - Maintaining a high level of situation awareness (SA) is considered one of the most essential elements for safe and effective flight operations. In a study of accidents among major air carriers, 88 per cent of those involving human error could be attributed to problems with SA. In complex domains such as aviation, SA is inherently distributed over multiple people and groups and over human and machine agents. The purpose of this paper is to present an alternative perspective to the hegemony of the cognitive approach to SA that focuses on the systemic nature of SA. Design/methodology/approach - An alternative approach to the hegemony of the cognitive perspective of SA has been presented, that focuses on a systemic or holistic conceptualisation of SA through the application of Somerville's actor network theory (ANT). By advocating a seamless web composed of actors, the actor network approach dissolves the dichotomous relationship between humans and machines and society and technology into a non-anthropocentric framework. This paper further develops this systemic perspective of SA through an analysis of the tragic 2002 mid-air collision over Überlingen, Germany case study. Findings - The application of ANT to this case study brings to light some insights with wide ranging consequences for how we think of SA and accident aetiology. Practical implications - The systemic perspective of SA has far-reaching design implications with regard to complex socio-technical systems. Originality/value - This paper facilitates the perspective that looks at the inter-connectedness of the heterogeneous elements characterized by the technological and non-technological (human, social, organizational, political) elements of complex socio-technical systems.

Notes: Purpose - Aims to report the key results and learnings of a pilot test of an ISO-based integrated management systems approach to security, environmental, health, and safely (SEH&S) at one industry site in the USA. Design/methodology/approach - First, the rationale for and brief overview of a five-step integrated SEH&S management systems approach is presented. Second, a descriptive reporting of the process, results, and implications of the initial steps of the integrated SEH&S approach at a water and sanitation district in the USA is provided. Findings - Provides a description of the process of how an integrated SEH&S approach is implemented and reports results such as the following. First, the major vulnerabilities and risks associated with the water district's major infrastructure assets are assessed. Second, the various risks are evaluated, prioritized, and ranked in terms of their security and environmental, health and safety (EH&S) aspects. Third, recommendations are offered to mitigate major vulnerabilities. Finally, an overall assessment of the applicability of the integrated SEH&S approach to security and risk management is presented. Research limitations/implications - The study was conducted in one organization and involved only the first portion of the proposed integrated SEH&S management system approach. Originality/value - This manuscript should inform executives and managers of the SEH&S functions concerning how their organizations can use the newly proposed integrated approach to address both security and overall organizational risks in a more comprehensive and cost-effective manner.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to deal with disaster and recovery systems, introducing the catastrophe matrix as a disaster-preventing tool. Design/methodology/approach - A new model is proposed which is proved to be a classical assignment problem. It is solved based on well-known optimization methods. Research is presented for the danger risk of the system and a fully automated recovery system with a minimum cost is presented. Findings - Research accepts the fact that a catastrophe has already been activated on the system. Research limitations/implications - The difficulty of solving the proposed model of the threat and countermeasures still remains. Originality/value - The proposed models show a new original way to confront dangers and overcome the existing classical models based on risk management.

Notes: Purpose - This paper seeks to review the geophysical threats generated by volcanic activity and reports on the technological and social management techniques available to counter those threats. Design/methodology/approach - The information presented was derived from a review of case studies of response to volcanic eruptions in the USA, Europe and Japan. The studies reviewed included both technical papers from geologists and volcanologists and research by social scientists. Findings - The unique relationship between human settlements and volcanoes was described. This was done in the context of special features of volcanic hazards that set them apart from other natural hazards: time frame, multiple impacts, magnitude of destructive potential and predictability. Based on pairing geophysical threats with human safety concerns, three critical social management techniques were described: public education, access controls and evacuation systems. The social science and geophysical principles that underlie the effectiveness of these techniques are described. Practical implications - The review brings together the results of numerous case studies over the years and highlights the hazard management issues that were common across them. Then, with respect to each of the techniques identified, a critique of issues associated with implementation was conducted that draws upon both the geophysical literature and social science literature. In particular, patterns of citizen resistance to public education, access controls and evacuation are described and approaches to implementation that minimize such resistance are suggested. Originality/value - There are many discussions in the geophysics literature of the types and nature of volcanic eruptive behavior. In the social science literature there are discussions of public education strategies for hazards, controlling access to dangerous locations and evacuation systems. This paper pairs geophysical threats with appropriate techniques for protecting populations, specifically within the unique context of volcanic eruptions. There is also discussion of common problems that have arisen when the different techniques have been used in the past and suggestions for ways to avoid those problems. The paper is aimed at professional emergency managers and planners who are faced with managing dangers to populations from volcanicity.

Notes: Purpose - Survival strategy of the masses has led to the evolution of area-specific, locally pertinent and effective ways of mitigating natural disasters. This vital knowledge base is, however, often ignored and is being fast eroded. The paper aims at highlighting the relevance of these practices that put forth most cost-effective and acceptable means of mitigating disasters. Design/methodology/approach - The paper is based on the extensive field studies and in-depth probe of the traditional resource management practices of the people of the remote Himalayan terrain by the author and it reflects his belief in the acumen of the masses. Findings - The paper discusses the relevance of the various disaster management practices of the region. During the course of their habitation in the disaster-prone Himalayan terrain the indigenous people through experience, experimentation and accumulated knowledge devised ways of reducing their vulnerability to natural hazards. Studies show that their understanding was fairly evolved in the areas of earthquake, landslide and drought management and had devised efficient ways of mitigating the effects of these. Research limitations/implications - The paper reflects the author's individual understanding and interpretation of the practices based on his interactions with the masses. Practical implications - Improvisation on the traditional practices of disaster management has a major role to play in putting forth cost-effective and sustainable means of shielding the community against the impact of natural disasters. This article puts forth an alternative approach of interpreting the traditional practices of the masses and would lead to appropriate innovations for better disaster management in the region. Originality/value - This paper represents a useful attempt to reinforce the importance of local knowledge in mitigating natural disasters, which is often ignored and is quick to erode.

Notes: Purpose - Aims to bring attention to the problems faced by rural Bangladeshis. Several objectives for the paper were identified. First, to illustrate that Bangladeshis suffer from acute levels of poverty, a lack of clean drinking water and regular flooding and cyclonic conditions. Second, to establish the failure of western "handout" aid provision to address these problems. Third, to evidence the possibilities for the production of more durable building materials utilising regionally available waste materials and proven solar technologies. Finally, to present strategies in which solar technologies could contribute to the reduction of poverty and improvements in health standards. Design/methodology/approach - The ongoing development and testing of the innovative solar technology concepts reported in the paper were informed by a literature review covering solar cookers and solar kilns. The methodology and detail of the testing of that solar technology is currently considered commercially sensitive. With regard to the poverty alleviation strategies proposed within the paper, their development was underpinned by a methodology combining a thorough review of the relevant literature with input from practitioners in Bangladesh. Findings - Utilising aid moneys for the establishment of solar technology-based small-scale production of vernacular building materials could address poverty by affording access to wealth-generating activities in the sale of goods and clean drinking water from rainwater harvesting. Additionally, such activities would enable Bangladeshi society to be better able to withstand and then recover from natural disasters, by possessing more resistant shelters, and being more economically resilient. Research limitations/implications - The experimental component of the research is ongoing and considered commercially sensitive. No limitations have thus far been identified within this component. The implications of the research regarding solar technologies are potentially considerable in that the innovative approach under examination, if underpinned by positive results, represents a new area of activity and has both social and technical implications. Practical implications - Current aid is not significantly alleviating the problems experienced by Bangladeshis resulting from poverty, arsenic contamination of deep water aquifers and regular flooding. The technology and strategies proposed address the fact that the current vernacular shelters provide little resistance to flooding, and are unsuitable for rainwater harvesting, whilst also allowing participation in wealth-generating activities. Such a combination has the potential to reverse the trend for Bangladesh to increasingly rely on "hand-out" aid. Originality/value - The value of the paper is largely in the area of bringing new possibilities to the attention of the research and practitioner communities dealing with both solar technologies and developing world poverty alleviation.

Notes: Purpose - The paper aims to discuss the causes of the landslide event at Amparav in Kumaun Himalaya (Nainital district of Uttaranchal in India) and attempts to bring forth the importance of mass awareness regarding the past disaster events in their surroundings. Design/methodology/approach - On the aftermath of the landslide tragedy of 23 September, 2004 field investigations were carried out to probe the causes and lapses that resulted in tragedy at a place where a detailed mitigation plan had been implemented. Findings - The investigations reveal that a detailed landslide management strategy was prepared and implemented to protect this zone almost a century ago, with a thorough understanding of the mass wastage processes. Implementation of this plan safeguarded this zone for a long time, but the lack of awareness among the masses led to the violation of the very spirit of this plan. This culminated in the Amparav tragedy that took three human lives, besides the loss of a huge public and private infrastructure. Research limitations/implications - The old study that led to the landslide management strategy could not be assessed and the article is based on information provided by the village elders. Practical implications - The paper is an attempt to bring forth the finer details of the landslide management plan enacted in the region almost a century ago. It suggests the need for detailed surveys and planning in enacting any disaster management plan. Originality/value - This paper would bring forth the importance of documenting the disaster management strategies of the region and sharing the significance of these with the masses so that they are deterred from even unintentionally violating the spirit of these plans.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to make explicit why security needs to be viewed as a core activity and why senior management need to view security from a holistic perspective. Reference is made to various activities carried out by computer hackers and the costs associated with computer related crime. Design/methodology/approach - A literature review was undertaken and a conceptual security model was produced. The key elements of the activities associated with security were highlighted and the links between the activities were made clear. Findings - Organized criminal syndicates and international terrorist groups are increasing their level of activity. Senior managers within companies need to put in place an intelligence and security strategy to counter the activities of criminals and terrorists. Furthermore, senior managers will in the future have to work more closely with law enforcement representatives and industry representatives. They will also have to develop an appreciation of the strategic intelligence objectives of various governments. There is also evidence that senior management need to pay greater attention to identifying future threats associated with advances in internet technology. Research limitations/implications - More attention will need to be given to how facilitating technology such as the internet is providing computer hackers and criminals with ways to either disrupt business activities or extend the range of criminal activities that they are engaged in. Practical implications - Senior management will need to refocus on the capability of staff vis-à-vis corporate intelligence and security work. The learning organization concept can be embraced and can be used to assist staff to identify the advantages associated with effective knowledge management. Scenario analysis and simulation exercises can be used to train staff in emergency work, and disaster management and prevention. Originality/value - A diverse range of topics is covered and integrated into a security-oriented context. Attention is focused on the link between organized criminal syndicates and international terrorist groups, and why senior managers in companies need to be engaged in disaster management recovery planning. The material highlights why senior managers in companies need to develop business contingency plans and embrace the counterintelligence concept.

Notes: Purpose - To analyze recent and future terrorism in the world from the viewpoint of the USA. Design/methodology/approach - Actions companies can take to help prevent and manage the negative effects of terrorist attacks are also discussed. A review of the literature from journals, the popular press and government sources was stressed to provide an official and public view of terrorism. Findings - It was found that "terrorism" is pervasive around the world although maybe more concentrated in the Middle East at present. It is seen as annually increasing in number and severity of events. There were minor terrorist events in the USA in the 1990s, but the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 in New York forever changed the view of terrorism by US citizens. The USA subsequently changed its administrative structure, economic infrastructure, beliefs, behaviors, and relations to others in the world. The USA is seen as the main terrorist target in the world and Al-Qaeda, one of 40 foreign terrorist organizations, is seen as the main group attacking it. Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Sudan, Cuba, Libya, and Syria are seen as the main countries supporting terrorism. The main terrorist weapons are explosives, guns, biological, chemical, radiological, psychological, and to a lesser extent, nuclear. Research limitations/implications - Although future events and subsequent research must bear it out, it appears that cyber terrorism and radioactive explosives may be used more in the future. Executives can improve their odds of withstanding terrorist attacks by understanding past and present aspects of terrorism. Future dealings with terrorists are seen as problematic, but there are actions companies can take, such as adding working crisis management plans, to help prevent and manage the negative effects of terrorist attacks. Originality/value - This paper is an attempt to present and understand "terrorism" from a US perspective so that others in the world can better understand US motivations, actions, and rationale.

Notes: Purpose - Malaysia, which is in an intermediary phase of development and industrialization, has experienced various magnitudes of disasters ranging from biological, structural collapse, fires and explosions, landslides to meteorological incidents. The first major disaster that could be linked with the development of the country was the collapse of a four-storey building in 1968. This article describes how, by applying a grounded theory approach, examination and analysis of archival data were conducted to identify the phases and latent errors of this landmark disaster. Design/methodology/approach - Grounded theory approach was utilized to develop a substantive theory of socio-technical disaster preconditions. Findings - Data indicated that the disaster had developed in phases as found by other disaster scholars. Regulatory failures were found to be one of the main causes of the disaster. The disaster appeared to be an inevitable consequence of the inability of the laws and regulations to keep in tandem with the rate of development and industrialization of the nation. Originality/value - The discussion of the implications of the disaster will be of particular value for developing nations.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this introduction is to review some of the major issues that arose after 9/11 and set the stage for the articles that follow. Design/methodology/approach - A literature review was undertaken using both academic and mass media sources. Findings - The events of 9/11 have produced potentially positive as well as negative consequences, some anticipated and others unforeseen. Research limitations/implications - Relatively little research has been conducted on the events following 9/11, making it difficult to arrive at solid conclusions at this time. Practical implications - This special issue links the events of 9/11 with the management of organizations, a topic that has received little attention, and hopefully will encourage more scholarship in this area. Originality/value - It is important to more fully understand why 9/11 happened and what measures need to be taken to reduce the likelihood of future terrorist attacks, as well as improve the resiliency of both citizens and their organizational employers in dealing with the aftermath of such attacks should they occur again.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to examine the roots of public fear and often-distorted reality of risk, and proposes methods by which emergency management agencies can successfully manage fear, should a terror-based event occur within their jurisdiction. Design/methodology/approach - The October 2002 sniper crisis in Washington, DC is used to identify the processes by which public fear is generated, maintained, and managed. Findings - In the USA's post-9/11 era of terror-awareness, extreme actions of groups like Al Qaeda are no longer necessary to spark detrimental anxiety-based social reactions. The two snipers who placed the nation's capital under siege for three weeks with one rifle and a box of bullets confirmed this fact. Washington, DC's duct tape and plastic panic buying spree, spurred by a Terrorism Threat Index increase, illustrated how the mere hint of a future event can induce irrational behavior. Practical implications - Clearly, the emergency management community can no longer simply blame the media for such strong public sentiment. Controlling public fear is a public safety responsibility but fear management must be supported by the Federal government to be effective. There exists a rapidly-growing need for agencies to adopt formal fear management capabilities staffed by appropriately-trained, dedicated officials. In many cases of terrorism, fear is the greatest emergency that must be managed, and irresponsible or inadequate attempts to do so can actually increase public risk. This paper proposes methods by which emergency management agencies can successfully manage fear, should a terror-based event occur within their jurisdiction. Originality/value - This paper will assist emergency managers, administrators at the city, county, and national levels, and others involved in planning for the management of fear during emergencies that can occur in the aftermath of terror-based events.

Notes: Purpose - In the context of the Indian subcontinent, aims to examine the suitability of using microfinance for natural disaster risk reduction at the household and community level, and also of delivering it in the wake of a natural disaster. Design/methodology/approach - Explains microfinance strategies comprising: diversifying income source; designing new loan products; risk management; sustainability of microfinance institutions post-disaster; liquidity management post-disaster, etc. Findings - States that microfinance should be recognized as one of a series of measures within a disaster risk management strategy. Along with eco-friendly farming it can help overcome poverty in developing countries. Originality/value - Probably the first real attempt to explore the importance of microfinance interventions in natural disasters both at the personal level and generally.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to argue that, contrary to popular thinking, technological disasters are potentially predictable, and therefore amenable to risk assessment and mitigation. What is lacking at present is a more comprehensive understanding of the hazards, embedded in complex socio-technical systems, which lead to such disasters. Design/methodology/approach - The paper discusses several factors that contribute to hazard formation and development, including the interaction of human and mechanical components, ambiguity, evolutionary changes, innovation and poor communication in organisational systems. Two case studies of recent disasters in Australia are presented to provide illustrations of the complexity in socio-technical systems and the hazards and risks that they harbour. Findings - The paper finds that to progress, we need two things: better conceptual models and frameworks that reveal complexity and make systems more transparent, and more satisfactory approaches to risk management. Originality/value - The paper concludes with some suggestions as to how the risks might be better understood and managed proactively.

Notes: Purpose - To inform readers comprehensively and sufficiently about the new (July 1, 2004) legal regime of SOLAS/ISPS code concerning security of ports and ships. Design/methodology/approach - The paper estimates the code's impact on vessels' security and on ships' ownership and control as well as on seafarers. Findings - The maritime security measures costing $626 million (and $168 million per year) had to be seen as the third pillar of the international shipping policy and to facilitate instead of obstructing free flow of international sea transport. Research limitations/implications - The very recent implementation of ISPS code made this paper prognostic in nature. Originality/value - This is the first account of the new regime and is of interest to shipowners and ports, US and EU seafarers.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the Herald of Free Enterprise disaster was due to the ship or the management, using the modern management theory of complexity. Design/methodology/approach - The 75 pages investigation of the court has been studied and codified to the main aspects and mistakes producing the accident. After the mistakes were identified, a procedure adopted in analysis B to show how these could be avoided if a different management theory has been adopted. Findings - The main finding was that management was responsible for the accident on shore mainly and on board and that a special communication mean which is called "dialogue" in complexity theory parlance had to be adopted. Practical implications - Any shipping company and ship can identify itself through the common mistakes mentioned and adopt the proposed theory to improve safety and management's effectiveness. Originality/value - The paper provides a concise analysis of the accident. A new theory is presented and linked to this case study. The study will be useful to management on shore and on board and for IMO of Flag administrations and departments of transport and others.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to extend the earlier application of the behavioral response model which analyzed the behavioral response to September 11, 2001, to analyzing the organizational response of the US Federal Government during the ensuing years. Design/methodology/approach - Qualitative methodology is used in which the organizational response is assessed to determine if that which has been observed parallels organizational chaos typical in natural disasters. Findings - Findings suggest the literature applicable to behavioral and organizational response to natural disasters is quite appropriate to describing the post "September 11" actions of the USA. Research limitations/implications - The argument presented suggests that the organizational response was typically chaotic and is counter-productive in defeating the long-term goals of the terrorists. While the author extends the application of the behavioral and organizational response model to the policy decisions of the US Government, some may debate his conclusion. Practical implications - Government decision makers should consider the implications of the observations shared in the paper to avoid taking the same, perhaps failed, road in the future. Originality/value - The new territory offered herein, is the application of the behavioral and organizational response model to public policy making by high government officials in the USA - analysis of organizational response issues at the highest level of government organization.

Notes: Purpose - Aims to demonstrate the importance of reporting IS management constructs rather than reporting and ranking the individual management issues; determine whether the ratings of IS management factors differ across organizational and personal variables; and benchmark the position of Kuwait's results on dimensionality and determinants of IS management issues with that of other previous studies. Design/methodology/approach - This field study considered only the opinions of the highest ranked executives of the IS functions within their organizations. A seven-page structured interview guide was used for data collection. Principal component factor analysis was performed on the issue ratings in order to determine underlying IS management factors. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to further assess how well the factors fit the issue data and to test the fit of the resulting factor model. Finally, t-tests were performed to test whether the differences between factors were significant in order to demonstrate the discriminatory value of reporting IS management factor areas rather than individual issues. Findings - The key IS management factors identified by IS managers are the effective management of IS resources such as data, networks and applications; and managers' knowledge of IS. This study also found that most situational variables including nationality are not associated with differences in IS management factor ratings. Thus, the survey results are consistent across different types of organizations and respondents. The exception is organization size and IS department size. Size differences can lead to different opinions on the relative importance of various IS management factors. Originality/value - To demonstrate the importance of reporting IS management factors (constructs) as a benchmarking framework rather than reporting and ranking the individual management issues, and to use the derived conceptual benchmarking model to determine whether the ratings of IS management factors differ across organizational and personal variables.

Notes: Purpose - This paper attempts to propose a virtual case-based benchmarking system (VCBS) which incorporates computational intelligence technologies into partners' benchmarking process to support decision-making. Design/methodology/approach - The proposed system consists of three main modules: data repository module, OLAP module and case-based reasoning (CBR) module. The VCBS is a web-based application that enables users to access the system and submit information to the system in anywhere at anytime. The database repository, on the other hand, maintains and acquires the data that are generated in the transactions processes and other workflow processes. It also ensures the entire valuable data which are accessible for the management to make decisions. The OLAP and the CBR modules are considered as the brain of the VCBS. The CBR module is aimed for short-listing candidate, while the OLAP module is utilized for benchmarking the short-listed candidate. Findings - The VCBS is particularly useful in situations where multiple supply chain partners are involved to achieve the common objective to produce the products to the best satisfaction of customer demands with the lowest possible cost. Research limitations/implications - Since data warehouse does not update in real time it only performs update periodically during non-office hours to avoid network traffic. The solution provided to the company may not be the most updated information. Originality/value - The proposed system improves the current practice of partner selection by adopting the computational intelligence technologies into the traditional partner selection process with the assimilation of data repository, CBR and OLAP to form the integrated system for evaluation of potential partners prior to the final decision.

Notes: Purpose - To propose a conceptual framework that facilitates the benchmarking of strategic processes necessary for entrepreneurial survival and success. Design/methodology/approach - Drawing on extant literature on entrepreneurial survival, this paper considers the chaotic and emergent nature of the entrepreneurial organization and how benchmarking can contribute to a newly established firm's chances for survival and prosperity. The paper incorporates the concept of a sustainable competitive advantage in the discussion, and offers organizational culture as being the imperfectly imitable element which will contribute to the entrepreneurial firm's success. Findings - Four key processes are identified that contribute to entrepreneurial viability - cooperation, sharing founder's vision, time management, and developing organizational competencies - and suggestions are offered for developing appropriate benchmarks for these processes. The paper also highlights two instruments that may be useful in this endeavor. Research limitations/implications - The paper draws attention to the usefulness of benchmarking processes and not just metrics in fostering entrepreneurial survival. Key processes are identified, and suggestions are provided for researchers to begin work on developing the necessary benchmarks. Practical implications - The paper not only offers a theoretical discussion of the usefulness of benchmarking processes as opposed to focusing only on outcomes, but also helps the practitioner to implement such benchmarking activities by highlighting practical instruments for this purpose. Originality/value - This paper brings to bear literature from several streams of research. It takes benchmarking from its metric-oriented focus to a more process-focused approach, and applies it in the context of entrepreneurial survival.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to examine the use of benchmarking as a management technique in the Australian non-profit sector. Benchmarking has great potential benefit for the non-profit sector, particularly given the reliance of non-profit enterprises on effectively utilizing human capital; thus it might be expected that they would be enthusiastic about techniques such as benchmarking that can assist them in improving their performance. The non-profit sector is a large and important part of the economy in the developed world. Design/methodology/approach - To determine the use of benchmarking in the Australian non-profit sector, the following methods were used: a review of published industry surveys and case studies; interviews with 15 non-profit sector experts; and a review of more than 50 works on non-profit management. Findings - Research showed that benchmarking has been little used by non-profit organizations in Australia to date. This seems to mirror the experience of non-profits in other countries. Research limitations/implications - The paper argues that the limited use of benchmarking in the non-profit sector can be explained by: non-profit management culture; lack of industry and funder pressure; and a lack of targeted information on benchmarking for the non-profit sector. Any efforts to increase the use of benchmarking in the sector would need to ensure that these issues are overcome. Practical implications - A plan of action is suggested for promoting benchmarking to non-profit organizations. Originality/value - The paper assesses the use of a standard management technique in the emerging area of non-profit management. It should be of interest to those researching or managing in the Australian non-profit sector. The paper may also be of interest to the non-profit sector or human capital sector in other countries.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this research paper is to provide practitioners and researchers with guidance and ideas for benchmarking employee benefits in companies providing professional services. The research addressed employee benefits in multi-owner accounting firms. Design/methodology/approach - Data from a survey of a large number of multi-owner accounting firms (CPA firms) were analyzed to examine professional employee benefits and to look at the relationship between firm size and benefits offered. Findings - An analysis of survey results suggested that larger firms offer better benefits than smaller firms. Larger firms tend also to be more profitable. Various employee benefit metrics were examined. Research limitations/implications - The survey was limited to accounting firms in the United States, so the findings may have limited value for researchers and practitioners in other countries. Practical implications - The better benefits offered by larger accounting firms may allow them to attract better personnel, possibly accounting for their greater profitability. If this is indeed true, then a good benefit package may well be a key success factor for accounting firms, and possibly for other professional services. Firms seeking to improve their competitive position may, therefore, find it advantageous to benchmark their professional employee benefits against the benefit packages of larger more profitable competitors. Originality/value - This paper examines professional employee benefits in multi-owner accounting firms and identifies metrics that could be useful to practitioners in benchmarking those benefits. The metrics identified and other findings may provide practitioners with ideas for benchmarking benefits in other professional service organizations.

Notes: Purpose - To present the application of a business model for holistic uncertainty management for twenty-first century manufacturing enterprises. Design/methodology/approach - A questionnaire survey is carried out to UK manufacturing enterprises to collect relevant data, and analysis of variance (ANOVA), correlation analysis and cluster analysis are performed to infer the results. Findings - It can be concluded that different manufacturing environments suffer different effects of underlying causes of uncertainty on product tardy delivery. The product tardy delivery performance in make-to-order (MTO) manufacturing environment is found significantly affected by a wide range of underlying causes of uncertainty. It is interesting to find that mixed-mode (MM) manufacturing environment has an opposite outcome. Correlation results provide significant evidence that underlying causes of uncertainty do not have linear association with product tardy delivery. This finding reinforces the proposition that the effects of uncertainty are difficult to quantify due to the compound effect. The cluster analyses of the business environmental factors of the manufacturing enterprises in MM, make-to-stock (MTS) and MTO environments found that size of enterprise, product variety, product complexity, number of parts, ratio of buy vs make parts, the use of rough-cut capacity planning, and the use of buffering or dampening techniques in production, influence the effects of underlying causes of uncertainty on product tardy delivery. Research limitations/implications - Only UK manufacturing enterprises are investigated. The results will be relevant to MTO, MM and MTS manufacturing environments. Practical implications - The application of the business model has provided useful knowledge to MM, MTS and MTO manufacturing enterprises on which underlying causes of uncertainty are significantly affecting their product tardy delivery performance. Originality/value - A holistic approach such as the business model has given a solid foundation for the enterprises to evaluate their performance. Using the knowledge of significant underlying causes of uncertainty, the enterprises could then prioritise the effort and devise suitable buffering or dampening techniques.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to bring greater clarity to the debate on the merits (or demerits) of relative performance evaluation through a broad assessment of current UK National Health Service (NHS) benchmarking. It seeks to examine whether benchmarking is being used dynamically to disseminate best practice in healthcare, or whether it is primarily a government tool to enforce static competitive performance standards. Design/methodology/approach - Draws on recent literature and government pronouncements. It charts the development of the health care policy discourse that articulated a move from the internal market of the early 1990s to the metrics approach of New Labour. Findings - Benchmarking is one of the private sector-grown "managerialist" tools whose application and significance is rapidly increasing in the UK public sector. Despite its prevalence, the nature (competitive or comparative), the process (based on indicators or ideas) and the outcomes (standards or "best practice") of benchmarking in public services remain unclear. The findings reveal that benchmarking requirements, imposed by government policy, are articulated in terms of comparative ideas - benchmarking with the stated objective of "sharing best practice", but are operationalised and disseminated in the form of indicator league tables with standardised benchmarks for performance. Hence, there is an apparent "articulated policy - implemented practice gap". Concludes that, whilst benchmarking is a highly desirable policy instrument, its practical relevance to health care improvement is still in doubt. Originality/value - The findings are relevant to both NHS policy-makers and to NHS actors who must engage with the processes and outcomes of benchmarking practices.

Notes: Purpose - The pupose of this paper is to present an overview of the main conceptual and methodological issues that underlie our current understanding of benchmarking initiatives in the field of health. Design/methodology/approach - The paper is based on a pragmatic review of the literature and policy reports. It outlines some of the major conceptual problems associated with the use of benchmarking indicators and discusses how health policy research and practice is evolving to address the challenges raised, drawing examples from national and international benchmarking initiatives. Findings - Benchmarking has become an intrinsic part of most developed health care systems, yet the impact of benchmarking initiatives on improvements in system performance and their integration within existing policy processes still need to be elucidated. Several methodological challenges remain in the field of benchmarking, many of them related to the selection and quality of indicators used to make comparisons both within and between health care systems. Further research and applications are needed to ensure that benchmarking in health fulfils its objective, namely to further our understanding of where to focus policy efforts in order to improve the performance of health care systems. Originality/value - This paper poses the timely question of whether benchmarking initiatives are in fact guiding health policy towards the improvement of health care system performance. It draws from the policy literature and existing frameworks to offer an outline for the future evaluation of benchmarking initiatives by policy-makers.

Notes: Purpose - To review the application of the principles of benchmarking to the field of laboratory medicine. Design/methodology/approach - Review of the literature on performance management techniques employed in healthcare provision, and specifically in laboratory medicine, including benchmarking. Findings - The review identifies the main performance indicators employed in quality assurance and benchmarking programmes that have been developed in laboratory medicine. Some of these have a clear benefit in improving laboratory performance, whilst others are used for more general management purposes. The emphasis of these programmes is on improving analytical performance, together with pre- and post-analytical performance. The review highlights the fact that benchmarking in laboratory medicine is undertaken largely in isolation from the clinical setting in which it is applied. The benchmarking activities are, therefore, concerned with the process (dealing predominantly with efficiency and productivity) of producing laboratory results and do not probe into the way in which the laboratory services are employed in the care of patients (dealing with outcomes and value). Some examples of health outcomes studies are discussed, which demonstrate the value of the laboratory medicine service. They highlight the complexity of developing a more outcomes orientated approach to benchmarking of laboratory medicine services. These studies would show how the laboratory was used; they give a more holistic view of the role of laboratory medicine in healthcare provision. Originality/value - The review shows how a more comprehensive and integrated approach to benchmarking of laboratory medicine service would provide valuable information on the effectiveness of the laboratory services.

Notes: Purpose - This paper deals with real-time control of urban traffic with an emphasis on public transportation systems. The main objective is the regulation of traffic after the occurrence of disturbances. In a few words, the problem is to find a feasible schedule for some vehicles of some lines subject to certain constraints in order to design a decision support system (DSS) that detects, analyses and resolves disturbances. Design/methodology/approach - This work is achieved in cooperation with a public transport company called SEMURVAL. It consists of developing a DSS for the future transportation network of Valenciennes (city in the north of France). As a consequence, regulators of traffic have to treat a new lot of information and it becomes necessary to assist them in order to keep up with demands and to come up to passengers' expectations and hopes. Findings - From the case study finds that the solution proposed assures that arrival times of vehicles are more regular. Originality/value - The solution proposed presents a good combination of scheduling decisions permitting the good regulation of traffic.

Notes: Purpose - This paper deals with the modelling of an information system for Chinese herbal medicine manufacturing enterprises, describes its structures and functions, and discusses its implementation issues. Design/methodology/approach - A case experience is presented. Findings - Enterprises within this industry have big differences in production and management process and practice. The implementing plan must consider these differences and have adaptable solutions to fit the firm's conditions. It has been found that the information system model proposed here is feasible and can be used not only in other Chinese herbal medicine manufacturing enterprises, but also in other flow-process industries. Originality/value - The issues discussed in this paper are common to many Chinese enterprises today, particularly the small and medium-sized enterprises. The experience described here provides a useful reference for such enterprises' venture into technological and management process innovation.

Notes: Purpose - Scheduling problems in steel plants tend to be difficult and require complex algorithms due to many constraints. An approach is presented where only the main constraints are included in the scheduling algorithm. The schedule is validated using a discrete-event simulation model that includes additional detail. Design/methodology/approach - The combined approach is utilised for production scheduling in a steel mill in Finland. Operational performance of the steel mill is measured before and after software installation. The paper presents the scheduling environment, the software application and the resulting increase of production. Findings - Case experiences indicate that combining optimisation techniques with simulation is beneficial. The optimisation can be kept simpler as validation with a simulation model increases the credibility and accuracy of the resulting schedule. During software development and testing, the simulation model offered a testing environment for the optimisation algorithm. Practical implications - The case implementation was a success that increased production without making trade-offs with other production goals. Company management estimate the productivity increase directly caused by the project to be worth 2,500,000 annually. Originality/value - The paper presents a successful application of simulation for schedule validation in a complex and demanding environment.

Notes: Purpose - To provide a new model to solve the assembly-planning problem of a textile machine in a shopfloor which can help researchers and practitioners. Design/methodology/approach - The assembly planning of a textile machine (repetitive manufacturing system) involves the allocation of operations to cross-trained operators. Workflow is defined as the workloads assigned to the operators. Operators with smaller workloads are selected to be assigned new operations from the list of unscheduled operations. Three different scheduling strategies - random, shortest processing time, and longest processing time - are adopted for the selection of operations to be assigned to operators. Different combinations of these strategies are considered for the selection of both preceding and succeeding operations. A computer simulation program has been coded on an IBM/PC-compatible system in the C++ language to study the performance of real data from the shopfloor. Findings - The relative percentage of imbalance is adopted for evaluating the performance of these heuristics. The RL, SL and LL produced well balanced workload schedules with lesser RPI values for all operators other than heuristics. Research limitations/implications - Non-traditional approaches like genetic algorithms can be applied to determine the robustness of the results obtained by this research. Practical implications - The experiments on simulated and real data clearly indicate that the order of succeeding operations determines the balanced workflows to the assembly of operations among the operators. Originality/value - The allocation of assembly operations to the operators is modeled into a parallel machine-scheduling problem with precedence constraints using the objective of minimizing the workflow among the operators.

Notes: Purpose - Aims to compare performance measurement of a continuous process manufacturing operation under two accounting systems - a traditional cost accounting system and the theory of constraints (TOC) system. Design/methodology/approach - Using a computer-based simulation methodology to capture operational performance, it is found that the TOC-based accounting system presents a more realistic state of performance scenario. Findings - Findings from this research indicate that businesses using a TOC-based system can improve their performance more accurately, and hence gain a sustainable competitive position in the future. Research limitations/implications - This research is limited to continuous process manufacturing operations. Originality/value - The research makes a significant contribution to the knowledge of performance measurement.

Notes: Purpose - Manufacturers across many sectors increasingly operate in high variety environments. Research evidence suggests that variety has a negative impact on performance. However, the research literature is limited on the enablers that allow variety to be managed effectively and efficiently at the "front-end" of an organisation and in quotation processes in particular. Design/methodology/approach - This paper presents case analysis of the quotation processes from manufacturers operating in high-variety environments. Qualitative process modelling tools have been developed to allow representation of process complexities and informal process elements. Findings - Findings are presented on generic mechanisms for absorbing and mitigating the impact of variety on quotation processes. A generic quotation process model is presented comprising four key decisions centres: customization request initiation and information gathering on customer needs, classification of requests, resource control, and identification of information for reuse. Practical implications - The implications of the study for the automation of quotation processes in high variety and mass customization environments are discussed and it is speculated that different decision centres will dominate in different environments. Originality/value - The generic model developed by this research offers insight into the functioning of the core process elements of the quotation system. Reviewing an organisation's structure and the information systems infrastructure supporting these decision centres should lead to the identification of potential system or reorganisation improvements.

Notes: Purpose - To present an innovative approach to the design of a flexible order-picking systems (OPS). The proposed conceptual framework is the first step to the development of an expert system created in a rapid and innovative manner, i.e. based on the integration of simulation, genetic algorithms and factorial analysis. Design/methodology/approach - The impact of alternative policies and configurations of both picker-to-part and part-to-picker OPS is quantified, with the aim of designing and optimising robust facilities capable of minimising global costs and maximising their performances in terms of efficiency and customer service quality. Findings - The importance of validation analysis and both virtual and on-field data collection emerges. Originality/value - Compared with the studies found in the literature, this article presents an innovative approach with original results that will be of use in the design and control of a flexible OPS.

Notes: Purpose - To establish a strategic resource allocation model to capture and encapsulate the complexity of the modern global supply chain management problem. Design/methodology/approach - A mathematical model was constructed to describe the stochastic multiple-period two-echelon inventory with the many-to-many demand-supplier network problem. Genetic algorithm (GA) was applied to derive optimal solutions through a two-stage optimization process. A practical example and its solution were included to illustrate the GA-based solution procedure. Findings - The model simultaneously constitutes the inventory control and transportation parameters as well as price uncertainty factors. Originality/value - The model can be utilized as a collaborative supply chain strategic planning tool to determine efficiently the appropriate inventory allocation and effectively manage the distribution/re-distribution process according to real-time demand.

Notes: Purpose - The effects of cellular manufacturing (CM) on increased delivery speed and resource utilization along with its interaction with volume, mix, routing, and labor flexibilities are not clear for manufacturers and supply chain managers. Aims to focus on this. Design/methodology/approach - Based on real data from a US screen-printing company, a simulation model is designed to determine the influence of volume, mix, routing and labor flexibilities in presence of volatile demand. Simulation of one and two cell configuration is compared with job shop to determine the shortest delivery and highest utilization. Findings - As volume flexibility increases, delivery is faster in presence of CM compared to job shop. Furthermore, added routing flexibility results in 70 percent shorter lead time with low volume flexibility, and 85 percent shorter lead time with high volume flexibility. Additionally, in the two-cell design, assignment of fewer, but more multi-skilled workers shared between cells results in higher utilization and lower lead time. Research limitations/implications - This study contributes to the manufacturing research by revealing the benefits of CM, and the importance of volume, routing, and labor flexibilities reacting quickly to volatile demand in today's dispersed manufacturing environment. Also, this study demonstrates that labor allocation is equally important in manufacturing cells as the equipment and part decisions are. Originality/value - The findings provide manufacturers a guideline on how to best set up CM and operational flexibilities to respond faster to volatile demand. The simulation model is successful in showing that cells and manufacturing flexibilities are strong enablers of faster delivery lead time and higher resource utilization.

Notes: Purpose - To determine whether or not clockspeed is an important variable in outsourcing strategies throughout the development of radical innovations. Design/methodology/approach - An internet-based survey of manufacturing firms from all over the world. Findings - An industry's clockspeed does not play a significant role in the success or failure of a particular outsourcing strategy for a radical innovation. Research limitations/implications - Conclusions from earlier research in this area are not necessarily industry-specific. Practical implications - Lessons learned via previous investigations about the computer industry need not be confined to that sector. Vertical integration may be a more robust outsourcing strategy when developing a radical innovation in industries of all clockspeeds. Originality/value - Previous research efforts in this field focused on a single technology jump, but this approach may have overlooked a potentially important variable: industry clockspeed. Thus, this investigation explores whether clockspeed is an important factor.

Notes: Purpose - The ability of a team from a manufacturer and its partners to formulate strategic plans for supply chains is investigated. The research aims to improve the process of formulate strategic plans for supply chains is investigated. The research aims to improve the process of formulation using the strategic operations and logistics planning (SOLP) process. Design/methodology/approach - SOLP involves researchers facilitating many meetings of the planning team in an action research setting at their premises. Combining knowledge from operations strategy and socio-technical systems (STS), participant observation and semi-structured surveys are used to obtain rich data. Team members derive order-winning criteria and design policies along the supply chain for several product groups, using the process to craft strategies whilst researchers study it. One application included managers from supply chain partners whilst the other was limited to manufacturer managers. Working within the corporate plans of the focal company, the formulation is carried out by middle managers. Findings - Carrying out the process twice at a heavy fabrication business (HFB) in Australia demonstrated that a team of chain managers can formulate strategic operations plans for a complete heavy industry chain. Extensive support, in the form of worksheets and facilitation, is important to formulation and extent of implementation of the plans. A case is made that assistance is probably necessary for full implementation of those plans. Research limitations/implications - Whilst limited to cases in a heavy manufacturer, the research is believed to be applicable to a range of medium-sized supply chains. Practical implications - The need for the team to include supply chain partners and the effect of member's capability and authority is investigated. The extent of implementation and the effect of team attributes on execution is studied. Originality/value - The research demonstrates that a team of chain managers can, with suitable support, formulate strategic operations plans for a complete heavy industry chain. The case sheds some light on the benefits, or drawbacks, of having members of other chain partners present.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to better understand benefits and problems with different approaches to benchmarking environmental performance in manufacturing. Design/methodology/approach - This paper shares the experience of a research program developing environmental benchmarking measures for the automobile industry. Findings - In this paper, we categorize these options into four general categories: regulatory, gross emissions, efficiency, and life cycle. We found that firms emphasized different approaches to benchmarking depending upon regulatory context and company strategy. Product type, corporate and national culture, resource costs, stakeholder demands also all played a role in influencing their preferred benchmarking approach. Overall, the most robust environmental programs will incorporate elements of all four approaches. Research limitations/implications - The primary limitation of this study is that it draws its data from only one industry. Another limitation of this paper is that it is focused primarily on performance benchmarking. Additional research needs to be done to understand the factors that influence a firm's choice of benchmarking metrics, the relationship between the different aspects of environmental performance benchmarking, and the relationship between performance and managerial benchmarking. Practical implications - Firms must supplement strong environmental management systems with their benchmarking strategy. Using all four provides a more balanced benchmarking effort, and minimizes limitation that single measure of environmental performance present. Originality/value - For manufacturing firms, this paper offers a framework to think about the costs and benefits of a range of environmental benchmarking strategies. For researchers, it outlines a number of areas for future research.

Notes: Purpose - To determine whether: QuickView, that is a primary assessment and business planning tool that was designed in the USA in the 1990s, could be usable out of USA; and manufacturing SMEs outside of the US could be evaluated against the 3,400 US SMEs on the QuickView database. Design/methodology/approach - The project consists of a survey of a sample of SMEs in different overseas regions, Northern Spain being one of them: revise and translate questionnaire to local language; train local agents; conduct a survey of a sample of 50 SMEs using the local agents; and review the results and draw conclusions as to the applicability of the model. Findings - We think that we have demonstrated that QuickView is a valid tool to use on non-US SMEs to help build local databases containing local companies. What is not so evident is how to establish direct comparisons between the two databases. To make this, the USA database should be partitioned by year of survey or by industry sector. We can draw some initial conclusions about the Spanish sample. Research limitations/implications - The USA database should be partitioned by year of survey or by industry sector, to make direct comparisons. A further continuation of this project is, obviously, an in-depth analysis of the Spanish sample. Another issue is whether an open structure can be developed for QuickView that would allow it to be modified into specialized questionnaires for service companies, for example, or a questionnaire dedicated to the SMEs in a particular country. Practical implications - To create a database of spanish companies based on QuickView methodology to serve as a reference of management practices. Originality/value - There are currently several projects trying to develop standard European benchmarking tools and databases. Our project presents an adaptation of another different tool already in use in the USA and proves its validity in an European context. This tool should be useful either for companies trying to evaluate themselves and compare with a local, though still small, database or for external agents trying to compare one particular company against the database.

Notes: Purpose - The paper aims to provide guidelines of companies in identifying their best practices with reference to a French example. Design/methodology/approach - The paper describes first the evolution of benchmarking, which nowadays is more and more based on the identification of good practices to acquire or transfer. Then we present a typology of best practices which can help a company to discern more effectively what could be relevant to exchange in benchmarking. Finally, we describe the best practice specification (BPS) method, which helps a company to locate and specify its good practices likely to be transferred within the framework of benchmarking. Findings - The paper underlines the difficulty of a company to clearly define what a "best practice" is and the lack of methods which could help it to identify its best practices. Research limitations/implications - Future research will be to develop a method of acquisition and representation of the best practices. In particular, it will be a question of studying if certain models that are currently proposed to represent knowledge (GAMETH, KADS, MKSM, MEREX, ...) can be used for the acquisition and the formalization of these best practices. Practical implications - The BPS method is presently applied in TECUMSEH Europe on its Cessieu site (France). The company is identifying the best practices currently put into place by the various sectors of manufacturing of the site on the process "To deploy progress effort (SPC and TPM)". The long term objective of the company is to apply these practices in all of the manufacturing sectors of the site, as well as on those other three sites in the group. Originality/value - This paper offers practical help to a company to identify and characterize its best practices.

Notes: Purpose - To provide an overview of the current attitudes and practical experience of airport benchmarking. Design/methodology/approach - A range of benchmarking studies are critiqued. The paper considers the partial performance measures which are used from an economic, operational and environmental perspective. It also investigates more complex modelling approaches which have been undertaken to gain greater insight into an airport's overall performance. In addition an assessment is made of the role of benchmarking in airport regulation. Findings - The paper finds that benchmarking techniques have become well established in recent years within the airport sector. However there is still some way to go in overcoming some of the problems that inhibit effective benchmarking on a truly international basis. Research limitations/implications - The paper focuses on methodological issues and does not discuss the findings of research in this area. Practical implications - A very useful source of information for all researchers in academia and industry who wish to use airport benchmarking techniques. Originality/value - The paper provides a comprehensive and unique review of the benchmarking techniques currently in use for airports.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to describe the processes used to ensure that the comparisons made between airport and airline performance are as meaningful as possible, and to highlight a number of issues which need to be considered when making performance comparisons in aviation. Design/methodology/approach - Evidence was gathered from an international data sample of airports and airlines. Operational and financial data was derived from published reports. Findings - The research illustrates the scale of differences in airport performance levels, and it also highlights the considerable difference in performance levels between airports and airlines. It is clear that many factors can impact on an airport's ability to optimise its performance, and on its relative level of performance when compared to its peers. Practical implications - The research highlights and demonstrates the need for a degree of understanding of contextual factors when comparing airport performance measures with each other and when comparing airline performance. Originality/value - Insight into the process by which airport and airline performance measurements can be compared with each other.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to explore the use of best practice benchmarking in civil aviation. Design/methodology/approach - Evidence was gathered from two international questionnaire surveys of the top 200 airlines and the top 200 airports. Supplementary evidence included interviews with airline and airport managers. Findings - The profile of responses was a good match to the samples. Benchmarking was identified as the most used performance improvement technique for both airlines and airports. Larger airlines were more likely to engage in benchmarking. Ease of usage and the cost relative to other performance improvement techniques were important factors in determining benchmarking uptake. Problems of data comparability and competitive sensitivity were raised. Airports had a greater tendency to concentrate on benchmarking with similar organisations and placed a relatively greater emphasis on its use for performance measurement over process improvement. Research limitations/implications - Further research should include a sample of detailed case studies to investigate exactly how different airlines and airports are using benchmarking. Practical implications - Performance measurement has become increasingly important in aviation as markets become more competitive and the number of asymmetric shocks seems to increase. Originality/value - The surveys revealed a very high utilisation of benchmarking, although a range of activities were actually being undertaken under the banner of benchmarking. The high uptake of benchmarking is probably due, to the turbulent nature of civil aviation that has placed significant economic pressures on managers.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to present the findings of an investigation into environmental reporting practice in the airline sector. Design/methodology/approach - Evidence was gathered from an international survey of 272 IATA Airlines. Responses accounted 65 per cent of the world's scheduled passenger traffic. Reports were assessed against a framework developed by UK's Association of Chartered and Certified Accountants. Findings - The paper demonstrates that, despite an increase in the availability of quantitative data and some consistency in the use of key performance indicators, comparing social and environmental performance across the airline sector is fraught with difficulties. Variations in the exact definitions of the indicators used and the suite of functions embraced by the term "airline" are identified as fundamental obstacles to effective sector benchmarking. Practical implications - Insight into an understanding of some of the pros and cons of comparisons between airline environmental performance data. Originality/value - The research highlights the limitations of inter airline comparisons regarding environmental data and confirms the need for environmental and social impacts to be reported in a more standardised manner in order to facilitate meaningful dialogue with stakeholders in communities adjacent to airports.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to propose and assess a core set of environmental and operational sustainability indicators for airport benchmarking, based on research conducted for a decision support tool designed to support airport environmental and operational sustainability. Seeks to make recommendations on the external use of sustainability indicators in stakeholder communication, based on a separate survey of the way in which UK airports use environmental and sustainability benchmarking reports. Design/methodology/approach - The indicators are designed to minimise additional data collection demands while reflecting sustainability theory to a practicable extent. Findings - Bringing core environmental and operational indicators together helps to make their inter-relationship explicit. The indicators are a minimum set, and their limitations with respect to sustainability are made explicit. Originality/value - Reports on a survey of the current extent of, and approaches to, stakeholder communication undertaken by airports in the UK, particularly external use of environmental and sustainability benchmarking results.

Notes: Purpose - To describe and analyse the adoption of economic value added (EVA) income as a benchmark for setting pricing and other policies of a monopolistic state-owned enterprise in the absence of normal benchmarking mechanisms. Design/methodology/approach - By earning zero economic value added profits the enterprise earns its cost of capital and escapes claims of monopolistic pricing and possible regulation. To test the success of this policy the financial series of the enterprise are developed from the date of incorporation in 1989 along with the economic value added series. The normal accounting profits are compared with the value added results. The value added results are used as a proxy for the pricing and other operational decisions of the firm that are not directly observable. The validity of the economic value added approach to provide a suitable benchmark is examined. Findings - Provides evidence that the enterprise was successful in avoiding charges of monopolistic pricing and subsequent regulation by linking pricing and other policies to its economic results. This was in a period when similar enterprises were regulate or threatened with regulation. The economic environment in the later years of the study have changed the goals of the enterprise. Research limitations/implications - This is a case study, so the success of this New Zealand based enterprise in benchmarking its policies to economic value added cannot be generalised to other companies and environments. Practical implications - Provides a useful way to benchmark profits where a monopoly position may attract regulation. It also provides a system of benchmarking if other industry information is not available. Originality/value - This paper identifies a unique position where the objective was to minimise economic income, rather than the usual goal of income maximisation.

Notes: Purpose - To provide positive benchmarking examples of hospitality, tourism and leisure small management enterprises in the area of organizational culture. Design/methodology/approach - Extreme case sampling was used; locating information-rich key informants or critical cases. A total of 89 small businesses were researched including hotels (and guest houses), restaurants, pubs, visitor attractions and leisure opportunities. Findings - Semi-structured interviews were analysed using an iterative approach based on the assumptions of Argumentation Theory. Results suggest that best-performing small to medium-sized (SME) operations in the hospitality, tourism and leisure industry share certain elements of culture including: supporting values such as building the future together, cooperative setting of missions and strategies, development of teamwork and organizational learning. Research limitations/implications - The research completed is illustrative of positive benchmarking elements of organizational culture. Further research, however, could also look at negative features which may hinder the success of hospitality, tourism and leisure industry SMEs. Practical implications - The work provides clear suggestions for hospitality, tourism and leisure industry SMEs to improve managerial practice, focusing on five main cultural dimensions: organizational performance, teamwork, building the future together, building the ability to learn, and collaborative setting of strategies. Originality/value - This paper begins to fill the gap of a very under-researched area: benchmarking organizational culture in hospitality, tourism and leisure industry SMEs. Both academics and practitioners will find it very illuminating.

Notes: Purpose - To provide a framework of critical success factors for practioners and employers looking to develop new or enhance existing telework programs. Design/methodology/approach - This paper focuses on benchmarking the remote work arrangement of telecommuting. The issues of teleworking, including the benefits and challenges of such arrangements, are presented and reviewed. Based on a review of the teleworking literature, the authors have developed a framework that specifies the critical success factors that are instrumental in implementing or improving a teleworking program. Findings - The authors put forward a framework of the critical success factors including support, communication, and trust that are instrumental in developing telework programs. In order to address both macro and micro levels of analysis, the framework outlines critical success factors at the organizational, managerial, and employee level. Practical implications - In the information age, with rapid advances in technology and telecommunication systems, a teleworking program is not only a possibility, but also a smart strategic business decision. This paper provides a useful framework for organizations to employ when developing new or enhancing existing telework arrangements. Originality/value - By focusing on benchmarking the teleworking process, this paper provides a new and structured approach in the development of telework programs.

Notes: Purpose - To introduce a conceptual model for increasing the likelihood that gainsharing plans will be successfully implemented. Design/methodology/approach - The literature on gainsharing plans is rich in descriptions of how individual cases were successful or unsuccessful owing to various situational variables. Research on the effects gainsharing plans have on organizational effectiveness is much needed. The present paper builds on current research by providing a general model of factors that determine whether a particular gainsharing effort will increase organizational effectiveness. A review of the empirical literature provides support for the model presented. Findings - Gainsharing can be an important and successful intervention for many organizations. The keys to success are involving all stakeholders in the development of the plan, developing an easy to understand formula for sharing gains, maintaining transparency, and ensuring that the plan's goals are in line with the organization's goals. Originality/value - Develops a conceptual model which can be used by many organizations in an attempt to use gainsharing as a means to increase organizational effectiveness. Considerations for future research are discussed.

Notes: Purpose - To critically analyze why the implementation of self-managed teams often leads to disappointment. Design/methodology/approach - The methodology used is qualitative. It is based on the theory of microstoria (Boje) and entails in-depth interviews and dialogue to collect data. Findings - The introduction of the new concept (self-managed teams) did not start an intensive management discourse. Management largely discussed the concept and decided to implement it, without consulting the employees who had to work with the concept. This led to misunderstandings and resistance to the concept of self-managing. Research limitations/implications - The research was conducted in only two organisations. Practical implications - The primary reason why the concept was poorly implemented was that management did not understand the process of shared meaning. Creating a proper "dialogue" is important for implementing new management concepts. Originality/value - This paper offers a social constructionist point of view to critically evaluate new management concepts such that they do not become fads.

Notes: Purpose - To show differences in organizational performance, management style and systems, resulting from cultural differences in three organizational types: foreign-owned, joint ventures, and Chinese-owned and operated. Design/methodology/approach - A survey method was used to assess the management systems, leadership and styles within the cultural contexts of the three types of organizations using Hofstede's four cultural dimensions. Organizational performance was measured using balanced scorecard method and factors suggested by other authors. Performance measures were compared across the three types of organizations. Findings - Foreign-owned and operated companies performed significantly better than their joint venture (JV) and Chinese-owned and operated organizations as measured by financial perspective, customer perspective, internal business perspective, innovation and learning perspective and technological assessment. There was clear evidence of benchmarking among Chinese-owned and operated organizations, learning from JVs and FOOs. Research limitations/implications - This study used only managers who had a minimum of five years' experience. The study also did not entertain cross-breeding management styles. Practical implications - Provides useful information about benchmarking patterns being used by Chinese owned and operated organizations. As the blending of cultures in global organizations continues, learning organizations benchmark not only process technologies but also management systems, leadership and styles. Originality/value - The paper clearly provides a direct comparison among the three types of organizations operating in the Chinese cultural context. The methodology used is a blend of different approaches to ensure comprehensive assessment of organizational culture and performance.

Notes: Purpose - To introduce a Petri nets model that describes a networked manufacturing system and its dynamics. Design/methodology/approach - A hybrid Petri nets model is constructed, the continuous part of which is to describe the dynamics of the production process within a manufacturing system and the discrete part of which is to describe the dynamics of the ordering and delivering process between every two manufacturing systems. In addition, the mathematical formulation of the dynamics of networked manufacturing systems is proposed to describe its behaviors in detail. Based on the model, the control system architecture of networked manufacturing systems is constructed to make and execute the production plan, solve the conflicts among manufacturing systems and realize the reconfiguration of the network. Findings - There are two key aspects in the dynamics of this hybrid system: first, in the continuous part of this hybrid system, the production process, the variables are discrete. Accordingly, the change of the systems states is not always continuous. Second, in the discrete part of this hybrid system the control variables are actually the safety and objective inventory levels and the minimum quantity of cumulative orders to trigger deliveries which determine the time and quantities of ordering or delivery. However, the relations between them are non-linear. Originality/value - Based on the model, the control system architecture of networked manufacturing systems can be constructed to make and execute the production plan, solve the conflicts among manufacturing systems and realize the reconfiguration of the network.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to describe a study of the successful application of the theory of constraints (TOC) to a manufacturing plant operations problem. The TOC application required the identification of a bottleneck constraint in the manufacturing process which limited through-put and thus negatively affected plant productivity and efficiency. Design/methodology/approach - The methodology used was a detailed case study of the bottleneck in the manufacturing process. The bottleneck in this case was the mold-changing operations, consisting of a plastic injection process for heavy-duty truck-lighting systems components. Findings - It was found that to eliminate the bottleneck four separate solution approaches were applied to the problem, and these four solutions collectively eliminated the bottleneck constraint. Research limitations/implications - The limitation of this approach is that the application of the TOC method is highly specific to the particular operation. Originality/value - On completion of the study the mold-changing process improvements resulted in increased through-put and concomitant improvements in productivity and efficiency in the heavy-duty truck-lighting systems plant.

Notes: Purpose - Modular product design is a practice manufacturers frequently adopt to develop new products. Some literature has reported the importance of the modular product design and its effect on supply chain management. However, until now, very few empirical researches have examined the relationship of product modularisation and supply chain design and coordination. Furthermore, the exploration on how manufacturers capitalize upon product modularization with supply chain design and coordination is rarely reported. This paper addresses this gap. Design/methodology/approach - This paper conducted a case study to review the experience of an Audio Consumer Electronics Manufacturer (ACEM) in Hong Kong and China. This company has successfully integrated modular product design with supply chain design and coordination for more than five years. Findings - Results indicate that product modularization affects supply chain design, whereas product innovation influences on supply chain coordination. Originality/value - This study explores new relationships between supply chain and modular product design into three propositions for further studies. The first proposition shows that supply chain for modular product design has one more level than integrated product design in multiple-tier supply chain. The second proposition shows that, regardless of either a modular or integrated product, an innovative product requires closer supply chain coordination than a conventional product in new product development. The final proposition shows that product modularization with close supply chain design and coordination brings down the inventory level, improve the quality of conformance and reduce development lead time.

Notes: Purpose - Recently, material flows have been viewed as an integral part of the overall manufacturing system and a critical factor in SCM. Static approaches and theoretical models are ineffective in considering all variables and constraints involved in complex instances: these often require a lot of computing time and present poor flexibility in terms of model changes. VIS approach is a valid way to support design and management decisions in order to achieve the integrated optimisation of the whole chain, but literature does not discuss difficulties and time required in applying it, or its related costs. Design/methodology/approach - Discrete/continuous hybrid simulation tools are used in order to model and simulate several operating conditions in combination with different system configurations. Findings - The discussion of the industrial cases shows the importance of simulation in supporting decisions concerning the design and management of supply chains in their great complexity and in a stochastic competitive and extended context. Originality/value - The paper deals with five significant industrial cases, which are simulated in collaboration with important enterprises and belong to different industrial sectors, in order to obtain an original quantitative analysis of time and costs resulting from a simulation optimisation based on the introduction of a set of innovative performance indices.

Notes: Purpose - Management systems and standards have become a key part of the organisation's lifeline and a prerequisite for survival in the twenty-first century. Systems for quality environmental and occupational health and safety (OHS) now form the three main pillars of the organisation, the fourth one being financial accounting. In light of the increasing pressure and demands from different stakeholders, it is becoming necessary for organisations to adopt the different systems/standards. However, to achieve the benefits from the implementation and subsequently maintenance of these systems it is only a practical and logical step that the existing management systems/standards be integrated into a single system. Design/methodology/approach - This paper presents the experiences of three Australian-based organisations that have successfully undertaken the integration of their management systems/standards. Data for this paper were collected through in-depth interviews conducted with the managers responsible for quality, environment and OHS systems. Findings - The interviews revealed a number of quantifiable and unquantifiable benefits experienced by the companies from operating one integrated system, such as saving of dollars, better utilisation of resources and improved communication across the organisation, to name a few. However, for the benefits to be realized it is essential that organisations are aware of the challenges and obstacles accompanying integration of systems/standards. If these challenges are not addressed early in the process they can delay the completion of the integration process. Originality/value - Recommendations for other organisations contemplating integrating their management system include: obtaining commitment from the top management; having adequate resources to integrate the systems; having communication and training across the organisation in aspects of integration; and, last but not the least, having integrated audits. Implementation of these recommendations may vary from one organisation to another; however, it would result in lesser resistance for the organisations following them.

Notes: Purpose - Aims to discuss the linking of enhanced performance of the new product development process with the increasing use of IT applications, resulting in a competitive advantage. Design/methodology/approach - Utilises a case study methodology in a manufacturing company in the Brazilian building materials industry. Findings - Some evidence of enhancement of new product development could be found, such as a reduction in both development cycle time and development costs. As regards customer satisfaction, the executive perception of improvement in final product quality could be identified, and finally no relationship could be observed between the effects and the number of new products launched. Originality/value - IT applications are more successful when links with business strategy are stronger. The benefits of IT strategic alignment occurred after the critical success factor method was adopted in both IT and new product development processes.

Notes: Purpose - A neural-network-based predictive model is proposed to model the second-side thermal profile reflow process in surface mount assembly with a view to facilitating the oven set-up procedure and improving production yield. Design/methodology/approach - This study performs a 38-4 fractional factorial experimental twice to collect the thermal-profile data from a second-side board. The first experiment has components on the second side only, while the second experiment also has additional components on the primary side. A back-propagation neural network (BPN) is then used to model the relationship between control variables and thermal-profile measures. Findings - Empirical results illustrate the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed BPN in solving the second-side thermal-profile prediction and control problem. Originality/value - There is no study dedicated to the investigation of the second-side thermal-profile variance with and without the presence of primary-side components. The study suggests that a variant oven-setting strategy for the second-side reflow process is important to ensure reflow-soldering quality.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to focus on the question whether formalisation of the ordering process can be helpful in achieving responsiveness, while remaining efficient. Design/methodology/approach - Three dimensions of the ordering process are discussed, namely logistical control, information processing and the organisational setting of the ordering process. Data were gathered from case studies at five different production companies. Findings - It is suggested that a highly formalised logistical control structure is essential in achieving responsiveness and efficiency. From the formalisation strategies applied by the companies it can also be concluded that a formalised organisational setting of the ordering process is necessary for being responsive in case the logistical control is characterised by a low degree of formalisation. Originality/value - The paper presents a detailed operationalisation of the formalisation of three dimensions of the ordering process. This is helpful in formulating guidelines for structuring the ordering process to become more responsive.

Notes: Purpose - In most countries the distribution system for new cars has remained unchanged for many years, with the main emphasis on supplying customers from stock held at dealers. Despite high stocks, the performance of the supply chain has failed to meet customer expectations in terms of delivering the exact specification desired within an acceptable timescale. This paper investigates changes to the design of the supply chain which potentially offer significant improvements in performance. Design/methodology/approach - A simulation of the supply of new cars, from ordering through the assembly plant and finished vehicle stocking to customer delivery, has been used to develop further understanding of the dynamic performance of the supply chain. The application of the simulation model is demonstrated through scenarios drawn from research into the UK car market. Findings - The findings demonstrate the benefits of central stocking (storing new cars in distribution centres, rather than at dealers) for both manufactures and customers, supported by recent industry data. Research limitations/implications - The results presented are based on a representative vehicle model manufactured and sold in the UK; a range of alternative scenarios and changes to the supply chain design can be investigated using the simulation model. Practical implications - For the automotive industry, the research supports the introduction of central stocking, and demonstrates a methodology for assessing future changes to the supply chain. Originality/value - The research extends the range of applications of simulation to investigating supply chain design, and demonstrates the feasibility of this approach in modelling complex supply chains.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this research paper is to discuss cellular manufacturing is discussed under conditions of changing product demand. Traditional cell formation procedures ignore any changes in demand over time from product redesign and other factors. However given that in today's business environment, product life cycles are short, a framework is proposed that creates a multi-period cellular layout plan including cell redesign where appropriate. Design/methodology/approach - The framework is illustrated using a two-stage procedure based on the generalized machine assignment problem and dynamic programming. This framework is conceptually compared to virtual cell manufacturing, which is useful when there is uncertainty in demand rather than anticipated changes in demand. A case study is used to explain how the concept would work in practice. Findings - One major characteristic of the proposed method is that it is flexible enough to incorporate existing cell formation procedures. It is shown through an example problem that the proposed two-stage method is better than undergoing ad hoc layout changes or ignoring the demand changes when shifting or cell rearrangement costs exist. It also sheds some insight into cellular manufacturing under dynamic conditions. Originality/value - This paper should be useful to both researchers and practitioners who deal with demand changes in cellular manufacturing.

Notes: Purpose - To investigate the potential of combining six sigma (SS) and theory of constraints (TOC) to improve production system performance. Design/methodology/approach - Based on the literature, this paper proposes an integrated TOC/SS framework and applies this framework to an axle manufacturing company to improve its gear-cutting operation. Findings - The results of the case study indicate that the company benefited tremendously from its emphasis on global improvement guided by the TOC concept. Managers were able to select a continuous improvement (CI) project that had greater impact on bottom line performance. On the other hand, SS provided various statistical tools and engineering techniques (such as value analysis, Pareto diagram and control charts) for defining the specific process to be improved, analyzing the root causes, and designing actions for making improvement. Research limitations/implications - For the future effort of integrating TOC with SS and other CI techniques, we suggest the incorporation of a TOC methodology, thinking process (TP). Practical implications - Overall, the integration of SS and TOC provides managers with an excellent platform for two CI techniques to work together and create great synergy. Originality/value - This study adds to the CI literature and practice by demonstrating the value of a method of combining TOC and SS.

Notes: Purpose - This paper seeks to present the formulation of relationships involving different manufacturing flexibility elements related to the total chain of acquisition, processing and distribution in order to assess the level of flexibility practiced by Australian manufacturing industries. Design/methodology/approach - A range of published works and a detailed data gathered from a wide range of Australian manufacturing industry through questionnaires are evaluated to determine how customer-supplier relationships could have an impact on manufacturing flexibility and enhance the total chain of manufacturing. The main analysis tool used is logistic regression. The knowledge and analysis obtained are linked to evaluate the level of each type of flexibility as well as the impact of customer-supplier flexibility on the total chain of manufacturing. Finally, a performance assessment framework is developed to connect the interlinking factors and contribution regarding customer, supplier, and manufacturing flexibility of Australian industries. Findings - The relationships and correlation of data displayed would enhance the available body of knowledge on the total chain of manufacturing. Consequently, the relationships found in this paper can be used to support the overall flexibility assessment of manufacturing industries. In the paper, the current flexibility practices of Australian industries are assessed and a framework is suggested based on several elements taken into consideration. As the different elements under flexibility have suggested, the manufacturing flexibility of Australian industries as affected by customer-supplier participation is found as medium. Suggestions for pursuing improvements are recommended. Research limitations/implications - The main outcome of the research is to reveal that customer-supplier relationship could significantly affect the flexibility level within the industries under different functional areas. As a result, to achieve the "real" flexibility of the system, flexibility has to be built into the total chain of acquisition-processing-distribution stages, not just focusing on the manufacturing aspects only. The flexibility framework developed in this paper would better assess the impact of customer-supplier flexibility on the total chain of manufacturing and give more insights for analyzing the flexibility level of customers, suppliers, and manufacturers with data gathered across the globe. Originality/value - The originality of the paper lies in its detailed analysis of the effect of supplier and customer contribution on manufacturing problems as well as developing a flexibility assessment framework to discuss its impact on the total chain of manufacturing. Its value to both body of knowledge and practitioners are emphasized in the paper.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this research is to study how knowledge-based systems are applied in an industrial environment. This paper attempts to propose a system, object-based knowledge integration system (OBKIS) which supports the early stages of product development. Design/methodology/approach - This proposed system characterizes the "dynamic" information exchange capability through its distinct features to include executable tasks within product information script that is being utilized in various functional groups, thereby introducing the action items to be carried out in relevant areas. To achieve the "dynamic" information exchange capability, object technology, which is favorable to the creation of inter-related modularized data objects, is incorporated into the product information script to facilitate the active information interchange process. The universal extensible markup language (XML) is also adopted to facilitate data exchange between the database and the knowledge base in order to make real time data and knowledge available throughout the enterprise. Findings - Further research on developing the well-structured XML schema is needed in order to provide a well-understood syntax and self-defined mark-up language to suit particular needs of product data exchange. For verification and measurement, it is suggested that one should evaluate the system in terms of data reliability, transformation accuracy and effectiveness for improving product design process. Practical implications - The implications of these for information flows and management of product data during product development are discussed. In order to validate the feasibility of the proposed system, a prototype is developed for a local company so as to provide linking between the system design concept and system implementation in a practical environment. Originality/value - The significance of this research is that a new product data schema for the initial phase of product development is formulated and the proposed system supports invoking various behaviors for the same message and overriding the pre-defined inherited operation such that a flexible correlation can be formulated in the iterative product design process.

Notes: Purpose - Aims to review accounting practice with regard to the calculation and attribution of technology costs (i.e. depreciation) to products, to evaluate the impact of expected depreciation charges on FCIM system investment, and to propose an alternative depreciation method that is congruent with FCIM resource consumption patterns and better enables rational managerial analysis of the FCIM system investment decision. Design/methodology/approach - Reviews and extends existing models to propose a new model of cost accounting for rational FCIM investment analysis. Findings - The proposed model better enables rational analysis of FCIM system investment options, resulting in a more accurate prediction of income and product line profitability attributable to FCIM system investment. Originality/value - The logic embodied in this paper should be employed to further the development of more refined models of technology cost attribution. Simulations of machine use and maintenance by engineers, analogous to that presented in this paper, could provide a useful estimate of FCIM system exhaustion.

Notes: Purpose - Traditional production management systems are often designed to support manufacturing based on a limited number of product variants. With the emerging trend of producing customized products to meet diverse customer needs, the number of product variants increases exponentially in mass customization. In a situation of assembly-to-order production, production planning and control involve not only product variety, but also process variety. It is imperative to synchronize product and process variety in a coherent manner. Design/methodology/approach - This paper discusses integrated product and production data management for assembly-to-order production. An integrated BOM and routing generator is proposed for the purpose of unifying BOM and assembly-planning data in order to accommodate a wide range of product variability and production variations. Findings - An integrated BOM and routing generator excels in variety synchronization for assembly-to-order production planning. Research limitations/implications - Variety synchronization opens many opportunities for research into mass customization production. It is important to deal with not only the results of high variety production but also the causes of process variations. Practical implications - The proposed methodology is applicable to manage high variety production like mass customization. Originality/value - The paper proposes the variety synchronization issue in mass customization. An object-oriented methodology is applied to manage variety of BOMs and variety of routings.

Notes: Purpose - To present the main findings of a comparative study conducted in two selected Chinese cities - Hong Kong and Shanghai - on identifying and prioritising the strategy determinants and choices that govern how manufacturing enterprises compete. Design/methodology/approach - Attempts to acquire practitioners' views on strategy formulation efforts, strategy determinants and reactive versus proactive strategy choices in manufacturing enterprises. Findings - Based on the responses obtained from 232 Hong Kong and 85 Shanghai firms, it was found that the majority of respondents considered marketing strengths to be the most important strategy determinant, followed by corporate, operational and technology strengths. Product/service quality and company's reputation were the two leading strategy components that would help gain, attract and retain customers. Many respondents also stressed the importance of management commitment, controlling costs of production/operations, and R&D and innovation capabilities. Despite some exceptions, the hypothesis-testing results verified that there has been a positive causal relationship between the four strategy determinants and the adoption of reactive and proactive strategies. Originality/value - By complementing the literature base, the study provides some empirical evidence on identifying and prioritising the strategy determinants and choices for manufacturing business operations in the context of Chinese cities. It also provides a reference for future work in developing strategy-related paradigms for attaining business excellence in manufacturing enterprises.

Notes: Purpose - This study investigates the use of performance measures and how performance measurement impacts performance. Design/methodology/approach - This study was conducted through multiple case studies in a single organisation. Comparisons are made between performance measurement practices in comparable high and average-performing business units. Findings - The findings suggest that current research into the impact of performance measurement on performance may be too simplistic in its approach as much of the research relies on studying the physical and formal systems used, ignoring the types of factors found to be important in this study. Research limitations/implications - Being based on a single organisation, the wider applicability of the specific findings from this study should be questioned. However, if, as we suggest, the interactive nature of the use of the measurement system is important, future research will need to find ways of observing, measuring and quantifying this interactivity to allow a richer picture of the impact of performance measurement on performance to be developed. Practical implications - The differences observed between the high and average-performing cases was in the way they managed with the measures. Average-performing business units used the performance measurement system as a simple control system, whereas, high performing business units were using the measurement system much more interactively. Originality/value - This paper highlights the importance of using performance measures interactively and suggests further research into Simons' concept of "interactive control".

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to address a model for the selection of an appropriate design method of a CIFMS utilizing the ANP within a MIGP model. Design/methodology/approach - The selection process is multi-goal and has both integer and non-integer variables which require the use of a MIGP model for optimization. Findings - The results show that the selection of an appropriate design method can greatly decrease the deviation factors from any given company's goals. Originality/value - The implementation of a CIFMS offers companies many benefits, which enable them to produce high quality products with shorter lead-time. A CIFMS is not a general software program that can be readily applicable to any given manufacturing company, it is a uniquely designed system specifically tailored to a given company guided by a method. Therefore the most crucial process in developing and implementing an efficient CIFMS is selecting a design method which brings forth a MCDM problem with varied degrees of interdependencies among the decision components.

Notes: Purpose - To determine the extent to which long-established technologies (such as barcoding and electronic data interchange (EDI)) have been applied across their supply chains, identify factors influencing implementation, discuss future trends for new technologies, and document the business benefits accrued. Design/methodology/approach - Five case studies were conducted in manufacturing companies who are members of EAN Australia. As members of EAN Australia, the case study companies were using (to some extent at least) some aspects of the EAN system, and thus involved in using e-commerce-enabling technologies. Findings - Indicates that the use of technology is largely restricted to the demand (in this study retail trading partners) side of the supply chain, despite a general understanding of the potential benefits of implementation backward through the supply side. There is general agreement that emerging technologies (such as the internet) will provide further opportunities, and at the same time increase pressure for extended use. Research limitations/implications - Being limited to organizations operating in the Australian fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, the results therefore need to be read in this context. It would be useful if these findings could be compared with those from other countries and different industry sectors. Practical implications - It is apparent that for manufacturers a critical loop is often not closed due to the limited availability of point of sale (POS) data from major trading partners, and that this has served to limit value capture (by the manufacturers) through extended application. Originality/value - Highlights both the potential for business-to-business (B2B)-enabling technologies to facilitate improvements in manufacturing operations, and the reality of their current limitations. An important emergent theme was that business benefits could be as much attributed to complementary methodologies (cooperative arrangements, cross-functional involvement, etc.), as to the use of the technologies themselves. As such, the cases point to the critical nature of information in this area, and to the need for appropriate relationships between trading partners to underpin and enable data flows between trading partners.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims to deal with the problem of multi-plant purchase coordination in an assemble-to-order (ATO) environment, when volume discount schedules are provided by each of the suppliers. Design/methodology/approach - This paper uses linear programming and a multi-agent system to coordinate multi-plant purchasing activities in order to minimize the total purchasing cost. Findings - An integrated linear programming model and multi-agent approach is perfectly suited to the purchase coordination in multi-plant organizations in order to achieve the global profit. Originality/value - The proposed model provides an effective and efficient coordination mechanism that helps multi-plant organization and suppliers to maintain the availability of materials in the right quantity, with the right quality and at minimum possible cost.

Notes: Purpose - Benefits of modularity are being limited by the lack of agreement over terminology. Neither researchers nor managers use the same typology, complicating comparisons of modular strategies. Design/methodology/approach - Presents existing problem, then develops comprehensive and necessary typology. Examples illustrate practical use of the typology, and help reader understand implications on product design and future research. Findings - Development of modularity typologies, including their characteristics and implications for product design and production systems, has been minimal. A well-defined typology for soft modules exists, but literature on categorization of hard modules is limited. Most existing definitions of modularity are related to a common type called manufacturing modularity. Practical implications - Each type of modularity is characterized by a different set of design attributes. For example, appearance, durability, and ergonomics are important for product-use modularity, while accessibility, recycling and cost are key considerations for limited life modularity. Designers must understand these different characteristics in order to design products that address relevant customer needs such as cost, customization, serviceability and upgradeability that can give product a competitive edge in the marketplace. When developing individual modules, focus on core characteristics of that module type. When developing a multiple module type product, balance characteristics of the interdependent module types in order to ensure that the product meets customer needs. Originality/value - Four types of modularity are defined: manufacturing, product-use, limited life and data access. New products often incorporate all four types in order to address both the needs of the customers as well as the manufacturer.

Notes: Purpose - Simulation experiment was employed to investigate the schemes for coordinating JIT practices to promote performance upgrade in a job shop environment with the pull system. Design/methodology/approach - The four related essential JIT practices (job shop JIT practices) investigated include: cellular manufacturing (CM), operations overlapping (OPOVR), reduction of set-up/processing time variability (variability reduction) and set-up time reduction (STR). Findings - Experiment findings suggest that coordination of CM and STR should be given the priority. While the extent of STR effected by CM substantially influences the efficacy of adopting a cellular layout, the choice of adopting a functional layout (FL) is more likely to be affected by the STR resulted from improvement of set-up operations (set-up improvement). Variability reduction tends to be more effective for a cellular layout. For a cellular layout without OPOVR, the effectiveness of reducing set-up time variability is prominent and almost impervious to the extent of set-up improvement. For a FL, the effect of variability reduction is minor; reduction of set-up time variability is effective in this case only for a set-up to processing time ratio of 20 or larger. The findings of this study do not justify the implementation of OPOVR in the shop environment, even with the support of the other three job shop JIT practices. Originality/value - This study is notable in integrating STR into the job shop JIT practices to achieve overall performance improvement. In addition, the resulting strategies for variability reduction are essential for adapting the pull system to job shop manufacturing. Therefore, the findings of this study form systematic guidelines enabling exercise of the job shop JIT practices coherently to promote reform of job shop manufacturing.

Notes: Purpose - Increased requirements for competitiveness, innovation, quality, flexibility and information processing capability has led a number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to implement advanced manufacturing technologies (AMT). Seeks to explore this. Design/methodology/approach - Using a contingency theory perspective, a survey study of 118 Canadian manufacturers was made to determine the performance outcomes of the "fit" or alignment between the critical success factors (CSFs) of operations management in SMEs and their level of proficiency in the use of AMT. Findings - It was found that while increased CSF and AMT assimilation levels directly impact operational performance in terms of increased productivity, cost reductions, flexibility, quality, and integration, a mismatch between the two significantly reduces performance. From an information processing view of the firm, it was also found that increased uncertainty in the SMEs' environment leads to increased CSF levels but not to increased assimilation of AMT. Research limitations/implications - Common to survey studies, the nature of the sample and perceptual nature of certain measures impose care in generalizing the results of the study. Originality/value - Provides information showing that enterprises must increase their ability to manage both manufacturing and information technologies.

Notes: Purpose - Since the data model plays an important role in designing manufacturing execution system (MES) database, this paper seeks to provide a generic and adaptable data model for MES, which can facilitate and improve the MES development. Design/methodology/approach - Extended entity-relationship (EER) model technique is adopted to build the data model of MES. Findings - Based on MES functions and database requirement analysis, four subject's structures of MES database is abstracted from a system integration point of view. These four structures are independent relatively but also have close interrelation. Each structure is modeled with EER model. Research limitations/implications - The presented data model mainly focuses on discrete manufacturing MES, which perhaps limits its usefulness elsewhere, and the data model still need further testing in manufacturing enterprises with different scales. Practical implications - A prototype MES system is developed and implemented, the results show that the proposed EER modeling approach can establish and make clear complex relationships among entities existed in a manufacturing system, which lays the foundation for adaptable and modular MES software development and implementation. Originality/value - This paper fulfils a fundamental need of designing data model for MES and provides a main framework for developing MES data model, which provides reference for researches both in academia and industry to build specific relational data models for specific needs.

Notes: Purpose - To investigate implementation of benchmarking (BM) in three hospital trusts by adapting receptive context of change model according to BM principles of EFQM business model. Design/methodology/approach - Perceptions of managers, clinicians and finance personnel towards implementation of BM are compared. Both qualitative and quantitative data are collected in three hospitals and results are cross compared to analyse both organisational and professional perceptions. Findings - The paper concludes that there are limits to the rapid or broad implementation of BM principles in health services. It argues that the patients and their expectations are not referred in BM. It also suggests that local implementation programmes should be used for BM health services. Research limitations/implications - Future research could use data from other hospitals and apply same/similar framework in order to create knowledge representing the general attitude in hospitals and between professionals towards BM in health services. Practical implications - Both academics and professionals working in the field of health services management might find the paper useful especially in managing different professional groups' attitude in managing change in large organisations. Originality/value - The originality of the paper is the fact that it attempts to report on both professional and organisational approaches in implementation of BM. It also attempts to report on not only organisational factors but also individual and external factors of change for BM.

Notes: Purpose - To use quality function deployment (QFD)/benchmarking for building an optimal activity-based costing (ABC) model using baseline information from five different Spanish hospitals. Design/methodology/approach - The customer satisfaction benchmarking process in QFD is discussed along with the benefits of hierarchical benchmarks in specifying areas of strategic competition and the logically ensuing product/service strategic decision-making requirements. A case study is presented to illustrate the use of two methodological approaches: benchmarking and QFD to obtain the final product of the paper: an optimal ABC. Findings - The resulting outcome from the QFD/benchmarking analysis is an ABC model, which has the customer expectations and the requirements that hospitals are looking for. Research limitations/implications - Future research can benefit from this research by expanding the scope from hospitals to other types of industries in order to comparatively analyze the applicability of the proposed tools, and applying the same methodology to other hospitals for developing a model for a standardized costing system in health care industry. Practical implications - With the outcomes produced by the methodology applied in this paper, hospital strategic decision makers can now have specifics on which to base decisions regarding the most appropriate allocation of time, human and capital resources. Originality/value - The paper presents a new approach for developing an optimal ABC for healthcare by applying two important methodologies: benchmarking and QFD. The use and modification of these methodologies in healthcare are new to research for achieving a final ABC model that will easily identify any performance improvements.

Notes: Purpose - To introduce and provide an overview of the various issues related to environmental (green) supply chain management performance measurement. Design/methodology/approach - The work relies on experiences, case studies and other literature related to performance measurement in environmental supply chains. It seeks to integrate works in supply chain management, environmental management, and performance management into one framework. A systems framework forms the discussion outline with a focus on controls/pressures, inputs, tools, and outputs as major categories for evaluation and review. Findings - Provides an integrative framework for study, design and evaluation of green supply chain management performance tools. The findings also identify a number of issues that need to still be addressed. Research limitations/implications - We have only one design of the issues in which numerous categorizations could be provided. There is limited research in this area and new and current models/developments can provide additional insight. Implications of the work is that these gaps exist and that significantly more work needs to be completed in this field. Practical implications - A very useful source of information for practitioners that seek to implement these systems within and between organizations. Also, the paper provides numerous areas which researchers could complete additional research and develop research agendas. Originality/value - This paper provides some of the very first insights into development of a green supply chain management performance measurement system. Typically performance measurement systems are internally and business focused, we expand on these issues by considering inter-organizational and environmental issues within a business context.

Notes: Purpose - To establish a comprehensive model of strategic management emphasized on the interactions of the organization with its external and internal environments and also to further develop a strategy based on competitive advantage. Design/methodology/approach - By using key success factor and benchmarking methodologies as well as Multi-Dimensional Space technique, the operational customer's needs fall into four strategic cells: "anchoring", "narrowing", "following-up", and "catching-up", which can be improved in accordance with strategic moves. Findings - The empirical study examines Taipei International Airport (TPE) and undertakes a comparison with its six major competitors in Asia. It has been found that Singapore as well as Hong Kong international airports prevailed over other competitors in the overall performance and thus were selected as the benchmarking airports. While the TPE outperforms the benchmarking airports in the Core Functional Area, it lags well behind in the Support Area. It is therefore strongly suggested that the TPE should develop its ability to build up Key Success Factors as well as to benchmark efficiently and effectively if it is to secure competitive advantage over the benchmarking airports. Originality/value - The quantitative and strategic management model we built could help organizational members to analyze corporation's current position, to reach more competitive strategies, and to evaluate/change strategies effectively.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to introduce Essence of Care, a benchmarking tool for health care practitioners and an integral part of the UK National Health Service (NHS) Clinical Governance agenda. It focuses on how one NHS Community Health Trust has attempted to introduce organisation-wide benchmarking by using a workshop programme to raise awareness and act as a catalyst to initiate implementation. An evaluation of progress made six months after the workshops were delivered is described. Design/methodology/approach - The paper outlines the case study approach taken and describes the qualitative methods used in the small scale evaluation, namely interviews and focus groups with the decision makers and implementers of Essence of Care across the case study site. Findings - The evaluation highlights that whilst raising awareness is relatively straightforward, putting Essence of Care into practice is more difficult to achieve, especially when happening at a time of significant organisational change. The discussion considers the need for a receptive context for change when implementing benchmarking for service improvement and reviews whether Essence of Care benchmarking could be a practical framework for developing an improvement culture within an organisation. Originality/value - The empirical findings from this research will contribute to the knowledge and understanding of using benchmarking for service improvement within the NHS.

Notes: Purpose - Public sector organisations have to respond to calls for accountability from both funders and recipients of the services, as well as report on operations within constrained financial resources. Given the absence of profit motives and the difficulties of performance assessment in public sector organisations, the purpose of this paper is to consider the role of benchmarking as a tool to help overcome some of the problems of performance assessment in the public sector. Design/methodology/approach - A review and discussion of current and recent trends and approaches in public sector benchmarking in New Zealand. The difficulties of establishing meaningful benchmarking exercises are discussed in relation to management accounting's approach to management control systems. Findings - In New Zealand, the pharmaceutical management agency (PHARMAC) is responsible for obtaining the best health outcomes that are reasonably achievable through the use of pharmaceuticals for eligible people, within the funding provided. The concepts discussed in the paper are applied to PHARMAC as an illustration. Proposes that a combination of internal benchmarking, process benchmarking and increased public documentation will enhance reporting systems in any public sector organisation. Practical implications - The methodology should facilitate organisations' responses to calls for accountability, from a diversity of interested parties. Originality/value - Highlights the role of benchmarking as a tool to help overcome some of the problems of performance assessment in the public sector.

Notes: Purpose - This paper seeks to describe the New Zealand Ministry of Health District Health Board (DHB) Mental Health Service Profile, which for the first time compares performance on a number of quality indicators for the populations of 21 DHBs. Design/methodology/approach - The background, theory and development of the Ministry of Health Mental Health Directorate DHB Mental Health Service Profile (Profile) is discussed and example pages from the Profile are included Findings - The DHB Profile overcomes the problem of setting arbitrary benchmarks by using the range of current practice across the sector. The profile demonstrates that certain levels of performance can be achieved and, given a better understanding of the long-term client group, is potentially a very powerful tool for encouraging improved service delivery. Improved data quality is also likely to be a spin-off from the use of the Profile in the sector. Originality/value - Having key DHB mental health quality information in one place and being able to compare individual DHB performance with minimum, medium and maximum values for all DHBs are a significant step to improving information use and understanding DHB service and quality issues.

Notes: Purpose - The paper aims to outline benchmarking and performance monitoring practice developed by the New Zealand Health Information Service at a diagnosis-related group (DRG) level. Design/methodology/approach - The indicators are calculated from the routine hospital discharge data in the National Minimum Dataset. The benchmarks are set at either the 20th or 80th centile as a cut-point that can alert to possible issues or a target for which to aim. Benchmarks can be used to highlight variations by making comparisons with other health-care providers or the same provider over time. Findings - This approach provides an indication of which DRGs and outcome variables may be worth looking at in more detail. Using comparative measures across providers allows the identification of areas of health care with the most potential for gain. Practical implications - There is strong evidence of changed clinical practice and improved health outcomes following systematic evaluation of some patient management practices. Originality/value - This overview of benchmarking practice using routine data with some distinctive features would be of interest to those with similar undertakings.