Showing papers in "Contemporary Management Research in 2016"

Modelling the Relationship among Green Perceived Value, Green Trust, Satisfaction, and Repurchase Intention of Green Products

Abstract: This study investigates the relationship among green perceived value, green trust, satisfaction, and repurchase intention of green products. A research model was developed to investigate the factors affecting the repurchase intention of green products. The research results demonstrated that green trust and satisfaction mediate the relationship between green perceived value and repurchase intention. The research results also indicated that the drivers of green product repurchase intention are represented by perceived value, green trust, and satisfaction. Companies should emphasize resources to improve these aspects in order to enhance green product repurchase intention among consumers. Keywords: Green Products, Repurchase Intention To cite this document: Aris Y. C. Lam, Mei Mei Lau, and Ronnie Cheung, "Modelling the Relationship among Green Perceived Value, Green Trust, Satisfaction, and Repurchase Intention of Green Products", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.1, pp. 47-60, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.13842

Impact of Mobile Communication Technology on the Work Life Balance of Working Women - a Review of Discourses

Abstract: 1. INTRODUCTIONWork life balance was defined by Clark (2000) as "satisfaction and good functioning at work and at home, with minimum role conflict". It is a perception of enriching integrity in personal time, family care, and work domain with minimum role conflict. It is a key factor for an individual's psychological and social well-being. It is necessary to avoid significant role conflict to maintain self-esteem, and overall sense of harmony in life. (Clark, 2000; Ungerson and Yeandle, 2005; Clarke, 2004; Marks and MacDermid, 1996)The role of women has significantly changed in last 50 years in developed and developing countries. Modern day women are working outside and at the same time taking the primary responsibilities of home and child care (Brewster and Padavic, 2000; Keene and Quadagno, 2004). They have to balance between multiple roles of their lives to achieve a meaningful life. It becomes a bigger challenge in developing countries like India where traditionally women are regarded as the care givers for the family and mother to the children, expected to take care of the household activities. Socio-culturally they are considered as "the inferior gender". (Sundaresan, 2014; Bharat, 2003) With the increasing availability of education, the traditional scenario changed and dual earner and nuclear families became prominent, especially in the urban scenario and information technology sector. Even with economic independence, they continued to be the primary care giver and adopted themselves in a dual role. As a result more and more Indian women are facing the challenge of balancing the family life and work life (Komarraju,1997; Rajadhyaksha and Bhatnagar, 2000; Reddy et al., 2010).Advent of mobile technology brought a new change for the employed woman in terms of work life balance. Fast and prompt communication, instant availability to both work and family life, resolved the border between family life and work life (lee, 2009; Pauleen 2015). Mobile technology changed the way of working in private sector. Modes of communication improved dramatically with the advancement of computer and mobile technology (Chamakiotis 2014). Employers are easily keeping in touch with employees who are away from office for work related issues which helps to increase the work productivity. This is especially important for a continuously active work force such as information technology. Previous studies have shown that software professionals are working under greater time pressure and more stress (Teagarden, Meyer and Jones, 2008; Scholarios and Marks, 2004). Moreover, the connection between mobile space and time is very complicated and not constant. These changes have affected individuals and social groups in different ways (Wajcman, Bittman and Brown, 2008).Accessibility and availability basically depends upon social practice which is created by individual (Bittman 2009, Green 2002). As a result men and women may not have been affected in the same way by the use of mobile technology. Their role in family life and social life are not always similar and women are more involved with family care (Wajcman, Bittman and Brown, 2008). This article reflects on the impact of mobile technology on the work life balance of Indian working women with special emphasis on the Information technology sector.2. BACKGROUND2.1 Work life BalancePost World War II developed countries noticed a flux in the role distribution of two genders. The reality of working women created new problems for family and work life dynamics, concept of role conflict was born. Sociologists were drawn to this issue early. In between 1960s to 1990s most of the literature focused on role conflicts and work life satisfaction. Women and their multiple roles in life were studied from different aspects including psychological distress, enhancing experience from different roles and overall behavioural pattern (Kahn, 1964; Hall, 1972; Marks, 1977; Moen and Kantor, 1979; Barnett and Baruch, 1985). …

Examining the Factors Influencing Purchase Intention of Smartphones in Hong Kong

Abstract: This study investigates the factors that influence the purchase intention of smartphones in Hong Kong, including perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived enjoyment, perceived value, subjective norms and external influence. A sample of 150 full-time secondary and undergraduate students in Hong Kong was selected for the survey regarding purchase intention with smart mobile phones. The results of statistical analysis showed that four factors that have a significant influence on purchase intention include perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived enjoyment, and perceived value. Hence, industry practitioners in the smartphone industry can consider these factors to assess and help improve their sales. Keywords: Purchase Intention, Smartphone, Hong Kong To cite this document: Mei Mei Lau, Aris Y. C. Lam, and Ronnie Cheung, "Examining the Factors Influencing Purchase Intention of Smartphones in Hong Kong", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.2, pp. 213-224, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.13836

A Comparison of the Influence of Personal and Cultural Values on the Consumption of Luxury Goods across Arab Regions: Levant versus Gulf

Abstract: Consumption patterns across different cultures are influenced by several factors, including personal and cultural ones. Collectivist cultures play a major role in the consumption decision-making process that an individual goes through, as culture typically affects consumers’ taste orientation, specifically toward luxury goods. The main motivation behind this study is to investigate the influence of two major collectivist cultural values—namely, face saving and group orientation—on the perception and consumption of luxury goods across two Arab market regions (i.e., the Levant versus the Gulf). A survey was completed by 400 consumers sampled from different universities in the capitals of Lebanon, Jordan, Qatar, and Oman. The results indicate that not all luxury-related factors influence face saving in the Levant and Gulf regions. In addition, no such factors influence group orientation in either region. Beliefs such as the assumption that group orientation plays a significant role in consumers’ decision making and that hedonism is not appreciated in Arab cultures are challenged, which indicate slow changes in the Arab cultures. These findings are useful to marketers who aim to promote luxury products in the Arab world as they provide a greater understanding of consumers’ perceptions of such products. Keywords: Luxury Consumption, Personal Values, Cultural Values, Conspicuous Consumption, Arab Consumers To cite this document: Maya F. Farah and Rayan S. Fawaz, "A Comparison of the Influence of Personal and Cultural Values on the Consumption of Luxury Goods across Arab Regions: Levant versus Gulf", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.2, pp. 139-168, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.15067

Governance Challenges for Not-for-Profit Organisations: Empirical Evidence in Support of A Contingency Approach

Abstract: This article presents empirical evidence of the governance challenges faced by Australian not-for-profit (NFP) organisations. Drawing on our collection of data through interviews and a survey, the paper explores perceptions of NFP leaders concerning key governance challenges, drawing implications for theory and practice in the area of NFP governance. The paper demonstrates that the effectiveness of governance systems is influenced by internal and external contingencies that NFP organisations face, such as variations in board roles, stakeholder and membership demands, funding arrangements, board member recruitment processes, skills of board members, and resources for training and development. The paper suggests the merit of a move away from prescriptive and normative models of NFP governance, contending that generic best practice governance standards for NFPs ought not to be further pursued. The paper highlights a role for a national NFP regulator in providing training and advice, as well as assistance with the development of appropriate governance systems according to contextual factors. JEL Classifications: L3, L5

Customer Perception of Green Advertising in The Context of Eco-Friendly FMCGs

Abstract: Past studies have focused on the role of advertising in consumer behaviour. However, with the emergence of green marketing as a field of study, there is a growing importance in eco-friendly products. The present study contributes to the literature on green marketing by investigating Australian customers’ exposure to and trust in green advertising in the context of eco-friendly Fast Moving Consumer Goods. In addition, the study investigates whether customers’ purchase intentions are influenced by such advertisements. The present study, which includes in-depth interviews, gives an insight into issues relating to green advertisements. The findings provide a detailed insight into the variation in terms of customers’ perceptions of green advertising and its influence on customers. Findings and discussion are presented.

Born Global Firm Internationalisation: The Influence of Industry Factors

Abstract: The established literature on born global firms has tended to overlook the significance of industry factors on born global firms’ internationalisation processes. This paper explores recent conceptualisations of the early internationalisation processes of born global firms and their drivers within an industry context to determine how and why industry characteristics impact the internationalisation of born global firms. Drawing on the born global literature, this study adopts an exploratory, qualitative approach. The results from a multiple case study analysis of four Australia-based born global firms suggest that industry characteristics are a critical factor influencing each firm’s internationalisation decisions. The key findings include high levels of global integration motivating firms to internationalise, high levels of local competition driving the choice of international markets to improve the firm’s position in its domestic market, and the choice of entry mode being determined by industry trends. Keywords: Born Global, Internationalisation, Industry Factors, Market Size, Choice of Markets, Entry Mode To cite this document: Murray Taylor and Robert Jack, "Born Global Firm Internationalisation: The Influence of Industry Factors", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.3, pp. 289-308, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.14892

Preferences in Business and Corporate Strategies: The Role of Personal Values

Abstract: This study explored the relationship between 24 personal values and strategic preferences. Data was collected from 137 participants. Through stepwise discriminant analysis, the data were analyzed to reveal that personal values do have a relationship with strategic preferences. In particular, the ‘obedience’ value was more distinctly related to customer-focused business strategies. ‘Courtesy’ was mostly associated with backward integration strategies, while ‘adaptability’ was more related to forward integration strategies. Finally, the findings of this study revealed that diversification strategies were not related to personal values. Keywords: Strategy, Personal Values, Strategic Preferences, Business Strategy, Corporate Strategy To cite this document: Hussein Ismail, "Preferences in Business and Corporate Strategies: The Role of Personal Values", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.1, pp. 25-46, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.14600

Talent Management Moderating the Relationship between Recruitment for the Highly Skilled and HR Policies

Abstract: In an increasingly competitive business environment, organizations seek to improve efficiency through hiring highly skilled employees and managing talent. A corporate goal has always been the avail of clear and applicable HR policies. However, today’s successful organization needs to retain talented professionals, manage their development, and provide a systematic work environment where HR policies are transparent and equitable. The results of this study reveal a number of relationships, but most importantly, the existence of a statistically significant moderating role of the talent management efforts in the relationship between hiring highly skilled employees and HR policies, with a visible difference between genders. Keywords: HR, Hiring Highly Skilled, Talent Management To cite this document: Bassem E. Maamari and Kayan Alameh, "Talent Management Moderating the Relationship between Recruitment for the Highly Skilled and HR Policies", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.1, pp. 121-138, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.14133

Impact of International Financial Reporting Standards on Stock Price Synchronicity for Asian Markets

Abstract: Stock price synchronicity since the adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) has been significant due to its strong relationship with the economic development and capital market stability of a country. Using data from 2006–2011, the study examines whether the mandatory adoption of IFRS reduces stock price synchronicity in the Asian context. The study utilizes a sample of 1,800 firm-year observations for firms in four Asian markets—China, Hong Kong, Israel, and the Philippines—where IFRS have been mandatory since 2009. The empirical model, relating to stock price synchronicity with the adoption of IFRS, and other firm-specific control variables were analysed using both univariate and multivariate techniques. Different types of panel data estimates were used and compared so as to interpret the results with the best-suited parameters for different data sets for different markets. The empirical results support the argument that, for all four markets considered, IFRS adoption improves the information environment through the capitalization of firm-specific information into stock prices, thereby reducing the stock price synchronicity. Along with IFRS adoption, other firm-specific control variables are found to have significant influence on stock price synchronicity, such as cross-listings in foreign stock exchanges in China and Philippines, the Herfindahl index in Hong Kong, and the percentage of foreign sales in Israel. Keywords: International Financial Reporting Standards, Stock Price Synchronicity, Information Environment, Mandatory Adoption of IFRS, Asian Markets To cite this document: Archana Patro and V. K. GUPTA, "Impact of International Financial Reporting Standards on Stock Price Synchronicity for Asian Markets", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.1, pp. 61-88, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.14160

Determinants of Perceived Service Quality: An Empirical Investigation of Fitness and Recreational Facilities

Abstract: This study investigates fitness and recreational services using a quantitative approach. The findings of this study help property developers gain a better insight into facility management services and product offerings to improve customer experience. A critical review of literature focused on physical environment quality, outcome quality, and interaction quality from a consumer’s perspective. The quantitative study was based on a survey conducted with a sample of 75 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The results of this study enhance our understanding of the service quality dimensions with reference to recreational services provided in large residential areas of premium properties, which have a significant effect on purchase intention of consumers. Keywords: Properties, Recreational Facilities, Service Quality To cite this document: Ronnie Cheung and Monde Woo, "Determinants of Perceived Service Quality: An Empirical Investigation of Fitness and Recreational Facilities", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.3, pp. 363-370, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.12369

Linking Perceived Organizational Support to Organizational Identification: Role of Organization Based Self-Esteem

Abstract: Perceived organizational support has been a widely studied construct during the past three decades, and it has been linked to organizational identification. However, not many studies have investigated this link. This study aimed to explain this relationship through organization based self-esteem and empirically examined the relationship between organization-based self-esteem and organizational identification, which has also not been studied adequately. Hence, inter-relations among the perceived organizational support, organization-based self-esteem, and organizational identification were studied in depth. The present study proposed the hypothesis that perceived organizational support and organization-based self-esteem are positively linked to organizational identification. Further, it examined the hypothesis that organization-based self-esteem will mediate the relationship between perceived organizational support and organizational identification. The data was collected from 325 employees, of which 75 respondents were females, using established scales. Overall, 75 percent of the respondents were less than 40 years of age and 66 percent of the respondents had at least 3 years of work experience. Structural equation modelling and regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The results from the data supported the hypothesized relationships. The model fit indices of both the direct and the indirect models were acceptable. Moreover, the regression analysis results also indicated partial mediation, indicating that organization based self-esteem partially mediated the relationship between perceived organizational support and organizational identification. The managerial implications of the findings are also discussed. Keywords: Perceived Organizational Support, Organization Based Self-Esteem, Organizational Identification To cite this document: Sumit Kumar Ghosh, "Linking Perceived Organizational Support to Organizational Identification: Role of Organization Based Self-Esteem", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.2, pp. 225-244, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.15765

Fostering Creativity in Creative Environments: An Empirical Study of Saudi Architectural Firms

Abstract: Architecture, by its very nature is about creativity, not only in design but in all its forms, and therefore it is safe to assert that creativity and innovation are at the root of architectural design practices. This empirical research examines the factors that affect organizational creativity in architectural firms in Saudi Arabia in the context of Amabile’s componential theory. The research sample consisted of 210 professionals from five architectural firms operating in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Structural equation modeling was used to test the research hypotheses. The research findings suggest that management practices, which permit autonomy, risk-taking, rewards for creativity and innovation, have the greatest impact on organizational creativity, briefly defined as the creation of a valuable new product. Furthermore, it can be surmised that other elements of Amabile’s componential theory including lack of organizational impediments, sufficient resources, realistic workload pressure, freedom, challenging work, management encouragement, and work group support have a significant impact on organizational creativity. The study also indicated that organizational encouragement has no significant causal connection with organizational motivation and therefore organizational creativity. The results extend the knowledge and understanding of the factors that affect creativity in exclusively creative environments. In addition, the implications for managerial practices and executive decision-making are explored. Keywords: Organizational Creativity, Management Practices, Organizational Motivation, Amabile’s Componential Theory, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia To cite this document: Ahmed Rashad ElMelegy, Qadir Mohiuddin, Jess Boronico, and Ahmed A. Maasher, "Fostering Creativity in Creative Environments: An Empirical Study of Saudi Architectural Firms", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.1, pp. 89-120, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.14431

The Effect of Macroeconomic and Financial Related Variables on Stock Market Capitalization of Global Growth Generator Countries

Abstract: (ProQuest: ... denotes formulae omitted.)1. INTRODUCTIONIn the current decade, several national governments and financial institutions are examining the development and growth of economic and financial stability of Latin America, Europe and Asian countries. The Citi Investment Research and Analysis, a division of Citi Group Global Market Inc., published a report entitled, "Global Growth Generators or 3G countries on 21st February 2011. In the 3G, countries were identified on basis of economic growth potential and portfolio investment opportunities. The research division of Citi Group identified eleven countries, as growth potential economies. Willem Buiter and Ebrahim Rahbari (2011), the author of the report, states that BRICS countries play a vital role but in the present scenario, there is a need to examine the potential of diversified markets. The study identified emerging markets, based on domestic saving and investments, health, demographic prospects, education, trade openness, quality of institutions and policies. The Citi group report used the variables, based on the criteria like Health, Demographic prospects, Education, Trade openness, Policies, Quality of institutions, domestic saving and investments like income per capita growth, to develop a new index for identifying Global Growth Generator countries or 3G countries. The Global Growth Generator countries are Bangladesh, China, Egypt, India, Iraq, Indonesia, Mongolia, Nigeria, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Vietnam. According to the report, Vietnam has recorded high growth index among the eleven 3G countries. This country holds high potential growth and profitable investment opportunities and China is placed the second, with 0.81, followed by India at 0.71. The eleven 3G countries identified are developing economies at present but they have a large and young population and are at the early stage of development. Buiter and Rahbari (2011) stated in their study, the clear path for growth i.e. start poor, start young, open up, don't be unlucky and don't burst. They suggested that once a country starts with poor country status and with almost unlimited young labor forces, they must create some form of reform by opening up their markets and invest in human and physical capital. The present decade, HSBC Trade Confidence Index as well as HSBC Trade Forecast revealed Egypt, India, Indonesia and Vietnam recorded outstanding growth in trade volume and expected to record growth rate at least 7.3 per cent in a year through 2025. The details of global growth generators (3G) countries during the period 2010-2050 index score are provided in Table-1.Buiter and Ebrahim (2011) mostly concentrated on the role of banking industry even though they did not ignore stock market in the role of economic development.1.1. Stock Market, Economic Growth and Determinant of Stock Market DevelopmentAcademicians are divided in their opinion about the role of stock market in the modern economy. While some of the literatures support that stock market growth does not lead to economic growth, but most of the literatures have found a positive relationship between stock market developments and economic growth both in short term as well as in long run. Over the last two decades, much focus has been on the impact of financial development i.e. capital market, banking industry growth on economic development.The fluctuations of macroeconomic variables influence the economy troubling the trade smoothness. Forecasting the future movements and behaviour of macroeconomic variables can be helpful to predict stock returns (Serife Ozlen and Ugur). This research study borrowed the concept of 3G countries from the Citi group report and studied the impact of macroeconomic and financial related variables on the stock market in 3G countries.2. REVIEW OF THE LITERATUREMd. Al-Mamun, (2013), in his paper, examined the effect of macroeconomic and market related variables on the growth of stock market capitalization in 3G or Global Growth Generator countries. …

Attributes of Innovation and Management Accounting Changes

Abstract: This study provides evidence for the adoption and diffusion of activity-based costing (ABC) in the Sultanate of Oman (as a developing country) and examines the significance of the effect of characteristics of innovation on the adoption and diffusion of ABC (as both a practice and a process). It further explains some of the variations in the ABC’s adoption rates in the literature. The findings show that the adoption and diffusion of ABC in Oman is not very popular. The results provide no conclusive evidence to support the significance of innovation characteristics on the adoption and diffusion of ABC in developing countries, such as Oman. While the diffusion of innovation theory suggests that innovation characteristics could have a significant influence on the adoption and diffusion of innovations, current study suggests that the diffusion of certain innovations (such as ABC in our study) in a particular environment and situation (such as developing countries-case of Oman in our study) could follow other ideologies (e.g., fad fashion philosophy or institutional theory) rather than the diffusion of innovation theory. Keywords: Activity-Based Costing, Innovation Characteristics, The Diffusion of Innovation and Economic Theory To cite this document: Davood Askarany, "Attributes of Innovation and Management Accounting Changes", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.4, pp. 455-466, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.1144

The Role of Strategic Flexibility in The Associations between Management Control System Characteristics and Strategic Change

Abstract: The research question addressed in this paper is this: what is the role of strategic flexibility as a product of MCS characteristics, an enabler of strategic change, and a mediating variable in the relationships between MCS characteristics and strategic change? This focus fills a gap in the literature which in the past has reported research primarily on the nexus between MCS characteristics and strategic change. Data are collected through a mail-based survey of strategic business units in Australian manufacturing organizations. The findings indicate that two MCS characteristics (the timeliness and interactive use of information) lead to strategic flexibility, that strategic flexibility leads to strategic change (operational change), and that strategic flexibility mediates the relationships between these particular MCS characteristics and strategic change. The study’s findings offer a more comprehensive theory of strategic management in dynamic environments, which contributes to the MCS–strategy literature and informs the practice of organizational management with reference to the resource-based view of the firm. In particular, the findings indicate to researchers in the MCS–strategy field that, although some MCS characteristics might lead directly to strategic change, greater attention should be paid to the role of strategic flexibility as a product of MCS characteristics, an enabler of strategic change, and a mediator in the relationships between certain MCS characteristics and strategic change. Keywords: Management Control Systems, Strategic Flexibility, Strategic Change To cite this document: Mark Srour, Kevin Baird, and Herb Schoch, "The Role of Strategic Flexibility in The Associations between Management Control System Characteristics and Strategic Change", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.3, pp. 371-406, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.13851

Psychological Contract Breach: Consequences of Unkept Promises of Permanent Employment

Abstract: Adopting a psychological contract perspective, this study examines attitudinal and behavioral reactions of temporary employees to repeated broken promises of permanent employment by their employers. Data were collected through self-report and co-worker rating surveys from 140 bank employees in Bangladesh. To identify psychological contract breaches and employees’ reactions, the data were analyzed using correlations and regressions. Past research has focused mainly on the organizational benefits of using temporary employees. In contrast, the results of our empirical study indicate that the continuous extension of involuntary temporary status resulted in lower self-reported and co-worker-rated organizational citizenship behaviors, higher self-reported and co-worker ratings of job neglect, and increased turnover intentions. The implications of a psychological contract breach in terms of managing a temporary workforce are also discussed. The findings present new knowledge of the attitudinal and behavioral consequences arising from employers’ failure to honor their promise of permanent employment to long-term temporary employees. This research will be of particular interest to employers, employee advocates, human resource management practitioners, and academics in the field of management. However, the results cannot be generalized to all industry sectors or all types of temporary employees as the study covered temporary employees in the banking sector only. Keywords: Psychological Contracts, Organizational Citizenship Behavior, Temporary Employees, Human Resource Management To cite this document: Ezaz Ahmed, Brian D’Netto, John Chelliah, and Erich Fein, "Psychological Contract Breach: Consequences of Unkept Promises of Permanent Employment", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.2, pp. 183-212, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.13914

Realizing Auditor Independence in China: Insights from the Local Context

Abstract: This study contributes to context-based auditing research by providing insights into the realization of auditor independence in China’s politico-economic and cultural context. Given the increasing legitimizing power and wide diffusion of Western corporate governance and accountability, it is crucial to examine the practice of imported concepts in countries such as China, where the development of accounting profession has taken a different path and been shaped by contextual influences different from those of Anglo-American countries. Twenty-one semi-structured interviews were used to obtain insights into auditor independence. The findings suggest a discrepancy between the imported construct of auditor independence and China’s institutional context. China’s politico-economic and social contexts have narrowed construction of auditor independence to its economic dimension. Given the pervasiveness of guanxi, low legal risk, and intense competition in the audit services market, Chinese auditors are under pressure to lower audit fees, avoid issuing qualified opinions, and provide additional advice and assistance on financial reporting. We argue that when auditor independence, as developed in Western economies, is implemented in transitional economies, there is a need to take into account its ability to adapt. Keywords: Auditing, Auditor Independence, China, Local Context To cite this document: Huiying Wu and Sammy Xiaoyan Ying, "Realizing Auditor Independence in China: Insights from the Local Context", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.2, pp. 245-272, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.15201

Strategic Alliance, Information and Communication Technology, and Customer-Related Performance: The Role of Industry Characteristics

Abstract: Purposes: This study investigates whether the relationship between a firm’s engagement in strategic alliance and its customer-related performance (CRP) is direct or indirect through the managerial use of information and communication technology (ICT). Methodology: The results are based on the responses of 78 general managers from large manufacturing firms, and the data were analysed using structural equation modelling with partial least squares (PLS). Findings: The results reveal that a firm’s engagement in a strategic alliance is positively related with the firm’s CRP—not directly, but through the managerial use of the ICT. The results also reveal that the relationship is industry specific. Limitations: The results may be manufacturing industry specific, so caution is necessary in generalising the results to other industries. Furthermore, this study does not consider the different types of strategic alliances in which a firm can engage. The extant literature suggests that a strategic alliance may be vertical or horizontal, internal or external. Practical implications: The results indicate that an organisation which engages in a strategic alliance to improve its desired performance needs to have an appropriate ICT facility. Originality: This study investigates the role of ICT on the strategic alliance and firm performance relationship in Indonesia. Keywords: Strategic Alliance, ICT, Performance To cite this document: Lanita Winata, Lokman Mia, and Christian Langmann, "Strategic Alliance, Information and Communication Technology, and Customer-Related Performance: The Role of Industry Characteristics", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.3, pp. 337-362, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.14385

Entrepreneurial Experience, Support for Community and Family Firm Performance: A Cross-Study of Product and Service-based Family Businesses

Abstract: Drawing on theories from corporate social responsibility, entrepreneurship, and human capital, this study examines the structural relationships between entrepreneurial experience, support for community and family firm performance. Partial least-squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to collect the data from 176 family businesses from two sectors of the economy - product-manufacturing and service-based organizations. The empirical results indicated that family firm owners’ entrepreneurial experience (business owner’s education level, length of time as a business owner, and the number of businesses owned in the past) is a significant predictor of the business’ support for community. Entrepreneurial experience was also found to have a significant and indirect effect on family firm performance. Additionally, the structural model was examined across product and service-based organizations. Our findings suggest that entrepreneurial experience has a stronger effect on family firm performance among service-based organizations. Keywords: Family Businesses, Entrepreneurial Experience, Support for Community, PLS-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), Multi-Group T-Tests and Permutation Tests To cite this document: Josiane Fahed Sreih, Guy Assaker, and Rob Hallak , "Entrepreneurial Experience, Support for Community and Family Firm Performance: A Cross-Study of Product and Service-based Family Businesses", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.4, pp. 467-496, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.15360

The Impact of Contextualizing Board Structure on Firm Financial Performance in an Emerging Market

Abstract: The impact of the emerging markets context has been largely neglected in mainstream corporate governance research. The purpose of this paper is to conduct the first empirical study that investigates the relationship between board structure and firm financial performance through bundling theory with contextual considerations for economic, political, and social elements of the emerging Saudi Arabian market. This study uses archival data from a longitudinal sample of all listed firms in the Saudi market for years 2009 to 2013, taking into account the risks of endogeneity bias to OLS regression. The paper found that outside directors from a privileged regional background and government representative directors on the board of companies predict a better return on assets, while outside directors from the ruling royal family positively influence corporate performance only when they are joined by government representative directors. Integration between theory and context provided a more accurate diagnosis of board phenomena in Saudi Arabia. Optimising the recognition of board members by utilising informal institutions determines the actual boardroom players who influence firm profitability. Such an approach involves significant implications for corporate governance theories and practices. Whether this holds in the context of other emerging markets is an area worthy of further investigation. Keywords: Board Structure, Contextual Consideration, Firm Financial Performance, Emerging Markets, Saudi Arabia To cite this document: Madi M Almadi, "The Impact of Contextualizing Board Structure on Firm Financial Performance in an Emerging Market", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.4, pp. 409-434, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.15752

Measurement Model of Employer Brand Personality a Scale Construction

Abstract: 1. INTRODUCTIONOne or the other form of branding has been used at least since classical Greek times to differentiate products/employers of the same kind. In the world of consumer branding, advertising and marketing professionals have learnt how to differentiate their products from their competitors and generate brand equity. Everyone in the professions knows that consumers will pay a premium price for a product that is strongly affiliated to an image or emotion instead of the mundane generic product that doesn't have one.Yet in the employer branding world, it seems like there is much to learn, as all employers say the same things, especially those in the same industry. It's like everyone is speaking at the same time and giving you the same selling points - because of this, you don't know who to listen to! As the war for talent becomes more intense, employers will need to be better at differentiating themselves. To understand what it means, why it's important and to get an understanding of how it can be done, the following research study is carried out among the potential employees of some proud employers in various sectors.Product branding helps the companies to develop a lasting image in the minds of the consumer, so that customers start to automatically associate a required image or quality with any product or service. Companies do the same in employer branding in that it creates an image that makes people want to work for the firm because it is a well managed firm where workers are continually learning, growing and becoming part of the companies culture. Employer branding may be a new terminology for many companies, yet it is becoming more and more important to organizations since maintaining and building a strong internal and external brand is an important factor in retaining loyalty, motivation and driving performance. One part of employer branding is the process of placing an image of being a great place to work in the minds of the candidates.It is not very rare that companies just have mission and vision statements hanging on the wall without any of the employees paying real attention to these values. People always want to feel like they "fit in". Branding a company like branding a product gives the employer the advantage to gain and retain the ones that really "fit in" into the organization. Employer branding has similarities with product branding. It also has a personality and positioning so the overall value can be defined as employer branding equity. (Asli Kuscu, Elif Yolbulan Okan, 2010)1.1. Employer brand PersonalityAbout 70% of all companies in Germany complain about the insufficiency of talent on the German job market, mainly the lack of management personnel and young professionals in the technical area. 46% of all employers found out that that the brand awareness is too low to differentiate from the competition. For this reason an increasing amount of companies are using various strategies to create an employer brand. According to the study "Employer attractivity - employer branding and talent supply 2010" of the HR consulting company Hewitt Associates, every second company works with a "employer branding budget". 76% of the questioned companies increased this budget comparing to 2008. However budgets vary between 20,000 Euros, to 300,000 Euros. This compels the need for personifying the employer brand in order to attract right talent.On the one side, the employer can be seen as a brand with which the employee develops a closer relationship (Ambler and Barrow, 1996). Employer brand differentiation for a company means finding its own sweet spot that's distinctive in comparison to its recruitment competitors, i.e. an optimal positioning that makes the employer an employer-of-choice among their target group. It involves finding a focus and not saying too much. In the war for talent and in an environment cluttered and saturated by information, communicating a clear, distinctive and consistent message becomes increasingly important - it's what makes an employer stand-out, be understood and be remembered. …

Relationships among Service Quality, Value, and Student Athlete Satisfaction at Taiwan's National Tug of War Competition

Abstract: Service quality has been extensively used to improve corporate performance in business; however, few studies have applied this concept to the sports field. In Taiwan, students’ sporting events play an important role in national sports development as they are the main channels in which to incubate elite athletes and a way to develop professional experiences related to holding mega-sports events. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is the application of the service quality concept to sports events. Specifically, a model was proposed to examine the relationships among service quality, perceived value, and satisfaction. Self-administered questionnaire surveys were completed by 356 student athletes recruited from the 2013 National Tug of War Competition in Taiwan. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling with LISREL 8.52. Results of this study indicated that the research model fit the data well. Participants’ overall satisfaction was directly influenced primarily by perception of event value, followed by staff service quality and interaction service quality; finally, the perceived event value served as a mediator, and significant indirect effects on participants’ satisfaction were found in administrative service quality and facility service quality. The study established a model including service quality, value, and satisfaction for tug of war competitions. Suggestions for sports organizers and implications for future studies are provided. Keywords: Service Quality; Perceived Event Value, Satisfaction, Tug of War Competitions To cite this document: De-Jen Lee, Li-Wen Hsieh, and Eva (Hui-Ping) Cheng, "Relationships among Service Quality, Value, and Student Athlete Satisfaction at Taiwan’s National Tug of War Competition", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.3, pp. 275-288, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.15852

Empirical Study of Factors That Influence Consultant Satisfaction in Management Consulting Service in the Indian Context

Abstract: 1. INTRODUCTIONIn management consulting, client satisfaction is the most important dimension, (Matias Bronnenmayer Bernd W Wirtz Vincent Gottel, 2014) that helps gain traction in business growth and this is widely accepted as consulting success(Bronnenmayer et al, 2014). As a service provider the management consultant also goes through a process, consisting of different phases such as Entry, Diagnosis, Action Planning, Implementation and Termination (Kubr, 2002). Each phase requires a high degree of interaction with the six types of clients(Schein, 1997) each at different levels of hierarchy, with different levels of understanding, knowledge, ego and authority.Literature has few but impressive evidence of success factors for management consulting in the context of different countries or markets. While project dimensions, process dimensions and client dimensions (KlaasjanVisscher, 2006) are examined by some authors, the professional service provider or the management consultant is assumed to be a machine, delivering solutions only to achieve client satisfaction for payments received.2. LITERATURE REVIEWManagement consulting services cannot be evaluated prior to consumption or post consumption. Rich in both experience and credence attributes, it is important to weigh client satisfaction with the consultant's performance in achieving the results through the consulting process (John Chelliah, Natalia Nikolova and Douglas Davis, 2008; Czerniawska, 2002; Ron McLachlin, 2000). The consultant's performance, however, is also dictated by a host of factors including his emotions, personal focus, risks, uncertainty and phase of life. Several authors have also discussed (McLachlin, 1999; Easley and Harding, 1999) a consultant's feelings and emotions when there is a need for further engagement and a harmonious relationship.Service organisations depend on employees to compete and grow (Gronroos, Christian, 1990; Zeithaml, Berry and Parasuraman, 1996). Drawing from the framework of Services triangle (Lovelock, Christopher H, 1983;Philip Kotler and Gary Armstrong 2006) in Services marketing literature, three aspects attract attention. External marketing which is all about the direct marketing and personal selling pitch for the service to a client, internal marketing which is about structuring the intended value proposition for the client, through building value for the employees of a firm and interactive marketing, which is the interaction between the service provider and the client.Internal marketing is about educating and motivating employees in a service firm to become customer-centric, through a process similar to marketing, but targeted towards the employees of the firm (Lan Snell and Lesley White, 2009).Berry (1981) proposed that when treating employees as customers, service quality would improve. Nigel Piercy (1998) has dealt with an elaborate model linking internal customer satisfaction with external customer satisfaction. Ojasalo (2001) identified three types of client expectations namely, Fuzzy, Implicit and Unrealistic,which are based on beliefs and assumptions that can possibly influence the outcome of relationship and impact the management consultant's satisfaction in the engagement.Schein (1997) suggests that it is imperative to identify the client and goals, the failure of which can lead to role conflicts which can damage the relationship and consequently consultant satisfaction about the assignment. Schein (1997) identified six types of clients namely, contact, intermediate, primary, unwitting, indirect and ultimate in any engagement. If the role perceptions between the client and the consultant, as the consulting process evolves, is not understood and appreciated, it can lead to troubled relationship that can cause dissatisfaction to the management consultant, as much as it can, to the client.Locus of control (Rotter, 1966) plays a role in a consulting engagement. A management consultant's perceived locus of control and discretion combined with the client's perception of a consultant's role, can attract criticism for the management consultant (Nada Kakabadse et al, 2006). …

Transforming Public Service Delivery in Malaysia: The Case of the Implementation of E-Government in Local Governments

Abstract: 1. INTRODUCTIONE-government provides many benefits to public administration. It reduces the wide gap in public interaction with the government and shortens the application process for varied licences, permits and approvals. With the installation of intelligent and systematic electronic databases at agencies, e-government makes government administration more cost-effective and public service delivery more efficient and effective (Razlini Mohd Ramli, 2012; Rustam Khairi, Raja Noriza, Nurhawani & Norzailawati, 2014). In addition, Schuppan (2009) suggests e-government as an essential reform for the government. This is because e-government can greatly simplify and speed up government activities and service delivery. Turner and Hulme (1997) too consider that e-government can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the public-service delivery mechanism. Such benefits are especially so at the local government level.Advances in ICTs are undoubtedly making local authorities increasingly knowledge-based in the execution of their development functions (Baum, Yigitcanlar, Mahizhnan, A 2) Smart Schools; 3) Telehealth; 4) Research and Development Clusters; 4) Electronic Business and 4) Technopreneur Development.This paper discusses the concept, roles and implementation prospects of e-government in local authorities. These issues are assessed against current international practices. Specifically, the objectives of this study are as follows:* To study the implementation of e-government in Malaysia's local government and ;* To determine the current implementation issues bedevilling e-government intervention in the local government system and identify policy interventions for a speedier implementation progress.2. RESEARCH METHODAn empirical investigation was conducted through 50 semi-structured interviews with the management of selected local authorities representing city halls (the largest of the local authorities), town councils (medium-sized) and district councils (smallest) across the country, related state and national agencies and the public, including businesses. These interviews were to assess the progress of implementation of e-government at this third tier of government.These interviews were conducted confidentially on the basis that views expressed will not be attributable to a particular respondent. Notes were taken and transcribed immediately after the interview. Even though this procedure had the disadvantage of not being completely faithful to the exact words spoken by the respondents, it afforded a more relaxed environment for the interviewees to express their views (Walsham, 1995).The research relied on secondary sources to supplement data gathered from the interviews to obtain an understanding of the implementation of e-government nationally and at the local level. Observational data, informal conversations and review of related documentation further supplemented the interviews. Following this process, findings were generated on the key implementation tasks for successful implementation of e-government in especially in local authorities. …

Mean and Variability Effects in Decision Framing

Abstract: Framing a decision as a rejection can lead consumers to form preferences that are different from those that they would form if that same decision were framed as a choice. These differences in preferences are called preference reversals. This paper extends research in this area, using a sequence of five studies to show that framing can change both mean preference and preference variability. The first study uses Discrete Choice Experiments to demonstrate the effects of framing a decision as a choice or rejection on decision outcomes. Study 2 uses eye tracking to highlight that differences in information gathering during the experiment are unlikely to account for this difference. Studies 3 through 5 demonstrate that differences in framing can be reduced through increasing task familiarity. A lack of familiarity with the task of rejecting leads consumers to change their mean preferences and also increases their preference variability for high- and low-preferred products, compared to when they are choosing. These changes in preferences cease to occur when familiarity with rejection increases, but only when that familiarity is specific to the product context under examination. This demonstrates that framing can be used to influence consumer preferences in two ways. Keywords: Choice, Rejection, Framing, Variance, Familiarity To cite this document: Luke Greenacre, "Mean and Variability Effects in Decision Framing", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.3, pp. 309-336, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.15017

Is There More to A Visual Art Exhibition Than Just Art

Abstract: The purpose of this research was to determine the critical success factors for a visual art exhibition—specifically, a national arts festival. A structured questionnaire served as the instrument for collecting data. The questionnaire was distributed by trained fieldworkers at three venues that served as visual art exhibition galleries at the Aardklop National Arts Festival. Convenience sampling was used to gather 305 questionnaires from the three venues used as art exhibition galleries. The statistical analysis was done in two stages. The first stage included a two-way frequency table in order to determine the profile of respondents at these visual art exhibitions. In the second stage, a principal axis factor analysis was used to determine the five critical success factors identified in this research: venue and accessibility, catering, marketing, exhibition and display aspects, and health and safety. It was the first time that this type of research was implemented at a visual art exhibition at an art festival. Therefore, this research contributes significantly to the literature, specifically by creating a memorable visitor experience at a visual art exhibition with regard to important critical success factors. Keywords: Critical Success Factors, Visual Art Exhibitions, Memorable Visitor Experience, Factor Analysis To cite this document: Bianca Manners, Hanneri Borstlap, and Melville Saayman, "Is There More to A Visual Art Exhibition than just Art?", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.12, No.4, pp. 435-454, 2016. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.14019

Managing Influence of Inventory Bullwhip Effect on Profit Maximization in Rural Retailing Using Monte Carlo Simulation

Abstract: 1. INTRODUCTIONIn the rural areas since the demand is not matured; the supply chain becomes susceptible to over inventorization in a frenzy to fulfil the demand. The consumption analysis of a rural inhabitant shows stark difference from that of an urban inhabitant. It is characterised by:1.1. Unmatured demandOver recent past the rural folks have undergone a great change. These changes are brought about by high government subsidies, higher level of income, telecom revolution and increase in the literacy level. The material requirement mix of a rural folk is different now. The demand for different goods in rural areas can be classified as household and non-household. The former includes food grains and other eatables, clothes, essential articles needed for an ordinary living. Since the entire requirement is met through multiple channels (on the basis of make and buy) it remains difficult to plan the sourcing need with reasonable accuracy. The situation on the non-household front is more unpredictable. He also needs mobile, fluorescent tubes, fridge, a book shelf, a storage steel almirah and other furniture. Such needs are related with occupational, religious, cultural, community and incidental engagements. The sporadic nature of material needs makes the entire game of demand and supply a puzzle. In rural environment these demands are not fully firmed up, hence the unpredictability in demand exists.1.2. Passive buyingA rural buyer is a passive buyer unlike an active and rather proactive buyer in urban areas. An urban buyer is a well informed buyer who applies more of his active judgement in the purchase decisions. A rural buyer is largely found to be in absence of any agenda for buying an article of particular make or brand. As such he remains to be coaxed and cajoled to buy an article from the retailer. The retailer has to spend a lot of time and money on person to person campaigning, counselling and brain storming. He has to respond to the first opportunity of consent for buying anything under such category. The success of a selling process depends totally on the intensity of need which is coupled with whims and fancies of the rural buyer. The rural retailer has to keep a store of a host of items in a given category; which only increases his inventory level.1.3. Less absorption of unused inventoryIn the rural retailing, the inventory which could not be sold is likely to remain idle owing to absence of the distribution channels for reverse supply chain. An item discarded by a potential buyer hardly finds a real buyer in the rural environment which is rife with words of mouth. Moreover, the absence of institutional demand on organized line provides chances of inventory clutter in rural supply chain. A rural retailer who runs a small scale enterprise is susceptible to Bullwhip Effect (BWE) into the item inventory. This erodes profit in the form of influence of inventory costs. He faces a decision issue while choosing one item over other so that his overall profit is sustained at the end of the selling season.2. BULLWHIP EFFECT (BWE) IN INVENTORYThe bullwhip effect mainly arises out of unpredictable demand. It is manifested in the form of unutilized material on supply side as a result of non-absorption from the demand side. The more we go upstream the more non-absorption of inventory is manifested. One can say bullwhip effect is the by-product of main stream supply chain. Many studies have been done to identify the source of such effect in practical scenario and many trial solutions have been suggested. In supply chain, sometimes,however the by-product action takes place in reverse direction. In other words, as we go down the supply chain direction we find more and more unabsorbed inventory rather than as we go upstream.Farmers / producers act as stakeholders in supply chain on upside. They are engaged in planning, production,upkeep, maintenance of resources and monitoring of input / output ratio. …

Capacity Building as a New Template for Diagnosing, Assessing and Improving Recruitment and Selection Activity: An Indian Case Study

Abstract: 1. INTRODUCTIONBusinesses have witnessed a dramatic shift towards over-arching results and are under huge pressure to demonstrate their impact. Fuelling this shift are forces which include global competition, cost pressures, shorter product cycles, technology push, constantly evolving market environments, ever changing customer and investor demands and a very strong advocacy groups. Buffeted by all these forces, organizations are increasingly seeking new management approaches at all levels and functions to demonstrate their effectiveness. Traditionally, organizations leaned heavily on process management methods and systems. But that may no longer work in the new-age economy because of the increased complexities, high interdependence and hyper competition in which business operates. To remain relevant and fight for their survival, organizations have started gravitating towards a more results-oriented approach to management. To understand what they could or should change to improve their ability to perform, organizations resort to organizational assessments. Assessments are fast becoming a tool to help organizations generate useful data on their performance, identify crucial factors that aid or stem their accomplishment of results and benchmark against competition. Organizations that undertake assessments can provide better services, innovate faster, manage their costs and demonstrate their impact.A range of tools are available to assess the performance of an organization, its functions and its activities. Notable among them include Value Creation model (Porter, 1985), Bench-marking (Pryor, 1989) Performance measurement (Matrix Keegan et al, 1989) SMART Pyramid (Cross & Lynch, 1988) , The Balance score Card( Kaplan & Norton, 1992) Macro process Model (Brown , 1996), The Activity Based Costing, (Cooper & Kaplan , 1997), Skandia's Navigator (Edvinsson & Marlone, 1997) performance Prism (Neely & Adam ,2001) Comparative Business Score card (Kanji & Moura, 2002) and Capacity Building (Baumqarten, 2004). Apart from this, decision trees, SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis (Helms& Nixon,2010) and PESTLE (Political, Economical, Social, Technological, Legal and Environmental factors) analysis (Kachru, 2005)Total quality management and Six sigma (Pearce & Robinson 2005) have been developed for assessing individual functions and activites. Though plethora of tools are bubbling to the surface, "Capacity Building" has been receiving growing attention over the past 20 years (Ontario Trillium Foundation ,2005) and is widely used by governments, donor agencies, NGOs and civil society organizations, (Low & Davenport, 2002; Hailey, 2003) independent unions, political parties, scientific and technical communities, private sector and public sector (VanDeveer & Dabelko, 2001). In their analysis of research and grey literature, Krishnaveni & Aravamudhan (2011) pointed to the relative proliferation in recent years of "Capacity Building" discourse in diverse areas for assessing and improving the capacity of organizations. Interestingly, capacity building is seldom applied outside the context of Non-profit Sector. Non-profit organizations resort to capacity building for assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of programs/projects (De Vita & Fleming, 2001). However, in the recent past, "Capacity Building" is increasingly finding resonance in profit organizations also. Krishnaveni and SriPirabaa (2008) established that "Capacity Building" could be applied to achieve excellence in Human Resource Management (HRM) function. Though the concept of "Capacity Building" is quintessentially a non-profit phenomenon, it can be extended to the for-profit organizations since the ideas and practice underlying both types of organizations are almost the same.In today's high-octane competitive environment, HRM is one of the most important factors (Collins & Clark, 2003). …