Search results

1 – 10 of over 13000
Article
Publication date: 28 February 2020

Yaowu Sun and Xiaoye Gong

Technological standardization can promote the development of complex products and systems (CoPS) (e.g. large aircraft, high-speed trains). Many studies argue that a superior…

Abstract

Purpose

Technological standardization can promote the development of complex products and systems (CoPS) (e.g. large aircraft, high-speed trains). Many studies argue that a superior network position contributes to improving a firm's ability to innovate; however, few studies have considered the aforementioned line of research as falling under the purview of CoPS standardization. This study focuses on CoPS integrators, which hold the most important enterprise roles in CoPS manufacturing and innovation, to analyze whether the two types of superior positions (i.e. the central position and the brokerage position) help the integrator influence the standardization process in a process moderated by technological complexity.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering the outstanding market performance of the railway transportation industry in China, the abundance of cooperative activities in this industry, and data availability, we adopt integrators from this industry as samples for the empirical analysis in this study. A negative binomial regression analysis with random effects was conducted to analyze the acquired panel data.

Findings

The results show that the central position has an inverted U-shaped effect on the integrator's ability to influence standardization and that the brokerage position has a positive effect. We also find that the underlying mechanism of the two types of network positions impacts the integrator's ability to influence standardization and that it has two modes: knowledge integration in related domains and knowledge integration in nonrelated domains. Moreover, technological complexity attenuates the effect of the central position and strengthens the effect of the brokerage position on the integrator's ability to influence standardization.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the theoretical research on CoPS manufacturing and innovation and complements knowledge-based theory. The results could prove enlightening for integrators facing complex technological environments, allowing them to establish a reasonable external knowledge search strategy and choose appropriate cooperation partners according to their knowledge domains.

Details

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, vol. 31 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-038X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 October 2012

Zhou Qing, Du Weijing and Han Wenhui

The purpose of this paper is to find the relationship between alliance partner selection and innovation performance of technological standard alliance in China.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find the relationship between alliance partner selection and innovation performance of technological standard alliance in China.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors designed the selection factors of alliance partners in terms of reputation, compatibility and technological standardization ability and, based on the empirical research data, analyzed the correlation between partner selection and innovation performance using the method of cross validation statistically.

Findings

It was found that the selection of alliance partners would directly affect the operation and management of technological standard alliance in China. Appropriate partners among technological standard alliance will play a significant role in improving partners' independent innovation capability. The empirical results showed that potential cooperative partners' reputation, compatibility and standardization ability had an obvious effect on innovation performance.

Originality/value

The paper finds and verifies the key index of alliance partner selection. This result can provide some important references for managers when selecting appropriate cooperative partners. Technological standard alliance managers can evaluate potential cooperative partners according to the index of reputation, technological standardization ability and compatibility designed in this paper. High‐tech firms can cultivate their cooperative innovation ability to adapt to the demands of technological standard alliance according to the key index.

Details

Journal of Science and Technology Policy in China, vol. 3 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1758-552X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 August 1996

Greg Harris

Reports on a study which investigated why multinational companies standardize the advertising executions deployed throughout the various national markets in which they operate…

3952

Abstract

Reports on a study which investigated why multinational companies standardize the advertising executions deployed throughout the various national markets in which they operate. Economies of scale and belief in international consumer and market convergence were found to be of less influence than had been indicated in prior studies. Rather the indications were that policy on international advertising is influenced by a broad range of organizational and strategic issues, particularly a perceived need for increased central control over the marketing policies of the national subsidiaries. In some instances it could be argued that standardization is a consequence, or even a means of, increased central control, rather than resulting from detailed analysis of the specific costs and benefits of standardization. Also finds that there are many forms of standardization and the motives of the sampled companies concerned varied to some extent, according to the form and degree of standardization practised.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 34 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 June 1997

James L. Price

Addresses the standardization of the measurements and the labels for concepts commonly used in the study of work organizations. As a reference handbook and research tool, seeks to

15916

Abstract

Addresses the standardization of the measurements and the labels for concepts commonly used in the study of work organizations. As a reference handbook and research tool, seeks to improve measurement in the study of work organizations and to facilitate the teaching of introductory courses in this subject. Focuses solely on work organizations, that is, social systems in which members work for money. Defines measurement and distinguishes four levels: nominal, ordinal, interval and ratio. Selects specific measures on the basis of quality, diversity, simplicity and availability and evaluates each measure for its validity and reliability. Employs a set of 38 concepts ‐ ranging from “absenteeism” to “turnover” as the handbook’s frame of reference. Concludes by reviewing organizational measurement over the past 30 years and recommending future measurement reseach.

Details

International Journal of Manpower, vol. 18 no. 4/5/6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-7720

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 2003

Georgios I. Zekos

Aim of the present monograph is the economic analysis of the role of MNEs regarding globalisation and digital economy and in parallel there is a reference and examination of some…

86938

Abstract

Aim of the present monograph is the economic analysis of the role of MNEs regarding globalisation and digital economy and in parallel there is a reference and examination of some legal aspects concerning MNEs, cyberspace and e‐commerce as the means of expression of the digital economy. The whole effort of the author is focused on the examination of various aspects of MNEs and their impact upon globalisation and vice versa and how and if we are moving towards a global digital economy.

Details

Managerial Law, vol. 45 no. 1/2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0309-0558

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 October 2007

Tal Katz‐Navon, Eitan Naveh and Zvi Stern

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to suggest a new safety self‐efficacy construct and to explore its antecedents and interaction with standardization to influence in‐patient…

2969

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to suggest a new safety self‐efficacy construct and to explore its antecedents and interaction with standardization to influence in‐patient safety. Design/methodology/approach – The paper used a survey of 161 nurses using a self‐administered questionnaire over a 14‐day period in two large Israeli general hospitals. Nurses answered questions relating to four safety self‐efficacy antecedents: enactive mastery experiences; managers as safety role models; verbal persuasion; and safety priority, that relate to the perceived level of standardization and safety self‐efficacy. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess the scale's construct validity. Regression models were used to test hypotheses regarding the antecedents and influence of safety self‐efficacy. Findings – Results indicate that: managers as safety role models; distributing safety information; and priority given to safety, contributed to safety self‐efficacy. Additionally, standardization moderated the effects of safety self‐efficacy and patient safety such that safety self‐efficacy was positively associated with patient safety when standardization was low rather than high. Hospital managers should be aware of individual motivations as safety self‐efficacy when evaluating the potential influence of standardization on patient safety. Originality/value – Theoretically, the study introduces a new safety self‐efficacy concept, and captures its antecedents and influence on safety performance. Also, the study suggests safety self‐efficacy as a boundary condition for the influence of standardization on safety performance. Implementing standardization in healthcare is problematic because not all processes can be standardized. In this case, self‐efficacy plays an important role in securing patient safety. Hence, safety self‐efficacy may serve as a “substitute‐for‐standardization,” by promoting staff behaviors that affect patient safety.

Details

International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, vol. 20 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0952-6862

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 October 2014

Hsiang-Fei Luoh, Sheng-Hshiung Tsaur and Ya-Yun Tang

This study aims to explore the relationship between job standardization and employee innovative behavior, as well as the mediating and moderating effects of employee psychological…

6990

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between job standardization and employee innovative behavior, as well as the mediating and moderating effects of employee psychological empowerment. Little research has been focused on the conflicting concepts of job standardization and employee innovative behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Respondents chosen from frontline services in tourist hotels in Taiwan were used to examine the mediating and moderating roles of psychological empowerment on the established relationships between job standardization and employee innovative behavior. The results were analyzed using hierarchical regression models.

Findings

The results show that job standardization had a negative effect on employee innovative behavior. In addition, employee psychological empowerment mediated the effect of job standardization on innovative behavior. Subsequently, employee psychological empowerment played a buffering role and moderated the job standardization–innovative behavior relationship.

Practical implications

Hotel management needs to use both training and work process review to help employees innovate while still understanding the meaning of their work, enhancing self-efficacy, self-determination and the impact of decision-making.

Originality/value

This study gives both theoretical and empirical evidence to clarify the effect of psychological empowerment on the importance of job standardization and innovative behavior in organizations. This is the only study that has investigated this topic in the hospitality field and therefore makes significant strides in understanding the impact of psychological empowerment on hotel employees’ innovative behavior.

Details

International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, vol. 26 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-6119

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2001

ALISTAIR G.F. GIBB and FRANK ISACK

This paper presents the results from interviews of 59 senior personnel from major construction clients. There are two main themes: client drivers for construction projects and…

1390

Abstract

This paper presents the results from interviews of 59 senior personnel from major construction clients. There are two main themes: client drivers for construction projects and their implications for standardization of processes and components. The client sample is described and reasons for procuring construction projects are established along with the extent of their involvement in the construction process and hence their ability to influence the outcomes. Their views on value for money, preconceptions of standardization and their opinion on its future potential are explored. Many clients recognize the need to involve constructors and manufacturers early, although fewer actually achieve this. Misconceptions about standardization exist, but many clients are recognizing the benefits possible from standardization. However, very few actually measure benefits and so are unable to truly evaluate success. There is a future for increased standardization, but only if the industry recognizes the unique aspects of each client and responds positively to meet those needs.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 8 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 April 2007

Zhiyi Ang and Peter Massingham

The purpose of this article is to examine the affect of national culture on knowledge management (KM) for multinational companies (MNCs). MNCs often have to decide whether to

10802

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to examine the affect of national culture on knowledge management (KM) for multinational companies (MNCs). MNCs often have to decide whether to standardize or adapt their operations. Previous research has found that national culture has an effect in a range of MNC operations, e.g. human resources, marketing. However, there has been limited research on the influence of culture on knowledge management. The aim of this article is to propose a framework for standardization and adaptation of knowledge management processes based on differences in national culture.

Design/methodology/approach

The following literatures were reviewed: knowledge management processes, the effect of culture on knowledge management, and the standardization versus adaptation decision in international business. These perspectives were combined to develop a conceptual framework that explores the decision to standardise or adapt knowledge management practices.

Findings

There are several key findings. First, the impact of national culture on KM may be understood at the level of KM's processes and sub‐processes, e.g. knowledge creation. Second, the level and nature of impact will vary by process or sub‐processes. Third, the variance by process allows us to isolate the impact and better manage it. Fourth, the impact of national culture standardization versus adaptation decision for KM may be resolved through two competing tensions: pressures for cultural responsiveness and pressures for scope economies. Fifth, while there are conditions where standardization is appropriate and where adaptation is appropriate, at the KM system, process and sub‐process levels, the decision must still be implemented effectively. This leads to four potential outcomes of the standardization versus adaptation decision: appropriate and inappropriate standardization, and appropriate and inappropriate adaptation.

Practical implications

The article's conceptual framework provides managers with guidelines on how to understand the impact of national culture on their knowledge management practices, leading to effective standardization versus adaptation decisions. The main contribution is the notion that the impact of culture may be isolated at the process level, providing more flexibility and manageability. Academics may use the conceptual framework as a basis for further empirical research on the standardization and adaptation of knowledge management practices.

Originality/value

This article is the first to examine the standardization and adaptation of knowledge management practices in an international context. The standardization versus adaptation decision has been explored in other disciplines (e.g. strategy, marketing, human resources) and has been found to be an important international business decision. Our conceptual framework makes an innovative contribution to this debate by suggesting there are two tensions involved: pressures for cultural responsiveness and pressures for scope economies. By understanding the factors underlying these pressures and linking these to knowledge management processes, we suggest that firms may isolate and better manage the standardization versus adaptation decision.

Details

Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. 11 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1367-3270

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 May 2022

Ahmad Abras and Kelum Jayasinghe

This paper examines the historical evolvement of competing institutional logics (i.e. religion, profession, state, market and community) underpinning Islamic accounting…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper examines the historical evolvement of competing institutional logics (i.e. religion, profession, state, market and community) underpinning Islamic accounting standardisation projects and power relations between internal actors representing these logics.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a case-study approach and analyses two Islamic accounting standardisation projects implemented at the national and international levels. Documentary review and semi-structured interviews are used for data collection. Analysis is informed by the “Institutional Logics Perspective” and Bourdieu's notion of “power as capital in a field”.

Findings

Research findings illustrate how some local actors pre-dispose themselves in promoting strict compliance to IFRS, while others endeavour to ensure compliance to “Islamic Sharia requirements” in financial reporting. In this power dynamic, there is an ongoing “constructive resistance” actively exerted by the latter group against the former, preserving the existence of religion-based reporting demands in Islamic accounting standardisation approaches. The paper also highlights chronological “dynamic” accounts that explain the evolvement of institutional logics prevailing in these projects over different historical stages at both national and international levels.

Originality/value

This paper's findings contrast and challenge the existing assumption that the “epistemic community” promoting IFRS agenda always faces “passive responses” from local actors. Moreover, the paper's offering of a dynamic view to institutional logic mapping extends the previously used “static analyses” of logics prevailing in Islamic accounting standardisation projects.

Details

Accounting, Auditing & Accountability Journal, vol. 36 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0951-3574

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 13000