Laura Ilonen, Jody Wren, Mika Gabrielsson and Markku Salimäki
The purpose of this paper is to clarify the different roles and implications of a manufacturer's branded retail operations on its international strategy. The roles are analyzed…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to clarify the different roles and implications of a manufacturer's branded retail operations on its international strategy. The roles are analyzed through two dimensions, brand strength and the role of branded retail as a sales channel.
Design/methodology/approach
A multiple case study approach is used to look at the international development of branded retail in four companies, LEGO, Nokia, Iittala and H & M.
Findings
This study finds that there are at least two approaches to implementing branded retail strategy internationally that can be and often are overlapping. Emphasis on branding appears to be important in both approaches. However, the role of the branded retail as a direct sales channel differs between the case companies. The paper discusses and demonstrates the importance and role of branded retail for companies not generally seen as retailers, from both sales and brand management perspectives.
Originality/value
The paper contributes by narrowing the evident research gap regarding this current and seemingly global phenomenon.
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The purpose of this paper is to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.
Design/methodology/approach
This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.
Findings
When LEGO, one of the world's largest toy manufacturers, decided it needed an outlet where it could show the whole brand experience and use it as a marketing platform, it launched its own brand stores. The company wanted to control its own destiny because the growing consolidation in retail in some markets (especially in the US) and resulting disappearance of small toy stores was putting pressure on the brand. Since giant retailers are increasingly in control of the selling situation and the way the brand is presented, LEGO wanted to gain direct relationships with the people using the company's products to learn more about them, their wants and needs.
Practical implications
Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.
Originality/value
The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.
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Abstract
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Roberto Casati, Gloria Origgi and Judith Simon
New technologies allow for efficient dissemination of scientific knowledge objects (SKOs). Yet they are likely to transform SKOs as well. The aim of this paper is to propose a way…
Abstract
Purpose
New technologies allow for efficient dissemination of scientific knowledge objects (SKOs). Yet they are likely to transform SKOs as well. The aim of this paper is to propose a way to structure SKOs that allows for both a clear individuation of the main scientific contributions and a fine‐grained structure of credits and evaluation.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors review and analyze existing practices of structuring SKOs in different disciplines.
Findings
Provisionally considering the published paper as an atomic SKO, possible subatomic structures of SKOs are investigated. It is hypothesized that SKOs are meant to satisfy two separated but interdependent sets of constraints, one related to the contribution the SKO makes to the body of knowledge, and another related to the contribution the SKO makes to the reputation of its authors. It is hypothesized that existing SKO structures are not optimal for satisfying both sets of constraints at once.
Research limitations/implications
A broader analysis may be needed that covers the totality of existing practices.
Practical implications
Guidelines are offered. This paper, including the present abstract, is an example of what the scientific paper of tomorrow could be like.
Social implications
The paper proposes better apportioning of scientific credits and evaluation; substantive evolution of the academic publishing and credit attribution models.
Originality/value
The idea that the communication and evaluation function of a SKO are differently reflected in their structure is novel. The proposed fine‐grained credit attribution system is novel. The molecular/atomic/sub‐atomic distinction is a new way to fix the terminology.
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Jodi Oakman and Timothy Bartram
The purpose of this paper is to examine whether occupational health and safety (OHS) management used to manage musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the aged care sector reflects…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine whether occupational health and safety (OHS) management used to manage musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the aged care sector reflects contemporary research evidence of best practice to reduce the incidence of these disorders.
Design/methodology/approach
In total, 58 interviews were conducted with managers and supervisors in the aged care sector across four organisations in Australia. Policies and procedures relating to MSDs were reviewed for each organisation.
Findings
Policies and procedures for managing MSDs do not reflect contemporary evidence, which supports a complex aetiology, related to a range of physical and psychosocial workplace factors. Despite strong evidence that psychosocial factors contribute to MSD development, these were not included in the policies and procedures reviewed. Findings from the interviews management practices including leadership and various components of HRM were functioning well but fragmentation was evident due to the challenging nature of the aged care sector.
Practical implications
To address the significant burden of MSDs in the aged care sector, policies and procedures need to include coverage of psychosocial and physical workplace factors. The development of systematic and integrated OHS management at the workplace level may play an important role in the effective management of MSDs.
Originality/value
This study offers insights into the previously unexplored area of MSD risk management and the role of management practices such as HRM in the aged care sector.