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Article
Publication date: 5 February 2018

Hsi-Yin Yeh, Chi-Wei Lo, Kai-Shing Chang and Ssu-Han Chen

This study aims to propose a visualized model of hot technology evolution to describe its development.

244

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to propose a visualized model of hot technology evolution to describe its development.

Design/methodology/approach

The basic concept is to divide a technological field into a timeline consisting of several patent clusters. Hot technology trajectories are then explored using their continuity, as well as the point in time at which they occur.

Findings

Patents in orthopaedics between 1999 and 2014 have been chosen as the research subjects and the field is divided into several hot technology trajectories. A further step is taken by interpreting high-frequency key terms. Three categories – spine-related materials, bone repairing materials and bone plates – have been identified.

Practical implications

The trajectories presented by evolving diagrams allow readers to understand the evolution of hot technology and help analysts to plan layout and strategies to remain competitive.

Originality/value

Patent clusters reflect the knowledge context of technology development. Previous studies have focused on only new technology evolution and have rarely explored the knowledge context of hot patents that have been frequently cited in recent years. Such patents often guide the development of technology.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 36 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

Available. Content available
Article
Publication date: 15 June 2017

Hsiu-Fen Lin and Kai-Lin Chang

The purpose of this paper is to develop an evaluation model to determine the relative weights of key factors influencing international market development (IMD) success through…

15892

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop an evaluation model to determine the relative weights of key factors influencing international market development (IMD) success through analysis network process (ANP) during group decision-making. An empirical case of the Taiwan bulk shipping industry is used to illustrate the feasibility of the proposed approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature review is performed to generate 20 key success factors (KSFs) along with four factor categories in IMD (such as organizational capability, environmental scanning, international strategy and internationalization behavior). Then, ANP is applied to develop an evaluation model that prioritizes the relative importance linking the above four factor categories with 20 evaluated KSFs.

Findings

With respect to the final weights for factor categories, “international strategy” and “environmental scanning” are the two most important criteria, followed by “organizational capability” and “internationalization behavior”. The results also showed that by reviewing the global weights of the 20 KSFs of IMD, “service as competitive advantage”, “market potential” and “risk taking” have the highest rankings.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that firm expansion into international markets typically depends on a successful international strategy. Hence, to enhance their global market competitiveness, Taiwan bulk shipping firms should focus their efforts on planning international market entry strategy and prioritizing shipping services with high-potential target markets.

Originality/value

Theoretically, the study results can provide both theoretical basis and empirical evidence, indicating the relative weights and priorities of KSFs of IMD for the Taiwan bulk shipping industry. From the managerial perspective, the analytical results can help managers focus on main factors and identify the best policy to improve their IMD practice and performance.

Details

Maritime Business Review, vol. 2 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2397-3757

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Article
Publication date: 13 November 2020

Xiao-Yu Xu, Syed Muhammad Usman Tayyab, Fang-Kai Chang and Kai Zhao

This study elicits the critical attributes, consequences and values associated with the purchasing process in the context of cross-border e-commerce (CBEC). The purpose is to…

1444

Abstract

Purpose

This study elicits the critical attributes, consequences and values associated with the purchasing process in the context of cross-border e-commerce (CBEC). The purpose is to provide a better understanding of the fundamental factors that determine consumer values in CBEC.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies the means-end-chain theory and soft-laddering techniques to interview 60 CBEC consumers to construct an implication matrix and a hierarchical value map (HVM) of the consumer purchasing process, consisting of attribute-consequence-value (A-C-V) paths.

Findings

By analyzing the significant linkages, elements, ladders and chains in the HVM, four dominant A-C-V paths were identified: economic-driven, efficiency-driven, progress-driven and quality-driven paths.

Research limitations/implications

This study included only Chinese CBEC buyers. This limitation might affect the generalizability of the conclusions as culture, purchase habits and economic development differ between China and other countries.

Practical implications

The results of this study provide CBEC practitioners an understanding of the consumer purchasing process and how consumer values are associated with platform characteristics. Thus, the results aid practitioners in allocating resources and developing CBEC platforms in an appropriate manner and direction.

Originality/value

This study sheds lights on the emerging phenomenon of CBEC. By applying the means-end-chain approach, the study provides a comprehensive HVM for interpreting the consumer online purchasing process in this novel context. By illustrating the dominant paths, this research provides deeper theoretical insights into the specific focuses of CBEC consumer purchasing.

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Article
Publication date: 8 June 2021

Yan Gao, Kai Chang, Xuguang Xing, Jiaping Liang, Nian He and Xiaoyi Ma

Traditional laboratory measurements of soil water diffusivity (D) and soil water retention curve (SWRC) are always time-consuming and labor-intensive. Therefore, this paper aims…

168

Abstract

Purpose

Traditional laboratory measurements of soil water diffusivity (D) and soil water retention curve (SWRC) are always time-consuming and labor-intensive. Therefore, this paper aims to present a simple and robust test method for determining D and SWRC without reducing accuracy.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a D model of unsaturated soil was established based on Gardner–Russo model and then a combination of Gardner–Russo model with one-dimensional horizontal absorption method to obtain n and a parameters of Gardner–Russo model. One-dimensional horizontal absorption experiments on loam, silt loam and sandy clay loam were conducted to obtain the relationships between measured infiltration rate and cumulative infiltration with wetting front distance. Based on the obtained relationships, the measured infiltration data from the one-dimensional horizontal absorption tests were used to calculate n and a parameters and further constructing D and SWRC.

Findings

Both the calculated D and SWRC inversed from the infiltration data were in good agreement with the measured ones that obtained from the traditional horizontal absorption method and the centrifuge method, respectively. Error analysis indicated that only the infiltration data are enough to reliably synchronously determine D and SWRC.

Originality/value

A simple and robust method is proposed for synchronous determination of soil water diffusivity and water retention curve.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 39 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

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Article
Publication date: 29 April 2022

Junwei Zheng, Yu Gu, Lan Luo, Yunhua Zhang, Hongtao Xie and Kai Chang

Project complexity is a critical issue that has increasingly attracted attention in both academic and practical circles. However, there are still many gaps in the research on…

924

Abstract

Purpose

Project complexity is a critical issue that has increasingly attracted attention in both academic and practical circles. However, there are still many gaps in the research on project complexity, such as the differentiated conceptualization of complexity and disjointed operationalization in the measurements. Therefore, this paper aims to conduct a systematic and detailed literature review on the concept, dimensions, assessment, and underlying mechanisms of project complexity.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review methodology was applied to search and synthesize the research on project complexity, and a final sample of 74 journal articles was identified.

Findings

This study first summarizes the concepts of project complexity from three different theoretical perspectives, and then identifies different approaches of measurement, evaluation, or simulation to assess project complexity. This paper finally establishes an integrative framework to synthesize the antecedents, mediators and moderators, and outcomes of project complexity, generating four suggestions for future research.

Originality/value

This study summarizes the definition and operationalization of project complexity to reduce the discrepancies in the existing research and offers an integrative framework to offer a broad overview of the current understanding of project complexity, providing a potential way forward for addressing project complexity.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 30 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Available. Open Access. Open Access
Article
Publication date: 9 August 2023

Xin (Robert) Luo and Fang-Kai Chang

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate that Strategic Enterprise Management (SEM) and Business Intelligence (BI) have the potential to integrate management decisions…

785

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate that Strategic Enterprise Management (SEM) and Business Intelligence (BI) have the potential to integrate management decisions vertically through an organization’s hierarchy. This study also aims to present a design theory framework and build a model dimension using eight principles serving as mid-range theories.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a design science perspective to posit how organizations can successfully implement SEMBI (a union of SEM and BI). This study then completes the design theory by building the method dimension using two principles. Finally, the study presents testable hypotheses for the theory and an evaluation using stakeholder attitudes and judgments as proxies for objective measures.

Findings

In the search for a prescription for SEMBI success, this study finds that the notion of the Capability Maturity Model (CMM) is a good artifact with which to organize the principles the authors are seeking. CMM has since been adapted to suit different contexts by incorporating relevant principles from those domains. Hereafter, this study refers to SEMBI–CMM as the adapted solution for SEMBI's success.

Originality/value

This study coins and uses the term SEMBI to represent the union of SEM and BI. This term retains its distinct identities and principles and forms a holistic and integrated view of SEM and BI implementation strategies. In an effort to advance this line of research, this study employs a design science perspective to address the question of how an organization can successfully implement SEMBI.

Details

Journal of Electronic Business & Digital Economics, vol. 2 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2754-4214

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 18 March 2019

Ruey-Ching Lin, Tsung-Kang Chen, Yi-Jie Tseng and Chih-Kai Chang

The purpose of this study is to explore whether pension plan reporting readability affects earnings volatility. Moreover, as SFAS 158 requires firms to fully recognize their…

328

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore whether pension plan reporting readability affects earnings volatility. Moreover, as SFAS 158 requires firms to fully recognize their funded status on the balance sheet, the firms’ pension liabilities (inside debts) and financing ability have the corresponding change. This study further investigates whether pension plan reporting readability affects earnings volatility from the SFAS 158 and funded status perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

This study follows Li (2008), Lehavy et al. (2011) and Rennekamp (2012) to use the FOG and SMOG variables as the readability proxies and investigates whether pension plan reporting readability affects earnings volatility from the perspectives of inside debts and SFAS 158 by using a sample of 3,077 American firms from the year 2006 to 2009.

Findings

Empirical results of this study show that firms with low readability of pension plan reporting have high earnings volatility, revealing that less readable pension plan reporting increases the assessed variance of a firm’s inside debts, financing flexibility, investment ability and therefore profitability. In addition, the implement of SFAS 158 enhances the effect of pension plan reporting readability on earnings volatility. Moreover, the authors also find that the funded status plays a moderating role for the effect of pension plan reporting readability on earnings volatility. Finally, the results are robust to endogeneity issue.

Research limitations/implications

Earnings stability measures how consistently earnings have been generated over time, and its importance has been acknowledged by most firms. For example, prior literature has documented that manipulating financial reporting to smooth earnings is becoming a business common practice (Burgstahler et al., 2006; Liu and Espahbodi, 2014). The empirical results suggest that pension plan reporting readability is a significant determinant of earnings volatility.

Practical implications

As a practical implication, this study points out that manipulations of the pension reporting readability are not costless. It incurs the costs of earnings instability.

Social implications

This study indicates that the issuance of SFAS 158 makes firms more likely to engage in pension plan readability manipulation. As a result, it has policy implication that the regulator should consider how the policy change alters the firm financial reporting behavior.

Originality/value

The empirical results suggest that firms may be more likely to engage in obfuscating pension plan disclosure after FASB’s issuance of SFAS 158. This would further increase outside investors’ assessed variance for inside debts and earnings volatilities. When policymakers require firms to recognize their funded status in statement of financial position, they should consider the costs or benefits that the firm manager face and, therefore, how this policy change alter the firm financial reporting behavior.

Details

Pacific Accounting Review, vol. 31 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0114-0582

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 4 December 2018

Seong Kang, Dhanakorn Mulaphong, Eunjin Hwang and Chih-Kai Chang

Mounting fiscal constraints and increasing complexity of public services have led governments to search for alternative service delivery mechanisms. The public–private partnership…

3079

Abstract

Purpose

Mounting fiscal constraints and increasing complexity of public services have led governments to search for alternative service delivery mechanisms. The public–private partnership (PPP) is one type of service arrangement in which the public and private sectors enter into a long-term cooperative relationship for the purpose of delivering a public good or service. Despite increasing private sector participation in developing nations, there is a need for more systematic assessment of PPPs in such countries. The purpose of this paper is to explore the factors that affect the adoption and implementation of projects in the context of developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple case holistic design is employed to analyze 19 select projects across several developing countries to identify and pool clusters of variables that facilitate or impede PPPs.

Findings

The results indicate five broad categories of political, economic, legislative, financial and management requisites.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation of this research is that the cases were not selected at random. However, the projects are spread across several areas such as public health, public utilities, public works, transportation and water/wastewater infrastructure in different countries. This allows the authors to examine how the common factors apply across different contextual settings.

Originality/value

This paper seeks to contribute to the literature by examining several developing countries to identify and pool clusters of variables that facilitate or impede the effective implementation of PPP projects in the context of such regions.

Details

International Journal of Public Sector Management, vol. 32 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0951-3558

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 2 January 2020

Chun-Hua Hsiao, Jung Jung Chang, Pi-Chu Wu and Kai-Yu Tang

The purpose of this paper is to propose an innovative service model regarding the public library’s pilot project in Taiwan – Borrowing Books from Convenience Stores (BBCS). The…

493

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose an innovative service model regarding the public library’s pilot project in Taiwan – Borrowing Books from Convenience Stores (BBCS). The proposed model presents a comprehensive evaluation of patrons to enhance readers’ intention to adopt this innovative library service.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the users of the public library and convenience stores in Taiwan. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data.

Findings

The main findings of this study make both theoretical and practical contributions. First, this study explores the library’s extending service to convenience stores, and proposes an integrated BBCS model for the library’s innovative service. Second, the identification of influential factors, such as control influence, social interaction and perceived values of convenience, contributes to a marketing strategy for this innovative service offered by the library. Third, gender differences in some relationships of influential factors on BBCS use intention were identified.

Originality/value

Although many studies have investigated the adoption of self-service technology, this paper is the very first attempt to explore the use of the innovative library service in convenience stores. Based on several theories, an integrated model for users’ intention to use BBCS is proposed in this study. The authors also recommend various gender-specific strategies of BBCS service.

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Article
Publication date: 1 June 1986

Li‐teh Sun

Among developing countries, the Republic of China in Taiwan (hereinafter Taiwan) has been experiencing economic growth accompanied by improving income distribution. Between 1964…

263

Abstract

Among developing countries, the Republic of China in Taiwan (hereinafter Taiwan) has been experiencing economic growth accompanied by improving income distribution. Between 1964 and 1980, the average annual growth rate of the real gross national product was 9.92 per cent (Council for Economic Planning and Development (CEPD), 1982, p. 23). In the same period, the income ratio between the top 20 per cent and the bottom 20 per cent of families dropped from 5.33 to 4.17 and the Gini coefficient decreased from 0.36 to 0.30 (CEPD, 1982, p. 54; Directorate‐General of Budget Accounting and Statistics, 1980, (DGBAS), p. 44). To put it somewhat dif‐ferently, in 1964 the lowest fifth of households received 7.71 per cent of total personal income, and the highest fifth 41.07 per cent. But in 1980, the income share of the lowest fifth increased to 8.82 per cent while that of the highest fifth decreased to 36.80 per cent. The condition of greater equality in income distribution appears more obvious in the capital city of Taipei. In 1981, for instance, its Gini coefficient was estimated to be only 0.28 (Taipei Bureau of Budget, Accounting and Statistics, 1981, (TBBAS), P. 24).

Details

International Journal of Social Economics, vol. 13 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0306-8293

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