Opportunities for academic smart libraries in the Caribbean

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Adrian St. Patrick Duncan
Keyword(s):  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Academic Libraries ◽  
Information Access ◽  
The Body ◽  
Caribbean Region ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Technological Advancement ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Services Delivery ◽  
The Caribbean

Purpose The purpose of this paper hinged on the concept of smart libraries and their development for the furtherance of information access, dissemination and information resources and services delivery in Caribbean libraries. Design/methodology/approach To conduct this research, the literature of smart libraries and technologically driven and their application in libraries were reviewed by examining existing literature on information and communication technologies and technology in libraries. Findings The literature highlighted that this technological advancement is not yet fully on stream in academic libraries of the Caribbean owing to the lack of financial, technological and organizational resources. It further outlined that certain aspects of library automation are fostered through the inclusion of technology. Research limitations/implications The limitation of this study is that only academic libraries of the Caribbean region were assessed. Other regions should be explored in future research. Originality/value The concept of smart libraries is an emerging issue with limited scope for scrutiny; a systematic and extensive review of recent research on smart in libraries is unavailable. This paper presents an overview of smart libraries or technologically driven libraries, its findings for potential research opportunities and development for academic libraries. In addition, it will build on the body of knowledge that is presently non-existent on smart libraries in the Caribbean.

Libraries of Babel: exploring library language and its suitability for the community

2017 ◽  
Vol 66 (8/9) ◽  
pp. 612-627
Author(s):  
Michael Alexander Fauchelle
Keyword(s):  
New Zealand ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Information Access ◽  
The Body ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Body Of Knowledge ◽  
Community Recommendations ◽  
Analyse Data ◽  
Language Context

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the different aspects of language that are present in the signage, handouts and websites of public libraries. It discusses the extent to which this language reflects the varying demographics of library clients. Design/methodology/approach This paper reports on a qualitative study, which took a document analysis approach and utilised an inductive-coding technique to analyse data collected from four lower North Island libraries in New Zealand. Findings Five language aspects were identified from the collected data: monolingual, bilingual and multilingual language; language context; welcoming and prohibitive language; language consistency; and jargon. The nature and incidence of these aspects were evaluated for each of the four libraries. In some cases, the libraries achieve an accurate reflection of client demographics through their language. However, each library could make some changes to their use of language to better accommodate their distinct communities. Practical implications This paper suggests that modifying library language to better reflect client demographics will contribute to an atmosphere of inclusion, welcome and acceptance. Such an atmosphere will promote information access for all members of the community. Recommendations for change are made, as well as suggestions for future research. Originality/value This paper contributes to the body of knowledge on communication and language in libraries, particularly in a New Zealand context where there is a paucity of research on this topic. This paper benefits libraries and clients by identifying patterns, contrasts and potential improvements.

scholarly journals User agreements and makerspaces: a content analysis

2015 ◽  
Vol 116 (7/8) ◽  
pp. 358-368 ◽  
Author(s):  
Heather Michele Moorefield-Lang
Keyword(s):  
Content Analysis ◽  
Academic Libraries ◽  
Technology Use ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
The Body ◽  
Library Science ◽  
Learning Space ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Qualitative Data Analysis Software

Abstract – The purpose of this paper is to analyze the user agreements of makerspaces in public and academic libraries. User agreements, also known as maker agreements, user forms and liability forms, can be very important documents between library patrons, staff and faculty. User agreements are similar to the earlier creation of acceptable use policies for technology use in libraries. The author of this study will delve into the user agreements created for public and academic libraries across the USA. Design/methodology/approach – The researcher used content analysis to investigate 24 different user agreements written for public and academic library makerspaces. NVivo qualitative data analysis software was integrated into this research to aid in the breakdown of commonalities across terms, themes and purpose within the user agreements. Findings – Although makerspaces are a very exciting topic in the field of library science at this time, the implementation of a maker learning space is still new to many libraries. Creating a user agreement for a makerspace is newer still. Most user agreements in this study were six months to a year old. Some consistencies found across makerspace user agreements include liability waivers, permissions for minors, safety, copyright and technology replacement costs. Originality/value – At this time, most publications on makerspaces are held in the realm of popular publications (blogs, magazines, zines, etc.). The body of peer-reviewed and scholarly research on makerspaces is growing. Makerspace user agreements are new to this growing field of interest, and a content analysis of these documents will pave the way for the writing of future forms.

Event innovation induced corporate branding

2017 ◽  
Vol 29 (3) ◽  
pp. 862-882 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fiona X. Yang ◽  
Sherry Xiuchang Tan
Keyword(s):  
Corporate Branding ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Corporate Image ◽  
The Body ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Event Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Body Of Knowledge ◽  
Corporate Loyalty

Purpose This paper aims to empirically investigate how event innovation may induce desirable corporate branding. Design/methodology/approach A survey yielded 280 complete responses from tourists who had attended an event in Macau. Structural equation modeling was used to test the innovation-corporate loyalty framework through perceived event value and corporate image, with a multi-group comparison to examine differences between first-time and repeat customers. Findings The results indicate that innovation is not only the key to value enhancement of the event but also an efficacious instrument of branding the parent company and building corporate loyalty; only product-related innovation has a significant impact on event value; both functional and emotional values induce a more favorable corporate image; and event-induced corporate branding is more effective in securing repeat business than attracting new clientele. Practical implications The findings help hospitality operators and event planners to leverage innovative events for corporate branding and cater to different customer segments by providing distinct marketing strategies. Originality/value The study contributes to the body of knowledge regarding event management and corporate branding and sheds light on future research to explore the initiative and benefit of pushing forward event innovation.

Sustainable cruise ship employment for the Caribbean region – a conceptual perspective

2017 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 60-69 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sheree-Ann Adams
Keyword(s):  
Poverty Reduction ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Caribbean Region ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Public ◽  
Cruise Ships ◽  
Training Standards ◽  
The Usa ◽  
The Caribbean ◽  
Cruise Lines

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the opportunities and approaches needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of cruise companies as a source of employment for Caribbean nationals. Design/methodology/approach The format is one of a concept paper and not a review of primary data collected, but based on the authors observations, industry knowledge and review of secondary literature available in the public domain. Findings Some recommendations are made as to the facilitation of this concept in sustainable cruise employment for the Caribbean region that will provide not only economic sustainability but also social benefits to the Caribbean region at large through poverty reduction through employment and global travel exposure. Practical implications The paper puts forth a proposal for a centralized organization representative of the multiple stakeholders within the Caribbean Cruise community: to manage and facilitate a fund to assist Caribbean nationals desirous of working on cruise ships and to meet the necessary standards of training not only in hospitality qualifications but also in basic training standards of safety, security and watch keeping for seafarers. Social implications The employment opportunities for Caribbean persons on cruise ships have not been fully exploited with the majority of Caribbean nationals working on cruise ships found predominately within the Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Lines and Carnival Corporation brands based in the USA. Originality/value This paper provides readers with insight into the existing Caribbean employment and shipboard employment scenarios, with the view of presenting an option for stimulating and supporting sustainable employment on cruise ships for Caribbean nationals.

Bibliometric analysis and critical review of the research on big data in the construction industry

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yusheng Lu ◽  
Jiantong Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Big Data ◽  
Construction Industry ◽  
Bibliometric Analysis ◽  
Critical Review ◽  
Rapid Development ◽  
Heterogeneous Data ◽  
The Body ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Temporal And Spatial Distribution ◽  
Content Type

PurposeThe digital revolution and the use of big data (BD) in particular has important applications in the construction industry. In construction, massive amounts of heterogeneous data need to be analyzed to improve onsite efficiency. This article presents a systematic review and identifies future research directions, presenting valuable conclusions derived from rigorous bibliometric tools. The results of this study may provide guidelines for construction engineering and global policymaking to change the current low-efficiency of construction sites.Design/methodology/approachThis study identifies research trends from 1,253 peer-reviewed papers, using general statistics, keyword co-occurrence analysis, critical review, and qualitative-bibliometric techniques in two rounds of search.FindingsThe number of studies in this area rapidly increased from 2012 to 2020. A significant number of publications originated in the UK, China, the US, and Australia, and the smallest number from one of these countries is more than twice the largest number in the remaining countries. Keyword co-occurrence is divided into three clusters: BD application scenarios, emerging technology in BD, and BD management. Currently developing approaches in BD analytics include machine learning, data mining, and heuristic-optimization algorithms such as graph convolutional, recurrent neural networks and natural language processes (NLP). Studies have focused on safety management, energy reduction, and cost prediction. Blockchain integrated with BD is a promising means of managing construction contracts.Research limitations/implicationsThe study of BD is in a stage of rapid development, and this bibliometric analysis is only a part of the necessary practical analysis.Practical implicationsNational policies, temporal and spatial distribution, BD flow are interpreted, and the results of this may provide guidelines for policymakers. Overall, this work may develop the body of knowledge, producing a reference point and identifying future development.Originality/valueTo our knowledge, this is the first bibliometric review of BD in the construction industry. This study can also benefit construction practitioners by providing them a focused perspective of BD for emerging practices in the construction industry.

The future of the printed book in the era of technological advancement: an imperative for digital innovation and engagement

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rhoydah Nyambane
Keyword(s):  
New Technologies ◽  
The Body ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
The Internet ◽  
Young Generation ◽  
Technological Advancement ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Face ◽  
Book Publishers

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to establish the place of the printed book in the era of technological advancement with the assumption that the print media is facing imminent death in the face of readily available and convenient online information. Also the paper aims to assess how the development of new technologies have affected the production, circulation and readership of the printed book, especially among the young generation. Design/methodology/approach Explanatory study was used with closed-ended approach to collect data from 50 students of the Technical University of Kenya and 5 key informant interviews with selected book publishers in Nairobi. The uses and gratification theory was used to explore the knowledge-seeking behavior among the respondents. Findings Findings showed that more than 80% of the respondents preferred the internet to the printed book, which, according to them, has no future in the face of technological advancement. Book publishers, on the other hand, felt that the printed book has a bright future among specific audiences who are committed to it, and especially those in the rural areas who have no access to the internet. While they agreed that the internet has posed a major challenge to the sales and readership of the printed book significantly, it is helping in marketing the printed book as opposed to killing it. New bookshops in Nairobi and modern libraries in high schools, tertiary institutions and universities demonstrate that the printed book is not dying soon. Research limitations/implications The researcher experienced challenges in data collection as the respondents were busy preparing for final examinations and hence many of them were not willing to spare time to fill the questionnaire. To solve this, the researcher had to spend more time to collect data as opposed to if the students were free and ready to participate in the study without any pressure. Practical implications The findings can be used as a basis for further research to widen the scope that can help bring a wider perspective to the topic. The results can also inform policy guidelines on the topic and also contribute to the body of knowledge. Social implications The topic touches on social phenomena that are affecting a number of young people and their information-seeking habits in the era of digital revolution. The way the young generation seek and use information should be of interest not only to academic staff but also to policymakers. Originality/value The paper is original based on primary data that was collected by the researcher from the respondents. It is backed by secondary data to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Understanding the gendered nature of developing country MSMEs’ access, adoption and use of information and communication technologies for development (ICT4D)

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 273-295
Author(s):  
Elisa Mohanty ◽  
Anindya Jayanta Mishra
Keyword(s):  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
Communication Technologies ◽  
Dark Side ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Power Dynamics ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Time Period ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
Medium Enterprises

Purpose The widespread use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has had a significant effect on various groups and communities of people including micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and their owners/managers. The current study aims to analyze recent literature regarding adoption of ICTs by MSMEs. Further, it tries to locate gender within this broader context of diffusion of ICTs among MSMEs. Design/methodology/approach Using the thematic analysis approach, the research articles pertaining to six leading journals on ICTs, gender and entrepreneurship published during the time period from 2011 to 2019 are reviewed. Findings The literature selected for the study has been discussed under two primary categories, viz. “adoption of information and communication technologies for development (ICT4D) for business purposes” and “insights on gender in ICT4D use by MSMEs.” Research limitations/implications The context-dependent nature of ICT use can enable future entrepreneurs to assess the scope of specific ICTs in given areas of operation. The gendered nature of ICTs helps to evaluate as well as question the empowerment potential of ICTs. The study emphasizes the need to account for historical specificities and transnational linkages in understanding access, adoption and use of ICT4D by women MSME entrepreneurs. Originality/value The study bridges together literature on ICT4D use by MSMEs and the role of gender in ICT-mediated entrepreneurial environments. While unraveling the interplay of power dynamics in such environments, the scope for future research in terms of tapping into the content of information exchanges and exploring the implications of “dark side of internet” for women MSME entrepreneurs is also indicated.

Logistics practices in healthcare organizations in Bogota

2018 ◽  
Vol 31 (3) ◽  
pp. 519-533 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nubia Velasco ◽  
Juan-Pablo Moreno ◽  
Claudia Rebolledo
Keyword(s):  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Inventory Management ◽  
Case Study Research ◽  
Communication Technologies ◽  
Public Hospitals ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Healthcare Organizations ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
Cross Case Analysis

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the current state of logistics practices in healthcare organizations in Bogota, Colombia. Design/methodology/approach The assessment is based on case study research using open interviews, focused interviews, a questionnaire and direct observations as sources of evidence. Seven Colombian health care settings are analyzed: four public hospitals and three private clinics. Cross-case analysis allows the identification of patterns regarding supply management, inventory management, replenishment and use of information and communication technologies. Findings Manual procedures, poor planning, little recognition from top management and a lack of specialized personnel characterize the current situation. Innovative practices with a potential to improve the efficacy of logistics activities are rare, particularly in public hospitals. Research avenues Future research could replicate this study in other Colombian cities, in order to generalize the results to the whole country. It could also be interesting to document successful and less successful implementations of innovative logistics practices in Colombian hospitals to guide and promote their adoption. Research limitations/implications The small number of cases considered, and the fact that the research is concentrated in one city, limits the generalizability of the results. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to explore the state of healthcare logistics practices in Colombia.

scholarly journals Effectiveness of Physical Academic Libraries in a Digitally-Evolved World

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Doris Emetarom Aduba ◽  
Victoria O. Odegwo ◽  
Obiora Kingsley Udem
Keyword(s):  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Academic Libraries ◽  
Physical Space ◽  
Communication Technologies ◽  
Global Environment ◽  
Digital World ◽  
Services Delivery ◽  
Global Space ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
Desk Research

This paper aims at establishing the effectiveness of physical academic libraries in a digitally-evolved world. It tends to explore the priorities of academic libraries in line with the changing global environment. Data was gathered through desk research and content analysis approach. Data generated from analysis of literature were augmented by brainstorming and interaction with professional colleagues from different academic libraries within the south-east geo-political zone of Nigeria. The paper described the physical library and nature of academic libraries with reference to the digital world, explain the attributes of the digitally-evolved world and need for transforming physical academic libraries in line with changing global space, highlight the constraints to the effectiveness of academic libraries in a digital world, discuss the keys to effective services delivery in physical academic libraries as it relates to the digital world and outline the prospects for the physical academic libraries in a digital world. The implications for librarians in the digital world were described. The paper concludes that most libraries are still at the analogue stage and that despite the overwhelming influence of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) on the services provided by libraries, the physical space of the academics libraries is still relevant.

Business model innovation: past research, current debates, and future directions

2017 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. 342-359 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mokter Hossain
Keyword(s):  
Literature Review ◽  
Business Model ◽  
Systematic Literature Review ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Past Research ◽  
Business Model Innovation ◽  
The Body ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Body Of Knowledge

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide state-of-the-art knowledge about business model innovation (BMI) and suggest avenues for future research. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review approach was adopted with thematic analysis being conducted on 92 articles. Findings The body of knowledge for this concept is in its infancy and is highly fragmented. This study therefore attempts to consolidate this fragmented knowledge. It reveals dominant themes, establishes coherence, and identifies conflicting arguments in the current literature. It also points out gaps in the research and highlights new directions for research. Research limitations/implications This study analyzed articles that were found based on a systematic literature review approach. Practical implications This study identifies some fundamental issues that managers need to understand regarding BMI. Originality/value The main value of this study lies in its synthesis of the current knowledge of BMI.

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