Showing papers in "TIJ's Research Journal of Social Science & Management - RJSSM in 2011"

A study on the Environmental Awareness and the changing Attitude of the Students and Public in Coimbatore towards Green products

Abstract: An Abstract The increase in human pollution coupled with development of science and technology has been a serious threat to global ecological balance. Human activities through the years have degraded all the vital life supporting systems like air, water and land. The World Health Organization estimates that by the turn of the century, 18 per cent of the expenditure in Asia’s newly industrialized countries will go towards environment-related expenses (Levin, 1991). World wide evidence indicates people are concerned about the environment and are changing their behavior accordingly. As a result there is a growing market for sustainable and socially responsible products and services. A new sense of urgency about Indian environmental degradation has compelled a number of ordinary individuals to make eco-conscious life style changes. The objective of the study is to understand the awareness level of the customers on Green products in Coimbatore and to evaluate the customers’ attitudes towards the Green Products. Primary data was collected through the questionnaire from 100 General Public (Men and Women) and 100 Students of Coimbatore city, Tamilnadu. Secondary data was collected from various published sources. The first section gives an over view on the importance of environmental awareness, the second section analyzes the awareness level of the customers third section deals with the factors influencing green purchase followed by the findings of the study and conclusion. It is found that the customers in Coimbatore are aware of environmental problems and green products in the market but the attitude and behavior towards the green purchase is not improved.

Self Esteem and Subjective Wellbeing: Correlates of Academic Achievement of Students

Abstract: The intercorrelation between self esteem, subjective wellbeing and academic achievement of University students was explored. Gender difference was also examined in self esteem and subjective wellbeing. The study used a simple two-group survey with a between-subjects design involving 120 participants. The results revealed that there was a significantly positive relation between self esteem, subjective wellbeing and academic achievement. The independent t-test revealed that female students possessed significantly higher self esteem and subjective wellbeing than their male counterparts. Out of the eleven domains of subjective wellbeing, female students were found to be significantly higher in transcendence, social support and deficiency in social contact than male students. Keywords: self esteem, wellbeing, transcendence, social support, social contact

Study on Customer Satisfaction Level at Hypermarkets in Indian Retail Industry

Abstract: Satisfying customers is one of the main objectives of every business. Businesses recognize that keeping current customers is more profitable than having to win new ones to replace those lost. Management and marketing theorists underscore the importance of customer satisfaction for a business’s success. Customer satisfaction is the key factor in knowing the success of any retail store or business, therefore it is very important to measure it and to find the factors which affect the customer satisfaction. Customers are most likely to appreciate the goods and services that they buy if they are made to feel special. This occurs when they feel that the goods and services that they buy have been specially produced for them or for people like them. It should be always keep measuring in order to get feedback for the product and service in order to develop it further with wide customization. Customer satisfaction refers to the extent to which customers are happy with the products and services provided by a business. Customer satisfaction levels can be measured using survey techniques and questionnaires. Gaining high levels of customer satisfaction is very important to a business because satisfied customers are most likely to be loyal and to make repeat orders and to use a wide range of services offered by a business. Customer satisfaction is an asset that should be monitored and managed just like any physical asset. This is true for both service-oriented and product-oriented organizations.

Lipstick: More than a Fashion Trend

Abstract: Purpose: This paper explores and discusses why women purchase and wear lipstick and the behaviours associated with its use. Design/methodology/approach: A study of 300 female lipstick users were interviewed using a semi structured questionnaire. Findings: The study indicated that women use lipstick in a significant way to transform and present themselves; using it to reflect their daily fluctuations in moods and identity. Although lipstick is a mainstream fashion discourse, Western Australian society (where the study was located) maintains strict codes of conduct in applying and using the product. Behaviours associated with lipstick use are steeped in ritual and cultural customs. Research limitations/ implications: The data was collected within the one geographical area. While the consumption behaviour of lipstick and the driving motivating for using lipstick remain constant as a fashion artefact it is susceptible to changing trends, particularly colours and packaging. Social implications; For centuries lipstick has been scorned, shunned and embraced. Lipstick facilitates life transitions as consumers undergo a period of liminality. The codes associated with the use of this artefact are steeped in ritual with rigid codes and cultural customs that are acceptable within society forming strong societal practices. Value: The value of this study is that it explores everyday appearance; lipstick has a valuable role to play in constructing self-identity and providing understanding in how women experience appearance in their daily lives. For this reason lipstick will always be more than a fashion trend.

Investigating the Service Quality Dimensions to Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty of New Private Sector Banks in Tamilnadu –An Empirical Study.

Abstract: The main objective of this study is to find the interrelationships between service quality Attributes, customer satisfaction and customer loyalty in the retail banking sector in Tamilnadu.. The study sought to identify the most important attributes in bank settings, which may be used to review characteristics of the banks as experienced by customers. This is an analytical study based mainly on the primary data collected through a scientifically developed questionnaire. The questionnaire have been personally administered on a sample size of100, chosen on a convenient basis from Three Private banks, ie.ICICI, AXIS and HDFC Bank. The questionnaire has been designed on the basis of the study of previous scholars such as Berry et al., Parasuraman et al., Zeithaml and Bitner, and Stafford. Questionnaire elicited information on socio-demographic variables along with SERVQUAL dimensions of service quality survey was conducted to collect data. The result shows that all the service quality attributes are positively related to customer satisfaction and customer satisfaction is positively related to customer loyalty in the retail banking settings in Tamilnadu.

The Impact of Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction on Customer Retention in the Indian Banking Industry: An empirical analysis.

Abstract: The Impact of Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction on Customer Retention in the Indian Banking Industry: An empirical analysis. 1. PROF J.GOPALKRISHNAN, ASBM, SHIKSHA VIHAR, CHANDAKA, BHUBANESWAR 2.Dr .B.B MISHRA,PROFESSOR,UTKAL UNIVERISTY,BHUBANESWAR 3.Dr.V.K GUPTA,DEAN,INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT,INDORE 4.PROF A.VETRIVEL,THE NEW SCHOOL UNIVERSITY,NEW YORK Abstract Previous banking studies on customer retention focused narrowly on service quality and cus- tomer satisfaction without attempting to link them in a model to further explore or explain cus- tomer retention. If retention strategy is not planned than customers will defect, irrespective of the efforts put in by banks. This study empirically examines the potential constructs in customer retention by investigating the effects of service quality and customer satisfaction. Customer’s levels of satisfaction, perception about service quality and loyalty are constructs that influence the customer to retain with the present bank. It is assumed that when the customer is completely satisfied, then loyalty towards the bank is strengthened. This study was designed to examine the relationship between service quality, customer satisfaction and customer’s retention with a bank in the Indian Banking industry. The respondents were 398 banking customers who completed the self-administered questionnaire. Pearson Correlation analysis indicated that service quality and customer satisfaction had a direct positive effect on customer’s retention intentions. Multiple Linear Regression highlighted customer satisfaction as a stronger predictor of customer retention intentions compared to service quality. Possible interpretations, limitations, and implications for marketing professionals are discussed.

Sport sponsorship: appeal and risks

Abstract: Sport sponsorship is a particular case within the sponsorship industry. It is distinct from the more philanthropic forms of sponsorship, which appear to be less motivated by commercial objectives, and which generally achieve less significant commercial returns (Calderon-Martinez, Mas-Ruiz & Nicolau-Gonzalbez, 2005). In this paper, the advantages of sport sponsorship are reviewed to identify why sport sponsorship is more popular than other forms of sponsorship. Despite this popularity, the sponsorship of sporting events and individuals also carries some risks. In this paper, we also review the risks, including generic risks such as the risk of news media reporting that is interpretive rather than objective. Other risks relate more directly to sports, particularly the effects of winning and losing on audience attitudes (or sponsorship objectives), and the impact of off-field behaviour otherwise unrelated to the event threatening the objectives of corporate sport sponsorship.

Quality of Work Life Programmes in Small Scale Industrial Units: Employers and Employees Perspective

Abstract: The Quality of work life programs are the human resources practices adopted by the company for the upliftment of the Quality of work life of employees. It is the utmost responsibility of the management to ensure the good quality of work life of employees. The present study aims at findings out the important QWL programs and the rate of implementation of QWL programs in Small Scale Industrial Units in the perspectives of employers and employees. The sample consists of 317 employers and employees of various Small Scale Industrial units in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai cities in Tamilnadu, India. The list of industrial units was acquired from District Industrial Centre of these cities and units were chosen at random. The questionnaire was designed based on the attributes and variables of QWL reviews and questionnaire from previous studies. The constituted variables of the questionnaire were subjected to construct validity and discriminant validity. The study reveals that the employers are highly perceiving the implementation of QWL programmes in their units than their employees. the study concludes by identifying the 5 important QWL programmes in SSI units, in the perspective of employers and employees. Keywords: Quality of work life (QWL), Quality of work life programmes (QWLP), Small Scale Industrial units (SSI), Employer, Employee.

A Study on Ambient Advertising: Marketing Novelty Going Bust

Abstract: Ambient advertising is a form of advertising done in a non-traditional media or using a medium in a way it has never been used before either as part of the mainstream campaign or as a stand alone activity. It helps brands be more a part of people's lives, say advertising professionals. Ambient advertising is a brand message that hits, when least expected. It is not restricted to any size, shape or format. Ambient advertisements are effective means at pushing a brand message in front of consumers and can develop even better top of mind recall within target audiences. This provides the ability to advertisers to maintain brand awareness created by other advertising efforts. Ambient media can produce mass attention in centralized locations, or directly interact with consumers during normal every day activities. This paper tries to throw light on the concepts of Ambient Advertising, its problems and tries to come out with recommended solutions to make this form of advertising popular in the near future.

A Study on the Impact of work load on the Job Satisfaction of teaching staff in Self financing engineering colleges recognised by Anna University of technology, Tirunelveli.

Abstract: A commitment to good teaching and a concern for pupils’ learning may involve teachers in many hours over and above statutory classroom instruction, often without complaint or stress because it is what conscientious teachers have always done. It is when the nature of their work becomes further and further distanced from teaching and learning that problems arise. When teachers are overwhelmed by the demands of change such as new curriculum, those who invest themselves emotionally are likely to become racked by guilt, feeling they are victimizing those for whom they care. Failure to address the issues associated with a high workload will likely result in lower levels of teacher satisfaction and higher levels of attrition– two conditions that would have a negative impact on the education system of the engineering colleges. Factors of stress and dissatisfaction may lead to poor performance of the teaching staff. They may be even physically worn out due to the overload or may have mental stress. Therefore this study has been undertaken with the main motto of identifying the level of satisfaction of the teachers on the work load and what their attitude is towards work load so that the engineering colleges could create a stress free environment for the teaching staff and enable them to improve their performance with ease. The core purpose of the study is to identify the level of satisfaction of the teaching staff on the work load given by the engineering colleges and their attitude towards the work load given. The study was also undertaken to know whether there is any difference gender wise, designation wise and experience wise on the level of satisfaction on the work load of teaching staff. Further the study was also undertaken to find out whether the salary of the teaching staff, experience, designation and qualification are associated with the level of satisfaction of the teaching staff on the work load. The study undertaken by the researcher was descriptive in nature as it gives an insight on the satisfaction of the teaching staff on the work load.. Data for the study was collected through primary sources. A structured questionnaire was distributed to 600 teaching faculty of 20 self financing engineering colleges recognised by Anna University of technology Tirunelveli. The study on the impact of work load on the teaching staff throws light on the fact that majority (57.17 per cent) of the teaching staff were not satisfied with the work load given by the self financing engineering colleges. Further as far as the attitude of the teaching staff that the special coaching given is an over burden, majority (55.17 per cent) of the teaching staff have agreed on the fact that it is an over burden to the teachers. The analysis of variance has also proved that there is an experience wise difference in the level of satisfaction on the work load given to the teaching staff of the self financing engineering colleges recognised by Anna University of Technology, Tirunelveli.

Role of ict in rural empowerment

Abstract: ICT acts as an gauge of the development of any society in this knowledge era. In order to take full advantage of the changing global agricultural scenario interconnecting of policies related to pricing, marketing and trading of agricultural commodities has become paramount. Simultaneously there is also need to review and revitalize the mechanism for transfer of technology under the trend towards liberalizing telecommunication marketplaces in favor of competitive, multi-service provider, multi-service marketplaces. Various forces are at work for rural development and modernization of agriculture sector. Any ICT intervention that improves the livelihoods of poor rural families would likely to have significant direct and indirect impacts on enhancing agricultural production, marketing and post-harvest activities ,which in turn can further contribute to poverty reduction& rural empowerment. The Extension system of modern information and communication technology facilitates better dialogue between researchers, extension workers and their farmer clients to transfer technologies and information more cost effectively. Knowledge management with regard to new techniques and innovations of farming, new methods of cultivation, new crops, seeds, pesticides, water and nutrient management and marketing of the product, government policies regarding agriculture, use of fertilizers for better productivity, crop pest management measures, advice on crop rotation to sustain soil fertility, export potential of their crops, information about the allied activities like dairy, apiculture, piggery, poultry, fish farming, mushroom cultivation and weather information on local and regional level, etc can be managed by amalgamating ICT’s technology e.g. Village Knowledge Centre (VKC) utilizing GIS. Now a day, Information& Communication Technology has become the most important currency for productivity, competitiveness, and increased wealth and prosperity. Nations have placed greater priority on developing their human capital. The power of connectivity can transform the prevailing ailing system and can empower rural poor with the power of information, which can be converted into knowledge and further to wealth generation. In India where rural economy is heavily dependent on the agriculture, improved technology can achieve its purpose only if it is effectively transferred to and adopted by farmers as well as rural or urban poor. Effective technologies and knowledge management can result in higher agricultural production and increased net incomes of farming families, which has a positive impact on rural poverty.This paper presents a brief review of the technologies, the rural ICT projects and the issues associated with the use of ICT for rural development &discuss impact of ICT on rural development and sustainability. The finding indicates that ICT used must be adequate to the skills of the poor in order to utilize their potential effectively through poverty reduction and rural development.Since ownership by the local communities, partnership and networking are essential to effective development programmes. This paper also reflects on e-powering rural India and effects of ICT projects on poverty reduction and finally their empowerment. Key words:-ICT,e-powering,Rural Poverty,Rural development,Rural empowerment,Rural ICT Projects

Capital Market Reaction around the Stock Splits and Bonus Issues: Evidence from some Indian IT stocks

Abstract: Over the years relationship between bonus issues or stock splits & stock prices has been the subject of much empirical discussion within the finance literature. According to theory, bonus issues increase the number of equity stocks outstanding but have no effect on stockholder’s proportional ownership of stocks. The bonus issue or stock splits date is known well in advance and therefore should contain no new information. As such, one would not expect any significant price reaction on bonus issue or stock splits announcement. Contrary to this theoretical prediction, however empirical studies of bonus issues and stock splits have documented a statistically significant market price reaction. It is therefore a matter of concern that firms announcing bonus issues & stock splits experience rise in their stock prices on an average supporting semi-strong form Efficient Market Hypothesis (EMH). Generally the investigation of semi-strong form market efficiency has been limited to the study of well developed stock markets. The aim of this paper is to examine the stock price reaction to information release of bonus issues or stock splits with a view of examining whether the Indian stock market is semi-strong efficient or not. The event study methodology (Dolley 1993, Fama et al. 1969 and Brown & Warner 1980, 1985) has been used to contribute further evidence on the efficiency characteristics of the Indian stock market.

Impact of erp system on auditing and internal control

Abstract: Information technology is changing almost every phase of global business environment. Auditors are facing the vast challenge of working and keeping up-to-date with such sophisticated technologies. In ERP systems, operational and financial data are tied together through a complex information flow. Transactions can be automatically entered without review or pre-checking with the ERP system. Therefore with the implementation of integrated ERP systems, internal controls are developing itself to support automated operational management. The ERP systems are one of such technologies used by various organizations to achieve a strategic advantage in the competitive market. The ERP systems are computer-based systems designed to process an organization’s transactions. It facilitates integrated and real-time planning, production, and customer response. From an auditing perspective, ERP systems created new opportunities as well as new challenges. Based on a questionnaire survey, the paper attempts to examine the extent of impact of this modern computerised ERP system on Auditing in an organization. It also tries to understand how ERP system affects the internal control system of the organization. This paper also suggests that Auditors must also understand the ERP system extremely well to perform a proper audit of a client that uses this system. Overall result has revealed that auditors can do effective, efficient & fast auditing by using new auditing tools & procedures instead of the traditional procedures. The overall objective and scope of an audit doesn’t change in ERP environment. Overall findings of the research have suggested that the nature and the complexity of the ERP system increase the system risks. Auditors should give more attention to the risks involved with an ERP system. Thus, result of the research suggests that the use of the new technologies will raise the quality of auditing and internal control system in the organizations. There is vast scope in research conducted about the ERP impact in auditing process and internal control in future.

A study of customer perception of CRM initiatives in the Indian Banking Sector

Abstract: Purpose: To investigate the front-end effectiveness of CRM strategies in the banking sector in India by studying the customer perception of CRM initiatives. Methodology: This is an empirical research which is descriptive in nature and relied mainly on primary data collected through a structured questionnaire to study the perception of Indian customers. Findings: Banks operating in India have failed to impress their customers on their CRM efforts. Various CRM initiates and dimensions measured in this study report unfavorable response. This under-performance has occurred in spite of technological developments and new processes in place Practical implications: The findings will have useful implications for Banks operating in India in order to think in line with the customers’ response. The study emphasizes the importance of retaining profitable customers for a lifetime and the growing importance of CRM in order to better satisfy customers in the Indian Banking Industry. Originality/value: Crucial aspects pertaining to CRM in the Indian banking sector had been under-researched and the aim of the present study is to have a broadened investigation of the CRM initiatives adopted by Indian banks. The study provides a discussion on the concept of CRM in the Indian banking sector and proposes recommendations to assist the banking sector on how to nurture profitable, long-term relationships with the customers

Consumer perception and awareness about Consumer Rights and Consumer Protection Act: A study in District Raipur (C.G.)

Abstract: The Consumer Protection Act, 1986, is one of the socio-economic legislation which has been enacted for protecting the interests of the consumers in India. Unlike existing laws which are punitive or preventive in nature, the provisions of this Act are compensatory in nature. The Act is also intended to provide simple, speedy and inexpensive redressal to the consumers' grievances, and relief of a specific nature and award of compensation wherever appropriate to the consumer. Consumerism is fast emerging as an environmental force affecting major business decisions as consumers become more aware about their rights. Even though comprehensive staturory measures have been provided in India for curbing unfair business practices, for protecting consumer interest, and for promoting consumerism; companies have yet to do a lot. This paper analyse consumer awareness and perception about consumer rights and consumer protection Act by use sample from district Raipur through their purchase behaviour and their action in case of dissatisfaction form the purchased goods.

Attrition & HR Initiatives in INDIAN ITES BPO Industry

Abstract: The paper deals with the challenges that Indian IT industries are facing, the paper is trying to crically analysis the reson for attrition taking in view the the HR policies of the companies.

Food and grocery retail: a comparative study between organized and traditional formats

Abstract: Indian retail is witnessing a confluence of several favorable factors such as steady economic growth, favorable demographics, easy availability of credit, investments in infrastructure creation, and supply of real estate and malls. This, coupled with low penetration, creates a base for the next big leap of growth for the organized retailing industry. The organized retail in India is at the helm of action with robust growth in the economy trickling down to every segment in the country. The direct beneficiary is the consumer. In the last few years, the country has seen the evolution of a large and growing young consumer group, with tastes and preferences vastly different from the older set of consumers. Aiding the robust demand scenario, created by the attractive consumer set, is the investment in supply chain and real estate that will take organized retail across the country. It was inferred that a combination of the demand and supply side factors is the key driver of a 42% CAGR in organized retail over FY07-11E. It can be predicted that the organized retail can achieve sustainable growth due to two major factors: consumer/demand side and retailer/supply side. The overall purpose of this research has been to study and understand the effect of modern retail formats on traditional retail formats in India. With rapid change and expansion in the retail environment, it has become all the more necessary to identify the different parameters that drive overall satisfaction of consumers for modern retail formats and traditional retail formats.

Application of Natural Language Processing (NLP) Techniques in E-Governance

Abstract: E-Governance is the public sector’s use of information and communication technologies with the aim of improving information and service delivery, encouraging citizen participation in the decision-making process and making government more accountable, transparent and effective. Effective and efficient e-Governments deploy Information and Communication Technology Systems (ICT) to deliver services through multiple channels that are accessible, fast, secure, reliable, seamless, and coherent. To implement better G2G, G2B, G2E and G2C services we should not only utilize ICT, we have to be also serious about implementing Natural Language Processing (NLP) Techniques to reach up to the masses and make e-governance successful one. This paper shows the need of applying NLP technologies in the field of e-governance and also tries to focus on the issues, which can be resolved very easily with the help of these modern technologies. It also shows the advantages of applying NLP in e-governance.

Cost Measuring of Medical Services in a Hospital using Relative Value Units (RVUs) – based Process Costing System

Abstract: This paper presents the use of relative value units (RVUs) approach within the process of costing system to overcome the problem of multiple surfaces (tests). The said process is provided by support coat centers such as laboratory, radiology, etc. to measure the cost of services in an accurate and fair measure. However, due to imperfection and non-homogeneity, higher levels of fairness and accuracy are not maintained. Unlike other classical approaches used by centers that provide services with roughly identical monolithic and have almost the same characteristics and specifications, the presented approach measures the cost on a ratio of costs to charges basis. The respective methodology involves: developing a list of tests applied in each hospital's department, estimating the time elapsed in each test, determining the time average per test for all available tests in each department, estimating the relative value unit per test, calculating the weighted average cost for each RVU, calculating the weighted average cost per test, and terminates with calculating the RVU per period. The findings in this study are focused on that this method can more accurately allocate costs among specific services within each department. Information is collected from registers, purchase orders, payroll, account books, hospital bills, and registers, along with informal interviews with hospital staff. The research has used actual data from a neurological hospital.

Self-help groups for poverty alleviation:a case study of titabor sub-division of jorhat district of assam.

Abstract: Poverty is almost a social misery, contaminated in an every socio-economic zone, spread itself among all over the deprived section of the population gradually. The concerned paper basically assessing the role of Self-help group approach in eradication of poverty, its successiveness in generating income and the impact of micro credit on the empowerment of the women members of the self-help groups. The study is primarily based on the field survey, conducted in the three development blocks of the Titabor sub-division of the Jorhat district of Assam. This study takes into account the official members of the self-help groups for better understanding the process through which they build up their income generating sources. To figure out the impact self-help groups in these directions a simple chi-square tests as well as the t-test have been used to rectify the changes that have been took place due to injection of group approach in the field of rural development. The results show that self-help groups promote awareness among the women members and provide sufficient opportunities to combat with poverty. Further the self-help groups have come out as a significant factor in generation of income and occupations of the members which also requires conditions like better disbursement of the micro credit to the members and these things should be taken care of for getting more active success in this area.

An empirical study on financial awareness of working women in india

Abstract: Women have traditionally been considered home makers and their role has been home management rather than money managers. A study of working women from the U.S. suggests that majority seemed to face challenges like -- finding the time to dedicate to their investment needs. Numerous studies also pointed to lack of overall financial awareness among women. The objective of this paper is to find out whether the common perception of lack of financial awareness among women holds true in India. A study was conducted among working women in Mumbai. The authors concluded that the respondents showed significant awareness in matters concerning investment and personal financial planning. Contrary to popular perception, the sample population showed awareness about financial planning and willingness to take investment decisions relating to personal finance. However, in the area of retirement planning, majority of the respondents felt that they had not adequately planned for their retirement.

A Markov Chain approach to determine the optimal performance period and bad definition for credit scorecard

Abstract: Performance period determination and bad definition for credit scorecard has been a mix of fortune for the typical data modeler. The lack of literature on these matters led to a proliferation of approaches and techniques to solve the problems. However, the most commonly accepted approach involves subjective interpretations of the performance period and bad definition as well as being chicken and egg problem. These complications result in poorly developed credit scorecard with minimal benefits to the banks. In this paper, we will be recommending a simple and effective approach to resolve these issues.

The Developing Dissertation Proposals of PhD Student in Human Resource Development of IC (Intensive Coaching) of An International Program Approach in Thailand.

Abstract: Good research is not just about producing the best findings, implications, and recommendations for further research, but providing the best benefits to the participants as well Thus, the purpose of this Participatory Action Research (PAR) study is to discover the impact that intensive coaching has on supporting PhD candidates in an English-as-a-second language context Ten PhD students were required to develop their dissertation proposals, and faced the loss of their status, as a University regulation required that all students graduate in not more than seven years This study applied an Intensive Coaching (IC) technique to support the ten participants The Intensive Coaching technique was generated from the GROW model (Whitmore, 2009) There were eight phases in achieving the goal: Phase 1 “Open Heart”, Phase 2 “Motivation”, Phase 3 “Building Trust”, Phase 4 “Clarify Topic of Interest”, Phase 5 “Commitment”, Phase 6 “Continue Working in Depth”, Phase 7 “Finalize: Ready to Proceed, and Phase 8 “Goal achievement” The findings of this study provided helpful information on understanding the challenges that the PhD students faced and overcame, such as improving their conceptual analysis skills, proposal writing skills, group work, self-disciplined learning, and self-confidence

Promoters holding vs firm valuation: evidence from nifty stocks

Abstract: The value of a firm depends on several internal and external factors. Promoter’s holding and the type of promoter’s is one of the major internal factors to determine the value of a firm. In this research work the impact of promoters holding on firm value has been tried to found out for all the NSE listed firms for the period of 2006-07 to 2009-10 in India. Tobin’s Q has been used as a proxy to firm value to gauge the relationship. The relationship found to be non-linear where the firm value initially increases with increase in promoter’s ownership up to a certain level, then decreases, and finally when the ownership becomes very high the firm value starts increasing again. This shows the alignment, then entrenchment and finally alignment of the promoter’s interest with the firm value. Other factors such as revenue, R&D expense, selling intensity, asset turnover etc. also have significant impact on firm valuation apart from insider ownership. The research also confirms that the presence of foreign promoters leads to better performance and better valuation of Indian firms and thus concludes that for the promoter maintaining a good reputation to the investors is a key remain attractive to the long term investors.

Banking Transformation – In Global Context

Abstract: This article exhibits the different stages of banking transformation from Level-0 which is the historical banking concept kept in papers to various other levels. We can also term this transformation as “paper to paper less banking”. Level-1 is termed as the primary transformation with the use of standby computers in bank premises. Under Level-2 we discuss more about the Core Banking Solution (CBS), with more information about the players involved in this space in the market globally and in Level-3 we discuss more about the alternate delivery channels (like ATMs/ CAMs, Debit Cards, IVR, Call centre/ Phone Banking, Internet Banking & Mobile Banking) which were used to deliver the banking services apart from the physical branches. We also discussed the future scope and the next generation plans and research towards possible transformation under section Level-4 with real-time examples and publications.

Competitiveness of a Company: Dimensionality of Competitiveness

Abstract: This article discusses ‘Competitiveness’ as an organization goal from a proactive and ‘inside-out’ perspective in contrast to the prevalent reactive and ‘outside-in’ perspective. Understanding the fundamentals of competitiveness and the determining factors of competitiveness are of prime importance for any company to be competitive. The critical success factors (CSFs) of competitiveness, suggested are: 1. Customers 2. Employees 3. Systems and Processes 4. Business Environment 5. Business Intelligence and Competitors 6. Technology. The article discusses as to how each of the factors contributes to enhancing the competitiveness of a company. It is suggested that a dynamic balance of the six factors enables a company to be competitive. The highly competitive company is different from the less competitive company in terms of the importance given to the six parameters, and the balancing of these factors. The implication of the article is for research on competitiveness in terms of: 1. measuring the extent of prevalence of these factors in companies/industry 2. the relative importance of each of the factors in contributing to ‘competitiveness’ and variations across industry sectors 3. differential weightages to each of the factors in determining the ‘competitiveness’ of a company, and 4. validating the relevance of these factors by comparing highly competitive companies (determined on the basis of industry success) and low competitive companies.

From Aaker to Heere: A Review and Comparison of Brand Personality scales

Abstract: Purpose: To review the important brand personality measurement scales and to draw comparisons among them in order to identify their strengths and weaknesses. Methodology: The scales included in this study were chosen on the basis of two criteria, either they should introduce a new approach to measure brand personality or should be based on a new conceptual definition of the construct. The selected scales were compared on the basis of their theoretical base, utility and cross-cultural validity. Findings and Suggestions: The study reveals that the different scales introduced by researchers to measure brand personality have helped in addressing various criticisms related to brand personality measurement. A comparison of various brand personality scales identified their strengths and weaknesses and the specific contexts where in they will be most suitable. Future works in this field can be carried out incorporating these developments. Originality/ Value: Though there have been a lot of studies done in the area of brand personality measurement, no study till date has compared the various approaches used by researchers to measure the concept. This study reviews the existing approaches to brand personality measurement, identifies the commonalities and the base for comparison and develops a comparative framework of brand personality measurement approaches.

Configuring Customer-based Brand Equity by Brand Association, Personality and Image.

Abstract: Customer Based Brand Equity (CBBE) has always played a pivoting role in maintaining the customer relationship for a company CBBE is configured in various ways using its determinants This research aims at studying the causal effect of the determinants - brand association, brand personality and brand image on CBBE The model developed is tested separately on gender basis from the sample collected The results established that brand association is the strongest determinant of CBBE The research also showed that the effect of brand personality on brand image was more for females than for males

Impact of Quality of Work Life on Organisational Commitment among ITES Employees in Coimbatore

Abstract: Much attention has been given to the explosion in ITES operation in India. Little concern, however, has been paid to the performance of Indian service workers in the fast paced and sometimes turbulent environments. Information processing and call center activities of manufacturing, financial and service organisations have moved offshore to Asian countries in record numbers. India, with its ready source of English-speaking, highly educated and technologically trained workers, has become the location of choice for ITES functions of multinational clients. The article is based on the survey results of 561 ITES employees in Coimbatore city to understand whether Quality of Work life has an impact on Organisational Commitment. A Regression model has been created to evaluate the influence of Quality of Work Life(QWL) on Organisational commitment .The findings have given insights in efforts to improve the QWL to mould employees with right form of commitment and increase the level of commitment. The results provide valuable information about how employees in different forms of commitment feel about their work environment.

An Analysis of Determinants of Profitability in Public and Private Sector Banks in India

Abstract: An analysis was carried out to empirically evaluate the determinants of profitability in the public and private sector commercial banks in India. A combination of statistical tools such as the correlation analysis, multiple regression analysis and factor analysis were used to estimate the contribution of select bank specific variables towards profitability which was measured by using Return on Assets (RoA). The study revealed that the cost of borrowing and NPA has a significant negative correlation with profitability for public sector banks. Return on investments, return on advances and operating profit had a significant positive correlation with profitability for both public and private sector banks. The multiple regression analysis highlighted that the return on investments and return on advances has a significant influence on the profitability of private sector banks. The factor analysis has also shown that the NPA has a strong negative influence on the profitability for both public and private sector banks.