Showing papers in "Journal of Management Policy and Practice in 2013"

Motivation, success, and problems of entrepreneurs in venezuela

Abstract: This study examines motivations of entrepreneurs in Venezuela, problems they face, and success factors. Results indicate that the desires of Venezuela based entrepreneurs to be one's own boss and to increase one's income are important motivators. Competition, a weak economy, and foreign exchange limitations are problems, while good general management skills, appropriate training, accurate record keeping, and political involvement are success factors. This paper examines multiple dimensions of entrepreneurs in a single context and so provides an integrated analysis. This paper also expands our understanding of Venezuela based entrepreneurs and contributes to the understanding of entrepreneurs around the globe.

The Implications of Social Media on Customer Relationship Management and the Hospitality Industry

Abstract: With the emergence of social media, consumers now have more control over how information is generated, created, organized and shared (Trackeray et al. as cited in Zhang, Mattila, & Cranage). Consumers use new media to participate in social networks, which enables them to create and share content, communicate with one another, and build relationships with other consumers (Hennig-Thurau et al., 2010, p 312). As consumers today spend a lot of time creating user generated content and posting it on the Internet, it behooves the business community, and hotels specifically, to take note and keep track of what is being done in order for them to market themselves correctly. While travel consumers in the past relied heavily on travel journalism and traditional media to help guide them to the best places to go and the most exciting things to do, the Internet has now taken over that role as information provider (O’Connor, 2008). According to the US Travel Association, the Internet was used by approximately 90 million American adults to plan travel during 2008 with 76% of those people using it for planning leisure trips (USTA, 2009). A 2010 study published by Deloitte titled ‘Hospitality 2015’ states that social media and new technology trends will play the key role over the next five years towards the growth in the hospitality industry; the study further points out that with millions of consumers having internet access around the globe, that the study’s numbers are expected to increase by 50% in 2015 (as cited in Lee, 2010, p 7). Given the potential impact of social media on online tourism, knowledge about the role of social media in travel information search is important in order to better inform tourism marketing practices (Fesenmaiser, 2007; Gretzel, 2006; Xiang & Gretzel, 2010, p 181). Social media is changing the ways that business are going about marketing themselves to their consumers, as it forces a rethink of traditional marketing methods. 81% of surveyed executives expect to increase investment on social media projects and reduce traditional marketing (Value of Social Media, 2010 as cited in Zhang et al., 2011). Moving through this paper, we will look at past literature and use it to break down the effect that social media has had customer relationship management and on marketing for hotels specifically. No

A Comparative Analysis of Mission Statement Content and Readability

Abstract: The mission statement is an important organizational tool that forms the foundation for all other organizational objectives and strategies. Furthermore, it helps a firm present itself favorably to the public, as well as identify and respond to various stakeholders. Mission statements vary in length, content, format, and specificity. Most practitioners and academicians in strategic management suggest that an effectively written mission statement exhibits nine characteristics or mission statement components. Since a mission statement is often the most visible and public part of the strategic management process, it is important that it include most, if not all, of these essential components. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the mission statements of Omani firms to determine whether the components identified in the relevant literature are satisfactorily adopted in their mission statements and to measure the readability levels of these mission statements. The findings indicate that the sample firms generally did not include the needed components in their mission statements. However, the readability level of those documents was optimal overall.

Employees' Job Satisfaction and Its Influence on Willingness to Work in Teams

Abstract: This study examined the influence of employees’ satisfaction through achievement, recognition and nature of work towards their willingness to work in teams in order to reinforce the employees’ will towards working in teams. In this survey the relationship between the variables was tested among five major Malaysian organizations on the pathway of the theory of planned behavior. Herein, it was shown that the employees’ satisfaction towards their achievement, recognition received, and nature of work was positively related and motivational towards their willingness to work in teams. The study thus contributed to the process of organizing and human resource development in terms of willingness to work in teams.

Dynamics of the Work Life Balance at the Firm Level: Issues and Challenges

Abstract: We cannot ignore the realities of the workplace today, which have produced more stress and made the lives of individuals more complex, extending beyond the physical boundaries of the organization. There is a need to adopt a well thought out work life balance (WLB) initiative that should be strategic, credible, and coherent with the business and HR policy framework at the firm level. It will surely enhance the corporate image as well as help in institutionalising a performance-based culture in the firm. WLB is a growing cause of concern for all stakeholders and it should be pursued religiously in order to seek a mutually beneficial solution for the organizations and the employees in the long run.

Motivating Healthcare Workers to Work During a Crisis: A Literature Review

Abstract: Healthcare professionals are vital for assisting society through public health crises, natural disasters, and catastrophes. A review of the literature reveals many such professionals, however, are unwilling to work during these times, for various reasons. Motivational tools are reviewed and suggestions are made on how to best ensure healthcare workers will report for duty when they are most needed.

Entrepreneurial Motives and Performance: Evidence from North America

Abstract: This study examined Intrinsic and Extrinsic Entrepreneurial Motives vs. Performance in the three countries forming North America. The Motives included: Independence, Job security, Monetary gain, and Intrinsic rewards. Mexican respondents rated their success lower than their Canadian and U.S. counterparts, and were less satisfied; they were more centered on Extrinsic Motives, while Canadian and U.S. respondents had a tendency to be primarily driven by Intrinsic Motives, particularly the desire to be independent. While economic survival was an overarching Motive among Mexican business people, intrinsic rewards came out as most important behind the perceptions of success among Canadian and U.S. respondents.

Toward a Better Understanding of the Relationships among Received Wisdom, Groupthink, and Organizational Ethical Culture

Abstract: In this article we (a) describe our perspective on ‘received wisdom’ and ‘groupthink’ and how these phenomena affect organizational ethical culture, (b) provide numerous examples of the negative effects of ‘unwise’ received wisdom and groupthink on poor ethical decisions and actions taken by organizations in recent history, (c) discuss our concept of ethical organizational cultures based on character, and (d) outline intentional steps organizational leaders can take to see that received wisdom leads to an ethical organizational culture based on character.

Examining Practitioner Studies to Explore ERM and Organizational Culture

Abstract: We explore the relationship between Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) and organizational culture through a meta-analysis of practitioner studies. We ask the question: what is the relationship between ERM and organizational culture? To understand the link between ERM and organizational culture; ERM, organizational culture, and risk culture are defined and then followed by a meta-analysis of relevant practitioner studies. Ultimately we found a significant relationship in elements of risk management and organization culture, and this finding may be used to guide practitioners as well as future academic research in the area.

An Analysis of Human Resource Information Systems impact on Employees

Abstract: This research hypothesizes that automated collection, storage, and retrieval of information related to the human resource element in any organization helps to make more informed, lasting decisions about positioning, utilization, and retention of its human resources which aids the organization in its competitive efforts. A large-scale household appliance manufacturer that implemented an automated process for its human resource information gathering and now relies on a completely computerized storage, retrieval, and utilization of the human resource-related data was surveyed.

Do Family Cohesion and Family Member Skill Evaluation Affect Family Business Internal or External Hiring Decisions

Abstract: A number of research studies have pointed out that significant differences exist between family and nonfamily firms, and these differences are most pronounced in the area of human resources (Dunn, 1995). For example, some studies found that human resources decisions in family businesses are influenced more by family values and personality traits than by objective performance measures (Welsh & Klandt, 1997). Family values and culture create a filter in the decision-making process that complicates human resource issues such as selecting and training a family member. The present article attempts to make a contribution to the body of knowledge on family businesses concerning the extent to which family cohesion influences the selection criteria, the evaluation process and the training of family members. Because of the fact that this was a pilot study and employed only a small sample of family firms, the findings are still in need of further investigation and cannot be generalized.

Privatization: A Multi-Theory Perspective

Abstract: For decades, privatization has become one of the most important elements of the structural reform agenda in developed and developing countries. From a management perspective, this study makes an attempt to provide theoretical insights into two interrelated questions: (a) why does a country decide to undergo privatization in some industries but not others; and (b) why do some countries enjoy success while others experience failures from privatization? This study developed propositions through the lens of seven organizational theories. From multiple theoretical perspectives, this study offers research implications as well as practical implications to practitioners and policy makers.

A Review of Evidence Based Design in Healthcare fromResource-Based Perspective

Abstract: Recent interest in evidence-based design (EBD) by the U.S. healthcare industry has led to new questions about how to best use this knowledge to improve the efficiency, safety, quality, and sustainability of new or existing facilities. Proponents of EBD claim that it enhances healthcare outcomes by utilizing empirical research to drive decision-making during all phases of healthcare facility planning, design, and construction. It has yet to be shown, however, how the benefits of the EBD can outweigh the upfront costs and lead to a sustained competitive advantage. We examine this possibility by using the resource-based view (RBV) and reviewing the literature over the last several decades. Then, we discuss EBD as a strategic resource by applying the RBV criteria, including value, rareness, inimitability and nonsubstitutability. Lastly, we develop propositions for future empirical studies by considering isolating mechanisms, such as organizational culture, unique historical conditions, and causal ambiguity that could successfully operationalize EBD into a strategic resource.

The Need for Lean Training

Abstract: The recent economic downturn and the sustaining of lower economic conditions into the near future have caused manufacturers to reevaluate their operations. In many cases this has led to off-shoring, bankruptcies and plant closures. However, during these difficult times many companies have been able to succeed and some flourish. The difference between success and failure may in found in a single word, lean. This research investigates history related to the use of lean techniques, the market need for students trained in the use and application of lean tools and the development of a course dedicated to instructing lean methods.

Abusive Online Conduct: Discrimination and Harassment in Cyberspace

Abstract: Discrimination and harassment that were once committed in real time have now moved to the online environment. Discrimination and harassment on the Internet take many forms and can be more damaging and insidious than the face-to-face forms of abuse. This conceptual paper looks at two types of abusive online conduct that have emerged due to the proliferation of the Internet in our lives: Weblining and cyberbullying. These topics are examined from an ethical perspective with a focus on gender and racial discrimination issues.

Servant Leadership and Public Administration: Solving the Public Sector Financial Problems Through Service

Abstract: The financial problems facing many states and local governments have caused some to take unilateral actions concerning the terms and conditions of employment in unionized environments governed by collective bargaining agreements. The unilateral actions by the public sector have fostered an adversarial tension between unions and management in public administration. Servant leadership is an emerging leadership paradigm, which proponents believe has universal applicability among various organizations. This paper seeks to present a preliminary literature review and framework seeking to understand if servant leadership can be applied in an adversarial public administration setting.

How to Determine Subsidiary Performance Based on the Internationalization Strategy

Abstract: While international subsidiary performance is a principal outcome variable for practitioners and academics alike, there is relatively little consensus on how it should be measured. After evaluating prior efforts to measure foreign performance, the notion that firms should select different measures of performance based on each subsidiary’s internationalization strategy is proposed. Three testable propositions suggest different weightings of the financial, operational, and overall effectiveness dimensions based on five internationalization strategies.

Exploring Employee Involvement in Hotels in Lebanon: A Case Study

Abstract: Many large companies in the Arab world have been emphasizing HRM in their organizations as they learned about the benefits of HRM in the west. But what is the real picture? This case study of international luxury hotels in Lebanon shows that although the managers of these hotels stress that employee involvement is applied in their organizations, the reality on the ground is rather different. Hotel employees noted that they are not involved in the design of their jobs and that their input is often left out in performance appraisals. The paper ends by offering some valuable recommendations and insights.

A Simulation Approach to Airline Cost Benefit Analysis

Abstract: In this paper we conduct a cost benefit analyses using simulation for an Airline. This study pertains to using Towbarless Towing Vehicles (commonly referred to as supertugs) to transport aircraft to and from the terminal to airline’s maintenance hangar facility at their hub. This study attempts to investigate the possibility of reducing costs through saving jet fuel by adopting supertugs and identify if their high purchasing costs are justified. This study adopts simulation to analyze the annual savings by studying the numbers needed, as well as the utilization and operation cost for these supertugs. The results are very encouraging, enabling the airline to clearly evaluate their cost and benefits for purchasing new supertugs.

The Ties that Influence: A Social Network Analysis of Prototypical Employees' Effects on Job Attitudes among Coworkers

Abstract: We explore whether or not “prototypical” employees – employees who represent the goals and values of the organization are socially influential. We contend that employees will hold similar attitudes (organizational commitment, job satisfaction) to those of prototypical employees when strong (as opposed to weak) tie relationships characterized by friendship or advice exist between an employee and a coworker. A social networks study of admissions department employees revealed that employees tend to have similar organizational commitment and job satisfaction to prototypical coworkers with whom they maintain strong friendship ties as well those with whom they maintain strong advice ties.

The Impact of Various Accounting Approaches on U.S. Healthcare Reimbursement Systems: Ethical and Managerial Implications

Abstract: Health care delivery has been impacted over the last sixty years as reimbursement methods evolved from a cost-center to a profit-center to an investment-center approach. The consequences of these changes have been viewed by many to be detrimental to the quality of care for the patient and by many lawmakers to be detrimental to public interest. Exploring the role of accounting for health care costs and the allocation of scarce resources beginning in the 1950’s through present day, we show these accounting changes led to resource allocation issues with direct managerial and ethical impacts that were relative to all stakeholders.

The Path to Reporting Economic Reality - Why all CEOs Should Have Accounting Degrees

Abstract: This study was to determine whether there is a connection between the accounting educational background of a CEO and the firms’ tendency toward aggressive accounting/earnings management. This study represents one of the first attempts to test such a connection. We hypothesized that firms with CEO’s having an educational background in accounting would be less aggressive in their earnings management than those CEO’s with other educational backgrounds. We further hypothesized that firms with male CEO’s would be more aggressive in their earnings management than those having female CEO’s. We found female CEO’s were more likely to engage in aggressive accounting.

Managing the Link Between Bribery and Wealth Based on Corruption Perception Index (CPI) and Gross National Product (GNP) per Capita

Abstract: Corruption is a reality of life in all countries. However, some countries seem to have more widespread and higher levels of illegal and unethical behavior than others. Corruption typically is viewed in the context of culture. Yet might the wealth of a society be another determinant of corruption? Accordingly, the authors wanted to ascertain if there is a relationship between gross national product (GNP) per capita and the corruption perception index (CPI) of various countries. Through ANOVA and regression analysis, the authors found that there is a significant linear relationship between wealth generation of a country and the country’s level of corruption; and in addition the results of the 10 ASEAN countries and the 66 regional countries demonstrated that there is a significant linear relationship between the independent variable GNP (or CPI) and the dependent variable CPI (or GNP).Wealth, therefore, as a component of a societal culture, emerges as a significant aspect of corruption. The implications of these findings as well as suggestions for future research are provided.

Critical Analysis of Seller-Customer Bonding: Perception, Retention, Orientation and Status

Abstract: Can customers’ positive perception towards retailers’ retention orientation, as evident from store level attributes, be sufficient in creating long-term relationship bond? Customers’ behaviour and perception were explored using questionnaire administered at organized apparel retail outlets in cosmopolitan Indian cities. Though empirical evidence suggests that customers’ positive perception is important in determining long-term relationship, customers’ own value systems such as status in society, shaped by motivation, determine desire to have long-term relationship. Our study reveals two factors influencing long-term relationship to be customers’ tendency to make economic purchase coupled with projection of social status in the society via consumption.

A Model for Managing Uncertainty on the Cloud

Abstract: Cloud computing refers to providing computation services over the Internet. These Web-Based services are available to the public over network connections and managed by a third party which guaranties the availability of these services at an appropriate price. In this paper we will discuss the various sources of uncertainty that result from placing data and applications on the cloud. Furthermore, we will discuss counter measures to reduce or eliminate these uncertainties by instituting policies and procedures to decide what application and data to place on the cloud. In addition, we will provide a model for assessing uncertainty on the cloud.

Incivility in Academe: What if the Instigator is a High Performer?

Abstract: This analysis of workplace incivility focuses on instigators who are high performers, but have a negative effect on morale. We explore antecedents, manifestations, and consequences associated with these instigators, whom we label “High Performing Instigators.” This qualitative study indicates that HPIs are common in academe and engage in a broad spectrum of uncivil behaviors. The consequences of HPI behavior result in losses for all involved – loss of respect, time, emotional energy, and morale. One important finding is that there seems to be no change in HPI behavior in academe when comparing preand post-tenure status of faculty identified as HPI.

Proactive Personality and Intent to Remain with an Organization: Understanding Factors Affecting Retention of Israeli Employees

Abstract: This study examined the factors that affect retention of proactive employees. Data was collected from employees in Israel and the results supported the mediating effect of three factors—organizational commitment, perceived organizational support and managerial communication in the relationship between proactive personality and intent to remain with the organization. Implications for organizations and future research are discussed.

Examining Human Resource Managers' Involvement in Mergers and Acquisitions (M&As) Process in Ghana

Abstract: Despite decades of academic research, too few studies have examined human resource (HR) managers’ involvement in mergers and acquisitions (M&As) process. The objectives of the paper were to distill a clearer picture of HR managers’ involvement in M&As process and to propose a framework of the factors that influence HR managers’ role in the M&As process. The paper adopted an interpretive approach anchored in qualitative methodological approach. Twenty-nine interviews were conducted with HR managers of firms created as a result of M&As in Ghana. The data were analyzed mainly according to guidelines for analytical induction (Marshall and Rossman, 1995). The findings of the paper revealed the HR managers’ involvement in M&As process serves as communication tool for espousing the possible outcomes of M&As to employees. The paper also demonstrated that management support and skills of HR managers influence the role played by HR managers in the M&As process.

Factors Associated with LPHA Participation in Core Public Health Functions Related to Obesity Prevention, 2008

Abstract: Obesity is the leading public health problem in the U.S. Local public health agencies (LPHAs) are tasked with prevention on the community level. Conceptual frameworks link infrastructure to delivery of care. Infrastructure is measured by structural factors associated with LPHAs and environmental factors linked to obesity prevention; process is measured by participation in core public health factors associated with obesity prevention. Community-based interventions for obesity prevention have not been successful. If process is ineffective, structural and/or environmental factors need to be examined. This study examines what structural factors influence LPHA participation in obesity prevention.

Asymmetries in Supply Chain Management: Differences Between Poland and Spain

Abstract: Although asymmetries are commonly presented as a natural, almost organic, part of collaboration agreements, many researchers merely mention them in extant literature. This paper extends previous qualitative studies concerning asymmetric relationships by means of a quantitative and comparative, cross-sectional, supply chain study in two environments, one emerging (Poland) and one mature (Spain). It posits that asymmetries change the behaviors of participants in collaborative arrangements. The findings suggest that asymmetry in supply chain management is multi-faceted and influences various relationships disparately. The results of this investigation clarify real problems of supply chain collaborations and performance improvements.