The role of universities in times of crisis: a vice-chancellor's perspective

2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (4) ◽  
pp. 405-410 ◽  
Author(s):  
John Dewar
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Natural Extension ◽  
Vital Role ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The People ◽  
Crisis Events ◽  
Practical Support ◽  
New Knowledge ◽  
Manufacturing Problems

PurposeUniversity responses to crises range from providing practical support to affected students and staff; providing leadership to the community; contributing to the development of government policy; developing new knowledge; establishing new qualifications to reskill the workforce in areas of need; and working with industry partners to solve commercial and manufacturing problems.Design/methodology/approachUniversities play a vital role in times of crisis. This undertaking is exemplified by the important contribution made by universities to the societal response to recent crisis events including bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic. It is not surprising that universities play this role, however, because it is a natural extension of a modern university's mission of promoting sustainable development and making positive contributions to the communities which it serves. Importantly, the role of universities is multifaceted and encompasses both applied and theoretical elements.FindingsEach of these responses demonstrates the way that modern universities have become permeable institutions that are responsive to society and the people around them.Originality/valueThis is an original opinions piece.

Responding to COVID-19 pandemic: interior designs’ trends of houses in Jordan

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anas Atef Shamaileh
Keyword(s):  
Interior Design ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Vital Role ◽  
Qualitative Approach ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Entire Life ◽  
Qualitative Approaches ◽  
Study Methodology

Purpose The emergence of COVID-19 pandemic in the late 2019 was accompanied by various consequences that included almost the entire life aspects worldwide. To cope with the pandemic, imposing restricted measures was required, such as quarantine, lockdown and social distancing. The purpose of this paper is to identify the houses' interior designs responses in Jordan under Covid-19 Pandemic. Design/methodology/approach Under such conditions, people have to spend long periods inside their houses. This issue highlighted the importance and the vital role of houses interior design in meeting the various needs of residents under emergent and changing conditions. Findings This study revealed current and future responses that may be implemented to cope with the pandemic consequences in terms of houses’ interior design. Moreover, a conceptual model was proposed. Number of suggestions and further research were introduced considering the revealed findings. Originality/value This study aimed at identifying the houses’ interior design responses in Jordan under COVID-19 pandemic. The study methodology adopted both inductive and qualitative approaches to achieve its goals. Under the qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were undertaken by interviewing ten interior designers and academics.

Professional value and ethical self-regulation in the development of modern librarianship

2017 ◽  
Vol 73 (6) ◽  
pp. 1261-1280 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joacim Hansson
Keyword(s):  
Professional Ethics ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Self Regulation ◽  
Theoretical Understanding ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Ethical Codes ◽  
New Knowledge ◽  
Institutional Contexts ◽  
Definition Of

Purpose The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to make a contribution to the theoretical understanding of documents and documentary agency in society through examples from a defined institutional and professional setting; and second, to create an understanding for the role of ethical codes in the process of defining and developing modern librarianship. Design/methodology/approach This study analyses the role of documentation carrying content of professional ethics in the formulation of modern librarianship. This is done through a series of example documents of various kinds, such as founding charters, peer handbooks and ethical codes systematically analysed through the use of document theory and theory on institutional change. Findings The findings of this study suggest that documents pronouncing ethical self-regulation within librarianship play a primarily legitimising role in situations where new types of libraries emerge or when libraries adapt to social change. The study proposes legitimacy as a key aspect of documentality, thus supplementing the established understanding of the concept. Originality/value This study is the first to analyse the role of ethical codes in libraries using document theory. It brings new knowledge to the role of ethical self-regulation in librarianship over time and in different institutional contexts. In suggesting a developed definition of documentality, it contributes to the theoretical understanding of the role of documents and documentation in institutions and in society at large.

The digital transformation of SMEs – a new knowledge broker called the digital innovation hub

2020 ◽  
Vol 24 (6) ◽  
pp. 1263-1288 ◽  
Author(s):  
Antonio Crupi ◽  
Nicola Del Sarto ◽  
Alberto Di Minin ◽  
Gian Luca Gregori ◽  
Dominique Lepore ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Industry 4.0 ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Digital Transformation ◽  
National Plan ◽  
Digital Innovation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Depth Interview ◽  
New Knowledge ◽  
Knowledge Brokers

Purpose This study aims to understand if and how European digital innovation hubs (DIHs) filling the role of knowledge brokers (KBs) can support the digital transformation (DX) of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by triggering open innovation (OI) practices. Design/methodology/approach After presenting a conceptual model of reference, a survey and a subsequent in-depth interview were conducted to capture evidence from Italian DIHs. These structures were selected for their growing importance, as confirmed by the National Plan for Industry 4.0. Findings The findings highlight that Italian DIHs act not only as KBs but also as knowledge sources that give rise to a digital imprinting process that is able to shape the DX of SMEs. Originality/value Research on knowledge sharing and OI has mainly focused on large firms. The study covers the gaps identified in the literature by considering the role of KBs in enabling SMEs to embrace DX.

The Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland – a unique and influential voice

2015 ◽  
Vol 6 (3/4) ◽  
pp. 137-147
Author(s):  
Colin McKay ◽  
Heather Welsh
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Mental Illness ◽  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Vital Role ◽  
Persons With Disabilities ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Roles And Responsibilities ◽  
History Of

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the unique and independent role of the Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland. Design/methodology/approach – The paper takes the reader through the history of the Commission, its changing status, roles and responsibilities, its influence and impact, and current priorities. It is based on details of the Commission ' s development, narrative from current employees and published investigations and advice. Findings – The Mental Welfare Commission has advanced significantly since its original establishment. It plays a vital role in protecting the human rights of people in Scotland with learning disabilities and mental illness, by visiting those who are in receipt of care or treatment, investigating situations of concern, providing advice and guidance, monitoring the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003 and Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 and shaping relevant policy and legislation. Originality/value – This paper provides an introduction to the work of the Commission, which will be of value to readers in Scotland and beyond. It illustrates its importance in preserving the rights of individuals with learning disabilities and mental illness in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and other legislation.

ABN AMRO bank breaks vicious cycle

2008 ◽  
Vol 16 (4) ◽  
pp. 14-16 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Vital Role ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Integration Strategy ◽  
Strategic Role ◽  
The Common ◽  
Integration Strategies ◽  
Acquisition Processes ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeThis paper aims to examine why and how HRM may take on a more strategic role in mergers and acquisitions.Design/methodology/approachDiscusses Dutch bank ABN AMRO's acquisition of one of the largest Brazilian banks (Banco Real) and, later, the Brazilian subsidiary of an Italian bank (Banco Sudameris).FindingsHighlights major differences in the two acquisitions, but also the common agreement that top management of the acquiring and acquired companies must fully understand the vital role of employees in the M&A process.Practical implicationsContends that the team or executive leading the post‐acquisition process should establish the most appropriate policies, including those for HRM, so that the results of the chosen integration strategy result in value creation.Originality/valueDemonstrates that a major challenge in acquisition processes that adopt different integration strategies is to match the reason that determines the acquisition, the integration strategy and the management of people.

CEOs banking on strategic planning

2017 ◽  
Vol 33 (10) ◽  
pp. 23-25
Keyword(s):  
Strategic Planning ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Reading Time ◽  
Planning Process ◽  
Vital Role ◽  
Content Type ◽  
High Performing ◽  
Pertinent Information ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings This study has provided useful findings about the strategic planning practices in the high-performing banks. The key findings comprise the fact that all three banks in this study have carried out the usual and main strategic planning activities presented in this study: the vital role of the CEO in strategic planning has been proven, and planning flexibility in the strategic planning process has been identified, among other related findings. Practical Implications The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Beyond COVID-19 supernova. Is another education coming?

2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (3/4) ◽  
pp. 381-390 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cecilia Azorín
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Academic Failure ◽  
Vital Role ◽  
Quality Education ◽  
School Dropouts ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Key Points ◽  
Socioeconomic Segregation ◽  
Spanish Education

PurposeThis article explores social and educational responses to COVID-19 as seen through the lens of the Spanish education, in which professional capital and community is at the epicenter of the fight against the pandemic.Design/methodology/approachThis is a reflective and forward-thinking piece in which educators are presented as first responders to the crisis. The article is structured in four parts. First, the opportunities and barriers that COVID-19 is encountering in 21st-century education are commented on. Second, there is recognition of the need to be connected more than ever; and the vital role of networks. Third, the article discusses the effort to realize the maxim “not to leave anyone behind.” Fourth, the last section summarizes the key points related to the aspects to which education should devote its efforts in the coming months and years in Spain.FindingsThere is a set of reasons why the Spanish education system is extremely vulnerable to the consequences caused by COVID-19, and these include, among others: the high rates of socioeconomic segregation, of school dropouts and of academic failure; poor culture of networking and collaboration; overcrowded classrooms that hinders quality education; an obsolete curriculum; the consideration of education as a political currency; the need to strengthen bimodal education; and teachers' obligation to update their digital competences.Originality/valueThe article questions whether another education is possible beyond the pandemic and promotes a deep reflection in this particular context for practitioners and policymakers on which topics more attention could be focused during this time of turmoil.

Enhancing the role of Baitul Maal in giving Qardhul Hassan financing to the poor at the bottom of the economic pyramid

2019 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. 382-391
Author(s):  
Permata Wulandari
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Analysis ◽  
Poverty Alleviation ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Poor ◽  
The People ◽  
Microfinance Institution ◽  
Islamic Microfinance

Purpose Baitul Maal wa Tamwil (BMT) is an Islamic microfinance institution created by combining the functionality of Baitul Maal and Baitul Tamwil in Indonesia. While Baitul Maal plays the role of an institution that collects funds from zakah, cash waqf, infaq and sadakah, Baitul Tamwil then distributes these funds in the form of Qardhul Hassan financing to the poor at the bottom of the economic pyramid (BOP). This study aims to explain the poverty alleviation effort by BMT regarding its role in providing Qardhul Hassan financing to the people at the BOP and provide practical suggestions to maximize the outreach performance of the BMT. Design/methodology/approach In this methodology, the study adopts the qualitative analysis of reviewing the literature and interviewing the BMT staff in Jakarta, Makassar and Nusa Tenggara Barat areas to present the views of the practitioners related to the role of Baitul Maal in giving Qardhul Hassan financing to the people at the BOP using appreciative intelligence framework. Findings The study finds that BMT in Indonesia needs several stage-specific structures and roles to be effective. In particular, there is a need to separate the function of Baitul Maal from Baitul Tamwil to enhance its role when giving Qardhul Hassan financing to the people at the BOP. The role of Baitul Maal in alleviating the poverty figure is also drawn in this study. Originality/value The findings of this study add to the literature on Baitul Maal by enabling researchers and practitioners to appreciate the role of Baitul Maal, and these findings also contribute towards enriching the knowledge in Baitul Maal and financing requirements of the poor at the BOP. This paper also contributes to the field of Islamic accounting which is currently getting prominent.

National Instruments measures success by employee satisfaction

2014 ◽  
Vol 22 (5) ◽  
pp. 5-7
Keyword(s):  
Employee Satisfaction ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The People ◽  
Key Stakeholders ◽  
Development Incentives ◽  
A Company ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describes how a company with more than 7,000 employees around the world has earned international plaudits for retaining the feel of a family firm. Design/methodology/approach – This paper examines why the people strategy is so important at National Instruments and what this means in practice. Findings – This paper attributes the success of the company to its policies on recruitment, retention, employee development, incentives, benefits and communications. Practical implications – The role of the firm’s 100-year plan in guiding company decisions has been highlighted. It focuses on a long-term commitment to key stakeholders and supports the firm’s unwavering investment in its people. Social implications – The close involvement of the company in the communities where it is based and, in particular, its education initiatives aimed at producing more top-class scientists has been highlighted. Originality/value – This paper provides the inside story of the people strategy at a firm named among the USA’s 100 Best Companies for the 15th consecutive year.

Why is it suddenly so easy to change?

2015 ◽  
Vol 7 (2/3) ◽  
pp. 334-348
Author(s):  
Johan Lilja ◽  
Daniel Richardsson
Keyword(s):  
Quality Management ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Social Systems ◽  
Management Approach ◽  
Central Component ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Past ◽  
The People ◽  
Strength Based ◽  
New Knowledge

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to contribute with knowledge concerning how to drive, generate and energize change and development in social systems. A potential key to meet this challenge is the strength-based change management approach called appreciative inquiry (AI). A central component of AI is the “AI interview”, which has evolved into a distinct activity that enables the past and the future to be used as a generative source for on-going learning about strengths, opportunities, aspirations and results. The AI interview has in previous studies shown an often surprisingly high ability to generate development and change in social systems. However, the understanding of the generative “mystery” of the AI interview, focusing on the value experienced by both the people conducting the interview and those being interviewed, is still in need of further exploration. Furthermore, the evident generativity of the AI interview has not yet been integrated to any large extent into quality management. The purpose of this paper is to change that. Design/methodology/approach – The researchers have studied the customer experience of conducting an AI interview based on feedback from 97 AI students at Mid Sweden University. Findings – Among the results, eight categories of value are identified. Originality/value – The paper contributes with new knowledge concerning the values experienced during participation in an AI interview. The paper also highlights ideas on how the generativity of the AI interview could be increasingly integrated into quality management.

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