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The purpose of this paper is to conduct a review of the literature that gives insight into design elements for constructing a supply chain performance measurement (SCPM) system.

A systematic review of published research on SCPM systems and frameworks over the last two decades was conducted with the purpose of categorising key functions of SCPM systems by providing an insight into the design, functionality, implementation and practical implications of SCPM systems.

The review revealed a set of functions governing the SCPM system that have not been fully explored in previous research: the process focus, prioritisation, integration and causality functions of a SCPM system. A relationship between two or more functions can be created to include more functionality based on the needs of the company to create a comprehensive performance measurement system.

The paper concludes with a conceptual framework to guide future research in the area of designing a SCPM system and define the main aspects that should be considered when developing a SCPM system.

The paper brings a new dimension to the SCPM research by identifying the main functions of SCPM systems that could benefit practitioners to set up a SCPM system relevant to its intended function. The paper presents multiple potential stages of merging different functions in one SCPM system. Based on the company’s needs and context, the functionality of the SCPM system can be designed at four levels creating ten possible scenarios when designing a company’s SCPM system.

The paper integrated the literature and findings of 269 research papers of the last two decades, upon which a conceptual framework was developed as a guide for constructing an effective SCPM system.

The Middle East is currently proving an attractive destination for retailers, with many sectors now being represented in the region’s markets. This case considers the opportunities and threats presented by the Middle East environment and outlines the expansion of UK department store Debenhams in the region. With franchise partner M&H Alshaya, it now has six stores in the region, with further openings planned.

The Debenhams chain, branded as “Britain’s favorite department store”, has 100 stores in the UK and Ireland. Its consistent high performance is based on own brand ranges and its “Designers at Debenhams” initiative where names such as Jasper Conran and John Rocha design exclusive but affordable ranges. A less well‐known aspect of its continuing growth is its international operation – established in the late 1990s – with stores in Scandinavia, Hungary and Malaysia. Debenhams also has a significant Middle East presence and its success in the region in just five years is an object lesson in managing overseas expansion.

Self‐injurious behaviour can become an intransigent difficulty, reduce people's quality of life and lead to hospital admissions or other restrictive outcomes (such as the wearing of protective devices to prevent serious injury). Over the last 15 years there have been some important developments in the treatment of severe self‐injury, but the evidence is that these are making little impact on most people's lives. The reasons why this might be are discussed, and it is proposed that it is time for a radical new approach to interventions for self‐injurious behaviour.

The University Affiliated Programme (UAP) aims to improve service quality by working in partnership with local services. This article Reports on the establishment and development of linked services: three services for people with learning disabilities, living in small community houses that opened in late 1999 and early 2000. The focus of resources on a small number of linked services was designed to maximise the effectiveness of the involvement of the Tizard Centre, along with the Subscriber Network. It was intended that work in the linked services would be disseminated through this network. The UAP has worked with service users and providers since 1996, during which time users have moved from a long‐stay NHS hospital to community services. The service provider is also now a private organisation. The article outlines some of the projects which have been introduced or developed in these linked services and discusses some of the issues that have arisen while working in partnership with them. The benefits of working through a UAP will also be identified.