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The article presents a study which explored bibliometric research quality assessment exercises' impact on academic development during specialist inter-disciplinary and small conferences in Australia. The study described the experiences of conference organizers, academics, and researchers. Results suggest the need for the scientific committees and conference organizers to consider various strategies for maximising conference papers' bibliometric impact like the development of alliances between peer-reviewed journals. Meanwhile, it mentions the importance of the study to the conference participants and organizers who are adapting the bibliometrics culture.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to review the literature on the response and adaption to change of allied health professionals. Understanding how individuals respond and adapt to change is essential to assist leaders to manage transformational change effectively. Contemporary health-care environments are characterised by frequent and rapid change, often with unrealistic and challenging time frames. Individuals operate independently, but also as members of teams, professions and organisations. Therefore, having a sound understanding of individual response to change is important for change leaders. In the Australian context, allied health professionals represent a quarter of the health-care workforce. There is a significant gap in understanding how allied health professionals respond and adapt to change. Design/methodology/approach: A scoping review was designed to report on the nature and extent of the literature on the response and adaption to change in the context of allied health professionals. Change leaders in the health-care environment face a number of complex challenges when attempting to facilitate change. While this scoping review did not identify any specific literature on the response and adaption to change of allied health professionals, it did however provide information on change models and factors to take into consideration when implementing a change process. Findings: The results of this scoping review identified findings in two main areas with regard to response and adaptation of allied health to change: a review of change management literature at the organisation level and change management for allied health. Most of the literature described organisational level change management without providing a structural framework for change. At the professional individual level, the literature focused on specific clinical interventions, rather than on the response and adaption to change for allied health. Minimal literature was identified in regard to the response and adaption to change of allied health professionals. In an environment characterised by continuous change and policy reform, a greater understanding of the response and adaption to change by allied health is a priority for research, policy and practice. Research limitations/implications: This scoping review was undertaken to explore the response and adaption to change of allied health. It sought to identify the factors that may explain why certain disciplines within the allied health professional group responded to change differently. Scoping reviews do not set out to comprehensively source all relevant literature but rather to ascertain the nature and extent of the published literature in the field. Therefore, it is possible that a systematic review might uncover additional relevant papers. However, this scoping review provides a clear indication of the nature and extent of the literature in allied health. Practical implications: Social implications: This scoping review will assist change leaders to gain a better understanding of theoretical frameworks of individual, team and organisational change processes and the impacts these have individually and collectively on change processes. Originality/value: To the best of the authors' knowledge, this scoping review is the first of its kind to identify the minimal literature available on the way allied health professionals respond and adapt to change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to review the use of various construction procurement systems in the past and present, specifically within the Australian construction industry and to overview the historical development of procurement both globally and in the Australian context through the existing literature.Design/methodology/approach The paper is an in-depth literature review of various construction procurement systems used in the past and present, both in general and within the context of Australian construction industry.Findings The findings suggest that even though relationship-based procurement (RBP) systems offer significant benefits to all project participants, they are unproved by many decision makers because of lack of robust theoretical concept and inability in demonstrating value for money (VfM) for public projects, which would be one of the factors causing move away from RBP in the future.Originality/value This review is one of its kind. There is no such review done before within the context of Australian construction industry in such a detail. This review is a part of a recently completed PhD study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the non-financial causes of organizational success or failure, provide a better understanding of the symptoms of financial distress and improve the predictive capacity of financial failure models. Design/methodology/approach – The paper utilizes exploratory case studies in investigating the relationship of non-financial factors to organizational success or failure across a sample of sector-specific Australian firms listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. A two-tailed study was designed, in which seven cases from both extremes were chosen from three Australian business sectors: finance, property and manufacturing. Findings – Non-financial factors associated with the organizations studied impacted their success or failure. These factors included management skill, experience and involvement in organizational strategy, feedback and resultant activity, together with board of director composition. The identification of financial and non-financial factors and sound internal processes could be utilized for the development of an early warning predictor of organizational success or failure. Research limitations/implications – The use of this method is very time-consuming but is highly valuable in case study research, providing a more in-depth understanding of how non-financial factors impact organizational success or failure. Practical implications – The research will provide a better understanding of the symptoms of financial distress and improve the predictive capacity of financial failure models. The improvement in prediction of organizational failure will reduce the costs of failure to all areas affected, from the large corporation to the small business. The inter-connectivity of all businesses to each other often results in a knock-on effect of failure with the cost being borne by all members of the community in some manner. The level of social impact and cost of failure can only be seen by the enormous costs of the Global Financial Crisis failures. Originality/value – This paper contributes to the literature on effective qualitative research and explores important areas of consideration for those conducting qualitative multiple-case studies. It is intended to be of use to researchers investigating the area of predictors of organizational failure or success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore behavioural factors which are perceived to influence corrupt action in the Australian construction industry. Design/methodology/approach – The paper draw on Rabl and Kühlmann’s Model of a corrupt action and the results of face-to-face interviews with 23 people working in the Australian construction industry. Findings – The results suggest that corruption is ambiguously defined yet perceived to be very common and primarily associated with personal gain rather than breaking the law. The main forms of corruption were identified as kickbacks, fraud and bribery and this behaviour is perceived to be driven by high goal feasibility, by conducive attitudes and supportive subjective norms and by high perceived behavioural control over being caught. Research limitations/implications – The research is based on a relatively small sample of 23 respondents and the use of snowball sampling may have meant that the respondents would tend to present a particular view of the industry. It is also important to point out that this research took place within a highly politicised environment coinciding the with launch of the third Royal Commission into corruption in the construction industry and is based on the respondent’s perceptions of corruption rather than incontrovertible evidence of corruption in practice. Nevertheless, given the care the authors took to avoid these biases, it does provide a useful window in the incidence and types of corruption in construction and the behavioural factors that might influence it. Practical implications – In terms of tackling corruption, it is recommended that greater attention be given to exploring the culture of the industry which appears to normalise corrupt behaviour and to the hidden informal “institutions” which appear to be undermining the many formal policies and procedures which have been put in place to tackle corruption in the construction industry. Social implications – The global construction industry has been identified by Transparency International as the most bribery-prone of 19 industries it rated. The cost is huge with scarce resources being diverted from much needed urban regeneration, community concerns about development being ignored, individual human rights being abused, productivity and efficiency being compromised and important environments, cultures and heritage being destroyed. In Australia, concerns about corruption in the construction industry have led to an unprecedented three Royal Commissions which have argued that there is a culture which encourages, accepts and rewards this behaviour. Originality/value – By using Rabl and Kühlmann’s Theory of a corrupt action this paper throws new light on how corruption is defined by members of the construction industry. The findings suggest that while formal technical and procedural solutions to corruption are important in addressing corruption they are likely to be undermined by strong cultures and informal institutions which dictate the “rules of the game” on the ground. There is a clear need to better understand how these informal institutions work to constrain formal rules devised to bring about reform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – Australia has been a leader in public sector performance management for around three decades yet there have been persistent weaknesses in the quality and use of performance information since the system was established. This paper seeks to identify and explain the key factors affecting the success of Australia's public sector performance management system. Design/methodology/approach – The study distils six key influences on public sector performance management from academic and practitioner literature. It examines the data available from official documents, reviews and performance audits to identify and analyse the factors that have shaped the Australian system. Findings – Australia's public sector performance management arrangements have been defined by strong external (political), structural and technical factors. These have been a very positive feature in achieving a stable and sophisticated system. This paper suggests that more emphasis on management, behavioural and cultural factors could be more beneficial than continuing to focus on purely technical refinements for further reform. Practical implications – The results can contribute to refinement of policy and implementation in Australia. The diagnostic framework can be used for further analysis of public sector performance management in Australia or other countries. Originality/value – The study draws on existing literature and information on the quality and impact of public sector performance management to develop a diagnostic framework and analyse Australia's experience. It identifies key attributes of Australia's success and factors that may be limiting further improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to develop a General Systems Theory (GST) risk management framework and conducts a preliminary investigation into its potential benefits. Design/methodology/approach - A risk management framework with four domains is developed by applying GST to property. Risk management in five listed Australian Real Estate Investment Trusts (A-REITs) is benchmarked against the GST ideal using public web-sites information. A-REIT volatility-adjusted returns are calculated using Treynor ratios for the year to May 2010. The link between risk management score and entity performance is then investigated. Findings - The GST framework directs attention to risks involving surveillance, capacity and controls. However, as predicted by the Efficient Market Hypothesis (EMH), the study found no link between assessed risk management and volatility-moderated annual returns to May 2010. Research limitations/implications - The risk scoring was predicated on publicly available data, with limited analysis of financial statements. The sample size was restricted. Practical implications - Successful entities are well governed, focused and innovative. Robust finances allow exploitation of emerging opportunity when business conditions become favourable. Planning and environmental management capabilities are essential. Originality/value - The paper makes conceptual and practical contributions. Conceptually, it develops a GST risk management framework. Practically, albeit for a handful of entities, the paper illustrates how the GST approach to risk management could be effectively deployed. The paper also outlines a pathway for more refined risk management research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to consider the supply of audit firm industry specialisation in the market for statutory audits of publicly traded companies in Australia. The purpose of this study is to seek to gain a better understanding of the dynamics within the market for industry specialist audit services. Design/methodology/approach - A structured interview process is used to investigate certain issues with the suppliers of industry specialist audit services (in this case all the then Big 5). Findings - This paper found that industry specialisation involves the Big 5 audit firms developing a specialised knowledge of what clients do within any given industry and the issues and audit risks they face. The Big 5 have industry "focus" groups that are responsible for providing `leading edge" practices to their clients. According to many of the auditor interview respondents, the large number of Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) classifications has meant that audit firms have sought a more manageable means of partitioning their practices into different industry focus groups. The ASX classifications were described by some of those interviewed as being irrelevant. This raises questions regarding prior auditor industry specialisation research that has relied on these classifications. Research limitations/implications - The study does suffer from two limitations. First, the research only questioned the Big 5 firms, despite evidence that non-Big 5 firms can create specialisatidns. Second, the study's data is relatively dated being collected in the late 1990s, so there is a possibility the findings may now be out of date, particularly given as indicated before, specialisation premiums are not generalisable across time. Originality/value - The paper demonstrates the criticality of the relationship between audit market participants in developing an underlying framework that can universally explain the interactions that occur in the market for specialised audits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to export the role of professional bodies within the property industry in Australia in bringing about gender equality. In particular the policy objectives of the various professional bodies is analysed and contrasted with the level of genres equality demonstrated within the governance structures of the organisations at national and regional level. Design/methodology/approach – The paper analyses the annual reports of the leading property professional bodies in Australia to identify any gender equity policy objectives and to identify the balance between male and female representation in the governing boards of the associations. Findings – The research shows that while a few organisations have made some statements regarding the need for change to a more inclusive property industry these objectives are not reflected within the governance structure of the organisations. It is therefore evident that significant attitudinal and structural change will be required to bring about equality within the property industry. Research limitations/implications – The research is limited to the Australian property and construction industry and the relevant boards at national and state level. Practical implications – The paper highlights the need to address gender inequality at the senior management level within the professional associations that govern the property profession. The professional associations are uniquely placed to show leadership in promoting gender equality and should be adopting policy within the organisations charter to being about a shift in attitudes to women within management roles in the property industry. Social implications – The issue of gender equity is highly topical and this paper adds to the research in this area. It highlights the important role that professional associations could take in bringing about change, but reveals that many professional bodies have a worse gender balance at the governance level than many of their member firms. Originality/value – The paper is the first to analyse the gender mix within the professional bodies in Australia which govern and advise the property and construction industries. As such it reveals that little progress has been made in bringing about gender equality in the profession. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to analyse existing clinical supervision frameworks to develop a supervision meta-model. Design/methodology/approach – This research involved a thematic analysis of existing supervision frameworks used to support allied health practitioners working in rural or remote settings in Australia to identify key domains of supervision which could form the basis of supervision framework in this context. A three-tiered sampling approach of the selection of supervision frameworks ensured the direct relevance of the final domains identified to Australian rural allied health practitioners, allied health practitioners generally and to the wider area of health supervision. Thematic analysis was undertaken by Framework analysis methodology using Mindmapping software. The results were organised into a new conceptual model which places the practitioner at the centre of supervision. Findings – The review included 17 supervision frameworks, encompassing 13 domains of supervision: definitions; purpose and function; supervision models; contexts; content; Modes of engagement; Supervisor attributes; supervisory relationships; supervisor responsibilities; supervisee responsibilities; structures/process for supervision and support; facilitators and barriers; outcomes. The authors developed a reflective, supervision and support framework “Connecting Practice” that is practitioner centred, recognises the tacit and explicit knowledge that staff bring to the relationship, and enables them to identify their own goals and support networks within the context in which they work. Research limitations/implications – This is a thematic analysis of the literature which was argely based on an analysis of grey literature. Practical implications – The resulting core domains of supervision provide an evidence-based foundation for the development of clinical supervision models which can be adapted to a range of contexts. Social implications – An outcome of this paper is a framework called Connecting Practice which organises the domains of supervision in a temporal way, separating those domains that can be modified to improve the supervision framework, from those which are less easily modifiable. This approach is important to help embed the implementation of supervision and support into organisational practice. This paper adds to the existing growing body of work around supervision by helping understand the domains or components that make up the supervisory experience. Originality/value – Connecting Practice replaces traditional, more hierarchical models of supervision to put the practitioner at the centre of a personalised supervision and support network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to identify possible agents and levers to trigger the development and implementation of work place health promotion programs (WHPPs) in the Australian construction industry. Unlike most large workplaces and most high-risk workplaces, these programs are rarely found in the construction sector.Design/methodology/approach Qualitative interviews with 80 trades workers and site-based and off-site construction managers are used to reveal perceptions of the impact of WHPPs and ill-health and poor health behaviors on site activities with a view to identifying leverage points to introduce WHPPs in construction.Findings Unhealthy lifestyle behaviors are seen as impacting on sites in three main ways: productivity (broadly defined), safety and interpersonal relations. Results also reveal specific roles and levers for different actors in the supply chain and a clear desire for a collective, industry-based response to identified health problems.Practical implications High levels of chronic diseases in the construction industry means firms within the sector must make a concerted attempt to change patterns of behavior or face significant long-term health implications for their workforce. Reducing levels of health and longevity of the workforce, mean work performance, productivity and participation is likely to decline.Originality/value Although construction workers are recognized as one of the workforces at most risk for life limiting diseases such as Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, relatively little work has investigated health and well-being considerations for construction workers. This study contributes by investigating possible levers and agents to create healthier workplaces in construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the workforce development issues that arose in the course of an Australian repeat pilot study. The aim of the pilot study was to introduce, within a different setting, a planned approach to the assessment of, and interventions in, emotional states of service users that may lead to episodes of behavioural disturbance within psychiatric units. The pilot study necessitated training of staff in the use of an assessment tool. During the course of the study, a novel element was encountered with regard to staff understanding of service user involvement in treatment. This element, presented here as 'integral self-intervention', emerged in conjunction with the development of two wall charts: an acute arousal management process chart for staff, and a patient safety chart for service users. The paper will outline the collaborative process towards the partial realisation of this element of integral self-intervention, and associated workforce development issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to consider the impact of a major initiative (the National Competition Policy) and pieces of legislation (the Local Government Act and the Local Government Finance Standards) on the internal practices of a large Australian local authority. Design/methodology/approach - A theoretical framework is developed using new public management (NPM) and neo-institutional theory literatures to explain the findings. A case study approach was applied to collect the data for the research. Findings - The findings reveal that the National Competition Policy 1993, the Local Government Act 1993 and the Local Government Finance Standards 1994 mainly have brought about significant changes to the organisation's internal management control processes, such as financial reporting, budgeting and performance appraisal. The changes brought in appeared to be coincidentally similar to NPM ideals. Furthermore, senior managers (such as the thief executive and divisional heads) played a major role in implementing new accounting technologies (activity-based costing and the balanced scorecard type performance measurement system). Research limitations/implications - Future research on public sector financial management from the outset of organisational contexts could considerably further the stock of knowledge in this area, especially given the rapid changes occurring within the public sector throughout the world. Future research may wish to extend this study by assessing how external legitimating functions become internal reality, the perceptions of reality of the organisational members, and how these perceptions change over time. Practical implications - The findings reported provide evidence to further our understanding of how the introduction of private sector styles of organisational practices into large areas of the public sector brought about significant changes in the demand for "new" financial management practices. Originality/value - The findings reported on in this paper will open a new path of research that may increase our understanding about the factors that play a role in the design of management and accounting systems in a public sector context. Further, they will help policy makers and public sector managers in their day-to-day decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - Management systems and standards have become a key part of the organisation''s lifeline and a prerequisite for survival in the twenty-first century. Systems for quality environmental and occupational health and safety (OHS) now form the three main pillars of the organisation, the fourth one being financial accounting. In light of the increasing pressure and demands from different stakeholders, it is becoming necessary for organisations to adopt the different systems/standards. However, to achieve the benefits from the implementation and subsequently maintenance of these systems it is only a practical and logical step that the existing management systems/standards be integrated into a single system. Design/methodology/approach - This paper presents the experiences of three Australian-based organisations that have successfully undertaken the integration of their management systems/standards. Data for this paper were collected through in-depth interviews conducted with the managers responsible for quality, environment and OHS systems. Findings - The interviews revealed a number of quantifiable and unquantifiable benefits experienced by the companies from operating one integrated system, such as saving of dollars, better utilisation of resources and improved communication across the organisation, to name a few. However, for the benefits to be realized it is essential that organisations are aware of the challenges and obstacles accompanying integration of systems/standards. If these challenges are not addressed early in the process they can delay the completion of the integration process. Originality/value - Recommendations for other organisations contemplating integrating their management system include: obtaining commitment from the top management; having adequate resources to integrate the systems; having communication and training across the organisation in aspects of integration; and, last but not the least, having integrated audits. Implementation of these recommendations may vary from one organisation to another; however, it would result in lesser resistance for the organisations following them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This history of the politics of moves towards school-based management in Queensland education is located within a broader historical and political analysis of such moves across Australia since the Karmel Report. This paper specifically focuses in on developments in Queensland. The Queensland analysis traces the moves from Labor's Focus on Schools through the Coalition's Leading Schools and the most recent Labor rearticulation in the document Future Directions for School-based Management in Queensland State Schools. The analysis demonstrates that the concept of school-based management has no stipulative meaning, but rather is a contested concept. More generally, the paper provides an account and analysis of new forms of governance in educational systems and the tension between centralising and decentralising tendencies as school-based management is adopted in order to address a number of competing policy objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to explore financial fraud in the private health insurance sector in Australia. Fraud in this sector has commonalities to other countries with similar health systems but in Australia it has garnered some unique characteristics. This article sheds light on these features, especially the fraught relationship between the private health funds and the public health insurance agency, Medicare and the problematic impact of the Privacy Act on fraud detection and financial recovery. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative methodological approach was used, and interviews were conducted with fraud managers from Australia’s largest private health insurance funds and experts in fields connected to health fraud detection. Findings – All funds reported a need for more technological resources and higher staffing levels to manage fraud. Inadequate resourcing has the predictable outcome of a low detection and recovery rate. The fund managers had differing approaches to recovery action and this ranged from police action, the use of debt recovery agencies, to derecognition from the health fund. As for present and future harm to the industry, the funds found on-line claiming platforms a major threat to the integrity of their insurance system. In addition, they all viewed the Privacy Act as an impediment to managing fraud against their organizations and they desired that there be greater information sharing between themselves and Medicare. Originality/value – This paper contributes to the knowledge of financial fraud in the private health insurance sector in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the reasons managers of non-Indigenous backgrounds move to, stay in, and leave their positions in Indigenous Art Centres in remote areas of Australia. Design/methodology/approach – This qualitative study used structured in-depth interviews of 21 managers of Indigenous Art Centres to explore their reasons for staying in or leaving their positions. Findings – The study finds that managers are not drawn to remote Art Centres for financial gain, or career advancement. In contrast, a broader range of pull factors beyond the job – in particular, the Indigenous community/environment and personal/family reasons – influence managers to stay or leave the job. However, the reasons for choosing to leave are qualitatively different from reasons given by managers who stay, pulling some managers to stay, whilst pushing other managers to leave. Significantly, shocks, in the form of threatening and frightening situations were also influential in explaining turnover. Research limitations/implications – This research was limited to Art Centre managers in remote Australia and may lack generalisability in other countries. Originality/value – The study adds to the few field studies that have investigated issues related to recruitment and retention of managers in the creative arts sector in remote areas. It contributes to the literature by extending push-pull theory to aspects of the entrepreneurial career process, albeit among “accidental entrepreneurs”. In addition, the authors have also incorporated “shocks” as catalysts to understanding career deliberations, and that threatening and frightening situations were especially influential in explaining decisions to stay or go. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - This paper aims to document the measures taken by Australian corporate treasurers in the areas of cash, inventory, accounts receivable, accounts payable and risk management to survive the global financial crisis (GFC). Design/methodology/approach - Using qualitative techniques like interviews and a survey questionnaire, this paper summarises the various measures adopted by working capital managers. Findings - The results show that more than half of the participants in the survey altered their working capital management practices during the crisis. Capital expenditure was curtailed, as they aimed at preserving their cash levels while reducing inventory levels. Credit worthiness of institutions became more important, and there was a general decline in credit availability. The results also show that Australian working capital managers exhibit behavioural biases, particularly overconfidence. Originality/value - It is the first paper that uses open-ended questions to capture the effects of the GFC on working capital management in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to draw from data collected as part of the International Successful School Principalship Project (ISSPP) and present cases of democratic and heroic leadership from three countries, discussing to what extent successful school principals in each of their research sites (Melbourne, Australia; Umeå, Sweden; Arizona and Texas in the USA) carry old and new perspectives of heroism in their leadership. In particular the paper explores two questions: first, how do school principals describe aspects of heroic and post-heroic leadership in their practices? and second, how do these heroic and post-heroic leadership practices meet contemporary demands such as accountability standards and build inclusive and collaborative school communities in challenging contexts? Design/methodology/approach – Multiple-perspective case studies involving semi-structured individual and group interviews with principals, teachers, students, parents and school board members were used to understand the contribution of principals and other leadership to school success. Findings – The definitions of heroic and post-heroic leadership are inadequate in defining successful principal leadership. The Australian, Swedish and American principals showed characteristics of both heroic and post-heroic leadership. They showed heroic qualities such as: inspiring and motivating others; challenging the status quo; showing integrity in conflicting situations; putting duty before self; taking risks to champion a better way; showing courage to stand up to those in authority; advocating for students in struggling neighbourhoods under the scrutiny of both district and public expectations; and, showing uncommon commitment. Yet our principals showed post-heroic leadership such as involving others in decision making and recognising that school success depended on collective effort, and being sensitive to community needs through a deep respect for the local culture. Originality/value – The research shows that we may need to redefine and recast our images of who school principals are today, and what they do to generate academic success for students. Both heroic and post-heroic images of leadership are needed to explain successful school leadership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Safety climate (SC) is considered a leading indicator of safety performance, but scholars suggest that a common SC assessment framework is yet to be developed. Following the debate between the importance of facet analysis and agent analysis, the purpose of this paper is to test a factor structure, developed by the authors in previous work and arising from their systematic literature review, highlighting the role of safety agents in a construction site setting. Design/methodology/approach: Multi-level SC surveys were conducted at five construction sites in Sydney, Australia, collecting data from of 352 workers associated with a mega-construction project. While examining the factor analysis of different studies, data reliability and data validity of the survey findings were ensured and a goodness-of-fit of SC model was examined through structural equation modelling. Findings: The systematic literature review of Newaz et al. (2018) suggested a five-factor model of: management commitment, safety system, role of the supervisor, workers' involvement and group SC. However, empirical data indicated that the questionnaire used to measure "safety system" failed to pass scale reliability; thus, a four-factor model was proposed to develop an agent-specific SC factor structure in the construction industry. Originality/value: The four-factor model indicates the role and level of influence of different safety agents to improve safety perceptions on construction sites. The findings of this study will encourage researchers in construction safety to use the simplified four-factor SC (agent-specific) model presented and test it to further develop a common factor structure for the construction industry. The fact that the model is comprised of four factors makes further implementation somewhat easier in the development of safety plans, and when considering the role of safety agents, therefore enhancing its potential value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The importance of managerial competencies in monitoring and improving the performance of organisational leaders and managers is well accepted. Different processes have been used to identify and develop competency frameworks or models for healthcare managers around the world to meet different contextual needs. The purpose of the paper is to introduce a validated process in management competency identification and development applied in Australia - a process leading to a management competency framework with associated behavioural items that can be used to measure core management competencies of health service managers. Design/methodology/approach The management competency framework development study incorporated both qualitative and quantitative methods, implemented in four stages, including job description analysis, focus group discussions and online surveys. Findings The study confirmed that the four-stage process could identify management competencies and the framework developed is considered reliable and valid for developing a management competency assessment tool that can measure management competence amongst managers in health organisations. In addition, supervisors of health service managers could use the framework to distinguish perceived superior and average performers among managers in health organisations. Practical implications Developing the core competencies of health service managers is important for management performance improvement and talent management. The six core management competencies identified can be used to guide the design professional development activities for health service managers. Originality/value The validated management competency identification and development process can be applied in other countries and different industrial contexts to identify core management competency requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – Australian construction sites are culturally diverse workplaces. This paper aims to compare operative and manager attitudes towards cultural diversity on Australian construction sites, and to examine the strategies that are used to manage it. Design/methodology/approach – A face-to-face questionnaire survey was undertaken of 1,155 construction operatives and 180 supervisors on Australian construction sites. Findings – The vast majority of operatives and managers are comfortable with cultural diversity. However, there is some anxiety about cultural diversity, especially around safety risks, and there is evidence of racism. Those concerns are more keenly perceived by operatives than by managers. Both operatives and managers see some of the negative issues (discrimination, racist joke telling) as inevitable daily outcomes of cultural diversity on sites. The normalisation of these negative forms of cross-cultural interaction reveals a pessimistic disposition towards cultural diversity. Cultural diversity policy, and programs, are not seen as a priority by managers, and some see such strategies (e.g. affirmative action plans) as discriminatory, and unfair, since they may favour some groups over others. Originality/value – No research has compared operative and management attitudes towards cultural diversity in the Australian construction sector. This paper provides a first glimpse into the value attributed to cultural diversity programs by managers within construction sites. These insights will be of value to managers and supervisors who have to manage multicultural workforces in the construction industry. Conceptually, the paper reveals how the "politics of sameness" are hegemonic within the construction industry, presenting as an a priori anxiety towards difference, the normalising of poor cross-cultural relations, the non-prioritising of policies to better manage cultural diversity or their ad hoc adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - In the last decade, Australia has seen a series of high-profile criminal cases come under court and public scrutiny due to improper interviewing practices, prompting a need to review and revise training in interviewing skills. This pattern echoes that seen in the UK in the 1970s and 1980s. What followed in the UK was a plethora of research examining different aspects of police interviewing. To date, there has been limited research in Australia on interviewing suspects. The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into a large sample of current Australian police officers' attitudes and practices regarding investigative interviewing.Design/methodology/approach - This study involved a survey of current police officers from the Queensland Police Service (n = 2,769), collecting data on attitudes with current training and supervision, importance of investigative interviewing and operational skills and competence.Findings - These are discussed in relation to the need for further systematic research into police interviews, improved training and the need for law enforcement organisations and agencies in Australia to implement organisational investigative interviewing strategies.Originality/value - The paper shows that further systematic research is required to examine "operational" investigative interviewing practices (as opposed to perceptions) in Australia. Consideration also needs to be given to the development of investigative interviewing training frameworks that focus on the experience, skills and previous training of each officer. Moreover, interviewing needs to be recognised as a skill requiring regular maintenance, monitoring and evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - This paper seeks to explore the meaning of the stakeholder concept in politics, using theories drawn from the fields of management, political science and public relations. In particular, the theory of stakeholder identification and salience is to be used as a framework. Design/methodology/approach - This qualitative study involved in-depth interviews with 23 politicians and political advisers in Western Australia and was conducted in the style of a grounded theory investigation. Findings - The results indicate that in politics, as in business, controversy and confusion continue to surround the stakeholder concept. Participants thought "stakeholder" should imply possession of a legitimate interest in an issue, but did not believe this was always the case. There is a gulf between how politicians think stakeholder status should be accorded in principle and what happens in reality. In practice, power seems to play a far greater role than legitimacy in determining stakeholder salience among political decision-makers. Research limitations/implications - Although the study focuses on a single jurisdiction (Western Australia), there are implications for policy development in other contemporary democracies. Excluding or marginalising stakeholders with a legitimate right to be heard contributes to the phenomenon known as "democratic deficit", whereby citizens feel alienated from the political process. Originality/value - This is one of the few empirical studies to investigate the application of stakeholder theory - as developed in the management literature - to politics. It integrates theories from different disciplines of direct relevance to what should be the primary focus of public relations - the management of stakeholder relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- Trust is the basis of business relationships. The purpose of this paper is to explore the antecedents of trust in the context of the relationship between shopping centre management and retail tenants, primarily from the retailer perspective, as a first test of trust in such business-to-business relationships. A contrast is made between neighbourhood and regional centres to determine if centre size affects trust development. Design/methodology/approach -- Quantitative research methods are used. The focus is a sample of 201 retail tenants in Australian shopping centres. Psychometric properties were assessed for all multi-item scales used to capture variables of interest. Multiple regression analysis is used to explain trust in terms of five key influences: power of the centre manager (as a negative relationship), empowerment of the retailer, flexibility, responsiveness and the shopping centre brand. Findings -- Empowerment, restraint of power and responsiveness are the main determinants of trust. Power is especially critical in regional shopping centres. The shopping centre brand and flexibility play important support roles in neighbourhood centres. Research limitations/implications -- The lack of comparable studies limits the generalizability of the results to other countries. Practical implications -- Centre managers, in larger planned shopping centres, who want greater retail tenant trust, should not demonstrate their power overtly in, say, rent negotiations. They could also learn from small centres about being flexible and projecting a more unified centre brand. Originality/value -- This empirical study probes the antecedents of trust in Australian shopping centres, a previously neglected area in the shopping centre literature. The paper is unique because it contrasts neighbourhood and regional shopping centres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the Australian equity market is informationally efficient in the semi-strong form with regard to interest rates and the exchange rate shocks during the period 1994-2006. Design/methodology/approach - There is evidence that the data are non-normal and that autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (ARCH) effects exist and in such circumstances, standard estimation methods are not reliable. A new method introduced by Hacker and Hatemi-J which is robust to non-normality and the presence of ARCH is applied. Findings - The results show the Australian equity market is not informationally efficient with regard to either the interest rate or the exchange rate. Originality/value - The empirical findings, in contrast to several previous studies, imply that the possibility for arbitrage profits in the equity market might exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — The purpose of this paper is to report on a study of performance measurement and reporting practices of four government departments in Australia. Design/methodology/approach — Relying on the "context" and "content" aspects of the institutional and strategic choice literatures, the paper suggests how external institutions such as government regulatory frameworks and internal organizational contexts such as strategic plans may shape the design of performance measurement and reporting of government departments. Texts and contents from archival sources such as published annual reports and department web sites provided insightful and interesting findings. Findings — The paper reveals that performance measurement systems design as a central thrust to the subject government departments' strategic planning and management framework. Furthermore, content analyses of the data indicate a clear linkage between the recently introduced "managing for outcomes" framework and performance measurement practices of government departments. Research limitations/implications — This is an exploratory study based on archival documents only, thereby provides limited insights into how organizational managers perceived the relevance and usefulness of performance measurement data. However, textual analysis from archival documents provides a rich description of how measuring and reporting of the economy, efficiency, and effectiveness of today's government organizations could be the interaction of both internal and external contexts within which they operate. Practical implications — The paper adds to the existing public sector management and accounting literatures by suggesting that the construction and reporting process of performance measurement are crucial and relevant in today's government organizations facing a significant reduction in government funding with increased community demand for quality services. Originality/value — Experiences in subject government entities will provide a platform for academic researchers and/or practitioners from multiple disciplines to disseminate information on accounting and performance management in the changing public sector worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to report on research which addressed two purposes. First, to test the fit between, the theoretical model, and the empirical findings from an earlier reported study. Secondly, to test the extrapolative and interrelated nature of a two sets of cultural adjustment constructs designed to enhance the personal wellbeing and intra-cultural interaction of cross-border managers when on foreign assignments. Design/methodology/approach - Data were collected from 244 cross-border managers working for Australian private sector businesses in South-East Asia in two broad industry groups: manufacturing/industrial, and financial/services. Respondents were asked to complete a questionnaire based on two separate dimensions associated with an individual''s adjustment to cross-border circumstances vis., personal wellbeing and intra-cultural interaction. This paper evaluates the measurement fit between the identified constructs, by first examining any significant relationship though a structural equation model using LISREL 8; and then through employing path analysis. Findings - Results from the structural equation modeling were significant; and suggest a sound fit between the theoretical model and the empirical findings. The path analysis further supports the multidimensional model. The results provide direction for organisations in addressing cultural adjustment issues to support the personal wellbeing; and the intra-cultural interaction; of cross-border managers. Research limitations/implications - Future research will need to consider the potential for measurement invariance associated with the framework identified in this paper. Originality/value - The overall results provide useful insights for organisations as to important interventions to assist cross-managers in becoming more attuned to their new job, business and cultural surroundings and circumstances. In this respect, cross-border organisations need to include such interventions amongst the "adjustment experiences" for their cross-border managers in developing personal wellbeing skills and intra-cultural interaction strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to propose a shift in emphasis from gender differences to gender similarities in the explanations of the findings of future gender in management research. The results from a study in a major Australian bank help build the case. Such a focus on gender similarities (FGS) hopefully will bring about positive organizational change that might stimulate an increase in women''s representation in senior management in the future. Design/methodology/approach - To make a case for the proposed FGS approach the paper uses results from a survey of 178 senior managers and interviews with 14 executives in one Australian bank. The paper draws on the masculine culture and organizational silence literatures to explain how women and men in senior management can have similar work experiences and hold similar views of their organizations. Findings - The paper finds that male and female respondents held similarly unfavorable views of the organization''s culture, but men felt constrained in raising concerns. Most executives would welcome a change of culture. Research limitations/implications - The research study in banking is included specifically to show how the proposed FGS approach works in gender in management research. A limitation of the study is the small interview sample. The finding on men''s silence is particularly pertinent to the argument for organizational change that benefits the whole organization, not just women. Practical implications - The FGS approach broadens the appeal of change for organizations. For example, by applying the FGS approach to the study in banking, the principal message for organizations would be that there is widespread dissatisfaction with the outdated command-and control management style, extremely long hours, and lack of work-life balance. Organizations are more likely to address findings of "widespread dissatisfaction" than of dissatisfaction in a section of the workforce (e.g. women). Originality/value - The recognition that a shift in the approach to the study of gender in management is needed to stimulate organizational change that might increase women''s representation in senior management. The study shows how men will also benefit from this shift in emphasis, because the explanations and recommendations emanating from future research using the FGS approach will give men a much needed voice to raise issues that are similar to those raised by their female colleagues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The aim of this paper is to explore the extent to which employee welfare and human resource management impacts on customer service. Design/methodology/approach - Data were collected from a number of operational staff of the Mount Kosciusko ski fields in Australia. The staff was selected at random and comprised both permanent local staff and seasonal staff, and completed a self-administered questionnaire. Findings - The results highlight the challenging living conditions of many seasonal workers on whom the industry depends and at the organizational level this research demonstrates a need for effective management skills and employment strategies that reflect the needs of seasonal staff. As was shown, there is a relationship between staff satisfaction, camaraderie and customer satisfaction. Research limitations/implications - To better gauge the extent to which this research is applicable to all "front line" employees this study could be replicated in such locations as islands or isolated resorts with comparisons made with the same labor in established tourism resorts. The limitation of this study would be the specific mountain location in which it was conducted, and the size of the sample. Practical implications - This study clearly identifies an area of human resource management which needs to be considered. When a region relies heavily on seasonal staff their welfare should be of prime consideration, because disgruntled staff translates directly into disgruntled customers. Originality/value - This paper adds a clearer understanding to the body of knowledge surrounding staff retention in the service industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- This paper aims to undertake a study of national configurational demographics in order to determine the spread of understanding of the chairman's role, performance and contribution. Designs/methodology/approach -- Qualitative methodology, exploratory in nature through in-depth interviews and workshop discussion involving 103 UK, US and Australian participants, was undertaken. Findings -- The role of chairman is considered as having a distinct effect on board dynamics, role and contribution and the monitoring and support of management. Nine demographic factors are identified as affecting the manner in which the role of chairman is exercised in the UK, USA and Australia. Research limitations/implications -- The findings of this qualitative exploratory study need to be integrated into a quantitative empirical survey in order to ascertain the validity of the results to date. Practical implications -- The two key conclusions highlight the requirement for governance due diligence, examining the financial and competitive strength of the organisation as well as uncovering contextual sensitivities. Originality/value -- Insufficient attention has been given to the role of chairman. The study offers additional insight on how demographic factors influence the shaping and determination of the role of chairman. This paper should be of interest to practitioners, consultants, line managers, board members, chairmen, management academics and business studies students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- This paper seeks to examine the career patterns and labour mobility of managers in the convention and exhibition industry in Australia, an example of a new emerging industry within the service sector. Design/methodology/approach -- Through the use of the technique of life and work history analysis, career information was gathered from a sample of individuals employed within the various sectors of this industry in Australia. The information was then analysed using a range of descriptive and evaluative statistical tests. Findings -- Results indicated the emergence of a new career pattern "butterfly" progress. This could he identified as an extension and development of the boundaryless career model, where the individual is clearly in charge of his/her career but where he/she "flutters" between sectors in order to build up human capital and progress his/her career. Research limitations/implications -- Though the research was undertaken in a specific industry sector the results indicate that the concept of "butterfly" progress may be part of the developments in contemporary career patterns or a gender issue. Further research in other industries dominated by women is suggested. Practical implications -- Outcomes from this study have implications for management development in relation to a different pattern of job progression and subsequent staff development opportunities. This may require the development of alternative strategies for the successful recruitment and retention of managers within the convention and exhibition organisation. Originality/value -- This is the first time such a research study has been undertaken in the convention and exhibition industry. The paper provides practical outcomes for potential entrants and managers in this sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose-The purpose of this paper is to provide an analysis of the key issues to be addressed in implementing a risk management system, based on the experiences of a water authority in Australia. Design/methodology/approach-Based on an analysis of the literature and the use of a case study approach, the key issues to be covered in implementing a risk management system in a water authority are discussed. Findings Through a case study analysis in the water industry, a number of strategic risks were identified, such as failure to provide a safe, acceptable and reliable water supply, and also a number of lessons were learned about the essential requirements for an integrated approach to managing risks in a water authority. Research limitations/implications-As this analysis is based on one case study only, it limits the generalisability of the results. However, valuable insights into risk management issues in the water industry are highlighted. Practical implications-A very useful resource for risk managers in the water industry to learn from an Australian water authority's experience in developing a risk framework and the lessons that can be learned from an integrated risk management approach. Originality/value-This paper provides an insight into risk management issues in the water industry and also provides practical help for risk managers who wish to develop and implement an integrated risk management strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - This paper aims to examine the impact of resources, accountability, management practices and organisational culture on the implementation of a policy (in this case, a domestic violence policy/program) within an Australian state police department. The paper argues that successful implementation requires a synergy between the established goals and beliefs, the level of resources and accountability provided to support the implementation process, and a performance-based rather than process-oriented type of management practice. Design/methodology/approach - A mixed methods approach was used. Findings - The findings suggest that successful implementation of policies requires that senior and lower managers must be in congruence in relation to the stated goals and objectives of a new policy. This is because the role of senior managers is to determine the goals and resources that accompany a new policy. On the other hand, if first-level managers perceive a lack of synergy between a written policy and the supporting implementation variables (funding), then it is likely that, to the extent that they have power, they will use it to maintain the status quo. Research limitations/implications - A limitation of the study is that the implementation of only one program was examined and it is hoped that future research is able to further generalise these findings. Practical implications - The implication of these findings for police management is that the past method of increasing accountability to ensure the successful implementation of an under-resourced policy is unlikely to be successful. This is because of the unwritten cultural messages (about the real agenda of a policy) that flow through the hierarchy when a new policy is not accompanied by adequate resources - especially if the police culture is unsympathetic to the goals of the policy. Originality/value - This paper adds to the body of knowledge about what factors affect implementation outcomes within a police context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Internet is a major technological advancement reshaping not only our society but also that of universities worldwide. In light of this, universities have to capitalise on the Internet for teaching, and one progressive development of this is the use of online delivery methods. This paper draws upon the results of a survey conducted amongst students enrolled in one online management course at an Australian university. Three critical success factors in online delivery are identified: technology, the instructor and the previous use of the technology from a student’s perspective. We also argue that the lecturer will continue to play a central role in online education, albeit his or her role will become one of a learning catalyst and knowledge navigator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Under the Australian Fair Work Act 2009, employees can request flexible working arrangements (FWAs) from their employers. Provision of FWAs is costly to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). They can, however, use FWAs to achieve competitive advantage. The purpose of this paper is to investigate strategic positions associated with FWA availability in SMEs. It also examines the effects of size and industry sector on FWA availability in SMEs.Design/methodology/approach With a sample of 1,541 cases comprising micro, small and medium firms from the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Business Longitudinal Database, binary regression models were used to analyse the relationships between FWAs and the independent variables: strategic position, firm-size and industry of operation.Findings Flexible working hours, flexible leave arrangements and roster/shift selection were used by SMEs pursuing a strategy focussed on human resources. In contrast, a strategic focus on cost correlated negatively with paid parental leave and flexible rosters/shifts. SMEs pursuing innovation were unlikely to provide flexible leave while job sharing was less visible in SMEs focussing on quality. An industry effect was evident with working from home unlikely for firms in industry sectors where employees had to be present at work. Micro- and small-sized firms were less likely than medium firms to provide FWA to their employees.Originality/value SMEs with competitive positions based on human capital could use FWAs to attract the required skills. Employees in SMEs that compete on cost may benefit from FWAs in the form of temporary and casual positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to understand what was important to managers of businesses in desert Australia, and in particular, what they needed for the businesses to be successful. Design/methodology/approach – There were two studies. In Study 1, 88 managers of business in remote desert Australia were interviewed. In Study 2, 112 managers who had business in regional desert Australia participated in an on-line survey. Findings – In both studies, the respondents claimed that their businesses were reasonably successful. In Study 1, the interviewees said that making a living and seeing the business grow were important indices of success. In Study 2, customer/client satisfaction was the strongest indicator of business success. Factors such as safe and all-weather roads, internet/e-mail access and reliable power supplies were important to this success. The importance to business success of a number of leadership behaviours was also identified. Research limitations/implications – Future research needs to encourage a larger number of managers to participate. In addition, suppliers and customers of the businesses need to be included. Originality/value – This is the first study in which managers were included, because normally, only owner-managers are involved. It is also the first study of its kind to be undertaken in desert Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to explore the circumstances and implications of an episode of accounting change arising from the extended use of accrual accounting within the Australian public sector. The matter under scrutiny is the reporting of the library collections of Australia's public universities as assets in general purpose financial reports. Design/methodology/approach - A survey is undertaken of the annual reports of Australia's 36 public universities for the period 2002 to 2006. The analysis of the findings is informed by new institutional sociology (NIS), with a focus on mimetic processes, and the concept of "accounting's margins". Findings - The survey reveals considerable diversity and subjectivity in the accounting practices adopted, as well as instances of sudden and dramatic changes in carrying values. The financial reporting of library collections is depicted as a "chaotic margin" of accounting, and the technical propriety of attempting to express and account for these non-financial resources in financial terms is rendered problematic. Originality/value - The study questions the reliability and usefulness of the information reported, with implications for the accountability of the institutions surveyed as well as the accounting profession in the comparatively neglected domain of the public sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - This paper aims to reflect on the sources of the technical inefficiency of health care foodservice operations, using a sample of Australian and American hospitals. Design/methodology/approach - The paper applies the stochastic frontier model to reflect on the technical inefficiency and its sources. The advantage of the model is that it allows the simultaneous parameters estimation of technical efficiency as well as the factors that explain variations in technical efficiency. A set of hypotheses are tested to ensure the applicability and suitability of the suggested model. Then the model parameters are estimated, discussed and checked against the theoretical requirements and the literature. Findings - Results show that all the variable coefficients are correctly signed and that the average technical efficiency is around 83 percent for Australia and 80 percent for the USA. Practical implications - The technical efficiency results, according to the introduced model, suggest that health care foodservice operations in both countries are not operating at a full efficient level. The results also reveal that factors such as manager's education, manager's experience, and size have a direct impact on reducing the level of technical inefficiency of these operations. Originality/value - This paper overcomes the limitations of the existing efficiency techniques in the area of health care foodservice and also provides policy implications by emphasizing on the sources of technical inefficiency of health care foodservice operations for Australia and USA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose.- The purpose of this paper is to explore the effect that the acquisition of a shopping centre by a corporation had on individual retailers in the complex. It examines how imposed directive change impacted on the internal customers, namely the retailers operating within the shopping centre. Design/methodology/approach - Four methods are used. to. procure the data, namely, observations, content analysis, interviewing and a questionnaire survey. Findings - Key findings are that the majority of retailers feel that the nature of the change is transitional or transformational, are negative about it and many do not resist it because they feel helpless to do so. However, some resistance to the acquisition, cynicism and rumours about it, are present. Retailers feel that communication, education, participation and negotiation would help to reduce these negative reactions to change. Practical implications - To improve the outcome of a similar acquisition in the future, The paper recommends extensive consultation with retailers before' the change programme begins. Suggestions regarding how, a. similar acquisition could be more successfully' implemented in the future are provided. Originality/value - This paper contributes to the current body of academic literature on change management and shopping centre management practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - This paper seeks to explore the relationship between knowledge management and quality management with a particular focus on the role of quality culture. The paper also aims to address the assumption that as knowledge management reaches its maturity, in terms of acceptance as an important part of doing business in the modern world, quality will again become the mantra of successful companies. Design/methodology/approach - A total of 1,000 quality managers from Australian organisations were surveyed for their perspectives on current and future knowledge management and quality management approaches. The questionnaire utilised both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The questionnaire was broken into three sections: respondent profile, current knowledge management and quality management practices, and future predictions for both knowledge management and quality management. Findings - The key finding of the paper was that organisations would have to embrace a quality culture as a fundamental component of implementing knowledge management in order to compete successfully in such a dynamic business environment. The responses from this survey assist in identifying the relationship between knowledge and quality management, and the importance and future of both knowledge and quality management. Originality/value - This paper is based upon the assumption that quality is in fact, resurging. It has identified quality culture as the significant link between knowledge management and quality management that leads to successful competitive advantage. Organisations are urged to recognise knowledge management as a vehicle for success not a stand-alone process. It is the first time that such a survey has been designed, and the first time a paper has produced an explanation to the current situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - This paper aims to compare and contrast the career experiences and development needs of British and Australian quality managers. Design/methodology/approach - The results of a postal survey of the careers of British quality managers are compared with Australian quality managers based on two surveys. Findings - The study finds that quality managers in both countries brought wide functional experience to their roles. Their current jobs are major sources of intrinsic job satisfaction for both groups of managers but they utilise a very limited range of quality tools. Also British and Australian managers show little awareness in terms of their development needs for a broader background in quality. Practical implications - The findings suggest a worrying lack of innovatory zeal amongst quality managers who appear to be more concerned with the maintenance of standards rather than taking a more dynamic approach. Thus it is argued that while quality managers bring wide functional experience to their current roles, there are many who do not appear to be at the cutting edge of knowledge in their field. Neither do the British quality managers in particular appear to be sufficiently aware of the need to address such shortfalls through professional development opportunities. Originality/value - The roles of those charged with carrying the flag of quality in the two countries have only previously received limited research coverage. This paper, based upon empirical research in Britain and Australia, identifies issues which require the attention of senior management to ensure future competitiveness for their organisations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - To explore the nature (component parts, degree structure) and purpose (intended outcomes) of the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the degree as they stand presently, using Australian experience. Design/methodology/approach - A review of DBA programme offerings in Australia identified commonalities and differences in these offerings, and provided information necessary to propose strategic and theoretical implications of DBA education. Findings - The paper demonstrates areas of confusion surrounding the purpose and nature of the DBA degree, especially as a research degree in comparison to the PhD. It concludes that quality controls are needed to ensure that this growing addition to management education adds to, and aids, the goal of strengthening management research, in ways that link theoretical insights with management practice. Research limitations/implications - Theoretical and practical implications of the DBA degree are offered, as well as the extent to which the DBA addresses the educational needs of students and its benefits to the university. Practical implications - The paper provides data useful to administrators interested in establishing a DBA degree in their institution, for researchers wishing to further explore and contribute to the discourse regarding the calibre and content of DBA degrees, and for students wishing to learn more about the fundamental differences between the PhD and the DBA. Originality/value - This paper provides new information about the way the DBA degree is developing in an Australian context, and offers advice on issues that need attention in order to further ground the DBA in a combined research and practitioner ethic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is the second in a series that will examine the management of innovation by cross-functional, multidisciplinary patient care teams in palliative care. Two further outcomes of this research are reported here. The first is that within palliative care a number of distinct individual behaviours are identified that act as foundations for the successful development and application of innovative practices by multidisciplinary teams. The second is that interviews with multidisciplinary palliative care teams in case studies in Australia confirm the existence and use of these behaviours. Individual behaviours within these teams are found to fall into two groups: those used by palliative care professionals when working with patients and patient-based carers; and those used by professionals when dealing with each other away from patients. The purpose of both groups is to generate useful valid information, knowledge and learning that can be transferred across boundaries regardless of boundary type or location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract. Industrial relations in small firms, when they are defined in terms of their employment size, are generally described as harmonious. Industrial relations in small firms operating in the Australian information industry are explored in this paper, as are reasons for those industrial relations. Although the study reported here can be used to support the "small is beautiful" view, this ignores the fact that industrial relations in large firms in this industry are not greatly different. How size affects industrial relations in one small firm is examined and it is proposed that, on its own, size does not provide an adequate explanation for industrial relations in small firms in the Australian information industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – Crisis-prone organizations are reactive and unprepared, and are characterized by deficiencies in damage containment mechanisms (DCMs), which are tools and processes intended to prevent and/or manage crises. In the literature, DCMs are usually studied piecemeal and have not been studied in health organizations in a broader organizational context. Thus, this study aims to identify the use of DCMs and the frequency with which they are inspected, maintained and reviewed for design flaws. Design/methodology/approach – Data were obtained by questionnaire from decision-making executives in hospitals, medical centers, aged care, pharmacies, dental clinics and practices in physiotherapy, chiropractic and podiatry. Findings – Heavy reliance was placed on planning and technological DCMs while human and social methods were typically not considered. Organizations considered limited crisis types and there was a disconnect between the types of DCMs and the crises they targeted. Over half the organizations reviewed DCMs annually or more frequently. Backup DCMs mostly consisted of on-call staff and first responders with some auxiliary communications systems. Interviewees stated that these were designed to prevent financial, equipment breakdown, human resource and occupational safety crises. Originality/value – Most organizations had inadequate DCMs due to a lack of top-down support, planning and foresight. Furthermore, these health organizations demonstrated a lack of understanding of what DCMs are and how they function. The conclusion is that most of the health organizations surveyed are crisis-prone and health leaders need to put more effort into looking broadly at DCMs to improve organizational preparedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information regarding the approach management and content of a Think Tank conducted by the Centre for Military and Veterans' Health, Australia. It mentions that the Think Tank process focused on challenging the mind-sets and systemic barriers at all organizational levels. It includes engagement of leadership, workshops involving management and the analysis to encourage critical thinking and ideas development. It presents a new framework to support health services delivery, its components and the cultural and structural changes needed. It states that the Think Tank program includes adoption of new technologies, better information collection and management and training and education programs.

Purpose: To identify and describe work environment conditions that give rise to a shared or different state of the psychological contract for managers and employees. Design/methodology/approach: Semi-structured interviews conducted with seven managers and 12 employees within an Australian credit union. Questions relate to the causes (work environment conditions) and content (salary, recognition and rewards, trust and fairness, open/honest communication) of the psychological contract. Comparative analysis techniques identify and contrast psychological contract categories of managers and employees. Findings: Although managers and employees shared similar responses as to the state of the psychological contract, they attributed different causes to these states. Managers tended to construct rational explanations and emphasise resource constraints and financial considerations, whilst employees constructed emotional explanations and attributed this situation to an unfair, uncaring or distant management. Employees regarded the Staff Consultative Committee and open-door policies as "symbolic acts" rather than genuine attempts to give employees a voice in the company. Practical implications: Aligning the psychological contract espoused by management more closely with that upheld by employees requires managers to adopt more personal, face-to-face communication strategies. The removal of status-related barriers to communication places managers in a better position to explain to employees how the organisation can meet (or not) specific contract expectations and obligations. Originality/value: Paper provides interesting insights into how contracts form within the context of work environment, HRM policy and practice, and cultural factors--work context factors largely ignored by psychological contract researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose ? To evaluate past and recent research on the costs of training human resources in Australia and to compare the merits of different research methods used to measure these costs. The discussion is situated in a general context of low employer contribution to training provision in Australia and acute policy debates on public training provision. Design/methodology/approach ? The article presents the aggregate results of two recent quantitative surveys of training costs in Australian organizations. Both surveys adopt an economic definition of the costs and concentrate on firm-specific skills acquired up until new recruits reach average productivity. Findings ? Survey results suggest that the informal costs of training human resources outstrip direct training expenditure and average training costs are much larger than commonly assumed in the policy debate in Australia. Research limitations/implications ? Ideally, the surveys reported upon should be extended to include continuing training costs and a measure of the degree of employer-provided general training. Practical implications ? Official surveys largely underestimate the cost of employer-provided training in Australia, contributing to (mistaken?) perceptions of private sector disengagement. Existing measures of the costs should adopt a more comprehensive approach, including the use of economic concepts. Originality/value ? This research stresses, both to HR practitioners and policy makers, the value of measuring opportunity costs in training processes, and contributes to its quantification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose ? To develop a quality management (QM) measurement instrument that has sound psychometric properties and recognizes a key feature of the field, i.e. QM is currently characterized by three competing approaches: standards-based; prize-criteria; and, elemental implementation approaches. Design/methodology/approach ? The three disparate approaches were analyzed to identify sets of key constructs and associated items. The assembled instrument was empirically validated through a survey of 418 Australian manufacturing organizations. A full set of reliability and validity tests were performed. Wherever applicable, confirmatory approach using structural equation modeling was used. Findings ? The results of psychometric tests suggest that the constructs of the three approaches have good empirical support. In the manner in which the instrument is presented, it is possible to separately measure constructs related to each of the three approaches. Research limitations/implications ? The measurement instrument has been validated with manufacturing organizations from Australia. It is applicability to other industry sectors or country contexts needs to be verified. Practical implications ? Practitioners and consultants can use the measurement instrument for conducting QM benchmarking exercises within and across organizations. Researchers can use the instrument in future studies for, inter alia, theory development in the area. Originality/value ? The measurement instrument overcomes the shortcomings of the existing instruments by explicitly including all three practical approaches to quality management. Also, a rigorous psychometric validation process is adopted that provides credible outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]