Search results

1 – 10 of 10
Per page
102050
Citations:
Loading...
Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 27 June 2008

Ronnie Cheung, Gang Yao, Jiannong Cao and Alvin Chan

Context‐aware mobile computing extends the horizons of the conventional computing model to a ubiquitous computing environment that serves users at anytime, anywhere. To achieve…

1476

Abstract

Purpose

Context‐aware mobile computing extends the horizons of the conventional computing model to a ubiquitous computing environment that serves users at anytime, anywhere. To achieve this, mobile applications need to adapt their behaviors to the changing context. The purpose of this paper is to present a generalized adaptive middleware infrastructure for context‐aware computing.

Design/methodology/approach

Owing to the vague nature of context and uncertainty in context aggregation for making adaptation decisions, the paper proposes a fuzzy‐based service adaptation model (FSAM) to improve the generality and effectiveness of service adaptation using fuzzy theory.

Findings

By the means of fuzzification of the context and measuring the fitness degree between the current context and the predefined optimal context, FSAM selects the most suitable policy to adopt for the most appropriate service. The paper evaluates the middleware together with the FSAM inference engine by using a Campus Assistant application.

Originality/value

The paper is of value in presenting a generalized adaptive middleware infrastructure for context‐aware computing and also comparing the performance of the fuzzy‐based solution with a conventional threshold‐based approach for context‐aware adaptation.

Details

International Journal of Pervasive Computing and Communications, vol. 4 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1742-7371

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 12 October 2012

Calvin Wan, Ronnie Cheung and Geoffrey Qiping Shen

This study investigates the recycling attitudes and behaviour of university students and staff members, and suggests ways to improve environmental policies and recycling…

8616

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigates the recycling attitudes and behaviour of university students and staff members, and suggests ways to improve environmental policies and recycling facilities in a university campus.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies the theory of planned behaviour, through which it develops an instrument to measure the determinants of recycling behaviour among the people in a university campus. A survey was designed and administered at a public university in Hong Kong; 205 valid responses from 179 students and 26 staff members were collected. A partial least squares approach was used to validate the proposed model. This model accounted for the 42.1 per cent and 50.3 per cent variance (R2) in behavioural intention and behaviour, respectively, vis‐à‐vis recycling activities.

Findings

The survey results suggested that behavioural intention with regard to recycling is influenced by attitude, the subjective norms, perceived behavioural control, awareness of consequences, the moral norms, and convenience. Educational and promotional programmes highlighting the benefits and importance of recycling activities and convenience of the recycling facilities can be adopted as the key strategies to encourage recycling on campus.

Research limitations/implications

The unique culture in relation to recycling in the specific campus environment and the nature of the sample might limit the generalisability of the results to other areas and contexts. The self‐report‐based measures adopted in this study might lead to a social desirability bias in the results provided by the respondents.

Originality/value

The findings provide insightful information for universities and the wider community to shape a more user‐friendly and convenient recycling scheme. This can fulfil the actors' social responsibility.

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 1 June 2006

Ronnie Chu Ting Cheung

To identify key success factors related to internet advertising, in the specific case of a portal directed at a teenage audience in Hong Kong; to derive a generally applicable…

7380

Abstract

Purpose

To identify key success factors related to internet advertising, in the specific case of a portal directed at a teenage audience in Hong Kong; to derive a generally applicable formula for measuring the effectiveness of internet advertising.

Design/methodology/approach

Proposes a framework for advertising effectiveness that includes traditional objective measures (click‐through rates), subjective measures applied by advertisers, and seasonality corrections. Derives a mathematical formula for measurement of effectiveness. Extracts components from ten banner advertising campaigns at one web site between January 2001 and May 2002, and analyses them by means of proprietary data‐mining rule‐induction software. Selects two rules form the several generated, on the basis of confidence levels.

Findings

Finds that, in the case example studied: small interactive games and free gifts deliver the highest brand impression after normalization of the banner click‐through rate; revenue is significantly affected by local cultural and seasonal factors; “media‐rich” design is an important factor in attracting the target audience to click on a banner. Notes the importance of countering the natural variability of click‐through rates, and proposes a variety of design add‐ons to stabilise them.

Research limitations/implications

The study relates to a very specific case example of internet advertising in one special administrative area of China. Caution is therefore indicated in applying the proposed model and formula or the related communication strategies more generally. Future research should investigate the conversion of muse‐clicks to sales.

Practical implications

Since, the cost to internet users of switching from one site to another is almost zero, competition for audiences is particularly severe, and planned marketing communication strategies essential to effective performance. In particular, continuing uncertainty about the cause‐effect link to sales threatens the revenue stream for firms that rely heavily on internet advertising. It is vital that such advertisers keep abreast of relevant research, such as the case study reported here.

Originality/value

The proposed formula for measurement of effectiveness is original in combining objective and subjective measures of effectiveness. The general principles underpinning strategic conclusions drawn in this particular situation could be selective applied by planners of internet advertising campaigns for other products and services to other target audiences.

Details

Marketing Intelligence & Planning, vol. 24 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-4503

Keywords

Available. Content available
Article
Publication date: 12 October 2012

Xiaoling Zhang

232

Abstract

Details

Facilities, vol. 30 no. 13/14
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-2772

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 9 December 2020

Ronnie Kritzinger and Daniël Johannes Petzer

The purpose of this paper is to examine specific gratifications obtained from using mobile instant messaging (MIM) applications by applying the uses and gratifications theory…

1284

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine specific gratifications obtained from using mobile instant messaging (MIM) applications by applying the uses and gratifications theory. This study explores the relationships between motivational factors, customer engagement and loyalty for existing WhatsApp subscribers in South Africa, as well as the moderating effect of application usage.

Design/methodology/approach

A descripto-explanatory research design was used in this quantitative study and 282 responses from an online survey were analysed. Structural equation modelling was used to test the study’s hypotheses.

Findings

The study reveals that utilitarian and hedonic motivation impact customer engagement positively in using WhatsApp, which, in turn, impacts loyalty. Social motivation in using WhatsApp bore no relationship with customer engagement. Furthermore, medium application usage moderates the link between customer engagement and utilitarian and hedonic motivation.

Research limitations/implications

The study offers a greater understanding of customer engagement and motivational factors in the MIM environment. Future studies could consider more complex relationships with customer engagement in using MIM apps focussed on a younger generation.

Practical implications

MIM service providers should enhance customer engagement by tracking user activity and identifying customers who need to use an app more by targeting their utilitarian and hedonic needs through sophisticated marketing strategies.

Originality/value

This research enriches the understanding of key motivational factors impacting customers’ continued engagement towards using MIM, as opposed to the adoption thereof.

Details

European Business Review, vol. 33 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-534X

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Book part
Publication date: 23 May 2024

Jitendra Singh Rathore and Neha Goyal

Today the research area on technology acceptance is mainly dependent on the theory of technology acceptance model (TAM). The TAM was used in this study primarily for the purpose…

Abstract

Today the research area on technology acceptance is mainly dependent on the theory of technology acceptance model (TAM). The TAM was used in this study primarily for the purpose of providing a basis for determining the impact of various external variables on the adoption of edtech platforms. The TAM is a theory of information systems that suggests steps for learners to take as they adopt and use new technologies. The primary TAM variables for adoption of edtech platforms are evaluated in this study: perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) by using the factors – perceived enjoyment (PE), information quality, electronic-word of mouth (e-WOM), perceived compatibility, computer self-efficacy and objective usability. By analyzing and defining the relationship between the external variables with respect to the adoption of edtech platform among students, we hope to contextualize the TAM model. The end result provides a clearer understanding of TAM and its growth as a useful model for technology adoption studies and for clarifying the relationship between the uptake of edtech platforms and technological acceptability. The study employed a qualitative methodology and selected publications and research papers about the adoption of technology. These were then carefully assessed, analyzed and scrutinized for the terms of how students adopted edtech platforms. It was proposed that the adoption of an edtech platform may result from proper training in technology usage and its application to real-world scenarios.

Details

Navigating the Digital Landscape
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83549-272-7

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 5 December 2017

Emma Corder and Linda Ronnie

Although private health care is regarded as providing a premium quality experience for both patients and staff alike, it is not without its daily challenges for health…

1930

Abstract

Purpose

Although private health care is regarded as providing a premium quality experience for both patients and staff alike, it is not without its daily challenges for health professionals. This study aims to explore the psychological contract of nurses to develop a greater understanding of how employee–employer interaction impacts motivation levels.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with thirteen nurses at a private hospital in South Africa. Five nursing managers were interviewed to provide a management perspective. Thematic analysis was used to identify the salient elements of the psychological contract and to establish connections with motivational features.

Findings

The psychological contract of nurses was balanced in nature, contained predominantly relational elements and was characterized by the need for manager support, leadership and autonomy. Motivation was a by-product of fulfilment and was enhanced by a combination of tangible and intangible rewards.

Practical implications

Nursing managers should recognize their role in caring for the wellbeing of their staff and should be trained accordingly. Equipping nurses with the necessary tools to work autonomously, as well as acknowledging their skills, will stimulate confidence and improve motivation.

Originality/value

This study makes an important contribution to the existing literature on the psychological contract of nurses within the health-care system. It provides insight into relationship-based mechanisms that can be used to improve the motivation of nurses and thus impact the overall quality of patient care.

Details

Leadership in Health Services, vol. 31 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1751-1879

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 30 September 2022

Saba Gulzar, Kanwal Hussain, Ather Akhlaq, Zuhair Abbas and Shagufta Ghauri

Recent advancements in the field of organizational psychology have transformed the employees’ perceptions related to the reactions of the employment relationship. The main aim of…

803

Abstract

Purpose

Recent advancements in the field of organizational psychology have transformed the employees’ perceptions related to the reactions of the employment relationship. The main aim of the study is to explore the consequences of psychological contracts among the nursing staff and how to provide better patient care and quality service in the health-care system as nurses play a pivotal role in the context of Pakistan. Significantly, this study attempts to bridge the research gap by exploring consequences of psychological contracts. Drawing on the social exchange theory, this study examined the psychological contracts of nurses and their reactions to the perceived violation.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopted a qualitative method and was based on an exploratory approach. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews from 21 nurses working in public, private and charity hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan. The thematic content analysis is employed for the analysis of data by using NVivo software.

Findings

The study identified the relational and transactional elements related to the psychological contract of nurses who predominantly consisted of supervisor support, autonomy, tangible/intangible rewards and trust. The intrinsic motivation which relates to their devotion to work was found as an additional element to balance their psychological contract. This research also establishes that the psychological contract of nurses is being violated in their work settings.

Practical implications

By highlighting the importance of psychological contract breach, the findings demonstrate that health-care institutions should take measures to cope with psychological contract breach issues at the workplace.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the body of knowledge by exploring psychological contract breach. Substantially, there are rare studies conducted on psychological contract breach among nurses in developing country context (Pakistan). However, this study adds to the previous studies related to the psychological contract of nurses in the context of Pakistan by using social exchange theories. Finally, this study enables the management of healthcare to balance the psychological contract issues effectively.

Details

Asia-Pacific Journal of Business Administration, vol. 16 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-4323

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 1 February 1982

Wilfrid Snape, Ruth Thompson, Alan Duckworth, David Reid and Wilfred Ashworth

IN LESS than sixteen years time—on June 30 1997 to be precise—the lease on Kowloon beyond Boundary Street, and on the New Territories, will, according to British Law, expire…

26

Abstract

IN LESS than sixteen years time—on June 30 1997 to be precise—the lease on Kowloon beyond Boundary Street, and on the New Territories, will, according to British Law, expire. Naturally Hong Kong is concerned as the Peking Lease nears its end. Writing in the Daily telegraph on September 28 1981 Graham Earnshaw commented that China ‘obviously wants to keep Hong Kong as it is for at least the immediate future because of its immense economic value, and that is the main thread of hope that Hong Kong people keep returning to when discussing the future’. Kevin Rafferty concluded a lead article ‘The first city in Asia’ in the Financial times special supplement on Hong Kong (June 15 1981)—‘China and Hong Kong are two different worlds and it will take a lot of effort and patience to bring them together’. David Bonavia writing in the Times on October 3 1981 sees in China's recent ‘seemingly generous offer to Taiwan of easy terms for a political reunion’, ‘the true way to a possible solution for the eventual re‐absorption of Hong Kong into the People's Republic’.

Details

New Library World, vol. 83 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0307-4803

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 31 July 2023

Fazeelath Tabassum and Nitu Ghosh

This paper aims to explore the role of retention strategies and psychological contract (PC) factors in private hospitals.

540

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the role of retention strategies and psychological contract (PC) factors in private hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study is an empirical research. The study was conducted by receiving responses from a sample size of 190 respondents who participated in the Doctors and Nurses’ survey.

Findings

The study results show the relationship between PC and the retention strategies of employees in hospitals. The research found that employees try to be committed to the hospital due to the image of the hospital and career development opportunities. Creating a sense of commitment among the employees towards their job and organisation, making to feel pride in the job, creating an attitude among the employees, a willingness to advocate the benefits and advantages and satisfaction among the employee towards the job and organisation.

Research limitations/implications

With a population of more than one million employees (Doctors and Nurses) in the Indian health-care sector, the sample needs to be more adequate. However, these limitations present scope for future studies on this topic bearing on the aspiration for generalisation of the findings on the entire population.

Practical implications

The study has strong practical implications in strengthening the relationships by identifying the factors of PC and influencing the retention strategies of health-care professionals in the hospital.

Originality/value

This research explores the changing dynamics of the Indian health-care sector. Health-care professionals may perceive and react differently to the retention strategies and policies of the HR system in the health-care sector and have more expectations of PC fulfilment that enhance their capability to use professional skills and resources in the realisation of their organisational goals.

Details

Industrial and Commercial Training, vol. 55 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0019-7858

Keywords

1 – 10 of 10
Per page
102050