Showing papers in "Information and Knowledge Management in 2013"

Effect of Inventory Management on Organisational Effectiveness

Abstract: The study of the “Effects of Inventory Management on Organizational Effectiveness in selected organizations in Enugu, was carried out, to asses the impact of proper inventory management on organizational performances in Emenite, Hardis & Dromedas and the Nigeria Bottling Company all in Enugu, Enugu State. Descriptive research method, especially survey and case study were employed in carrying out the study. The population of the study is six hundred and fifty eight (658). A sample size of two hundred and fouthy eight (248), was derived using the Taro Yamene formula for sample size determination from a finite population. Data were generated using questionnaire, oral interviews, observations, books, journals and the internet. Data were presented in tables and analyzed using simple percentages. Pearson product moment correlation coefficient and linear regression was used in the hypotheses testing. From the analyses, it was discovered that irrespective of the fact that the organizations studied, painted the picture that they were applying the tenets of good inventory management, they from time to time run into the problems of inventory inadequacy. This consequently affected their production, leading to the scarcity of one brand of their products or the other, thereby affecting their profitability and consequential effectiveness negatively. The Findings indicate that there is significant relationship between good inventory management and organizational effectiveness. Inventory management has a significant effect on organizational productivity. There is highly positive correlation between good inventory management and organizational profitability. The study concluded that Inventory Management is very vital to the success and growth of organizations. The entire profitability of an organization is tied to the volume of products sold which has a direct relationship with the quality of the product Against this background the study recommended that Organizations should diversify their inventory system to suit specific needs of production, and that management should closely monitor and manipulate their inventory system to maintain production consistency for organizational profitability and effectiveness. Keywords: Inventory management, Organisational effectiveness, Firms

Bank Credits: An Aid to Economic Growth In Nigeria

Abstract: This paper explores the necessity of bank credit and economic growth of Nigeria, the paper examines the relationship between bank credit and economic growth in Nigeria over the period under review. However the problem associated with bank credit facility is the constraint and regulation imposed by CBN on the percentage of credit to be given to the entrepreneurs. The study used Secondary data from banks credit on sectorial distribution such as production, General commerce, services and others were spread across the period 1980- 2011. Various statistical technique such as Diagnostic test, Unit root, co-integration Var model and Casuality test are statistically used to test the stability function, stationary properties, variable relationship and casuality effect of the variable and the result revealed that the time series properties of the variables are stationary and co integrated at most 1 with at least 2 co integrating equation. The study also showed that all the bank credit measures such as Total Production Bank Credits (TPTBKC), Total General Commerce Bank Credits (TGCBKC), Total Services Bank Credit (TSCBKC), and Other Banks Credit (OTHBKC) did not granger cause GDP instead GDP exerted influencing factor on them. More so, short run relationship exited between bank credit measures and GDP as sustainable key player in the economy It therefore recommended total supervision and over haul of the banks credit activities towards encouraging Investors in Nigeria for economic growth. Key words: Bank credits, Economic Growth, Sectorial Distribution, Production, General Commerce.

Mini Literature Analysis on Information Technology Definition

Abstract: Experience of authors highlights a lack of generally accepted definition of information technology, between scholars and in their research reports. In this study, authors aim to review information technology studies to conclude a comprehensive definition to fill the mentioned gap in this part of knowledge. Keywords: Information technology, Research, New scholars.

Challenges in Preserving Indigenous Knowledge Systems: Learning From Past Experiences

Abstract: In this paper we focus on the challenges in preserving indigenous knowledge systems. We explore the challenges of managing indigenous knowledge in the context of intellectual property rights and bio-piracy threats. We analyse how indigenous knowledge affects the lives of local people, investigate the extent to which indigenous knowledge was under threat and evaluate strategies that are in place to protect indigenous knowledge. Primarily, we discuss the role of laws in the general protection of science and knowledge, and specific details such as biodiversity, with emphasis on indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) and indigenous medicinal knowledge and their systems. Western sciences, knowledge and legislative laws play a pivotal role in protecting and preserving intellectual property, trade secrets, copy rights, and the general enforcement of ethical practices. The same laws, such as intellectual property rights, copyright, trade secrets and other pieces of legislation should particularly be essential in protecting indigenous knowledge and their systems in the African countries. We examine these laws to determine their effectiveness, strengths, weaknesses, and the challenges they place on the practical protection and preservation of IKS.

Influence of Job Motivation on the Productivity of Librarians in Colleges of Education in Nigeria

Abstract: High productivity is of primary concern to the individuals, the management of any organisation and to the national economy at large. To achieve maximum productivity, management of all organisation, including college libraries have realised the need to accord high premium to the welfare of the employee. Several studies that have been carried out in librarianship have not fully addressed the issue of job motivation and the productivity of each librarian in colleges of education. The study, therefore, examined job motivation as it influenced the productivity of each librarian in colleges of education in Nigeria. The study adopted correlation research design. The population for the study comprises 63colleges of education libraries in Nigeria, 21 federal and 42 state and the 356 librarians that are found in the libraries. The instrument used for data collection included Questionnaires on Job Motivation and Librarians Productivity (r = 0.97) and Structured Interview Guide for College Librarians only (r = 0.99). Findings from the study revealed that majority of the sampled librarians are not productive. Moreover, job motivation influenced the productivity of librarians to a significant extent with values (r =0.275; p < 0.05). Since librarians are not productive, there is need for collaboration between the college authorities and the librarians to optimise the productivity of the latter. Such collaboration would include effort made to boost the job morale of the librarians. Keywords: Job motivation, productivity of librarians, colleges of education.

Cyber Crime in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: The Threat Today and the Expected Future

Abstract: The world we are in today is all about Information Technology (IT) because we are in the age of Information Technology and the people with the right information, with proper way of disseminate this information and processing them is considered as the most successful. Computers have become the mainstay of business and government processes. Business has been using them for years and in most countries, there are drives towards electronic or joined up government. This is to allow the people to access government services from their desktop in their own home . A rapid growth of computer crimes and formation of laws in different countries addresses the severity of problem. This paper discusses the stand of Saudi Arabian government against cyber crime and its IT act. It analyzes the cybercrime in the Kingdom and the anti-cyber crime law. Keywords: Cyber Crime, Anti-Cyber crime law, Cyber Terrorism

Information Retrieval Skills and Use of Library Electronic Resources by University Undergraduates in Nigeria

Abstract: There is an increase in provision of electronic resources in Nigerian university libraries, yet studies have revealed that there is low use of the resources by undergraduates and this is due to lack of information retrieval skills. Hence, the study, tried to find the impact of information retrieval skills on students’ utilisation of electronic resources in university libraries in Nigeria. The study focused on ten universities in Nigeria. The descriptive research design was adopted and multistage sampling technique was used for the study. Three faculties were purposively selected from the universities while two departments each were randomly selected from the faculties. A questionnaire, (Information Retrieval Skills and Utilisation of Electronic Resources) was used. Two research questions were posed and two hypotheses tested at 0.05 level of significance. Informational retrieval skills, operational retrieval skills and strategic retrieval skills correlated significantly with students’ utilisation of electronic resources for research. The data showed that undergraduates lacked requisite skills for the use of e-resources. Keywords: Information Retrieval Skills, Library, Electronic resources, Undergraduates, Nigeria.

Impact analysis of wireless and mobile technology on business management strategies

Abstract: This research examines whether congruence exists between wireless and mobile technology with impact analysis on a firm’s business management development and future strategies. The research adopted the Motorola Inc. as a case and the qualitative approach as the research method. It emerged from analysis that consumers, business management strategies and future strategic directions are embedded in wireless and mobile technology. Despite having high tech wireless and mobile technology, it is not always been possible to appear as the market leader within industry, where future consumer behaviour and business management strategies will differ from the one those exist today. This study proposes a new framework for diversifying intellectual capacity to develop consultancy based growth opportunity at Motorola. This also suggests intense mobile and wireless technological impacts on relationships with customers, enterprise agility and business management strategies in the internet based market structure. Keywords: wireless and mobile technology, process automation, cloud infrastructure, convergence, business management strategy

Factors Affecting ICT Adoption in Tertiary Institutions in Ghana: A Case of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

Abstract: Ghana as a country has made ICT its cornerstone for development, this is evident from its ICT policy of ICT4D; part of this policy is to promote ICT in schools in other to turn the country into an information society. This study is to help understand the factors affecting ICT adoption and use in tertiary institutions in Ghana. This is an imperial study utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection. The study showed that perceive usefulness and ease of use is a primary factor driving ICT adoption. The study also revealed that ICT is not fully integrated in teaching, research and learning at KNUST. A major obstacle is that though most users are aware of the potential benefits they are not ready or unwilling to fully embrace ICT. Several factors were also identified including inadequate infrastructure and skills to use ICT. The study recommended that management of Tertiary Institutions in Ghana must have a clear model of integration that will help to increase the adoption and use of ICT in their institutions. In fact, the integration of ICT is associated with several factors that encourage and discourage the use of ICT which the researcher termed as enabling forces and restraining forces. Therefore, to increase the rate of ICT adoption, Tertiary Institutions need to improve the encouraging factors and reduce the discourage factors to a minimal. Keywords: ICT Adoption, Tertiary Institutions, Ghana, Model of Integration, ICT4D.

The Influence of Information Technology Capability, Organizational Learning, and Knowledge Management Capability on Organizational Performance (A Study of Banking Branches Company in Southern Kalimantan Province)

Abstract: This research aims to test and analyze the impact of Information Technology Capability, Organizational Learning, and Knowledge Management Capability on Organizational Performance, as well as to provide academic horizon for academics and practicing, and applicable references for banking offices in Southern Kalimantan Province. Knowledge- based recourses supported by Information Technological Capacity will enhance Organizational Performance and efficiently. 72 samples of Banking Branch Offices in Southern Kalimantan Province used saturated sample. Respondents consist of Heads of bank branch office for 3 years, from 2009 to 2011. Data collection used questionnaires regarding to perception of head of bank branch office. There were 69 questionnaires collected and quantitative data analysis approach with Partial Least Square. 4 variables were used in this research consist of Information Technology Capability, Organizational Learning, Knowledge Management Capability and Organizational Performance with 6 Hypotheses. 5 significant hypotheses are the impact of the Information Technology Capability on Organizational Learning, the impact of the Information Technology Capability on Knowledge Management Capability, the impact of the Information Technology Capability on Organizational Performance, the impact of the Organizational Learning on Organizational Performance, and the impact of the Knowledge Management Capability on Organizational Performance, and 1 non significant hypothesis is the impact of the Organizational Learning on Knowledge Management Capability. Keywords: Information Technology Capability, Organizational Learning, Knowledge Management Capability and Organizational Performance.

Impact of Information Literacy Skills on Academic Staff Research Productivity in Nigerian Federal Universities

Abstract: The study examined the influence of information literacy skills on academics research productivity in federal universities in Nigeria. The study adopted the descriptive survey research design. Multistage sampling technique was used to select one thousand one hundred and fifty-seven (1,057) academic staff members from federal universities in the six geo-political zones of Nigeria. The instruments used for data collection were: Information Literacy Skills Acquisition Scale (α= 0.83), Information Literacy Skills Scale (α= 0.92) and Research Productivity of Academic Scale (α=0.91). Eight hundred and seventy-three (873) copies of questionnaire were completed, returned and used in the study which represent (83%) response rate. Three research questions were answered and data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The result shows that the academic staff acquires information literacy skill mostly through attending workshops/seminars, self-taught, assistance from other colleagues, trial and error, guidance from library staff and faculty/departmental training. Also, the analysis establishes the fact that the research productivity of the academic staff in Nigerian federal universities is higher in journal publications, technical reports, conference papers, working papers and occasional papers. However, the research productivity of the academic staff in Nigerian federal universities is lower in textbook publications, monographs, patents and certified inventions. The finding, however, shows that the mean scores of each of the seven components tested under the information literacy skills is higher than the mid-point scores of 2.5 on a scale of five. Therefore academics in Nigerian federal universities possessed high information literacy skills based on the overall mean scores. Information literacy is considered an important element in educational and professional settings in particular, the academic environment. The result of this research study has raised some implications for implementation of information literacy skills programmes to improve quality and quantity of academics research productivity in Nigerian universities.

The NGOs' Knowledge and Socio-economic Development: An Empirical Investigation in Bangladesh

Abstract: This empirical study investigates the type of knowledge the NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisations) transfer to the beneficiaries in Bangladesh. About 22,000 NGOs are in operations in Bangladesh with a view to developing the socio-economic conditions of their beneficiaries. Knowledge transfer is a crucial element of Knowledge Management (KM) process. The NGO-beneficiaries are the main stakeholders who are engaged in receiving the knowledge transferred by the NGOs. So it is imperative to know the type of knowledge they (the beneficiaries) are receiving from the NGOs. This study follows multi-stage sampling procedure. 14-NGOs (7 large and 7 small of the NGO Affairs Bureau enlisted NGOs) from each administrative division of Bangladesh are purposefully selected. 54-semi-structured interviews consisting of top, middle and lower levels based on the salary grades (18X interviewees from each level) were interviewed. Content analysis technique is used to analyze the interview transcript. The study reveals that NGOs transfer knowledge to the beneficiaries on health and nutrition, knowledge on credit, knowledge on human and legal rights, knowledge on disaster management, knowledge on awareness building, knowledge on environmental issues, agricultural knowledge, knowledge on income generating skills and other miscellaneous knowledge. Future researchers may explore further research on the following issues: (i) how far the NGOs could reduce poverty through knowledge transfer in Bangladesh? (ii) Is the knowledge transferred by the NGOs sufficient for the beneficiaries? (iii) Could the NGOs transfer knowledge as per the requirements of the beneficiaries? Key Words: Types of Knowledge, NGO, Bangladesh

Effects of Information and Communication Technology on Secretaries’ Performance in Contemporary Organisations in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract: The study examines the effects of information and communication technology on the performance of public sector secretaries’ in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The quality of secretaries available is a function of reliable and acceptable reporting framework that will improve productivity in the public sector. This can only be achieved through an effective and efficient human resource development structure. To achieve the objective of the paper, primary and secondary data were used. The primary data was obtained through a well structured questionnaire administered to ninety five public sector secretaries’ in Bayelsa State and the data obtained were analysed with econometric models of multiple regression and diagnostic test. The Cronbach’s alphas model was used to verify the reliability of the instrument. The study found that the usage of computer, telecommunication and video techniques positively and significantly related to the productivity (performance) of public sector secretaries’ in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Based on these findings, the implications for human resource development mechanism practice and recommendations were discussed. Keywords: ICT, Performance, Secretaries, Organisation.

Corporate Governance practices and Working Capital Management Efficiency: Special Reference to Listed Manufacturing companies in SriLanka

Abstract: The main objective of the study is to find out the significant difference between corporate governance practices on working capital management efficiency in listed manufacturing firms in SriLanka. Secondary literature reviews and Secondary data collection methods were used to conduct the study. Twenty five listed manufacturing firms were selected as sample size in Colombo Stock Exchange for the periods 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011. Independent sample one – way Anova (f-test) and Independent sample t-test have been utilized to find out the significant difference between corporate governance practices on working capital management efficiency. The results revealed that there is no significant mean different between the levels of working capital management efficiency among corporate governance practices as board committees, board meetings and proportion of non executive director except board leadership structure. Based on the findings, we recommended that the effective policies in the working capital management must be formulated through the corporate governance practices in the listed manufacturing firms in SriLanka. Keywords : Corporate Governance practices, Manufacturing companies and Working Capital Management Efficiency.

Assessing Service Expectation and Perception of Public Library Users: Towards Development of User Needs and User Satisfaction Measurement Instruments for the National Library Service of Malawi

Abstract: The research sought to develop user needs assessment and user satisfaction measurement instruments for the National Library Service of Malawi. Using focus group sessions and a questionnaire survey the research determined from a sample of users of the National Library Service their expectation and perception of the service/facility provisions of the National Library Service. Some of the findings from the research on services/facilities that act as indicators of library effectiveness to the sampled users are not evident in the literature. On basis of the findings, user needs assessment and user satisfaction measurement instruments have been developed for the National Library Service. The paper gives suggestions on the effective use of the developed instruments. The paper points out that the user needs assessment and user satisfaction measurement instruments can positively act as management tools that can assist the National Library Service in decision making, long term planning, budgeting, employee training and development in addition to being a mechanism for continually enhancing and improving the relationship between the National Library Service and its users. Keywords: service expectation; service satisfaction; management tools; public libraries; user surveys

The Role of Leadership in Business Process Reengineering "Leaders, do you want to change?"

Abstract: Frequent list of failures of the business process reengineering efforts, exhibit the lack of leadership commitment and support. This paper examines the foundation, theory and styles of leadership, which is an imperative element of the BPR. The various research findings over the last decade is used to depict that successful leadership is to have a balance between task-oriented leadership and people-oriented leadership.

Effect of Human Resource Planning on Organizational Performance of Telecom Sector

Abstract: Human resource planning is one of the growing areas of academic research. Organizations regard its human resource as their core competency because it would lead towards better organizational performance. This research focuses on effect of human resource planning on the organizational performance. Objective of this research is to determine key determinants of formal human resource planning that contributes towards performance in the telecom sector. The data collected from top managers, middle level managers and the first line HR managers of 50 offices including head offices and regional offices of 160 questionnaires including some interview and open ended questions based on the measures of performance and Human Resource Planning. The results from the factor analysis on HRP measures selection, training, and incentives and the organizational performance measures which are job satisfaction, efficiency, employee motivation and technology constitutes significant and a positive relationship with other. As modern HR practices are implemented in telecom sector and companies would spend more on Human Resources, it would lead towards High performance achievement. Keywords – Human Resource Planning, Telecom Sector, Organizational Performance, Selection, Training and Incentives Paper Type ­– Research Paper

An Assessment of Management Commitment to Application of Green Practices in 4 – 5 Star Hotels in Mombasa, Kenya

Abstract: Hotel businesses consume significant amounts of natural resources, discharge large amounts of raw and solid waste which consequently affects the sustainability of the natural environment. Environmental management and sustainability have been recent important issues in hospitality industry. The hotels, as a main sector of the hospitality industry, have benefited from environmental initiatives through improving corporate image and increasing resource and energy efficiency. In Kenya greening in hotels is a new concept that managers are yearning to embrace. This study therefore sought to establish the current state of green practices in four to five star hotels in Mombasa, Kenya. Further, this study also sought to determine the relationship between management environmental commitment and organizational involvement in green practices. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview schedules and observation checklists. The results indicated that 88.9 percent of the managers were not satisfied with their current issues while 81.5 percent were focusing on improving the green concepts. The study concluded that hotel managers should embrace regular environmental audits where environmental performance is constantly monitored and recorded. Environmental education and training were also considered valuable in developing awareness, knowledge, positive attitude, skills and participation in green practices. Keywords: Kenya, hotel industry, managers, commitment

Information Seeking Behaviour of Final Year Law Students in South Western Nigerian Universities.

Abstract: This study investigates the information seeking behaviour of final year law students in Nigeria. A structured questionnaire and interview methods were used for data gathering in 7 Nigerian Universities. The questionnaire data was analysed using frequency distribution, measure of central tendency and dispersion; and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel as software. The interview was transcribed and arranged into themes for proper analysis. The research findings show that the respondents use print textbooks and Google as major research resources, Academic Law Libraries and Search engines as major research locations while newspaper vendors and public libraries are used as locations for research on newspapers. They were found to possess computer skills and lack information skills. Money, MTN (a major telecommunication provider in Nigeria), Library and Information Services (LIS), Law faculty dress code and Nigerian respect views for elders were found as factors to information seeking behaviour of the respondents. This study concluded by presenting new findings to information seeking behaviour (ISB) amongst Nigerian law students. This research proffers recommendation for Nigerian Law Faculties and Law Libraries on the way forward. Keywords: Information seeking behaviour, Nigerian final year law students, Law students in South Western Nigerian Universities, Nigerian Law students and Information literacy skills.

Impact of Competing Force of Motivational Factors on Employees at Work Place

Abstract: The present research was conducted to ascertain the competing force of push and pull factors on employee motivation. This study is an assessment of this purpose used deductive approach in which a qualitative survey was carried out among engineers of North India. The survey was intended to get their responses on what they feel is (are) the best factors that could motivate them in a list of 10 push and 13 pull factors. In this light the study sets to identify the most ranked factors for motivation. The analysis from the empirical findings show that need of position and power and need of security were the most push ranked factors and interest and position or power were the most pull ranked factors for male engineers. While, the need of security and achievement were the most push ranked factors and working conditions and appreciation by management were the most pull ranked factors by female engineers. Keywords: Pull, Push, Motivation, Competing Force, Employee.

The Impact of Social Networking Sites on the Purchasing Behaviours of Online Travel Community Members

Abstract: The social networking websites have become quite popular in recent times. Millions of people have grasped the concept and embedded their lives in the interactions on these websites. Academics and businesses have begun to study how information that spreads through these loose associations and the way in which some people become particularly important disseminators of information with their regular postings perhaps would be replacing the traditional marketing communication channels. The purpose of this study is to investigate how the interactions on these websites impact on the decision making process of participants. Through content analysis of fifty (50) individual cases reported on TripAdvisor travel review websites at Greece forums of Tripadvisor.com. The study finds that the online travel community has members that come to the site to search and share travel information and these postings has influenced on community members in their decision making process on planning, purchasing and use of travel products and services. The implications of the findings are discussed and future social networking websites research for the hospitality industry is suggested. Keywords: social networking sites, purchasing behaviour, travelers.

Use and satisfaction with online public access catalogue in selected university libraries in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract: This research work examined the use of online public access catalogue (OPAC) among final year students in Redeemer’s University and University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Nigeria. The objectives were to ascertain the extent to which students utilize the OPAC, ascertain the level of satisfaction with OPAC utilization and identify challenges faced while using the OPAC. The descriptive survey design was used for the study. The study population was made up of 2,650 students in the 4th year of study. Stratified random sampling technique was used for sample selection. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using frequency and percentage counts. Findings from the study revealed poor OPAC utilization among the respondents. It did, however, show that respondents’ were moderately satisfied with the use of the OPAC but faced challenges such as lack of orientation on OPAC use, inadequate computer supplies and erratic power supply. Based on the findings, recommendations were made for university libraries to ensure that students are adequately trained to make maximum use of the OPAC. In addition, the management of the studied universities should endeavour to provide more computers to assist students’ use of the OPAC while considering alternative sources of power supply to support the erratic nature of power supply in Nigeria. Key Words: Online public access catalogue (OPAC); Information retrieval; University libraries.

Education students’ Access to E-learning Facilities in Universities South-East of Nigeria

Abstract: E-learning is becoming the world’s most effective way of sharing knowledge. Consequently, many universities in Nigeria are seriously planning to commence e-learning service delivery. The extent of their readiness in terms of students’ access to e-learning facilities becomes imperative. This study investigated education students’ access to e-learning facilities in universities South-East of Nigeria. Using a description survey research design and a multistage sampling approach, a sample of 376 final year education students from five universities were selected for the study. A structured questionnaire and interview were used for data collection. Four research questions and two null hypotheses guided the study. Frequency counts, percentages, means and t-test statistics were used for data analysis. Results show that; only 42.9% of the students have access to e-learning facilities; students have access to only e-mail accounts; factors hindering access to e-learning facilities include irregular electric power supply among others. There were no significant differences in gender & federal and state universities with regards to students’ access to e-learning facilities. It was concluded that the universities were not yet ready for e-learning service delivery. Recommendations include stepping down the take-off of e-learning in the universities. Key words: E-learning, Access, facilities and hindering factors.

Assessing service effectiveness and satisfaction with library services at Babcock University, Nigeria

Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the use, effectiveness and satisfaction with library services. The descriptive research design was used for this study. The population was made up of 5,847 undergraduate students at Babcock University, Nigeria. Purposive sampling was used in selecting 200 respondents to participate in the study. Data was collected through the use of questionnaire and analyzed using frequency and percentage counts. Findings from the study revealed that photocopying and reference services were the most utilized library services. Photocopying, reference and circulation services were also considered as effective services. Majority of the respondents, however, indicated that they were satisfied with library services to a little extent. The study concluded by noting that the provision of service(s) is an essential part of libraries which should not be taken for granted. Based on the findings, recommendations were made.

Effect of Leadership Behaviour, Organizational Climate, Intrinsic Motivation, and Engagement on Job Performance

Abstract: This research aims to explain the effect of leadership behaviour, organizational climate, intrinsic motivation and engagement on job performance (Study of permanently employed lecturers in private university of area III DKI Jakarta) in permanently employed lecturers in private university of region 3 DKI Jakarta. This research is explanatory research which explains the correlation among research variables. Research object was conducted in 3 private universities of region 3 of DKI Jakarta, having homogeneous factors comprising Economics Faculty, Management Study Program, Undergraduate Student number more than 2000 and A Accredited. Analysis Unit of this research is permanently employed lecturers, accounting for 150 persons. Analysis tool used to test 7 hypotheses is Generalized Structured Component Analysis (GSCA). It was found that all hypotheses had substantial results: 5 (five) hyphothese had significant influenves and 2 (two) were insignificant. The empirically proven hypothesis was effect of organizational climate on working performanc, the effect of intrinsic motivation on working performance, the effect of leadership behaviour on engagement, the effect of organizational climate on engagement and the effect of engagement on working performance. Yet, there is one hypothesis not empirically proven which was the effect of leadership behaviour on working performance and the effect of intrinsic motivation on engagement. Keywords: Leadership Behavior, Organizational Climate, Intrinsic Motivation, Engagement, Performance.

A Comparative Analysis of E-Readiness Assessment in Nigerian Private Universities and Its Impact on Educational Development

Abstract: This paper presents a study conducted to investigate the impact of e-readiness on educational development among undergraduate students of the selected private universities in Nigeria using a comparative analysis. The Universities surveyed includes: JABU, LCU, ACU and OUI. The study employed both descriptive and parametric statistical analysis through the use of cross tabulation, bivariate analysis and chi square respectively to establish the above relationship. It also used Cronbach’s alpha coefficient to test for validity and reliability of the instrument employed. The results revealed that not all the undergraduates had easy access to computer and internet facilities. This is as a result of infrastructural deficiencies prevalence in the universities under consideration and as such depicts a negative impact on educational development among the undergraduates surveyed and Nigerian higher institution students at large. The result also showed that gender has a significant positive effect (r = 0.352; p< 0.001) on accessibility to internet. From the foregoing the study recommends that there is need for gender balance which can be achieved by gender sensitivity strategies so as to promote pedagogical use of internet. The study further recommends that stake holders like; government, proprietors, and non-governmental organizations(NGO) should invest more on the provision of infrastructural facilities and capacities in order to create opportunity for educational development and enhance the e-readiness of the private universities at large for sustainable development in Nigeria. Keywords: Post-secondary education, Country–specific developments, Gender studies, Pedagogical issues; Evaluation methodologies

Impact of Knowledge Management Processes on Organizational Performance: An Empirical Study in Institute of Technical Learning -Iraq

Abstract: Even though knowledge in itself is nothing new, but how to effectively management it is a concern of all organizations, inclusive of university. In Iraq, there is concern by universities to manage knowledge scientifically in order to keep pace with scientific development and to reduce the gap between Iraq's universities and those of developed countries. Knowledge is considered the main distinguishing factor of organization success and is seen as the foundation of competitive advantage. In fact, despite the wide literature on knowledge management processes in western organizations, empirical studies are so rare in relation to Iraqi universities. From this point comes this research to deal directly with the knowledge management relationships with performance of colleges in the Institute of Technical Learning. To achieve this, a sample of 33 department's chairs was chosen. The study found significant correlations between knowledge management processes and organizational performance indicators. Survey findings highlight the following points: The surveyed departments' chairs show practical interest toward knowledge management processes. This is apparent through considerable attention to scientific research, creativity and innovation, and retain knowledge and retrieval it at the appropriate time. Findings also disclosed a significant impact of knowledge management operations on the indicators of organizational performance. Finally, research concluded with necessary suggestions that emphasize the importance of having research and development units in the colleges studied to generate new knowledge that can be used in enhancing organizational performance. Keywords: knowledge management processes, organizational performance, departments' chairs, Institute of Technical Learning

Development of Cloud Computing and Security Issues

Abstract: In past three decades, the computing world is based on the Internet, featured by the rapid development and application of computer technology. The cloud computing model is one of the very important shapes of a new era. This technology based on the distributed computing, parallel computing, grid computing, Virtualization technologies, property- based remote attestation technologies, etc. The cloud computing market and development are growing rapidly and bringing up numerous challenges and big security issues of the today's world. Some issues concern on the cloud computing is the security and confidentiality of user data in terms of its location, relocation, availability and security. In this paper we will focus on the basic way of cloud computing development, growths and common security issues arising from the usage of cloud services. Keywords: Cloud computing, Security, Saas, Cloud Security, Internet.

Knowledge Management: the agile way

Abstract: The logic behind the acceptance of agile practice is that along with software development, project and knowledge management (KM) practices are woven into the practices of agile methodologies, which have made these methodologies very popular among software development communities. There are many practices in agile (e.g. Pair programming, scrum meetings, onsite customer etc.) which encourage creation, retention and dissemination of knowledge. Therefore, there is an urgent need to analyze agile software development practices from KM perspective. Many covert and overt factors are identified in applying agile practices in software development organisations. Different knowledge creation and management theories are analyzed from agile perspectives and relationship is established among knowledge management and agile practices with a special focus on Indian software engineering organisations. Keywords: Agile software development, Knowledge management, Scrum, Extreme programming

The Role of Perceived Environmental Uncertainty and Strategic Agility on the Performance of Selected Banks in Oyo State of Nigeria

Abstract: This study examined the impact of perceived environmental uncertainty and strategic agility on the perceived performance of selected banks in Oyo State of Nigeria. The study aimed at determining the main and interactive effect of perceived market turbulence, competitive intensity, strategic sensitivity, leadership unity and resource fluidity on organizational performance. It also looked at the connection between perceived environmental uncertainty variables(perceived market turbulence and competitive intensity) as well as strategic agility variables(strategic sensitivity, leadership unity and resource fluidity) and organizational performance. Four hypotheses were formulated and tested using Multiple Analysis of Variance (MANOVA), Canonical Correlation and Multiple Regression. The findings showed that the independent variables (perceived market turbulence, competitive intensity, strategic sensitivity, leadership unity and resource fluidity) were predictors of organizational performance. The study also established a significant positive relationship between perceived environmental uncertainty variables as well as strategic agility variables and organizational performance. Based on the findings, it was recommended that there is a need for organizations especially banks to understand the dimensions and nature of environmental uncertainty and evolve appropriate strategies to deal or cope with the uncertainty. Organizations should also be strategically agile by making concerted efforts to deploy resources to achieve objectives, strategically sensitive to the environment and leaders should support and implement strategic decisions that can bring about improved organizational performance and sustainable competitive advantage. Keywords : Perceived environmental uncertainty, strategic agility, strategic management, resource based view, organizational performance