http://hdl.handle.net/10023/89 2013-04-18T10:28:55Z 2013-04-18T10:28:55Z Roscoe, Philip Howorth, Carole http://hdl.handle.net/10023/3417 2013-04-14T03:09:11Z 2009-02-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: The usefulness of technical analysis, or charting, has been questioned because it flies in the face of the 'random walk' and tests present conflicting results. We examine chartists' decision-making techniques and derive a taxonomy of charting strategies based on investors' market ontologies and calculative strategies. This distinguishes between trend-seekers and pattern-seekers, and trading as a system or an art. We argue that interpretative activity plays a more important role than previously thought and suggest that charting's main appeal for users lies in its power as a heuristic device regardless of its effectiveness at generating returns.

2009-02-01T00:00:00Z Roscoe, Philip Howorth, Carole The usefulness of technical analysis, or charting, has been questioned because it flies in the face of the 'random walk' and tests present conflicting results. We examine chartists' decision-making techniques and derive a taxonomy of charting strategies based on investors' market ontologies and calculative strategies. This distinguishes between trend-seekers and pattern-seekers, and trading as a system or an art. We argue that interpretative activity plays a more important role than previously thought and suggest that charting's main appeal for users lies in its power as a heuristic device regardless of its effectiveness at generating returns. Davies, Huw Talfryn Oakley Mannion, Russell http://hdl.handle.net/10023/3406 2013-03-20T16:01:03Z 2013-03-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: The recent Francis report diagnoses serious cultural deficiencies in the NHS and recommends fundamental cultural change. Huw Davies and Russell Mannion examine what research tells us about the likelihood of success.

2013-03-01T00:00:00Z Davies, Huw Talfryn Oakley Mannion, Russell The recent Francis report diagnoses serious cultural deficiencies in the NHS and recommends fundamental cultural change. Huw Davies and Russell Mannion examine what research tells us about the likelihood of success. Roscoe, Philip John http://hdl.handle.net/10023/3400 2013-03-16T14:01:02Z 2011-08-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Review of 'Unmasking the Entrepreneur' by Campbell Jones and Andre Spicer, Edward Elgar, 2009

2011-08-01T00:00:00Z Roscoe, Philip John Review of 'Unmasking the Entrepreneur' by Campbell Jones and Andre Spicer, Edward Elgar, 2009 Hamilton, Sonya Huby, Guro Tierney, Alison Powell, Alison Kielmann, Tara Sheikh, Aziz Pinnock, Hilary http://hdl.handle.net/10023/3255 2013-04-14T03:34:31Z 2008-12-04T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Background: Healthcare systems globally are reconfiguring to address the needs of people with long-term conditions such as respiratory disease. Primary Care Organisations (PCOs) in England and Wales are charged with the task of developing cost-effective patient-centred local models of care. We aimed to investigate how PCOs in England and Wales are reconfiguring their workforce to develop respiratory services, and the background factors influencing service redesign. Methods: Semi-structured qualitative telephone interviews with the person(s) responsible for driving respiratory service reconfiguration in a purposive sample of 30 PCOs. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded and thematically analysed. Results: We interviewed representatives of 30 PCOs with diverse demographic profiles planning a range of models of care. Although the primary driver was consistently identified as the need to respond to a central policy to shift the delivery of care for people with long-term conditions into the community whilst achieving financial balance, the design and implementation of services were subject to a broad range of local, and at times serendipitous, influences. The focus was almost exclusively on the complex needs of patients at the top of the long-term conditions (LTC) pyramid, with the aim of reducing admissions. Whilst some PCOs seemed able to develop innovative care despite uncertainty and financial restrictions, most highlighted many barriers to progress, describing initiatives suddenly shelved for lack of money, progress impeded by reluctant clinicians, plans thwarted by conflicting policies and a PCO workforce demoralised by job insecurity. Conclusion: For many of our interviewees there was a large gap between central policy rhetoric driving workforce change, and the practical reality of implementing change within PCOs when faced with the challenges of limited resources, diverse professional attitudes and an uncertain organisational context. Research should concentrate on understanding these complex dynamics in order to inform the policymakers, commissioners, health service managers and professionals.

2008-12-04T00:00:00Z Hamilton, Sonya Huby, Guro Tierney, Alison Powell, Alison Kielmann, Tara Sheikh, Aziz Pinnock, Hilary Background: Healthcare systems globally are reconfiguring to address the needs of people with long-term conditions such as respiratory disease. Primary Care Organisations (PCOs) in England and Wales are charged with the task of developing cost-effective patient-centred local models of care. We aimed to investigate how PCOs in England and Wales are reconfiguring their workforce to develop respiratory services, and the background factors influencing service redesign. Methods: Semi-structured qualitative telephone interviews with the person(s) responsible for driving respiratory service reconfiguration in a purposive sample of 30 PCOs. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded and thematically analysed. Results: We interviewed representatives of 30 PCOs with diverse demographic profiles planning a range of models of care. Although the primary driver was consistently identified as the need to respond to a central policy to shift the delivery of care for people with long-term conditions into the community whilst achieving financial balance, the design and implementation of services were subject to a broad range of local, and at times serendipitous, influences. The focus was almost exclusively on the complex needs of patients at the top of the long-term conditions (LTC) pyramid, with the aim of reducing admissions. Whilst some PCOs seemed able to develop innovative care despite uncertainty and financial restrictions, most highlighted many barriers to progress, describing initiatives suddenly shelved for lack of money, progress impeded by reluctant clinicians, plans thwarted by conflicting policies and a PCO workforce demoralised by job insecurity. Conclusion: For many of our interviewees there was a large gap between central policy rhetoric driving workforce change, and the practical reality of implementing change within PCOs when faced with the challenges of limited resources, diverse professional attitudes and an uncertain organisational context. Research should concentrate on understanding these complex dynamics in order to inform the policymakers, commissioners, health service managers and professionals. Du, Yaning http://hdl.handle.net/10023/3200 2012-10-19T12:48:16Z 2012-11-30T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Although CSR has been the subject of substantial academic research for more than half a century, the CSR literature is dominated by empirical studies in the industrialized countries. There is limited knowledge on how CSR is perceived and implemented by companies in developing countries. This research is trying to answer those questions: what has been reported in China? Which stakeholder groups are the most important stakeholder groups in China? What is the content of CSR reports in China? And what factors are associated with CSR reporting in China, in terms of culture, political and legal system, ownership, size and industry? Based on a content analysis approach, this paper aims to identify the determinants of corporate social responsibility (CSR) reporting in China using stand-alone reports of the top 500 Chinese companies from 2006 to 2010. It is found that CSR reporting is positive associated with various factors. In addition, companies in environmental sensitive industries tend to report more environmental responsibility information than others. State-Owned Enterprises are not doing better than other types of companies. Laws, regulations or guidelines have little impacts on the reporting in China. Also the government is not one of the most important stakeholders in China. The research results support the stakeholder theory in an emerging market with important and relevant insights for enterprise managers interested in exploiting the reports as a tool to communicate with their stakeholders.

2012-11-30T00:00:00Z Du, Yaning Although CSR has been the subject of substantial academic research for more than half a century, the CSR literature is dominated by empirical studies in the industrialized countries. There is limited knowledge on how CSR is perceived and implemented by companies in developing countries. This research is trying to answer those questions: what has been reported in China? Which stakeholder groups are the most important stakeholder groups in China? What is the content of CSR reports in China? And what factors are associated with CSR reporting in China, in terms of culture, political and legal system, ownership, size and industry? Based on a content analysis approach, this paper aims to identify the determinants of corporate social responsibility (CSR) reporting in China using stand-alone reports of the top 500 Chinese companies from 2006 to 2010. It is found that CSR reporting is positive associated with various factors. In addition, companies in environmental sensitive industries tend to report more environmental responsibility information than others. State-Owned Enterprises are not doing better than other types of companies. Laws, regulations or guidelines have little impacts on the reporting in China. Also the government is not one of the most important stakeholders in China. The research results support the stakeholder theory in an emerging market with important and relevant insights for enterprise managers interested in exploiting the reports as a tool to communicate with their stakeholders. Duguid, Anne E. http://hdl.handle.net/10023/3197 2012-10-18T13:29:57Z 2012-05-22T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Managed clinical and care networks (MCNs) have emerged in Scotland as a collaborative form of organising within health and between health and social services. Bringing together disparate disciplines and professions their aim has been to allow work across service and sector boundaries to improve care for patients. Whilst MCN prevalence has increased and policy has moved to centralise this method of organising, many research questions remain. These include: how can we understand the form, function and impact of MCNs, and further, what are the underlying motivations for practitioners and managers to organise in this way? Focussing in on the work of 3 voluntary MCNs operating in Scotland, the centrality of practice emerges. Practice is defined broadly to encompass both the interactions between practitioner-patient and practitioner-population. From this, the MCN becomes conceptualised as a set of activities focussed around ground-level clinical MCN service issues and top-level policy direction. Through considering work the interplay between ethics and scientific evidence emerges. The inherent uncertainty and suffering of daily practice comes to the fore, these concepts are brought together within a framework, morals-in-practice. Further, using the hermeneutic dynamics of alterity, openness and transcendence, MCNs can be understood as providing a space to foster creative responses to the wicked problems created by health and social service design and delivery. The organising opportunities provided by MCNs thus arguably serve several organisational and social functions, providing a forum to: mutually support and respond to the intrinsically challenging nature of practice understood; debate morals-in-practice helping to ensuring collective clinical governance; sharing of organisational knowledge; planning, delivery and audit of services; and creatively respond to wicked problems. By focussing in on the work, the practice particularities of each individual MCN are resultantly emphasised, whilst still maintaining recognition that much of the NHS operational context is more widely shared. Through this these voluntary MCNs, at least, can be viewed as an organising form which has emerged in response to the complexities of modern health and social service, care, design and delivery.

2012-05-22T00:00:00Z Duguid, Anne E. Managed clinical and care networks (MCNs) have emerged in Scotland as a collaborative form of organising within health and between health and social services. Bringing together disparate disciplines and professions their aim has been to allow work across service and sector boundaries to improve care for patients. Whilst MCN prevalence has increased and policy has moved to centralise this method of organising, many research questions remain. These include: how can we understand the form, function and impact of MCNs, and further, what are the underlying motivations for practitioners and managers to organise in this way? Focussing in on the work of 3 voluntary MCNs operating in Scotland, the centrality of practice emerges. Practice is defined broadly to encompass both the interactions between practitioner-patient and practitioner-population. From this, the MCN becomes conceptualised as a set of activities focussed around ground-level clinical MCN service issues and top-level policy direction. Through considering work the interplay between ethics and scientific evidence emerges. The inherent uncertainty and suffering of daily practice comes to the fore, these concepts are brought together within a framework, morals-in-practice. Further, using the hermeneutic dynamics of alterity, openness and transcendence, MCNs can be understood as providing a space to foster creative responses to the wicked problems created by health and social service design and delivery. The organising opportunities provided by MCNs thus arguably serve several organisational and social functions, providing a forum to: mutually support and respond to the intrinsically challenging nature of practice understood; debate morals-in-practice helping to ensuring collective clinical governance; sharing of organisational knowledge; planning, delivery and audit of services; and creatively respond to wicked problems. By focussing in on the work, the practice particularities of each individual MCN are resultantly emphasised, whilst still maintaining recognition that much of the NHS operational context is more widely shared. Through this these voluntary MCNs, at least, can be viewed as an organising form which has emerged in response to the complexities of modern health and social service, care, design and delivery. Kambouroudis, Dimos S. http://hdl.handle.net/10023/3191 2012-10-17T14:21:56Z 2012-06-22T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Stock market volatility has been an important subject in the finance literature for which now an enormous body of research exists. Volatility modelling and forecasting have been in the epicentre of this line of research and although more than a few models have been proposed and key parameters on improving volatility forecasts have been considered, finance research has still to reach a consensus on this topic. This thesis enters the ongoing debate by carrying out empirical investigations by comparing models from the current pool of models as well as exploring and proposing the use of further key parameters in improving the accuracy of volatility modelling and forecasting. The importance of accurately forecasting volatility is paramount for the functioning of the economy and everyone involved in finance activities. For governments, the banking system, institutional and individual investors, researchers and academics, knowledge, understanding and the ability to forecast and proxy volatility accurately is a determining factor for making sound economic decisions. Four are the main contributions of this thesis. First, the findings of a volatility forecasting model comparison reveal that the GARCH genre of models are superior compared to the more ‘simple’ models and models preferred by practitioners. Second, with the use of backward recursion forecasts we identify the appropriate in-sample length for producing accurate volatility forecasts, a parameter considered for the first time in the finance literature. Third, further model comparisons are conducted within a Value-at-Risk setting between the RiskMetrics model preferred by practitioners, and the more complex GARCH type models, arriving to the conclusion that GARCH type models are dominant. Finally, two further parameters, the Volatility Index (VIX) and Trading Volume, are considered and their contribution is assessed in the modelling and forecasting process of a selection of GARCH type models. We discover that although accuracy is improved upon, GARCH type forecasts are still superior.

2012-06-22T00:00:00Z Kambouroudis, Dimos S. Stock market volatility has been an important subject in the finance literature for which now an enormous body of research exists. Volatility modelling and forecasting have been in the epicentre of this line of research and although more than a few models have been proposed and key parameters on improving volatility forecasts have been considered, finance research has still to reach a consensus on this topic. This thesis enters the ongoing debate by carrying out empirical investigations by comparing models from the current pool of models as well as exploring and proposing the use of further key parameters in improving the accuracy of volatility modelling and forecasting. The importance of accurately forecasting volatility is paramount for the functioning of the economy and everyone involved in finance activities. For governments, the banking system, institutional and individual investors, researchers and academics, knowledge, understanding and the ability to forecast and proxy volatility accurately is a determining factor for making sound economic decisions. Four are the main contributions of this thesis. First, the findings of a volatility forecasting model comparison reveal that the GARCH genre of models are superior compared to the more ‘simple’ models and models preferred by practitioners. Second, with the use of backward recursion forecasts we identify the appropriate in-sample length for producing accurate volatility forecasts, a parameter considered for the first time in the finance literature. Third, further model comparisons are conducted within a Value-at-Risk setting between the RiskMetrics model preferred by practitioners, and the more complex GARCH type models, arriving to the conclusion that GARCH type models are dominant. Finally, two further parameters, the Volatility Index (VIX) and Trading Volume, are considered and their contribution is assessed in the modelling and forecasting process of a selection of GARCH type models. We discover that although accuracy is improved upon, GARCH type forecasts are still superior. Gulledge, Elizabeth Anne http://hdl.handle.net/10023/3132 2012-09-22T18:59:32Z 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: In this dissertation I call into question the way the concept of ‘field’ is treated in neo institutional research by readdressing Pierre Bourdieu’s elaboration of field. I discuss Bourdieu’s framework which includes three concepts: field, capital and habitus. While Bourdieu’s work has been widely incorporated into extant research, there have been few attempts to employ his concepts as a ‘theoretical triad’ for empirical analysis. I explore how Bourdieu’s approach enriches understandings of field through an analysis of book publishing with primary reference to Scotland. I contribute to the current literature on fields by examining book publishing as a social space, structured by the distribution of capital and moderated by habitus, that operates within the confines of internally defined boundaries. The dissertation illustrates how Bourdieu’s elaboration of field addresses issues of struggle, power and micro dynamics that are underexplored within the field perspective of neo institutional theory. I argue that Bourdieu’s framework of field, capital and habitus is useful because it brings simultaneous attention to processes of stability in social interaction and to conflict and difference.

2011-01-01T00:00:00Z Gulledge, Elizabeth Anne In this dissertation I call into question the way the concept of ‘field’ is treated in neo institutional research by readdressing Pierre Bourdieu’s elaboration of field. I discuss Bourdieu’s framework which includes three concepts: field, capital and habitus. While Bourdieu’s work has been widely incorporated into extant research, there have been few attempts to employ his concepts as a ‘theoretical triad’ for empirical analysis. I explore how Bourdieu’s approach enriches understandings of field through an analysis of book publishing with primary reference to Scotland. I contribute to the current literature on fields by examining book publishing as a social space, structured by the distribution of capital and moderated by habitus, that operates within the confines of internally defined boundaries. The dissertation illustrates how Bourdieu’s elaboration of field addresses issues of struggle, power and micro dynamics that are underexplored within the field perspective of neo institutional theory. I argue that Bourdieu’s framework of field, capital and habitus is useful because it brings simultaneous attention to processes of stability in social interaction and to conflict and difference. Egan, Julia Anne http://hdl.handle.net/10023/3072 2012-10-23T11:44:10Z 2011-11-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: This thesis explores the theme of leadership in the NHS, specifically focusing on nursing. Leadership has become an important area in recent years particularly in relation to improving efficiency, effectiveness and quality of services. As nurses provide 80% of care in the NHS their role is pivotal in achieving any change. Despite the importance placed on leadership in the NHS, literature shows little is known about perceptions of leadership, how leaders function or what importance staff place on the culture and context in which they work. This study is based on the findings of 28 qualitative interviews with leaders in two health boards in Scotland. Through the presentation of informants‟ perceptions, beliefs and collective accounts, the study illustrates how staff view leadership in the NHS and provides some significant results. Firstly, it proposes that leadership is comprised of two elements; one relating to individuals and one relating to how individuals function in organisations. Secondly, it indicates three models of leadership are particularly relevant and how these apply differ according to role and hierarchy. Thirdly, it reveals leadership and management as distinct components. In nursing a number of complexities make these roles challenging, and the culture and context of health boards influence how these function in practice. Finally this research concludes that staff value a clear set of characteristics, styles and behaviours not related to vision and change but which centre on character, values, integrity and engagement. The study has considerable implications for emerging work on leadership in the NHS and for the future development of leadership roles in nursing.

2011-11-01T00:00:00Z Egan, Julia Anne This thesis explores the theme of leadership in the NHS, specifically focusing on nursing. Leadership has become an important area in recent years particularly in relation to improving efficiency, effectiveness and quality of services. As nurses provide 80% of care in the NHS their role is pivotal in achieving any change. Despite the importance placed on leadership in the NHS, literature shows little is known about perceptions of leadership, how leaders function or what importance staff place on the culture and context in which they work. This study is based on the findings of 28 qualitative interviews with leaders in two health boards in Scotland. Through the presentation of informants‟ perceptions, beliefs and collective accounts, the study illustrates how staff view leadership in the NHS and provides some significant results. Firstly, it proposes that leadership is comprised of two elements; one relating to individuals and one relating to how individuals function in organisations. Secondly, it indicates three models of leadership are particularly relevant and how these apply differ according to role and hierarchy. Thirdly, it reveals leadership and management as distinct components. In nursing a number of complexities make these roles challenging, and the culture and context of health boards influence how these function in practice. Finally this research concludes that staff value a clear set of characteristics, styles and behaviours not related to vision and change but which centre on character, values, integrity and engagement. The study has considerable implications for emerging work on leadership in the NHS and for the future development of leadership roles in nursing. Roscoe, Philip John Discua-Cruz, Allan Howorth, Carole http://hdl.handle.net/10023/3049 2012-12-12T13:09:49Z 2012-01-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Opportunity has become the central concept in entrepreneurship. Discovery focused accounts assume opportunity to be objective and to exist independently of the entrepreneur. Process-focused studies critique such notions. We contribute to process-based conceptions of entrepreneurship with an account of opportunity as historically specific and materially embedded. Drawing on Latour we argue that opportunities are constituted through dense material networks. We argue that opportunity and entrepreneurship are mutually constitutive, and emphasise that the entrepreneur shares agency with a heterogeneous array of ‘actants’ in the network of opportunity. We make use of this framework in a historical analysis of a large family agribusiness in Honduras, illustrating the historically dependent nature of entrepreneurial process and the role that the material plays in it.

2012-01-01T00:00:00Z Roscoe, Philip John Discua-Cruz, Allan Howorth, Carole Opportunity has become the central concept in entrepreneurship. Discovery focused accounts assume opportunity to be objective and to exist independently of the entrepreneur. Process-focused studies critique such notions. We contribute to process-based conceptions of entrepreneurship with an account of opportunity as historically specific and materially embedded. Drawing on Latour we argue that opportunities are constituted through dense material networks. We argue that opportunity and entrepreneurship are mutually constitutive, and emphasise that the entrepreneur shares agency with a heterogeneous array of ‘actants’ in the network of opportunity. We make use of this framework in a historical analysis of a large family agribusiness in Honduras, illustrating the historically dependent nature of entrepreneurial process and the role that the material plays in it. Iyengar, Gopal S. http://hdl.handle.net/10023/2972 2012-07-23T12:22:20Z 1994-01-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: The strategic role of the Procurement function in manufacturing firms has received increased attention in the literature over the past two decades. Before the 1970s, the supply environment was seen to be stable for most firms, with no particular strategic opportunities or threats. Procurement was treated as an administrative or service function. The oil crisis in the early 1970s changed the situation, bringing in its wake acute inflation and material shortages. The 1980s saw a revolution in manufacturing with the advent of JIT, increased automation and global operations. Theoretical researchers saw the potential for a proactive and strategic role for the Procurement function. This was, however, not reflected in empirical research, which failed to find consistent evidence of firms considering Procurement as strategic. This thesis addresses the gap between precept and practice evident in the literature. A major criticism of the empirical literature is the treatment of the strategic (value) activities on the supply side and the activities of the Procurement department as synonymous. This thesis questioned that view and made a distinction between the two activities. A theoredcal framework was built up from the literature to identify the contexts in which Supply considerations would be strategic. Propositions were generated which allowed for strategic Supply activities both through the Procurement department as well as outside it. The empirical work looked at 25 UK manufacturing firms through the case study approach. The cases were scrutinised for evidence of strategic activities on the supply side, as well as the strategic importance of the Procurement department. The results confirmed that (1) Supply considerations were strategic for a majority of firms. (2) Strategic consideration of Supply depended on a number of contingent variables.(3) Strategic Supply activities were not necessarily reflected in the strategic importance given to the Procurement department.

1994-01-01T00:00:00Z Iyengar, Gopal S. The strategic role of the Procurement function in manufacturing firms has received increased attention in the literature over the past two decades. Before the 1970s, the supply environment was seen to be stable for most firms, with no particular strategic opportunities or threats. Procurement was treated as an administrative or service function. The oil crisis in the early 1970s changed the situation, bringing in its wake acute inflation and material shortages. The 1980s saw a revolution in manufacturing with the advent of JIT, increased automation and global operations. Theoretical researchers saw the potential for a proactive and strategic role for the Procurement function. This was, however, not reflected in empirical research, which failed to find consistent evidence of firms considering Procurement as strategic. This thesis addresses the gap between precept and practice evident in the literature. A major criticism of the empirical literature is the treatment of the strategic (value) activities on the supply side and the activities of the Procurement department as synonymous. This thesis questioned that view and made a distinction between the two activities. A theoredcal framework was built up from the literature to identify the contexts in which Supply considerations would be strategic. Propositions were generated which allowed for strategic Supply activities both through the Procurement department as well as outside it. The empirical work looked at 25 UK manufacturing firms through the case study approach. The cases were scrutinised for evidence of strategic activities on the supply side, as well as the strategic importance of the Procurement department. The results confirmed that (1) Supply considerations were strategic for a majority of firms. (2) Strategic consideration of Supply depended on a number of contingent variables.(3) Strategic Supply activities were not necessarily reflected in the strategic importance given to the Procurement department. Foo, Check-Teck http://hdl.handle.net/10023/2947 2012-07-09T12:31:36Z 1990-01-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: This is an empirical investigation of the nature of corporate strategic planning practices among major corporations operating in the ASEAN countries - Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia. The study is structured along a hypothesis testing framework. The data was collected via mailed survey instruments (using mainly 5-point Likert-type scales) which were developed for each respondent type - the Chief Executive, Senior Manager, and Corporate Planner - and refined through pre-testing. Comparative analyses are made of inter-country and inter-industry differences in strategic planning practices. Hypotheses concerning the interrelationships of strategic, contextual and performance variables are then subjected to statistical testing. This study found interesting individual as well as patterns of correlationships between strategic-contextual, contextual-performance, and strategic-performance variables. The implications of these findings to management were discussed. Suggestions were also made as to the future directions of planning research.

1990-01-01T00:00:00Z Foo, Check-Teck This is an empirical investigation of the nature of corporate strategic planning practices among major corporations operating in the ASEAN countries - Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia. The study is structured along a hypothesis testing framework. The data was collected via mailed survey instruments (using mainly 5-point Likert-type scales) which were developed for each respondent type - the Chief Executive, Senior Manager, and Corporate Planner - and refined through pre-testing. Comparative analyses are made of inter-country and inter-industry differences in strategic planning practices. Hypotheses concerning the interrelationships of strategic, contextual and performance variables are then subjected to statistical testing. This study found interesting individual as well as patterns of correlationships between strategic-contextual, contextual-performance, and strategic-performance variables. The implications of these findings to management were discussed. Suggestions were also made as to the future directions of planning research. Alshoaibi, Ahmed Abdullah http://hdl.handle.net/10023/2938 2012-07-06T15:15:29Z 1998-01-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: For several decades, researchers in the field of information technology and management have studied the impact of using computers and other information technology facilities on business organisations. In the 1960's and 1970's, information technology was widely employed by many firms mainly for achieving routine clerical and administrative activities such as processing data related to bookkeeping and accounting activities. The 1980's and 1990's have witnessed advancements in the technological field (along with other advancements) which have enhanced the economies of information technology and greatly expanded its applications. Today, information technology has become not only a tool to process data and record transactions, but also a competitive weapon that can change an industry's structure. This observation was one of the motives for the present study. This study explores the impact of using information technology in developing countries by considering its application in the Saudi private sector. The study was examined from two major perspectives: 1) the impact; and 2) the implementation. The impact perspective focuses on the impact of using information technology on the organisations' strategy, structure, and people. The implementation perspective covers several issues including the information technology strategic planning, technical considerations, behavioural considerations, and the role of top management in the implementation process. The sample under study was comprised from the top managers of the top 500 companies in Saudi Arabia in 1996. A total of 205 companies from 7 different business sectors in Saudi Arabia participated in the study. This represented more than a 41 percent response rate. The necessary data were collected through two methods: 1) mailed questionnaire, and 2) personal interviews. Based on the statistical analysis of the data, the study suggests that the use of information technology in the Saudi private sector is expected to have positive impacts on the strategy of business organisations. The data also suggests that information technology usage could induce many organisations to adopt smaller and flatter structures. Also it was found that information technology utilisation can lead toward a more decentralised decision-making organisation. The results showed that a positive relationship exists between information technology usage and decentralisation in the private firms of Saudi Arabia. The study also finds that respondents believe that the use of information technology in business organisations in Saudi Arabia can help to reduce the total number of the organisations' employees. This is particularly the case regarding unskilled workers. The study did not provide evidence to support the view that the use of information technology in business organisations would lead to the elimination of middle management. The study also did not provide evidence to support the hypothesis that information technology utilisation is dependent upon the size of the company. The data analysis showed that several technical and behavioural problems could effect the success of information technology in business organisations and the involvement and support of the top management is essential for success in the implementation process. The study concludes with recommendations for the Saudi government and suggestions of several topics to be carried out for future research to enable us to understand and use information technology as an important resource for business organisations in Saudi Arabia.

1998-01-01T00:00:00Z Alshoaibi, Ahmed Abdullah For several decades, researchers in the field of information technology and management have studied the impact of using computers and other information technology facilities on business organisations. In the 1960's and 1970's, information technology was widely employed by many firms mainly for achieving routine clerical and administrative activities such as processing data related to bookkeeping and accounting activities. The 1980's and 1990's have witnessed advancements in the technological field (along with other advancements) which have enhanced the economies of information technology and greatly expanded its applications. Today, information technology has become not only a tool to process data and record transactions, but also a competitive weapon that can change an industry's structure. This observation was one of the motives for the present study. This study explores the impact of using information technology in developing countries by considering its application in the Saudi private sector. The study was examined from two major perspectives: 1) the impact; and 2) the implementation. The impact perspective focuses on the impact of using information technology on the organisations' strategy, structure, and people. The implementation perspective covers several issues including the information technology strategic planning, technical considerations, behavioural considerations, and the role of top management in the implementation process. The sample under study was comprised from the top managers of the top 500 companies in Saudi Arabia in 1996. A total of 205 companies from 7 different business sectors in Saudi Arabia participated in the study. This represented more than a 41 percent response rate. The necessary data were collected through two methods: 1) mailed questionnaire, and 2) personal interviews. Based on the statistical analysis of the data, the study suggests that the use of information technology in the Saudi private sector is expected to have positive impacts on the strategy of business organisations. The data also suggests that information technology usage could induce many organisations to adopt smaller and flatter structures. Also it was found that information technology utilisation can lead toward a more decentralised decision-making organisation. The results showed that a positive relationship exists between information technology usage and decentralisation in the private firms of Saudi Arabia. The study also finds that respondents believe that the use of information technology in business organisations in Saudi Arabia can help to reduce the total number of the organisations' employees. This is particularly the case regarding unskilled workers. The study did not provide evidence to support the view that the use of information technology in business organisations would lead to the elimination of middle management. The study also did not provide evidence to support the hypothesis that information technology utilisation is dependent upon the size of the company. The data analysis showed that several technical and behavioural problems could effect the success of information technology in business organisations and the involvement and support of the top management is essential for success in the implementation process. The study concludes with recommendations for the Saudi government and suggestions of several topics to be carried out for future research to enable us to understand and use information technology as an important resource for business organisations in Saudi Arabia. El-Sharkawy, Mosaad M. http://hdl.handle.net/10023/2915 2012-07-04T12:25:21Z 1989-01-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Foreign direct investment has attracted many researchers and scholars. In Egypt, this topic has been discussed and debated by economists, the People's Assembly and Cabinet Ministers since the President of the Republic declared the adoption of the policy of economic openness "Al-Infitah" in June 1974. This new economic approach aimed to encourage the inflow of foreign capital into Egypt in an attempt to solve the mounting problems of the Egyptian economy, mainly growth of the population, shortage of foreign exchange, and persistent deficit of the balance of payments. The main purpose of this study has been to investigate the impact of the Egyptian Tax Accounting System on the foreign decision to invest in Egypt. The main concentration is on the general tax principles applied to foreign corporations in Egypt, the impact of tax incentives, in general, on the inflow of foreign capital into Egypt, the key tax and non-tax problems encountered by foreign investors in Egypt, and the main tax and non-tax motives for investment in Egypt. The findings of this study and the insights gained about the nature of foreign investment in Egypt, provide the basis for some recommendations and suggestions for the effective implementation of the "Open Door" policy declared by the government for the purpose of attracting foreign investment.

1989-01-01T00:00:00Z El-Sharkawy, Mosaad M. Foreign direct investment has attracted many researchers and scholars. In Egypt, this topic has been discussed and debated by economists, the People's Assembly and Cabinet Ministers since the President of the Republic declared the adoption of the policy of economic openness "Al-Infitah" in June 1974. This new economic approach aimed to encourage the inflow of foreign capital into Egypt in an attempt to solve the mounting problems of the Egyptian economy, mainly growth of the population, shortage of foreign exchange, and persistent deficit of the balance of payments. The main purpose of this study has been to investigate the impact of the Egyptian Tax Accounting System on the foreign decision to invest in Egypt. The main concentration is on the general tax principles applied to foreign corporations in Egypt, the impact of tax incentives, in general, on the inflow of foreign capital into Egypt, the key tax and non-tax problems encountered by foreign investors in Egypt, and the main tax and non-tax motives for investment in Egypt. The findings of this study and the insights gained about the nature of foreign investment in Egypt, provide the basis for some recommendations and suggestions for the effective implementation of the "Open Door" policy declared by the government for the purpose of attracting foreign investment. O'Connor, Patricia http://hdl.handle.net/10023/2804 2012-06-19T10:46:58Z 2012-06-22T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Today, in 21st century healthcare at least 10% of hospitalised patients are subjected to some degree of unintended harm as a result of the treatment they receive. Despite the growing patient safety agenda there is little empirical evidence to demonstrate that patient safety is improving. Patient Safety Leadership Walk Rounds (PSLWR) were introduced to the UK, in March 2005, as a component of the Safer Patients Initiative (SPI), the first dedicated, hospital wide programme to reduce harm in hospital care. PSLWR are designed, to create a dedicated ‘conversation’ about patient safety, between frontline staff, middle level managers and senior executives. This thesis, explored the use of PSLWR, as a proactive mechanism to engage staff in patient safety discussion and detect patient harm within a Scottish healthcare system- NHS Tayside. From May 2005 to June 2006, PSLWR were held on a weekly basis within the hospital departments. A purposive sample, (n=38) of PSLWR discussions were analysed to determine: staff engagement in the process, patient safety issues disclosed; recognition of unsafe systems (latent conditions) and actions agreed for improvement. As a follow-up, 42 semi-structured interviews were undertaken to determine staff perceptions of the PSLWR system. A wide range of clinical and non-clinical staff took part (n=218) including medical staff, staff in training, porters and cleaners, nurses, ward assistants and pharmacists. Participants shared new information, not formally recorded within the hospital incident system. From the participants perspectives, PSLWR, were non threatening; were easy to take part in; demonstrated a team commitment, from the Board to the ward for patient safety and action was taken quickly as a result of the ‘conversations’. Although detecting all patient harm remains a challenge, this study demonstrates PSLWR can be a useful tool in the patient safety arsenal for NHS healthcare organisations.

2012-06-22T00:00:00Z O'Connor, Patricia Today, in 21st century healthcare at least 10% of hospitalised patients are subjected to some degree of unintended harm as a result of the treatment they receive. Despite the growing patient safety agenda there is little empirical evidence to demonstrate that patient safety is improving. Patient Safety Leadership Walk Rounds (PSLWR) were introduced to the UK, in March 2005, as a component of the Safer Patients Initiative (SPI), the first dedicated, hospital wide programme to reduce harm in hospital care. PSLWR are designed, to create a dedicated ‘conversation’ about patient safety, between frontline staff, middle level managers and senior executives. This thesis, explored the use of PSLWR, as a proactive mechanism to engage staff in patient safety discussion and detect patient harm within a Scottish healthcare system- NHS Tayside. From May 2005 to June 2006, PSLWR were held on a weekly basis within the hospital departments. A purposive sample, (n=38) of PSLWR discussions were analysed to determine: staff engagement in the process, patient safety issues disclosed; recognition of unsafe systems (latent conditions) and actions agreed for improvement. As a follow-up, 42 semi-structured interviews were undertaken to determine staff perceptions of the PSLWR system. A wide range of clinical and non-clinical staff took part (n=218) including medical staff, staff in training, porters and cleaners, nurses, ward assistants and pharmacists. Participants shared new information, not formally recorded within the hospital incident system. From the participants perspectives, PSLWR, were non threatening; were easy to take part in; demonstrated a team commitment, from the Board to the ward for patient safety and action was taken quickly as a result of the ‘conversations’. Although detecting all patient harm remains a challenge, this study demonstrates PSLWR can be a useful tool in the patient safety arsenal for NHS healthcare organisations. Craig, Ann-Marie http://hdl.handle.net/10023/2736 2012-06-11T15:46:04Z 1994-01-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: The Pharmaceutical Industry is important both socially and economically; however, the market structure and conduct which distinguishes it have brought it under the critical eye of both the regulatory authorities and the public. This thesis describes the market structure and conduct of the industry beginning with an historical description of its development and the market theories behind it. It is from these theories that a number of characteristics and behavioural traits have been identified as contrary to the interests of society. As an oligopolistic multinational the pharmaceutical industry has been identified with high prices and profits, a lack of price competition and heavy product differentiation leading to high concentration ratios. Consumer exploitation is possible via these continuously high prices and the possibilities of ineffective, unsafe and poor quality pharmaceuticals. These outcomes emerge from the distinct organisation of various aspects of the industry, viz. research and development, promotional activities, pricing and profits, which are examined. Concerns over possible consumer exploitation have led governments throughout the world to impose increasingly stringent regulations on all of these aspects. Such regulations have significantly changed the market structure and conduct of the industry world-wide. Having established the market structure of the industry the thesis continues with an in-depth look at brand loyalty. Analysis was conducted on the strength of brand loyalty in the face of generic competition and the attitude of doctors to company promotional material. While brand loyalty continues to have an impact on prescribing its strength appears to be diminishing. The market structure and conduct of the pharmaceutical industry is dynamic, with the present industrial climate increasingly competitive for all those concerned. Nevertheless, while the future of the industry will be difficult, evidence of its previous flexibility and strength suggests it will adapt and will continue to be successful.

1994-01-01T00:00:00Z Craig, Ann-Marie The Pharmaceutical Industry is important both socially and economically; however, the market structure and conduct which distinguishes it have brought it under the critical eye of both the regulatory authorities and the public. This thesis describes the market structure and conduct of the industry beginning with an historical description of its development and the market theories behind it. It is from these theories that a number of characteristics and behavioural traits have been identified as contrary to the interests of society. As an oligopolistic multinational the pharmaceutical industry has been identified with high prices and profits, a lack of price competition and heavy product differentiation leading to high concentration ratios. Consumer exploitation is possible via these continuously high prices and the possibilities of ineffective, unsafe and poor quality pharmaceuticals. These outcomes emerge from the distinct organisation of various aspects of the industry, viz. research and development, promotional activities, pricing and profits, which are examined. Concerns over possible consumer exploitation have led governments throughout the world to impose increasingly stringent regulations on all of these aspects. Such regulations have significantly changed the market structure and conduct of the industry world-wide. Having established the market structure of the industry the thesis continues with an in-depth look at brand loyalty. Analysis was conducted on the strength of brand loyalty in the face of generic competition and the attitude of doctors to company promotional material. While brand loyalty continues to have an impact on prescribing its strength appears to be diminishing. The market structure and conduct of the pharmaceutical industry is dynamic, with the present industrial climate increasingly competitive for all those concerned. Nevertheless, while the future of the industry will be difficult, evidence of its previous flexibility and strength suggests it will adapt and will continue to be successful. Parks, Ryan William http://hdl.handle.net/10023/2470 2012-03-27T16:04:59Z 2011-11-30T00:00:00Z

Abstract: This research project seeks to explore aspects of the post-reporting phase of the public inquiry process. Central to the public inquiry process is the concept of legitimacy and the idea that a public inquiry provides and opportunity to re-legitimate the credibility of failed public institutions. The current literature asserts that public inquiries re-legitimise through the production of authoritative narratives. As such, most of this scholarship has focused on the production of inquiry reports and, more recently, the reports themselves. However, in an era of accountability, and in the aftermath of such a poignant attack upon society, the production of a report may represent an apogee, but by no means an end, of the re-legitimation process. Appropriately, this thesis examines the post-reporting phase of the 9/11 Commission’s public inquiry process. The 9/11 Commission provides a useful research vehicle due to the bounded, and relatively linear, implementation process of the Commission’s recommendations. In little more than four months a majority of the Commission’s recommendations were passed into law. Within this implementation phase the dominant discursive process took place in the United States Congress. It is the legislative reform debates in the House of Representatives and the Senate that is the focus of this research project. The central research question is: what rhetorical legitimation strategies were employed in the legislative reform debates of the post-reporting phase of the 9/11 Commission’s public inquiry process? This study uses a grounded theory approach to the analysis of the legislative transcripts of the Congressional reform debates. This analysis revealed that proponents employed rhetorical strategies to legitimise a legislative ‘Call to Action’ narrative. Also, they employed rhetorical legitimation strategies that emphasised themes of bipartisanship, hard work and expertise in order to strengthen the standing of the legislation. Opponents of the legislation focused rhetorical de-legitimation strategies on the theme of ‘flawed process’. Finally, nearly all legislators, regardless of their view of the legislation, sought to appropriate the authoritative legitimacy of the Commission, by employing rhetorical strategies that presented their interests and motives as in line with the actions and wishes of the Commission.

2011-11-30T00:00:00Z Parks, Ryan William This research project seeks to explore aspects of the post-reporting phase of the public inquiry process. Central to the public inquiry process is the concept of legitimacy and the idea that a public inquiry provides and opportunity to re-legitimate the credibility of failed public institutions. The current literature asserts that public inquiries re-legitimise through the production of authoritative narratives. As such, most of this scholarship has focused on the production of inquiry reports and, more recently, the reports themselves. However, in an era of accountability, and in the aftermath of such a poignant attack upon society, the production of a report may represent an apogee, but by no means an end, of the re-legitimation process. Appropriately, this thesis examines the post-reporting phase of the 9/11 Commission’s public inquiry process. The 9/11 Commission provides a useful research vehicle due to the bounded, and relatively linear, implementation process of the Commission’s recommendations. In little more than four months a majority of the Commission’s recommendations were passed into law. Within this implementation phase the dominant discursive process took place in the United States Congress. It is the legislative reform debates in the House of Representatives and the Senate that is the focus of this research project. The central research question is: what rhetorical legitimation strategies were employed in the legislative reform debates of the post-reporting phase of the 9/11 Commission’s public inquiry process? This study uses a grounded theory approach to the analysis of the legislative transcripts of the Congressional reform debates. This analysis revealed that proponents employed rhetorical strategies to legitimise a legislative ‘Call to Action’ narrative. Also, they employed rhetorical legitimation strategies that emphasised themes of bipartisanship, hard work and expertise in order to strengthen the standing of the legislation. Opponents of the legislation focused rhetorical de-legitimation strategies on the theme of ‘flawed process’. Finally, nearly all legislators, regardless of their view of the legislation, sought to appropriate the authoritative legitimacy of the Commission, by employing rhetorical strategies that presented their interests and motives as in line with the actions and wishes of the Commission. Bowman, Gary http://hdl.handle.net/10023/1978 2011-08-15T14:01:54Z 2011-06-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: This thesis lies at the nexus of scenario planning and strategy. Scenario planning is a foresight activity used extensively in strategic planning and public policy development to imagine alternative, plausible futures as means to understand the driving forces behind the uncertainties and possibilities of a changing environment. Despite significant application in both private and public sectors, and a growing body of academic and practitioner-orientated literature, little empirical evidence exists about how organisations actually use scenario planning to inform strategy. Moreover, the emerging Strategy-as-Practice (S-as-P) perspective, which has exposed strategy to more sociological pursuits, presented a way of conceiving and studying strategy not as something an organisation has, but rather as something people do. By examining the activities of scenario planning, understanding its use as an example of episodic, interactive strategizing, S-as-P provides a theoretical lens through which to perform a much-needed empirical analysis of the scenario-to-strategy process. A second goal of the thesis is to advance understanding of the S-as-P perspective by addressing recent criticisms as well as contributing to the growing body of practice-based research. The central research question which guides the thesis is, how does an organisation use scenario planning to inform the strategic planning process? To answer this question, the research vehicle is a single, in-depth case study of community planning in Fife, which extends from 1999 until April 2008. A detailed, longitudinal narrative of Fife’s scenario planning and strategy process is presented before using empirical evidence from the case to understand how an organisation manages the scenario planning process, how scenario planning affects policy development, and how cognitive processes manifest physically in an organisation. The thesis concludes that scenario planning created a sensemaking/sensegiving framework that provided structural and interpretive legitimacy which facilitated communicative activities and helped the Fife Partnership understand and improve the interconnectedness of Fife’s public services and community planning process. While contributing to the S-as-P research agenda, the investigation of the scenario-to-strategy process also revealed, and solidified, a number of criticisms that challenge the theoretical, conceptual, and empirical validity of the strategy-as-practice perspective.

2011-06-01T00:00:00Z Bowman, Gary This thesis lies at the nexus of scenario planning and strategy. Scenario planning is a foresight activity used extensively in strategic planning and public policy development to imagine alternative, plausible futures as means to understand the driving forces behind the uncertainties and possibilities of a changing environment. Despite significant application in both private and public sectors, and a growing body of academic and practitioner-orientated literature, little empirical evidence exists about how organisations actually use scenario planning to inform strategy. Moreover, the emerging Strategy-as-Practice (S-as-P) perspective, which has exposed strategy to more sociological pursuits, presented a way of conceiving and studying strategy not as something an organisation has, but rather as something people do. By examining the activities of scenario planning, understanding its use as an example of episodic, interactive strategizing, S-as-P provides a theoretical lens through which to perform a much-needed empirical analysis of the scenario-to-strategy process. A second goal of the thesis is to advance understanding of the S-as-P perspective by addressing recent criticisms as well as contributing to the growing body of practice-based research. The central research question which guides the thesis is, how does an organisation use scenario planning to inform the strategic planning process? To answer this question, the research vehicle is a single, in-depth case study of community planning in Fife, which extends from 1999 until April 2008. A detailed, longitudinal narrative of Fife’s scenario planning and strategy process is presented before using empirical evidence from the case to understand how an organisation manages the scenario planning process, how scenario planning affects policy development, and how cognitive processes manifest physically in an organisation. The thesis concludes that scenario planning created a sensemaking/sensegiving framework that provided structural and interpretive legitimacy which facilitated communicative activities and helped the Fife Partnership understand and improve the interconnectedness of Fife’s public services and community planning process. While contributing to the S-as-P research agenda, the investigation of the scenario-to-strategy process also revealed, and solidified, a number of criticisms that challenge the theoretical, conceptual, and empirical validity of the strategy-as-practice perspective. Clayton, Maya http://hdl.handle.net/10023/1898 2011-07-06T11:33:17Z 2011-06-23T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Following the debate by empirical finance research on the presence of non-linear predictability in stock market returns, this study examines forecasting abilities of nonlinear STAR-type models. A non-linear model methodology is applied to daily returns of FTSE, S&P, DAX and Nikkei indices. The research is then extended to long-horizon forecastability of the four series including monthly returns and a buy-and-sell strategy for a three, six and twelve month holding period using non-linear error-correction framework. The recursive out-of-sample forecast is performed using the present value model equilibrium methodology, whereby stock returns are forecasted using macroeconomic variables, in particular the dividend yield and price-earnings ratio. The forecasting exercise revealed the presence of non-linear predictability for all data periods considered, and confirmed an improvement of predictability for long-horizon data. Finally, the present value model approach is applied to the housing market, whereby the house price returns are forecasted using a price-earnings ratio as a measure of fundamental levels of prices. Findings revealed that the UK housing market appears to be characterised with asymmetric non-linear dynamics, and a clear preference for the asymmetric ESTAR model in terms of forecasting accuracy.

2011-06-23T00:00:00Z Clayton, Maya Following the debate by empirical finance research on the presence of non-linear predictability in stock market returns, this study examines forecasting abilities of nonlinear STAR-type models. A non-linear model methodology is applied to daily returns of FTSE, S&P, DAX and Nikkei indices. The research is then extended to long-horizon forecastability of the four series including monthly returns and a buy-and-sell strategy for a three, six and twelve month holding period using non-linear error-correction framework. The recursive out-of-sample forecast is performed using the present value model equilibrium methodology, whereby stock returns are forecasted using macroeconomic variables, in particular the dividend yield and price-earnings ratio. The forecasting exercise revealed the presence of non-linear predictability for all data periods considered, and confirmed an improvement of predictability for long-horizon data. Finally, the present value model approach is applied to the housing market, whereby the house price returns are forecasted using a price-earnings ratio as a measure of fundamental levels of prices. Findings revealed that the UK housing market appears to be characterised with asymmetric non-linear dynamics, and a clear preference for the asymmetric ESTAR model in terms of forecasting accuracy. Supachayanont, Annop http://hdl.handle.net/10023/1855 2011-09-01T16:05:28Z 2011-06-23T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Tacit knowledge and craft skills are widely discussed in management research and practice. Impacts of computer technology on knowledge and skills attract great interests in the field of organisation research. Research in the papermaking and other continuous process manufacturing reveals that the computer leads to skills to cope with abstraction of work. However, none of the key work explicitly addressed the issue of the tacit knowledge and skills. This research draws on the philosophy of tacit knowledge of Michael Polanyi to explain an exercise of tacit knowledge and skills in critical problem-solving. The interpretive research uses a critical incident technique and a thickly descriptive method to study the production workers’ exercise of their unique problem-solving capability at the disruptive events to the routine activity. The finding shows that a workaround to overcome limitation of the control system are key to successful problem-solving at a computer interface. In contrary to a number of studies that placed an exclusive focus on an ability to perform abstract reasoning, the successful workaround presupposes the workers’ traditional physical and sensory-based exposure to the work process.

2011-06-23T00:00:00Z Supachayanont, Annop Tacit knowledge and craft skills are widely discussed in management research and practice. Impacts of computer technology on knowledge and skills attract great interests in the field of organisation research. Research in the papermaking and other continuous process manufacturing reveals that the computer leads to skills to cope with abstraction of work. However, none of the key work explicitly addressed the issue of the tacit knowledge and skills. This research draws on the philosophy of tacit knowledge of Michael Polanyi to explain an exercise of tacit knowledge and skills in critical problem-solving. The interpretive research uses a critical incident technique and a thickly descriptive method to study the production workers’ exercise of their unique problem-solving capability at the disruptive events to the routine activity. The finding shows that a workaround to overcome limitation of the control system are key to successful problem-solving at a computer interface. In contrary to a number of studies that placed an exclusive focus on an ability to perform abstract reasoning, the successful workaround presupposes the workers’ traditional physical and sensory-based exposure to the work process. Roscoe, Philip John http://hdl.handle.net/10023/1767 2012-12-12T09:11:46Z 2010-06-04T00:00:00Z

Abstract: The global shortage of organ problems has led to a debate over the best way of increasing supply in which economics has featured prominently. This paper argues that the moral and technical authority claimed by economics is an example of the “performativity thesis” (Callon 1998). The paper reviews the economic contribution to the debate and investigates the way that economics legitimizes its presence in a moral debate, and posits new ways of social and ultimately moral organization. The paper concludes with suggestions for future research directions in the area.

2010-06-04T00:00:00Z Roscoe, Philip John The global shortage of organ problems has led to a debate over the best way of increasing supply in which economics has featured prominently. This paper argues that the moral and technical authority claimed by economics is an example of the “performativity thesis” (Callon 1998). The paper reviews the economic contribution to the debate and investigates the way that economics legitimizes its presence in a moral debate, and posits new ways of social and ultimately moral organization. The paper concludes with suggestions for future research directions in the area. Barter, Nicholas J http://hdl.handle.net/10023/1707 2011-03-22T10:35:40Z 2011-06-22T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Numerous management scholars argue that management theory is anthropocentric and considers humans as being separate from the environment. Further anthropocentrism does not enable theory and organisations to contribute to sustainable development. To counter this it is argued theory and organisations should embrace an environmental paradigm that does not separate humans and the environment. This exploratory research attempts to identify whether any organisations operate with an environmental paradigm. The research questions focus on paradigms and some of the tensions surrounding the human-environment debate, such as; sufficiency versus profit maximisation and quoted status, money as a means or an end and notions of boundaries between the organisation and the environment. The questions are explored with individuals from 23 environmentally focused, primarily for profit, organisations. The results indicate that the organisations operate with an environmental paradigm, do not perceive of boundaries between the organisation and the environment, do not pursue profit maximisation, can demonstrate sufficiency, view money as a means rather than an end and do not have a favourable view of quoted status. Furthermore, the interviewees do not separate their world into two realms, one social and one natural. Narratives that arise include the organisations operating to a mode of mission and money and that an aphorism of “altruistically selfish and selfishly altruistic” (Maturana & Varela, 1998:197) can be applied. In short, the results indicate some challenges to conventional management theory, in particular strategy and competitive advantage, and that the organisations interviewed could help to, some extent, enable sustainable development. To close, the hope of this study it that its narratives and the conceptual tool it has prompted, provide succour to students and managers who want to develop a ‘future normal’ of theories and organisations that better enable sustainability.

2011-06-22T00:00:00Z Barter, Nicholas J Numerous management scholars argue that management theory is anthropocentric and considers humans as being separate from the environment. Further anthropocentrism does not enable theory and organisations to contribute to sustainable development. To counter this it is argued theory and organisations should embrace an environmental paradigm that does not separate humans and the environment. This exploratory research attempts to identify whether any organisations operate with an environmental paradigm. The research questions focus on paradigms and some of the tensions surrounding the human-environment debate, such as; sufficiency versus profit maximisation and quoted status, money as a means or an end and notions of boundaries between the organisation and the environment. The questions are explored with individuals from 23 environmentally focused, primarily for profit, organisations. The results indicate that the organisations operate with an environmental paradigm, do not perceive of boundaries between the organisation and the environment, do not pursue profit maximisation, can demonstrate sufficiency, view money as a means rather than an end and do not have a favourable view of quoted status. Furthermore, the interviewees do not separate their world into two realms, one social and one natural. Narratives that arise include the organisations operating to a mode of mission and money and that an aphorism of “altruistically selfish and selfishly altruistic” (Maturana & Varela, 1998:197) can be applied. In short, the results indicate some challenges to conventional management theory, in particular strategy and competitive advantage, and that the organisations interviewed could help to, some extent, enable sustainable development. To close, the hope of this study it that its narratives and the conceptual tool it has prompted, provide succour to students and managers who want to develop a ‘future normal’ of theories and organisations that better enable sustainability. Gibbon, Rebecca Jane http://hdl.handle.net/10023/976 2010-08-25T13:12:52Z 2010-01-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: The research was carried out using a participatory action research approach to develop social accounts with Jesmond Swimming Pool (JSP). The original motivation to carry out this project was to see what social accounts would look like and whether it was possible to develop them in this organisation. The experience of doing social accounts is further examined using Gray, et al., (1997) to explore whether these were either ‘ideal’ or ‘good’ social accounts for the organisation. A communitarian philosophical framework is used in order to examine the conceptualisation of ‘good’ social accounts. The first part of the thesis explores the social and environmental accounting (SEA) and accountability literature, with the second part exploring the experience of reaching initial agreement to do social accounts (SAs). The agreement to do the accounts was then followed by two years of social accounts developed with JSP. This empirical data provides a detailed account from the perspectives of insiders and other sources as to the experience of doing social accounts. This experience is then opened up to interrogation from a wider view point. The third part of the thesis examines the experience of JSP using third sector communitarian philosophy and a voluntary accountability framework in order to demonstrate that JSP could provide an example of a ‘good’ or ‘ideal’ social account. This raises the issue of whether or not ‘good’ or ‘ideal’ social accounts for third sector organisations are only possible within a communitarian paradigm. If it is possible to establish what ‘good’ social accounts entail then it may be appropriate to extend this approach to other contexts, for example, the public sector or the corporate world.

2010-01-01T00:00:00Z Gibbon, Rebecca Jane The research was carried out using a participatory action research approach to develop social accounts with Jesmond Swimming Pool (JSP). The original motivation to carry out this project was to see what social accounts would look like and whether it was possible to develop them in this organisation. The experience of doing social accounts is further examined using Gray, et al., (1997) to explore whether these were either ‘ideal’ or ‘good’ social accounts for the organisation. A communitarian philosophical framework is used in order to examine the conceptualisation of ‘good’ social accounts. The first part of the thesis explores the social and environmental accounting (SEA) and accountability literature, with the second part exploring the experience of reaching initial agreement to do social accounts (SAs). The agreement to do the accounts was then followed by two years of social accounts developed with JSP. This empirical data provides a detailed account from the perspectives of insiders and other sources as to the experience of doing social accounts. This experience is then opened up to interrogation from a wider view point. The third part of the thesis examines the experience of JSP using third sector communitarian philosophy and a voluntary accountability framework in order to demonstrate that JSP could provide an example of a ‘good’ or ‘ideal’ social account. This raises the issue of whether or not ‘good’ or ‘ideal’ social accounts for third sector organisations are only possible within a communitarian paradigm. If it is possible to establish what ‘good’ social accounts entail then it may be appropriate to extend this approach to other contexts, for example, the public sector or the corporate world. Mpofu, Bekithemba http://hdl.handle.net/10023/939 2012-11-05T12:09:16Z 2010-06-24T00:00:00Z

Abstract: The literature investigating the relationship between stock market returns and inflation is long and has produced diverse findings. This thesis examines the nature of stock–inflation relations in Sub-Saharan countries whose stock markets were established before 1992. Evidence in this thesis shows that in the short term there is a positive relationship between stocks and inflation. Using the Johansen (1988) evidence, a long-run stock–inflation relationship is confirmed only in Nigeria and South Africa, where it is found to be negative. However, accounting for structural breaks provides evidence for a long-run relationship in Botswana, Ghana and Kenya. The evidence of the effects of regimes in the relationship is further supported by a nonparametric cointegration analysis which finds a long-run relation in countries where the Johansen (1988) method had failed. Unexpected inflation is also found to be related to stock returns in Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and Mauritius, which raises concerns about the use of month-end stock data in analysing this relationship. The thesis confirms the existence of hidden inflation in Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria and Zimbabwe. Imported inflation, interest rates and the exchange rate are found to have useful information about inflation movements in Sub-Saharan Africa.

2010-06-24T00:00:00Z Mpofu, Bekithemba The literature investigating the relationship between stock market returns and inflation is long and has produced diverse findings. This thesis examines the nature of stock–inflation relations in Sub-Saharan countries whose stock markets were established before 1992. Evidence in this thesis shows that in the short term there is a positive relationship between stocks and inflation. Using the Johansen (1988) evidence, a long-run stock–inflation relationship is confirmed only in Nigeria and South Africa, where it is found to be negative. However, accounting for structural breaks provides evidence for a long-run relationship in Botswana, Ghana and Kenya. The evidence of the effects of regimes in the relationship is further supported by a nonparametric cointegration analysis which finds a long-run relation in countries where the Johansen (1988) method had failed. Unexpected inflation is also found to be related to stock returns in Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and Mauritius, which raises concerns about the use of month-end stock data in analysing this relationship. The thesis confirms the existence of hidden inflation in Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria and Zimbabwe. Imported inflation, interest rates and the exchange rate are found to have useful information about inflation movements in Sub-Saharan Africa. Scislaw, Kenneth Edward http://hdl.handle.net/10023/936 2012-10-17T14:10:12Z 2010-06-11T00:00:00Z

Abstract: A consensus exists in the body of academic literature that stocks with high BE/ME characteristics outperform stocks with low BE/ME characteristics. Researchers disagree, however, as to the cause of the phenomenon. Two competing theories have emerged. The value premium originates either from the relative riskiness of high BE/ME value and low BE/ME growth stocks or from the persistent irrational pricing of those stocks. Market participants question whether the long lineage of academic research showing the existence of the value premium can actually be applied to their portfolio decision-making. The lack of a pervasive value premium across stock size strata suggests the return phenomenon may result from information asymmetry or trading noise, and not from the pricing of greater risk. The value premium appears to be exclusively available to market participants who can effectively navigate the smallest, most illiquid segment of the stock market. In other words, the value premium does not appear to be available to large institutional investors.

2010-06-11T00:00:00Z Scislaw, Kenneth Edward A consensus exists in the body of academic literature that stocks with high BE/ME characteristics outperform stocks with low BE/ME characteristics. Researchers disagree, however, as to the cause of the phenomenon. Two competing theories have emerged. The value premium originates either from the relative riskiness of high BE/ME value and low BE/ME growth stocks or from the persistent irrational pricing of those stocks. Market participants question whether the long lineage of academic research showing the existence of the value premium can actually be applied to their portfolio decision-making. The lack of a pervasive value premium across stock size strata suggests the return phenomenon may result from information asymmetry or trading noise, and not from the pricing of greater risk. The value premium appears to be exclusively available to market participants who can effectively navigate the smallest, most illiquid segment of the stock market. In other words, the value premium does not appear to be available to large institutional investors. Thupayagale, Pako http://hdl.handle.net/10023/883 2012-10-01T10:49:34Z 2010-06-17T00:00:00Z

Abstract: This thesis explores various aspects of long memory behaviour in African stock markets (ASMs). First, we examine long memory in both equity returns and volatility using the weak-form version of the efficient market hypothesis (EMH) as a criterion. The results show that these markets (largely) display a predictable component in returns; while evidence of long memory in volatility is mixed. In general, these findings contradict the precepts of the EMH and a variety of remedial policies are suggested. Next, we re-examine evidence of volatility persistence and long memory in light of the potential existence of neglected breaks in the stock return volatility data. Our results indicate that a failure to account for time-variation in the unconditional mean variance can lead to spurious conclusions. Furthermore, a modification of the GARCH model to allow for mean variation is introduced, which, generates improved volatility forecasts for a selection of ASMs. To further evaluate the quality of volatility forecasts we compare the performance of a number of long memory models against a variety of alternatives. The results generally suggest that over short horizons simple statistical models and the short memory GARCH models provide superior forecasts of volatility; while, at longer horizons, we find some evidence in favour of long memory models. However, the various model rankings are shown to be sensitive to the choice of error statistic used to assess the accuracy of the forecasts. Finally, a wide range of volatility forecasting models are evaluated in order to ascertain which method delivers the most accurate value-at-risk (VaR) estimates in the context of Basle risk framework. The results show that both asymmetric and long memory attributes are important considerations in delivering accurate VaR measures.

2010-06-17T00:00:00Z Thupayagale, Pako This thesis explores various aspects of long memory behaviour in African stock markets (ASMs). First, we examine long memory in both equity returns and volatility using the weak-form version of the efficient market hypothesis (EMH) as a criterion. The results show that these markets (largely) display a predictable component in returns; while evidence of long memory in volatility is mixed. In general, these findings contradict the precepts of the EMH and a variety of remedial policies are suggested. Next, we re-examine evidence of volatility persistence and long memory in light of the potential existence of neglected breaks in the stock return volatility data. Our results indicate that a failure to account for time-variation in the unconditional mean variance can lead to spurious conclusions. Furthermore, a modification of the GARCH model to allow for mean variation is introduced, which, generates improved volatility forecasts for a selection of ASMs. To further evaluate the quality of volatility forecasts we compare the performance of a number of long memory models against a variety of alternatives. The results generally suggest that over short horizons simple statistical models and the short memory GARCH models provide superior forecasts of volatility; while, at longer horizons, we find some evidence in favour of long memory models. However, the various model rankings are shown to be sensitive to the choice of error statistic used to assess the accuracy of the forecasts. Finally, a wide range of volatility forecasting models are evaluated in order to ascertain which method delivers the most accurate value-at-risk (VaR) estimates in the context of Basle risk framework. The results show that both asymmetric and long memory attributes are important considerations in delivering accurate VaR measures. de Aguiar, Thereza R. S. http://hdl.handle.net/10023/840 2012-08-07T08:32:57Z 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Two beliefs drove this dissertation to be centered on the analysis of the UK corporate disclosure (CD) related to global climate change (GCC). Firstly, GCC is the most significant environmental concern of our current age (IPCC, 2001; Stern, 2006; IPCC, 2007). Secondly, CD could illustrate the values of organizations and possibilities for changing organizations’ responsibility regarding to GCC (Gray et al., 1996; Bebbington and Larrinaga-Gonzalez, 2008; Bebbington et al., 2009). This study utilizes content analysis as its principal method and seeks to achieve its goal by way of a two investigations. The first investigation focuses on disclosures made by direct participants’ (DP) in the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS). It captures GCC disclosures from both stand alone (SA) and annual reports (AR) during 2000 - 2004. This part of the study explores if joining the UK ETS changed GCC disclosures. This is tested on both a longitudinal and matched pair (MP) basis. An analysis using institutional theory suggests that instruments of environmental policy may influence GCC disclosures. Results showed that DP increased GCC disclosure, especially in the AR where mainstream business rationale is accepted. MP disclosures, in contrast, focus on the SA media and on different topics than DP disclosures. AR and SA both contain CD, but in this study they showed different patterns of disclosure and therefore may constitute different disclosure media. The second investigation suggests a method to compare GCC disclosure for a sample of DP and MP, using three different media: carbon disclosure project (CDP), AR and SA. Analysis shows that GCC disclosure did not provide sufficient information to compare GCC initiatives and disclosures. Despite the fact that organizations have similar characteristics in terms of sector, size and origin country, they showed different views on GCC issues and this may partially explain differences on GCC initiatives and disclosure.

2009-11-30T00:00:00Z de Aguiar, Thereza R. S. Two beliefs drove this dissertation to be centered on the analysis of the UK corporate disclosure (CD) related to global climate change (GCC). Firstly, GCC is the most significant environmental concern of our current age (IPCC, 2001; Stern, 2006; IPCC, 2007). Secondly, CD could illustrate the values of organizations and possibilities for changing organizations’ responsibility regarding to GCC (Gray et al., 1996; Bebbington and Larrinaga-Gonzalez, 2008; Bebbington et al., 2009). This study utilizes content analysis as its principal method and seeks to achieve its goal by way of a two investigations. The first investigation focuses on disclosures made by direct participants’ (DP) in the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS). It captures GCC disclosures from both stand alone (SA) and annual reports (AR) during 2000 - 2004. This part of the study explores if joining the UK ETS changed GCC disclosures. This is tested on both a longitudinal and matched pair (MP) basis. An analysis using institutional theory suggests that instruments of environmental policy may influence GCC disclosures. Results showed that DP increased GCC disclosure, especially in the AR where mainstream business rationale is accepted. MP disclosures, in contrast, focus on the SA media and on different topics than DP disclosures. AR and SA both contain CD, but in this study they showed different patterns of disclosure and therefore may constitute different disclosure media. The second investigation suggests a method to compare GCC disclosure for a sample of DP and MP, using three different media: carbon disclosure project (CDP), AR and SA. Analysis shows that GCC disclosure did not provide sufficient information to compare GCC initiatives and disclosures. Despite the fact that organizations have similar characteristics in terms of sector, size and origin country, they showed different views on GCC issues and this may partially explain differences on GCC initiatives and disclosure. Doyle, Rosemary http://hdl.handle.net/10023/766 2009-11-02T16:57:08Z 2009-01-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: The thesis explores the role of inscription in the management of social work and the effect of this on front-line practice. Inscription is a response to current trends in public sector management, in particular the focus on transparency, accountability and performance management, which drive an increasing demand for the documentation of work in areas of professional practice, traditionally assumed to be at odds with codification. The research investigates the effect of new documenting procedures in social work, specifically, the introduction of a ‘standard assessment format’ and responses to this by social work practitioners. The thesis uses a constructivist theoretical framework drawn from Actor Network Theory, which understands inscription as a performative technology, which is used to manage the process and content of practice through representation and translation. The thesis is based upon an exploratory, critical case study in a Local Authority Children and Families Social Work Service between November 2004 and May 2006. The thesis explores the translations between practice (doing), articulation (describing) and textual representation (documenting). For front-line practitioners, practice is understood as the ‘doing’ of work whilst the ‘describing’ and ‘documenting’ of work are categorised as secondary, bureaucratic concerns, with no material effect on the core processes and outcomes of social work practice. The research indicates that social work practice is in fact is a series of practices, which include the doing, describing and documenting of work. The research suggests that the conceptualisation of practice as ‘doing’, rather than ‘describing’ and ‘documenting’ work determines practitioner responses to the use of inscription in managing social work practice.

2009-01-01T00:00:00Z Doyle, Rosemary The thesis explores the role of inscription in the management of social work and the effect of this on front-line practice. Inscription is a response to current trends in public sector management, in particular the focus on transparency, accountability and performance management, which drive an increasing demand for the documentation of work in areas of professional practice, traditionally assumed to be at odds with codification. The research investigates the effect of new documenting procedures in social work, specifically, the introduction of a ‘standard assessment format’ and responses to this by social work practitioners. The thesis uses a constructivist theoretical framework drawn from Actor Network Theory, which understands inscription as a performative technology, which is used to manage the process and content of practice through representation and translation. The thesis is based upon an exploratory, critical case study in a Local Authority Children and Families Social Work Service between November 2004 and May 2006. The thesis explores the translations between practice (doing), articulation (describing) and textual representation (documenting). For front-line practitioners, practice is understood as the ‘doing’ of work whilst the ‘describing’ and ‘documenting’ of work are categorised as secondary, bureaucratic concerns, with no material effect on the core processes and outcomes of social work practice. The research indicates that social work practice is in fact is a series of practices, which include the doing, describing and documenting of work. The research suggests that the conceptualisation of practice as ‘doing’, rather than ‘describing’ and ‘documenting’ work determines practitioner responses to the use of inscription in managing social work practice. de Azevedo Moreira Reis, Marta http://hdl.handle.net/10023/728 2010-12-06T15:57:38Z 2009-06-25T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Despite there being pragmatic national guidelines for assigning risk to women with a family history of breast cancer, the evidence base is still sparse. There are three major questions: First, how can an assignment of "low" risk be made most efficiently? Second, what are the actual outcomes for higher-risk women enrolled in special surveillance programmes? Third, what are the costs and benefits of current management of members of breast cancer families? My thesis reviews the evolution of clinical services for familial breast cancer and the existing literature in the field. I describe the gathering of information from the service records of the Tayside Breast Cancer Family History Clinic and from specific research exercises that involved collaboration with other centres in the UK and abroad. My findings are as follows: 1. Histories provided by the families are not sufficient to assign risk accurately. They must be extended and verified from other records by clinical geneticists. Women assigned a low risk can be informed by post, but some may require further support. The 2004 NICE guidelines for assigning risk are fairly accurate, but may under-estimate it for some women aged 45--55 years. 2. Annual screening of young women at increased risk results in detection of most cancers at a curable stage. Women who carry BRCA1 mutations fare less well, even when tumours are detected at an apparently early stage. 3. Costs of accurate risk assessment are outweighed by savings from the better targeting of surveillance programmes. Early cancer detection in young women enrolled in these programmes achieves a substantial gain in life expectancy at a cost of £3,700 per quality adjusted life year (QALY). Prophylactic surgery for carriers of BRCA1 mutations is highly cost-effective. The thesis concludes with a discussion as to how these findings might be extended and clinical practice improved in the future. Description: Electronic version does not contain associated previously published material

2009-06-25T00:00:00Z de Azevedo Moreira Reis, Marta Despite there being pragmatic national guidelines for assigning risk to women with a family history of breast cancer, the evidence base is still sparse. There are three major questions: First, how can an assignment of "low" risk be made most efficiently? Second, what are the actual outcomes for higher-risk women enrolled in special surveillance programmes? Third, what are the costs and benefits of current management of members of breast cancer families? My thesis reviews the evolution of clinical services for familial breast cancer and the existing literature in the field. I describe the gathering of information from the service records of the Tayside Breast Cancer Family History Clinic and from specific research exercises that involved collaboration with other centres in the UK and abroad. My findings are as follows: 1. Histories provided by the families are not sufficient to assign risk accurately. They must be extended and verified from other records by clinical geneticists. Women assigned a low risk can be informed by post, but some may require further support. The 2004 NICE guidelines for assigning risk are fairly accurate, but may under-estimate it for some women aged 45--55 years. 2. Annual screening of young women at increased risk results in detection of most cancers at a curable stage. Women who carry BRCA1 mutations fare less well, even when tumours are detected at an apparently early stage. 3. Costs of accurate risk assessment are outweighed by savings from the better targeting of surveillance programmes. Early cancer detection in young women enrolled in these programmes achieves a substantial gain in life expectancy at a cost of £3,700 per quality adjusted life year (QALY). Prophylactic surgery for carriers of BRCA1 mutations is highly cost-effective. The thesis concludes with a discussion as to how these findings might be extended and clinical practice improved in the future. Clarke, Daniel Wade http://hdl.handle.net/10023/691 2009-05-18T16:08:33Z 2008-11-27T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Grappling with the success of their business ventures and coping with the rise in number of new products FifeX was working on, operating out of their shared office in the St Andrews Technology Centre, the co-founders were feeling more ‘cramped’ than ever before. The decision was made to relocate. Although it was felt to be long overdue, much to their relief they finally moved to larger premises in Tayport in July, 2006. The activity of moving was a starting point for a number of place making activities. Using the case of FifeX, this thesis explores the process of place making. It seeks to understand place making from ‘inside’ the activity of place making itself. The guiding research question in this thesis is, what happens -during place making- when people move into ‘new’ business premises? More specifically, this thesis asks the following questions: (i) what are the comparative advantages / disadvantages of the alternative ways of explaining place making? and (ii) which theory or combination of theories, has greater explanatory value in analysing place making / moving? The study, which uses FifeX as an empirical setting is best described as an in-depth qualitative narrative exploration, and thus narrates the unfolding processes of deciding to relocate, relocating, moving and place making. Three different theoretical perspectives (control, engagement, polyphony) were applied, each in turn, to three separate (yet interrelated) instances of place making (a story about a wall, one about chairs, and one about a worktop) in order to cast fresh light on the constitutive talk-entwined-activities of place making. The study demonstrates that although efforts to control space may dominate the discourse and activities of place making, control only explains some of what happens during place making. The findings of the case suggest that place is the outcome of inhabitants’ ongoing experiences and understanding. This thesis argues that alternative theoretical perspectives (engagement and polyphony) are better at explaining what goes on. But because they do not operate ‘naturally’ within the dominant paradigm, it is noted that an alternative practice-based perspective is needed which combines the effectiveness of engagement and polyphony, with the attractiveness of control. A model is presented to help reflect on place making which provides an alternative route for thinking about relocating, moving, and place making that is expected to create engagement and polyphony in a decent way. The proposed model is centred on thinking directed toward: (i) individual place, (ii) inside space, and (iii) what story(s) the space tell outsiders. The focus is on balancing the tensions that emerge from dialoging on these three aspects of space and place.

2008-11-27T00:00:00Z Clarke, Daniel Wade Grappling with the success of their business ventures and coping with the rise in number of new products FifeX was working on, operating out of their shared office in the St Andrews Technology Centre, the co-founders were feeling more ‘cramped’ than ever before. The decision was made to relocate. Although it was felt to be long overdue, much to their relief they finally moved to larger premises in Tayport in July, 2006. The activity of moving was a starting point for a number of place making activities. Using the case of FifeX, this thesis explores the process of place making. It seeks to understand place making from ‘inside’ the activity of place making itself. The guiding research question in this thesis is, what happens -during place making- when people move into ‘new’ business premises? More specifically, this thesis asks the following questions: (i) what are the comparative advantages / disadvantages of the alternative ways of explaining place making? and (ii) which theory or combination of theories, has greater explanatory value in analysing place making / moving? The study, which uses FifeX as an empirical setting is best described as an in-depth qualitative narrative exploration, and thus narrates the unfolding processes of deciding to relocate, relocating, moving and place making. Three different theoretical perspectives (control, engagement, polyphony) were applied, each in turn, to three separate (yet interrelated) instances of place making (a story about a wall, one about chairs, and one about a worktop) in order to cast fresh light on the constitutive talk-entwined-activities of place making. The study demonstrates that although efforts to control space may dominate the discourse and activities of place making, control only explains some of what happens during place making. The findings of the case suggest that place is the outcome of inhabitants’ ongoing experiences and understanding. This thesis argues that alternative theoretical perspectives (engagement and polyphony) are better at explaining what goes on. But because they do not operate ‘naturally’ within the dominant paradigm, it is noted that an alternative practice-based perspective is needed which combines the effectiveness of engagement and polyphony, with the attractiveness of control. A model is presented to help reflect on place making which provides an alternative route for thinking about relocating, moving, and place making that is expected to create engagement and polyphony in a decent way. The proposed model is centred on thinking directed toward: (i) individual place, (ii) inside space, and (iii) what story(s) the space tell outsiders. The focus is on balancing the tensions that emerge from dialoging on these three aspects of space and place. Eriksson, Thomas K. http://hdl.handle.net/10023/690 2009-05-18T14:13:20Z 2008-11-27T00:00:00Z

Abstract: The business environment of today is characterised as both dynamic and complex, and many corporations face fierce competition on all fronts. To deal with strategic planning in this businesses environment has become difficult and visioning has been argued to be one approach forward. Numerous prescriptive models on how to develop visions have identified in the literature, but studies on how corporations actually develop visions are few. This study therefore aims to describe the process of how small and medium sized firms develop visions. This study compares small and medium sized firms in Scotland and Sweden on how they developed their visions. The study adopted a survey methodology where 210 firms of different sizes were contacted in each country. The response rate was 24,3% in Scotland and 47,6 % in Sweden. The main findings of this study are that the process of developing visions was rather diverse, some firms used short process, whereas in other firms the vision developed over time. In general it was an emergent process. The firms used many of the techniques and looked at factors found in the management literature, but maybe not in the way as prescribed by vision methodologies. In general the vision process was leader driven or developed by top management, but in some cases it was developed by a wider involvement. Few differences could be found between how Scottish and Swedish firms develop their visions, except that the Swedish firms to a higher degree had a developed vision. The major finding of this study is that the bigger the firm the more likely they are to have developed a vision, used management techniques and had wider involvement in the process.

2008-11-27T00:00:00Z Eriksson, Thomas K. The business environment of today is characterised as both dynamic and complex, and many corporations face fierce competition on all fronts. To deal with strategic planning in this businesses environment has become difficult and visioning has been argued to be one approach forward. Numerous prescriptive models on how to develop visions have identified in the literature, but studies on how corporations actually develop visions are few. This study therefore aims to describe the process of how small and medium sized firms develop visions. This study compares small and medium sized firms in Scotland and Sweden on how they developed their visions. The study adopted a survey methodology where 210 firms of different sizes were contacted in each country. The response rate was 24,3% in Scotland and 47,6 % in Sweden. The main findings of this study are that the process of developing visions was rather diverse, some firms used short process, whereas in other firms the vision developed over time. In general it was an emergent process. The firms used many of the techniques and looked at factors found in the management literature, but maybe not in the way as prescribed by vision methodologies. In general the vision process was leader driven or developed by top management, but in some cases it was developed by a wider involvement. Few differences could be found between how Scottish and Swedish firms develop their visions, except that the Swedish firms to a higher degree had a developed vision. The major finding of this study is that the bigger the firm the more likely they are to have developed a vision, used management techniques and had wider involvement in the process. Wilkinson, Joyce E http://hdl.handle.net/10023/560 2012-08-13T11:37:06Z 2008-11-27T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Nurses face ongoing difficulties in using evidence and making a reality of evidence-based practice. Studies of the factors that facilitate or impede evidence-based practice suggest that nurse managers should have a key role, but the nature of this role has not yet been fully articulated. This study aimed to explore and explain the roles of nurse managers in relation to evidence-based practice implementation. Four case studies in Scottish NHS Acute Trusts provide rich data on evidence-based practice implementation, drawing on interviews (n = 51), observation and documentary analysis. A wide literature on evidence use in nursing suggests that implementation is hindered by confusion and debate about what counts as evidence, and by an incomplete understanding by staff of the complexity of implementation processes. This study confirms such conclusions. Moreover, the study reveals that the roles of nurse managers in facilitating evidence use are currently limited, largely passive and under-articulated. As such, the findings expose significant discrepancies between nurse managers' roles in practice and those espoused in much of the literature. Partial explanation for this can be found in the organisational contexts in which nurses and their managers work (e.g. competing demands; confused communication; diffuse and overloaded roles and limits to authority and autonomy). In particular, the role of the contemporary nurse manager is one that places considerable emphasis on aspects of general management to the detriment of clinical practice issues. More positively, the study uncovered genuine facilitation in two study sites where hybrid roles of nurse manager and clinical nurse specialist were in place. In both sites, these roles had been successful in supporting and progressing implementation in discrete areas of practice and show some potential for advancing evidence-based practice more widely. These findings have significant implications for research, policy and practice in relation to evidence-based practice in nursing.

2008-11-27T00:00:00Z Wilkinson, Joyce E Nurses face ongoing difficulties in using evidence and making a reality of evidence-based practice. Studies of the factors that facilitate or impede evidence-based practice suggest that nurse managers should have a key role, but the nature of this role has not yet been fully articulated. This study aimed to explore and explain the roles of nurse managers in relation to evidence-based practice implementation. Four case studies in Scottish NHS Acute Trusts provide rich data on evidence-based practice implementation, drawing on interviews (n = 51), observation and documentary analysis. A wide literature on evidence use in nursing suggests that implementation is hindered by confusion and debate about what counts as evidence, and by an incomplete understanding by staff of the complexity of implementation processes. This study confirms such conclusions. Moreover, the study reveals that the roles of nurse managers in facilitating evidence use are currently limited, largely passive and under-articulated. As such, the findings expose significant discrepancies between nurse managers' roles in practice and those espoused in much of the literature. Partial explanation for this can be found in the organisational contexts in which nurses and their managers work (e.g. competing demands; confused communication; diffuse and overloaded roles and limits to authority and autonomy). In particular, the role of the contemporary nurse manager is one that places considerable emphasis on aspects of general management to the detriment of clinical practice issues. More positively, the study uncovered genuine facilitation in two study sites where hybrid roles of nurse manager and clinical nurse specialist were in place. In both sites, these roles had been successful in supporting and progressing implementation in discrete areas of practice and show some potential for advancing evidence-based practice more widely. These findings have significant implications for research, policy and practice in relation to evidence-based practice in nursing. Lusk, Christine Isabel http://hdl.handle.net/10023/553 2009-01-13T16:17:25Z 2008-11-27T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Using a Social Constructionist lens, this study gathers fresh empirical data on the experience of a “Mature Student”, examining its multiple constructions, both objective and subjective, within the context of a Scottish Ancient university. For six centuries, Ancient universities have held expectations that incoming students will adjust to fit the autonomous institutional culture. However the expansion of Higher Education in 1992 has introduced changes in legislation and funding which have shifted the onus of that adjustment to the organisations themselves. This study is placed at the fundamental core of the tension between an institution struggling with the changing nature of its purpose and non-traditional students with changing expectations. Through analysis of daily journals and semi-structured interviews with 16 students and 12 staff, it explores the interpretations which both sets of actors take from student/institution interaction, and does so with respect to the student’s holistic life context rather than viewing only the learner role. Particular emphasis is placed on the losses and gains from the experience, including examination of what a degree symbolises in personal, fiscal and psychological terms. Based on a synthesis of literature reviews and empirical data, the study categorises the Mature students into three groups according to experiential themes within the student journey, drawing out theoretical and policy contributions from the process. Although mismatches are shown to exist between student and staff expectations of institutional purpose, a contemporary, and valid, role for the Ancient institution is outlined in terms of developing individual agency.

2008-11-27T00:00:00Z Lusk, Christine Isabel Using a Social Constructionist lens, this study gathers fresh empirical data on the experience of a “Mature Student”, examining its multiple constructions, both objective and subjective, within the context of a Scottish Ancient university. For six centuries, Ancient universities have held expectations that incoming students will adjust to fit the autonomous institutional culture. However the expansion of Higher Education in 1992 has introduced changes in legislation and funding which have shifted the onus of that adjustment to the organisations themselves. This study is placed at the fundamental core of the tension between an institution struggling with the changing nature of its purpose and non-traditional students with changing expectations. Through analysis of daily journals and semi-structured interviews with 16 students and 12 staff, it explores the interpretations which both sets of actors take from student/institution interaction, and does so with respect to the student’s holistic life context rather than viewing only the learner role. Particular emphasis is placed on the losses and gains from the experience, including examination of what a degree symbolises in personal, fiscal and psychological terms. Based on a synthesis of literature reviews and empirical data, the study categorises the Mature students into three groups according to experiential themes within the student journey, drawing out theoretical and policy contributions from the process. Although mismatches are shown to exist between student and staff expectations of institutional purpose, a contemporary, and valid, role for the Ancient institution is outlined in terms of developing individual agency. Doern, Rachel R. http://hdl.handle.net/10023/546 2012-08-17T09:05:41Z 2008-11-27T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Small businesses, particularly growing small businesses, are regarded by policy makers and academics alike as being important sources of wealth creation, employment generation and innovation. Yet, few small businesses grow. One potential way of explaining why so many businesses do not grow is through the notion of 'barriers'. Previous studies on barriers typically identify and predict what kinds of barriers affect business growth, rather than attempt to explain how or why this is the case, if indeed it is the case at all. This thesis aims to elaborate on our understanding of barriers to small business growth. Two qualitative inductive interview-based studies were conducted in St. Petersburg Russia; the first was conducted in 2003, the second in 2005. Using semi-structured interviews in the second study (the main study), 27 owner-managers of small businesses in Russia were asked if they had intentions to grow the business, how they grew their businesses or intended to do so, and what, if anything, interfered with this process. The purpose of the study was two-fold: first, its purpose was to examine barriers from the perspective of individual owner-managers, with an emphasis on the meaning of barriers and the context in which they are perceived, and second to explore and examine how or the ways in which perceived barriers may influence owner-managersâ growth intentions and behaviours. Data were analysed using template analysis mainly, drawing on interpretive phenomenological analysis and matrix analysis. Based on the accounts of owner-managers, barriers were found to work in different ways to shape intentions to grow or not to grow, and as well to shape intention realization. How this occurred depended partly on owner-managersâ perceptions of the institutional environment. Findings suggest that the relationship between barriers and small business growth is complex. It is, nevertheless, a relationship which purports to be a fruitful area of study, one in which future research might further our understanding of small business growth from a continuing examination of barriers, particularly in relation to intentions, in relation to how meaningful barriers are perceived to be, and in relation to the context in which they are perceived.

2008-11-27T00:00:00Z Doern, Rachel R. Small businesses, particularly growing small businesses, are regarded by policy makers and academics alike as being important sources of wealth creation, employment generation and innovation. Yet, few small businesses grow. One potential way of explaining why so many businesses do not grow is through the notion of 'barriers'. Previous studies on barriers typically identify and predict what kinds of barriers affect business growth, rather than attempt to explain how or why this is the case, if indeed it is the case at all. This thesis aims to elaborate on our understanding of barriers to small business growth. Two qualitative inductive interview-based studies were conducted in St. Petersburg Russia; the first was conducted in 2003, the second in 2005. Using semi-structured interviews in the second study (the main study), 27 owner-managers of small businesses in Russia were asked if they had intentions to grow the business, how they grew their businesses or intended to do so, and what, if anything, interfered with this process. The purpose of the study was two-fold: first, its purpose was to examine barriers from the perspective of individual owner-managers, with an emphasis on the meaning of barriers and the context in which they are perceived, and second to explore and examine how or the ways in which perceived barriers may influence owner-managersâ growth intentions and behaviours. Data were analysed using template analysis mainly, drawing on interpretive phenomenological analysis and matrix analysis. Based on the accounts of owner-managers, barriers were found to work in different ways to shape intentions to grow or not to grow, and as well to shape intention realization. How this occurred depended partly on owner-managersâ perceptions of the institutional environment. Findings suggest that the relationship between barriers and small business growth is complex. It is, nevertheless, a relationship which purports to be a fruitful area of study, one in which future research might further our understanding of small business growth from a continuing examination of barriers, particularly in relation to intentions, in relation to how meaningful barriers are perceived to be, and in relation to the context in which they are perceived. Greig, Gail http://hdl.handle.net/10023/500 2010-12-06T15:57:55Z 2008-06-27T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Organisational learning is conceptualised within healthcare policy as an acontextual entity to be implemented across services through a prescribed governance framework. Studies of organisational learning often exclude context in this way. The central questions of this thesis concern how and why context is relevant and important in relation to organisational learning. In order to address these issues, context and organisational learning were conceptualised as mutually constitutive activity and knowing-in-practice respectively. Taking a cultural-historical activity theoretical approach, learning is understood to be an intrinsic part of activity. These issues were explored empirically through qualitative case study in three purposively sampled Scottish primary care teams. Initial findings suggested collective learning occurred through participation in everyday activity. Team accounts of apparently the same routine object of work revealed distinctive patterns of activity. Each team seemed to be doing the same thing differently. Exploration of mediating means present in each teamâ s activity accounted for these differences: although similar on the surface, the attribution of meaning to each was contested and shaped through the cultural, historical and inherently contextual activity which they mediated within each activity system. Further analysis demonstrated members of each primary care team co-configured these objects with members of other interlinked activity systems. Different things were actually being done in similarly different ways. This showed how inherently contextual activities shaped the content of collective learning and offered an explanation of why context is relevant and important in collective learning. These findings suggest efforts to transfer knowledge as a discrete, manageable entity between situations are unlikely to succeed due to the filtering and translating effect of inherently contextual activity. From this perspective, organisational learning and related concepts such as â implementationâ and â best practiceâ become problematic. Healthcare policy concerning collective learning, within which such approaches are central, may benefit from reconsideration.

2008-06-27T00:00:00Z Greig, Gail Organisational learning is conceptualised within healthcare policy as an acontextual entity to be implemented across services through a prescribed governance framework. Studies of organisational learning often exclude context in this way. The central questions of this thesis concern how and why context is relevant and important in relation to organisational learning. In order to address these issues, context and organisational learning were conceptualised as mutually constitutive activity and knowing-in-practice respectively. Taking a cultural-historical activity theoretical approach, learning is understood to be an intrinsic part of activity. These issues were explored empirically through qualitative case study in three purposively sampled Scottish primary care teams. Initial findings suggested collective learning occurred through participation in everyday activity. Team accounts of apparently the same routine object of work revealed distinctive patterns of activity. Each team seemed to be doing the same thing differently. Exploration of mediating means present in each teamâ s activity accounted for these differences: although similar on the surface, the attribution of meaning to each was contested and shaped through the cultural, historical and inherently contextual activity which they mediated within each activity system. Further analysis demonstrated members of each primary care team co-configured these objects with members of other interlinked activity systems. Different things were actually being done in similarly different ways. This showed how inherently contextual activities shaped the content of collective learning and offered an explanation of why context is relevant and important in collective learning. These findings suggest efforts to transfer knowledge as a discrete, manageable entity between situations are unlikely to succeed due to the filtering and translating effect of inherently contextual activity. From this perspective, organisational learning and related concepts such as â implementationâ and â best practiceâ become problematic. Healthcare policy concerning collective learning, within which such approaches are central, may benefit from reconsideration. Al-Hamadeen, Radhi Mousa http://hdl.handle.net/10023/423 2012-07-27T15:41:51Z 2007-11-09T00:00:00Z

Abstract: Since the early 1990’s the number of corporate stand-alone reports produced by various organisations worldwide has increased considerably (Kolk, 2004; Owen, 2006). It is argued that introducing an assurance statement with the stand-alone report may contribute to enhancing the credibility of the reported information (FEE, 2002; Dando and Swift, 2003; ACCA and AccountAbility, 2004). This thesis reports on a multi-level analysis of assurance statements attached to stand-alone reports that were produced by the UK FTSE100 companies during the reporting years 2000-2004. Drawing on a research instrument (which itself has been informed by previous literature, namely O’Dwyer and Owen, 2005) as well as the most recent assurance guidelines and standards (such as FEE, 2002; GRI, 2002, AA1000AS, 2003; and ISAE3000, 2004), this thesis examines the extent to which assurance statements disclose information about crucial elements of the assurance engagement, the amount of disclosure as well as factors associated with the information disclosed. In this context, particular attention is given to issues of independence of the assurance provider; the methodology used to conduct the assurance engagement; the degree to which stakeholders have been engaged and their issues taken account of within the assurance process; and assurance results (namely presentation of the assurance opinion, findings and recommendations). The research results suggest that, despite the increased amount and quality of information disclosed within the assurance statements over the years, engagement of stakeholders and taking adequate account of their issues within the assurance process is still lacking compared to other dimensions of assurance. In the absence of generally accepted stand-alone reporting criteria and assurance standards for this type of reporting, various assurance approaches have emerged and these correspond to the nature of the assurance provider (for example, accountancy, consultancy and certification body). The FTSE100 companies (in almost in two-thirds of the conducted engagements) rely most heavily on consultancy firms for assurance and as a result, this approach dominates UK assurance practice. As a consequence, there are noticeable variations in the assurance methodologies, results of the assurance engagements (findings, opinions and recommendations) and shape of the assurance statements over the study. There are also changes that emerge over time and these are most strongly associated with the standards that are used to govern the assurance engagement and also the type of information being assured. These findings raise concerns about whether it is possible to harmonise assurance practice of the corporate stand-alone reports. This thesis concludes with some practical implications for the assurance of stand-alone reports, as well as recommendations for future research.

2007-11-09T00:00:00Z Al-Hamadeen, Radhi Mousa Since the early 1990’s the number of corporate stand-alone reports produced by various organisations worldwide has increased considerably (Kolk, 2004; Owen, 2006). It is argued that introducing an assurance statement with the stand-alone report may contribute to enhancing the credibility of the reported information (FEE, 2002; Dando and Swift, 2003; ACCA and AccountAbility, 2004). This thesis reports on a multi-level analysis of assurance statements attached to stand-alone reports that were produced by the UK FTSE100 companies during the reporting years 2000-2004. Drawing on a research instrument (which itself has been informed by previous literature, namely O’Dwyer and Owen, 2005) as well as the most recent assurance guidelines and standards (such as FEE, 2002; GRI, 2002, AA1000AS, 2003; and ISAE3000, 2004), this thesis examines the extent to which assurance statements disclose information about crucial elements of the assurance engagement, the amount of disclosure as well as factors associated with the information disclosed. In this context, particular attention is given to issues of independence of the assurance provider; the methodology used to conduct the assurance engagement; the degree to which stakeholders have been engaged and their issues taken account of within the assurance process; and assurance results (namely presentation of the assurance opinion, findings and recommendations). The research results suggest that, despite the increased amount and quality of information disclosed within the assurance statements over the years, engagement of stakeholders and taking adequate account of their issues within the assurance process is still lacking compared to other dimensions of assurance. In the absence of generally accepted stand-alone reporting criteria and assurance standards for this type of reporting, various assurance approaches have emerged and these correspond to the nature of the assurance provider (for example, accountancy, consultancy and certification body). The FTSE100 companies (in almost in two-thirds of the conducted engagements) rely most heavily on consultancy firms for assurance and as a result, this approach dominates UK assurance practice. As a consequence, there are noticeable variations in the assurance methodologies, results of the assurance engagements (findings, opinions and recommendations) and shape of the assurance statements over the study. There are also changes that emerge over time and these are most strongly associated with the standards that are used to govern the assurance engagement and also the type of information being assured. These findings raise concerns about whether it is possible to harmonise assurance practice of the corporate stand-alone reports. This thesis concludes with some practical implications for the assurance of stand-alone reports, as well as recommendations for future research. Masrani, Swapnesh http://hdl.handle.net/10023/415 2012-07-27T15:51:59Z 2008-01-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: This research uses the ‘demand-side thesis’ to examine the decline of the Dundee jute industry. In particular, it examines the effect of international competition and the strategic response of the industry during the inter-war (1919-1939) and the post-war (1945-1960s) period to counter this challenge. The strategic response is studied by examining strategies employed at the firm and the industry level. Strategy at the firm level is studied in the form of capability development using the capabilities approach. The thesis also makes an attempt to redress the issue of determinism in the capabilities approach which suggests that the pattern of capability development is governed by path-dependency. By drawing on the techniques employed in the history literature, this research identifies strategic options that were being considered by firms at the time of capability development and examine why certain alternatives were not pursued. This will bring to light aspects other then those associated with path-dependency that played a role in the pattern of capability development. The capabilities developed by firms during the two periods are compared and contrasted in order to understand the pattern over this period. These findings are juxtaposed with the British cotton textile industry, a related sector, to examine the effectiveness of the demand-side thesis in explaining the decline of the jute industry in particular and the textile industry in general. This thesis makes contribution to three areas of literature: First, the thesis helps to further develop the demand-side framework by introducing a new case (Dundee jute industry) and developing a better understanding of strategic response within the jute and textile industry in general. Second, this thesis contributes to the theoretical development of capabilities approach in two specific areas: a) it helps to address the issue of determinism inherent in the capabilities approach through the notion of path-dependency. This was done by also examining the strategic options that were available to firms while developing their capabilities and underlining the reasons for not pursuing them. b) the analysis sheds new light on the nature of branching of capabilities in an industry over a long period. Third, this research makes significant contribution to the existing literature on the business history of the Dundee jute industry, which is sparse. The contributions can be categorised into four key aspects which have not been examined in the current literature: a) period (inter-war and post-war), b) issue (systematic examination of the Dundee jute industry’s decline, strategic response and role of collective strategies), c) method (detailed study of individual firm’s strategies), and d) cross comparison of industry’s experience with related sectors (for example, the cotton industry). Focusing on these issues has helped to throw new light on the challenges, especially technological, facing the industry in developing its strategic response.

2008-01-01T00:00:00Z Masrani, Swapnesh This research uses the ‘demand-side thesis’ to examine the decline of the Dundee jute industry. In particular, it examines the effect of international competition and the strategic response of the industry during the inter-war (1919-1939) and the post-war (1945-1960s) period to counter this challenge. The strategic response is studied by examining strategies employed at the firm and the industry level. Strategy at the firm level is studied in the form of capability development using the capabilities approach. The thesis also makes an attempt to redress the issue of determinism in the capabilities approach which suggests that the pattern of capability development is governed by path-dependency. By drawing on the techniques employed in the history literature, this research identifies strategic options that were being considered by firms at the time of capability development and examine why certain alternatives were not pursued. This will bring to light aspects other then those associated with path-dependency that played a role in the pattern of capability development. The capabilities developed by firms during the two periods are compared and contrasted in order to understand the pattern over this period. These findings are juxtaposed with the British cotton textile industry, a related sector, to examine the effectiveness of the demand-side thesis in explaining the decline of the jute industry in particular and the textile industry in general. This thesis makes contribution to three areas of literature: First, the thesis helps to further develop the demand-side framework by introducing a new case (Dundee jute industry) and developing a better understanding of strategic response within the jute and textile industry in general. Second, this thesis contributes to the theoretical development of capabilities approach in two specific areas: a) it helps to address the issue of determinism inherent in the capabilities approach through the notion of path-dependency. This was done by also examining the strategic options that were available to firms while developing their capabilities and underlining the reasons for not pursuing them. b) the analysis sheds new light on the nature of branching of capabilities in an industry over a long period. Third, this research makes significant contribution to the existing literature on the business history of the Dundee jute industry, which is sparse. The contributions can be categorised into four key aspects which have not been examined in the current literature: a) period (inter-war and post-war), b) issue (systematic examination of the Dundee jute industry’s decline, strategic response and role of collective strategies), c) method (detailed study of individual firm’s strategies), and d) cross comparison of industry’s experience with related sectors (for example, the cotton industry). Focusing on these issues has helped to throw new light on the challenges, especially technological, facing the industry in developing its strategic response. Quinn, Brian J. http://hdl.handle.net/10023/349 2012-07-27T15:37:43Z 2007-01-01T00:00:00Z

Abstract: In the past decade researchers began to remedy a literature deficit in the study of broadcasting institutions – addressing in particular the issues of labour process, restructuring and industrial relations. This thesis which considers management change, industrial relations and restructuring within the United Kingdom (‘UK’) broadcasting industry employs a case study format with a view to highlighting the variations of industry (macro) and firm (micro) based restructuring. Organizational change was not a uniform process throughout the UK broadcasting industry and significantly different strategies were developed by management within the two main terrestrial broadcasters – in particular in attempting to fundamentally alter the organization of programme production. The labour process and experience of employees and owner-managers within the independent production sector was also distinguishable as between the two main UK terrestrial broadcasters. In order to provide a theoretical underpinning to the empirical studies which form the centrepiece of this thesis, the four themes of contemporary labour process theory are explored. These contributions are included because examinations undertaken of labour processes have resulted in critical insights as to the nature of management and labour relationships. Together with firm based organizational restructuring of the broadcasting industry, the past 25 years have seen very significant regulatory change consequent on a variety of legislative initiatives and which are set out. The case studies begin with the wide-scale restructuring of industrial relations within the Independent Television (‘ITV’) sector since 1979 (Chapter 4). The second case study (Chapter 5) is concerned with the implementation of a set of managerial strategies aimed at reshaping the labour processes within the Central Scotland ITV franchise – Scottish Television Ltd. (‘STV’). Chapter 6 deals with the implementation of new working practices and what might be described as an attack on employee identity within BBC Scotland. The restructuring of the Corporation along quasi-commercial lines with specific reference to the employment of the directorate (distinct business units) system is examined. The final case study (Chapter 7) is an examination of the independent production sector tracing the emergence of a group of Producer Owners (independent production company owners) who emerged during the first half of the 1990s and who have since become a significant force in British television production. This study also traces the development of the career and networking labour of the group of individuals employed on short-term contracts by the independent production company owners.

2007-01-01T00:00:00Z Quinn, Brian J. In the past decade researchers began to remedy a literature deficit in the study of broadcasting institutions – addressing in particular the issues of labour process, restructuring and industrial relations. This thesis which considers management change, industrial relations and restructuring within the United Kingdom (‘UK’) broadcasting industry employs a case study format with a view to highlighting the variations of industry (macro) and firm (micro) based restructuring. Organizational change was not a uniform process throughout the UK broadcasting industry and significantly different strategies were developed by management within the two main terrestrial broadcasters – in particular in attempting to fundamentally alter the organization of programme production. The labour process and experience of employees and owner-managers within the independent production sector was also distinguishable as between the two main UK terrestrial broadcasters. In order to provide a theoretical underpinning to the empirical studies which form the centrepiece of this thesis, the four themes of contemporary labour process theory are explored. These contributions are included because examinations undertaken of labour processes have resulted in critical insights as to the nature of management and labour relationships. Together with firm based organizational restructuring of the broadcasting industry, the past 25 years have seen very significant regulatory change consequent on a variety of legislative initiatives and which are set out. The case studies begin with the wide-scale restructuring of industrial relations within the Independent Television (‘ITV’) sector since 1979 (Chapter 4). The second case study (Chapter 5) is concerned with the implementation of a set of managerial strategies aimed at reshaping the labour processes within the Central Scotland ITV franchise – Scottish Television Ltd. (‘STV’). Chapter 6 deals with the implementation of new working practices and what might be described as an attack on employee identity within BBC Scotland. The restructuring of the Corporation along quasi-commercial lines with specific reference to the employment of the directorate (distinct business units) system is examined. The final case study (Chapter 7) is an examination of the independent production sector tracing the emergence of a group of Producer Owners (independent production company owners) who emerged during the first half of the 1990s and who have since become a significant force in British television production. This study also traces the development of the career and networking labour of the group of individuals employed on short-term contracts by the independent production company owners.