Search results

Examines the results of a questionnaire‐based survey on the use of teach pendants with industrial robots. The main aims of the survey were to ascertain the following: extent of use of teach pendants with industrial robots; methods of robot programming used; possible difficulties of using teach pendants; and the future for teach pendants. Outlines the structure of the survey and evaluates the results from the questionnaire. Concludes that teach pendants are still one of the principal means of programming a robot and that difficulties controlling the motion of robots with teach pendants need to be addressed.

Comparative performance measurement (CPM) is a tool that is increasingly advocated by both academics and practitioners yet its systematic implementation via consortium participation is rare. Using logistic regression and content analysis of survey results from Florida’s 297 city managers, the authors found support for performance measurement but limited belief in the utility and cost-effectiveness of CPM in their jurisdictions. Support for performance measurement as a management tool, organizational capacity, and belief in the Tiebout Hypothesis were found to be significant drivers of support for CPM. Graduate education was a significant predictor of assigning high priority to CPM, but community budget format was insignificant. These findings were consistent across both large and small cities. Respondents were skeptical regarding the benefits that might accrue to their jurisdictions relative to the time and resources needed for implementation.

Literature and practice show that the integration of feminine characteristics into leadership in the management of hotel organizations is becoming increasingly important. Although some leading hotel chains claim to further this integration by encouraging women to develop their career paths upwards into the higher management ranks, little research has been conducted into this phenomenon. This is why this study seeks to assess and elaborate the current status of attempts to integrate feminine aspects into leadership within the hotel industry. The qualitative study held among hotel managers demonstrates that the terms ‘masculine’ and ‘feminine’ are confusing. Additionally, when feminine and masculine leadership are considered, these terms are not carefully implemented. Hence, there is a strong need for greater in-depth knowledge and effective training to enhance the successful implementation of feminine and masculine leadership in the hotel industry.

The use of infra red radiant heat equipment has extended in recent years to most industries, including the lubricating oil industry. Not only is this equipment valuable for the stoving and drying of new and reconditioned oil barrels, but a still more modern adaption is to assist the emptying of grease kegs and oil barrels. Our readers in the oil industry will quickly appreciate the importance and value of infra red units, but users of lubricants, who may not be already conversant with these methods will probably observe its possibilities within their own industries.

Will implementation of GASB Statement 34 induce the adoption of cost-accounting models in local governments? The authors address that question based on the findings of a national survey of local and county finance officers. Findings suggest that while finance officials recognize that GASB 34 will prompt greater accuracy and transparency in financial reporting, it may not serve to propagate greater utilization of activity-based costing (ABC) or its derivatives. Possible explanations may include feared impacts of increased cost accounting transparency as well as limited perceived payoff for investments in ABC-related tools. The authors acknowledge that this is a baseline “read” of attitudes; continued experience under GASB 34 may crystallize attitudes and lend greater support for future implementation of private-sector based- accounting methods.