Journal articles on the topic 'ITO relationships'

Purpose Supply chain relationships have often been analysed from the macro-perspective of the companies involved, but there is less evidence of how relationships relate to the micro-perspective of persons involved. The purpose of this paper is to investigate, in IT outsourcing (ITO), how the buyer–supplier relationship type strengthens buyer performance from the perspective of consultants. Design/methodology/approach IT consultants were surveyed, and analysis was performed considering the aggregated values of variables that characterise buyer–supplier relationships adjusted to ITO. Findings The results show that strategic relationships are associated with higher supplier investment in relational management than in transactional ones. Similarly, in this type of relationship, higher levels of trust are linked to the recognition of more activities shared between parties involved than in transactional relationships. The improvement of supplier development by buyers was also found to improve buyers’ performance. Research limitations/implications The model proposed here was developed for nonspecific industries but tested in the context of ITO. Further research should be undertaken to broaden generalisability. Originality/value The paper provides an understanding of the influence of the buyer–supplier relationship type on buyer performance based both on relational management and, more specifically, how the formal dimension of supplier development can also contribute to performance. ITO is increasing worldwide, and relational management affects outsourcing outcomes in broad supply chain integration. This analysis is usually visited from buyer and supplier perspectives using decision makers. This paper assesses it from the perspective of consultants.

AbstractThe previously monotypic genus, Paramyiolia Shiraki, is redefined based on the type species, P. takeuchii Shiraki, plus three species formerly known as Anomoia cornuta Ito, Myoleja rhino Steyskal, and Myoleja nigricornis (Doane). A key to the species, descriptions and illustrations are presented, and their phylogenetic relationships are analyzed. Paramyiolia is here placed in the Chetostoma group (Trypetinae, Trypetini), which includes four additional genera: Anomoia Walker, Chetostoma Rondani, Myoleja Rondani (s. str.), and Montiludia Ito. Hypothesized synapomorphies for the Chetostoma group are also discussed. In addition, the taxonomic status of New World tephritids formerly placed in Myoleja is clarified, resulting in the following nomenclatural changes: transfer of Myoleja limata (Coquillett), Acidia fallax Johnson, and Hamouchaeta ogloblini Blanchard to Parastenopa Hendel and synonymization of Hamouchaeta Blanchard with Parastenopa.

ABSTRACT: This paper reviews the nearly 20 years of scholarly research on information technology outsourcing (ITO), with an explicit focus on developing a taxonomy for AIS academics and extracting valuable suggestions for AIS practitioners. Our taxonomy subdivides the ITO research into separate streams: (1) initial outsourcing decision and its determinants, (2) execution of the outsourcing contract and dynamics of outsourcing relationships, and (3) measurement of outsourcing results and the long-term organizational consequences of outsourcing. We consider the primary research questions addressed, summarize the major findings, and identify the theories and methods used. Finally, we highlight the limited accounting studies on ITO and discuss directions for potential synergies between accounting and IS scholars.

A taxonomic review of the subgenus Hyparpalus Alluaud, 1930 (genus Parophonus Ganglbauer, 1892) of the Oriental and Australian regions is given. Nine species are recognised in the fauna of the Oriental Region, one of which reaches the northern Australia. The Oriental species are divided in three species groups: the cyaneotinctus (two species), subtilis (three species) and javanus (four species) groups. Distinctive characters and a key for identification of these groups and all the included species are provided. Relationships between Hyparpalus of the Oriental and Afrotropical regions and status of the Afrotropical taxon Orphanixus Clarke, 1971 are discussed. The following new synonymies are established: Parophonus subtilis (Bates, 1892) = Hyparpalus iridicolor Landin, 1955, syn. nov. = H. nagpurensis Ito, 1993, syn. nov. = H. nagpurensis curvatus Ito, 1993, syn. nov. = H. pakistanensis Ito, 2008, syn. nov.; Parophonus lividus (Andrewes, 1923) = Hyparpalus hiekei Ito, 1993, syn. nov.; Parophonus vitalisi (Andrewes, 1922) = Hyparpalus maniti Ito, 1993, syn. nov. = H. maniti similis Ito, 1993, syn. nov.; Parophonus acutangulus (Bates, 1891) = Hyparpalus gracilis Andrewes, 1947, syn. nov.; Parophonus javanus (Gory, 1833) = Diaphoromerus opacus MacLeay, 1888, syn. nov. = Parophonus australicus Baehr, 1986, syn. nov. Lectotypes are designated for Hypolithus cyaneotinctus Bates, 1889, H. cyanellus Bates, 1889 and H. acutangulus Bates, 1891.

This paper examines potential prosodic cues for level of formality in Japanese conversational speech using speech data gathered via one-on-one interviews. Based on previous work on the phonetic properties of formality in Japanese (Ofuka et al. 2000, Ito 2002), further studies of Korean (Winter & Grawunder 2012) and Catalan Spanish (Hübscher, Borràs-Comes & Prieto 2017), and on a lab-based pilot study, the study examined properties of f0, intensity, pause frequency, and articulation rate via mixed effects regression models and a functional data analysis (Grabe, Kochanski & Coleman 2007, Ramsay 2006). Analysis of the speech data shows significant relationships between a number of prosodic variables and level of formality, and suggests that some of these relationships may apply cross-linguistically.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore how the context affects successful use of advanced planning and scheduling (APS) systems in sales and operations planning (S&OP) processes, and how individual, technological, and organizational (ITO) dimensions affect this procedure. Design/methodology/approach – This is a qualitative case study of two APS system-supported S&OP processes. The work aims to generate propositions concerning the relationships among the use of APS system, the context, ITO dimensions, and fulfillment of S&OP aims. Findings – Use of APS systems was especially appropriate in support of S&OP processes in complex planning environments and when S&OP aims were ambitious. ITO dimensions were important influences on successful APS system use in most contexts. APS systems were not considered appropriate when having S&OP processes with ambitious aims and low individual and organizational maturities. Use of APS systems was also inappropriate when the extent of technological maturity was minimal. S&OP processes with ambitious aims, operating within a complex planning environment, are difficult if not impossible to implement without the support of APS systems. Practical implications – The suggestions on when APS systems should be used in different S&OP environments will be useful to companies implementing or about to implement APS systems. Originality/value – APS systems offer great potential if they are effectively used to support S&OP, still the use of APS system in S&OP is unexplored. The paper shows how the context and the ITO dimensions affect the successful use of APS systems in S&OP processes.

This essay examines Lester Horton’s 1937 production of Le Sacre du printemps (The Rite of Spring) at the Hollywood Bowl. In particular, the genesis of the work and the transference of Russian modernism in 1930s Los Angeles is explored. The essay focuses on Horton’s professional relationships with two artists in Los Angeles, Adolph Bolm and Michio Ito, both of whom were in his proximity as teachers, mentors and colleagues when he created Le Sacre. The Russian émigré Bolm, a former dancer with the Ballets Russes during the period Nijinsky choreographed The Rite of Spring in 1913, was a well-established teacher and choreographer in Los Angeles. Bolm’s and Horton’s parallel interests in American Indian dance forms are discussed. Ito, the Japanese dancer and choreographer who was inspired to pursue dance after witnessing performances of the Ballets Russes, trained in Dalcroze Eurhythmics in Hellerau before settling in Los Angeles in 1929. Horton’s production of Le Sacre, the seventh created internationally and first West Coast version is discussed in detail, drawing on the choreographer’s rehearsal notes and other first-hand accounts.

Purpose – This paper aims to answer the question: how do clients and BPO service providers work together to foster dynamic innovation? Dynamic innovation is a process by which clients incent providers to deliver many innovations each year that improve the client's performance in terms of operational efficiency, process effectiveness and/or strategic impact. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on research conducted in 2011 and 2012 and includes 202 survey responses and 48 in-depth interviews in 24 client organizations. Findings – The most effective innovation incentives are mandatory productivity targets, innovation days, and gain-sharing at the project level. Threat of competition and special governance arrangements for innovation also positively influence innovation. The least successful incentives for innovations were found to be innovation funds, gainsharing at the relationship level, what has been called “pain-sharing”, and benchmarking. Research limitations/implications – The 24 BPO relationships do not represent a random sample, but rather a convenience sample. The authors aimed to understand emerging best practices from high-performing BPO relationships, thus the paired interview samples are purposefully biased towards higher-performing relationships. Practical implications – Delivering innovations requires a process the authors call AIFI – acculturating, inspiring, funding, and injecting. The research finds that leadership pairs are key drivers of the dynamic innovation process. Leadership pairs jumpstart the dynamic innovation process by starting with innovation incentives. Even so, just having one right leader makes a positive difference. The positive difference is stronger if that leader is on the client side rather than the provider side. With no right leaders, the practices that the authors describe are less efficacious but still have positive impacts on the levels of innovation experienced. Originality/value – In the ITO and BPO literatures, researchers have under-examined the more strategic drivers of outsourcing, including innovation. This research examines the process and practices that deliver dynamic innovation in client organizations.

PurposeThe authors propose a conceptual model that explains how interorganizational relations in public-private IT outsourcing (ITO) may enhance public value in public administrations through process improvement.Design/methodology/approachThe research design is based on the development of a theoretical framework based on the integration of transaction cost theory (TCT) and the resource-based view (RBV), and empirical interview data from IT managers in state and local governments in Mexico.FindingsFirst, public-private ITO does produce specific process improvements in Mexico's public administration given its specific institutional context. Second, public value depends on the alignment between the characteristics of IT project activities and the attributes of outsourcing as a mode of governance. Third, process improvements moderate this relation. Fourth, relevant process improvements are identified on an empirical basis, showing the importance of institutional conditions in the determination of public value through interorganizational relationships in the public sector.Practical implicationsThe authors suggest new roles for public managers as orchestrators of interorganizational relations, and specify the orientation relevant process improvements could take in a specific institutional context.Originality/valueThrough this study, it is possible to gain both theoretical and practical understanding of process improvements in public administrations to enhance public value.

Cardiac hypothermia alters contractility and intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) homeostasis. We examined how left ventricular pressure (LVP) is altered as a function of cytosolic [Ca2+]iover a range of extracellular CaCl2 concentration ([CaCl2]e) during perfusion of isolated, paced guinea pig hearts at 37°C, 27°C, and 17°C. Transmural LV phasic [Ca2+] was measured using the Ca2+ indicator indo 1 and calibrated (in nM) after correction was made for autofluorescence, temperature, and noncytosolic Ca2+. Noncytosolic [Ca2+]i, cytosolic diastolic and systolic [Ca2+]i, phasic [Ca2+]i, and systolic Ca2+ released per beat (area Ca2+) were plotted as a function of 0.3–4.5 mM [CaCl2]e, and indexes of contractility [LVP, maximal rates of LVP development (+dLVP/d t) and relaxation (−dLVP/d t), and the integral of the LVP curve per beat (LVParea)] were plotted as a function of [Ca2+]i. Hypothermia increased systolic [Ca2+]iand slightly changed systolic LVP but increased diastolic LVP and [Ca2+]i. The relationship of diastolic and noncytosolic [Ca2+] to [CaCl2]ewas shifted upward at 17°C and 27°C, whereas that of phasic [Ca2+]ito [CaCl2]ewas shifted upward at 17°C but not at 27°C. The relationships of phasic [Ca2+]ito developed LVP, +dLVP/d t, and LVParea were progressively reduced by hypothermia so that maximal Ca2+-activated LVP decreased and hearts were desensitized to Ca2+. Thus mild hypothermia modestly increases diastolic and noncytosolic Ca2+ with little effect on systolic Ca2+ or released (area) Ca2+, whereas moderate hypothermia markedly increases diastolic, noncytosolic, peak systolic, and released Ca2+ and results in reduced maximal Ca2+-activated LVP and myocardial sensitivity to systolic Ca2+.

Transition metal chalcogenide molybdenum ditelluride (MoTe2) thin films have been electrosynthesized cathodically on indium tin oxide-coated (ITO) conducting glass substrates from ammonaical solution of H2MoO4 and TeO2. The electrode potential was varied while the bath temperature was maintained at 40±1 oC and deposition time of 30 minutes. Highly textured MoTe2 films with polycrystalline nature are observed by X-ray diffraction analysis. Compositional analysis by EDX gives their stoichiometric relationships. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to study surface morphology and shows that the films are smooth, uniform and useful for device fabrication. The optical absorption spectra showed that the material has an indirect band-gap value of 1.91-2.04 eV with different electrode potential. Besides, the film exhibited p-type semiconductor behavior. Keywords: Molybdenum ditelluride; Thin films; Electrodepositon; Solar cell;

Abstract We report on a screen printing fabrication process for large-area SU-8 layers utilised for the preparation of microstructures in display devices such as microelectronic, electrowetting or bistable devices. The screen printing method has been selected for its effectiveness and simplicity over traditionally used spin-coating ones. Layers and microstructures produced thereof have shown proper homogeneity. Relationships between screen parameters to coating thickness have been established. Coating on an ITO (indium tin oxide) hydrophobic surface is possible when surface has been treated by UV/Ozone to increase its aqueous ability. To this end, the hydrophilic microstructure grids have been successfully built on a hydrophobic layer by screen printing and traditional lithography processes. Compared to conventional spin-coating methods, the screen printing method offers the advantages of simple, cheap and fast fabrication, and is especially suitable for large-area display fabrication

Abstract Aims Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are widely used in the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). The efficacy of NOACs has been attributed in part to pleiotropic effects that are mediated through effects on thrombin, factor Xa, and their respective receptors. Direct pharmacological effects of NOACs and cardiac ion channels have not been addressed to date. We hypothesized that the favourable clinical outcome of NOAC use may be associated with previously unrecognized effects on atrial repolarizing potassium channels. Methods and results This study was designed to elucidate acute pharmacological effects of NOACs on cloned ion channels Kv11.1, Kv1.5, Kv4.3, Kir2.1, Kir2.2, and K2P2.1 contributing to IKr, IKur, Ito, IK1, and IK2P K+ currents. Human genes, KCNH2, KCNA5, KCND3, KCNJ2, KCNJ12, and KCNK2, were heterologously expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes, and currents were recorded using voltage-clamp electrophysiology. Apixaban, dabigatran, edoxaban, and rivaroxaban applied at 1 µM did not significantly affect peak current amplitudes of Kv11.1, Kv1.5, Kv4.3, Kir2.1, Kir2.2, or K2P2.1 K+ channels. Furthermore, biophysical characterization did not reveal significant effects of NOACs on current–voltage relationships of study channels. Conclusion Apixaban, dabigatran, edoxaban, and rivaroxaban did not exhibit direct functional interactions with human atrial K+ channels underlying IKr, IKur, Ito, IK1, and IK2P currents that could account for beneficial clinical outcome associated with the drugs. Indirect or chronic effects and potential underlying signalling mechanisms remain to be investigated.

Purpose: Functional disability, impaired balance, and trunk muscle endurance are among the major changes in patients with Non-specific Chronic Low Back Pain (NCLBP). Investigating the relationship between these factors and Functional Movement Screen (FMS) can facilitate effective pain management and functional problems in these patients. This study aimed to assess the relationships between FMS and pain, dynamic balance, and trunk muscle endurance in military personnel with NCLBP. Methods: The present study was of a correlational research design. The study subjects were 50 male military personnel with NCLBP (Mean±SD age=33.30±3.94 y, height= 175.32±5.50 cm, & weight=74.05±3.64 kg). FMS was evaluated by FMS tests and pain severity was assessed through Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale; the dynamic balance was evaluated by Y-Balance Test (YBT), and the trunk muscle endurance was measured by the ITO test. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS. Pearson correlation coefficient at a significance level of P<0.05 was used to examine the association between the research variables. Results: Pain (P=0.04, r=-0.285) was negatively correlated with the FMS. The FMS was positively associated with the dynamic balance (P=0.014, r=0.346) and trunk muscle endurance (P=0.02, r=0.381). Conclusion: The FMS can be recommended as a functional assessment tools to identify functional deficits in military personnel with NCLBP. The data suggested that the researchers could employ the FMS as a useful tool in designing more effective treatment plans and improving the functional capacity of individuals with CLBP.

Tricholoma matsutake is an ectomycorrhizal fungus that has obligate symbiotic relationships with Pinus densiflora. Its fruiting body has a distinctive flavor and is traded at a high price. Thus, it has been a significant source of income for rural communities in Korea. We hypothesized that biotic factors considerably influence the formation of the T. matsutake mushroom, and the soils producing T. matsutake share similar microbial characteristics. Therefore, the present study aimed to detect the specific fungal and bacterial groups in T. matsutake production soils (shiro+) and nonproduction soils (shiro−) of the Bonghwa and Yanyang regions via next-generation sequencing. In a total of 15 phyla, 36 classes, 234 genera of bacteria, six phyla, 29 classes, and 164 genera of fungi were detected from four samples at both sites. The species diversity of shiro+ soils was lower than the shiro− samples in both the fungal and bacterial groups. In addition, we did not find high similarities in the microbial communities between the shiro+ soils of the two regions. However, in the resulting differences between the fungal communities categorized by their trophic assembly, we found a distinguishable compositional pattern in the fungal communities from the shiro+ soils and the shiro− soils of the two sites. Thus, the similarity among the microbial communities in the forest soils may be due to the fact that the microbial communities in the T. matsutake dominant soils are closely associated with biotic factors and abiotic factors such as soil properties.

Purpose – Most firms select their information technology outsourcing (ITO) vendors based on the two methods of the weighted-criteria evaluation technique – the “qualification score plus the lowest bid price for the highest price score (QS-LBHPS)” and the “qualification score plus the average bid price for the middle price score (QS-ABMPS).” This paper aims to understand whether these two methods provide the same or different results of vendor selection and how the proportional weights of a vendor's qualification and bid price affect the vendor selection results under the two methods. Design/methodology/approach –In total, 1,000 experimental tests were carried out using the developed spreadsheet template to examine vendor selection results of the two methods (QS-LBHPS and QS-ABMPS) and compare the vendor selection results under three conditions of vendors’ qualification and price weights. A correspondence analysis was also used to determine the proximal relationships among the selection results of the weighted criteria technique under the comparable methods. Findings – The results indicate that, when using the two methods of the weighted criteria technique for a vendor selection, the selection results are significantly correspondent. In addition, the proportions of qualification and price weights affect the selection results under the two methods. The different proportions of qualification and price weights under the two methods yield the same selection results rather than different results. Originality/value – This study fills the gap in ITO literatures concerning the vendor selection strategy. No empirical studies have been undertaken to compare the results of vendor selection under the two methods of the weighted-criteria evaluation technique. The findings enable a firm's selection team to apply the weighted-criteria evaluation technique effectively and realize that vendor selection results are altered based on the predefined proportions of qualification and price weights.

Organizations are increasingly sourcing their business processes through external service providers, a practice known as Business Process Outsourcing (BPO). Worldwide, the current BPO market could be as much as $279 billion and is predicted to continue growing at 25% annually. Academic researchers have been studying this market for about 15 years and have produced findings relevant to practice. The entire body of BPO research has never been reviewed, and this paper fills that gap. We filtered the total studies and reviewed 87 empirically robust BPO articles published between 1996 and 2011 in 67 journals to answer three research questions: What has the empirical academic literature found about BPO decisions and outcomes? How do BPO findings compare with Information Technology Outsourcing (ITO) empirical research? What are the gaps in knowledge to consider in future BPO research? Employing a proven method that Lacity et al. (2010) used to review the empirical ITO literature, we encapsulated this empirical literature on BPO in a way that is concise, meaningful, and helpful to researchers. We coded 43 dependent variables, 152 independent variables, and 615 relationships between independent and dependent variables. By extracting the best evidence, we developed two models of BPO: one model addresses BPO decisions and one model addresses BPO outcomes. The model of BPO decisions includes independent variables associated with motives to outsource, transaction attributes, and client firm characteristics. The model of BPO outcomes includes independent variables associated with contractual and relational governance, country characteristics, and client and supplier capabilities. Overall, BPO researchers have a broad and deep understanding of BPO. However, the field continues to evolve as clients and suppliers on every inhabited continent participate actively in the global sourcing community. There is still much research yet to be done. We propose nine future paths of research pertaining to innovation effects, retained capabilities, environmental influences, global destinations, supplier capabilities, pricing models, business analytics, emerging models, and grounded theory development.

To strengthen their position in today's highly‐competitive and fast‐paced business environment, supplier firms often engage in relationships with their customers. Recent advances in information technology offer new ways of managing inter‐organizational relationships. In this paper, a model conceptualizing the impact of information technology deployment on inter‐organizational buyer‐seller relationships is developed. Using an empirical study of 61 German firms engaged in customer‐supplier relationships, this paper also gives some empirical evidence for the developed framework. With regard to relationship management, intra‐ and inter‐organizational information technology deployment has different effects on relationship atmosphere and on the relationship's value creation. The findings give new insight into the role of information technology in value‐creation in business‐to‐business relationships. Managerial implications and future research questions in this area are also discussed.

The paper deals with the taxonomy of brachypterous species of the subgenus Bottchrus Jedlička, 1935 of the genus Trichotichnus Morawitz, 1863 occurring in the Himalayan region. The following new species are described: T. (B.) baglungensis sp. n. from the Baglung Lekh mountain range, Baglung District, western Central Nepal; T. (B.) parvulus sp. n. from Mt. Panchhase and the Krapa Danda mountain range, Kaski District, western Central Nepal; T. (B.) bubsaensis sp. n. from the eastern slope of the middle Dudh Koshi Valley near Bubsa, Solu Khumbu District, eastern Central Nepal; T. (B.) schawalleri sp. n. from the western slope of the Arun Valley, Bhojpur District, East Nepal; T. (B.) obliquebasalis sp. n. from the Khimti Khola Valley near Shivalaya, Dolakha District, eastern Central Nepal; T. (B.) panchhaseensis sp. n. from Mt. Panchhase, Kaski District, western Central Nepal; T. (B.) siklesensis sp. n. from the Sikles mountain range on the southern slope of Annapurna Peak II, western Central Nepal; T. (B.) pusillus sp. n. from the south-western slopes of Manaslu Himal (Bara Pokhari Lekh and Dudh Pokhari Lekh mountain ranges), and from the south-eastern slope of Annapurna Himal (Telbrung Danda mountain range), Lamjung District, western Central Nepal; T. (B.) ganeshensis sp. n. from the south-western slope of Ganesh Himal, Nuwakot District, Central Nepal; T. (B.) minutus sp. n. from the mountains surrounding the Kathmandu Valley (Shivapuri Lekh, Mt. Phulchoki), Central Nepal; T. (B.) gupchiensis sp. n. from the Gupchi Danda mountain range on the south-eastern slope of Manaslu Himal, Gorkha District, western Central Nepal; T. (B.) brancuccii sp. n. from the southern slope of the Helambu mountain range, Sindhupalchok District, Central Nepal; T. (B.) manasluensis sp. n. from the Bara Pokhari Lekh mountain range on the south-western slope of Manaslu Himal, Lamjung District, western Central Nepal; T. (B.) sikkimensis sp. n. from Pelling near Geyzing, West Sikkim, India; T. (B.) martensi sp. n. from the western slopes of the Singalila mountain range, Taplejung District, East Nepal. The following four species are redescribed: brachypterous T. (B.) holzschuhi Kirschenhofer, 1992; T. (B.) cyanescens Ito, 1998; T. (B.) hingstoni Andrewes, 1930; and dimorphic T. (B.) birmanicus Bates, 1892; and new data on their distribution are provided. The lectotype is designated for T. hingstoni Andrewes, 1930. The following two new synonyms are proposed: Trichotichnus birmanicus Bates, 1892 = T. (Bellogenus) probsti Kirschenhofer, 1992, syn. n., and T. hingstoni Andrewes, 1930 = T. (Pseudotrichotichnus) curvatus Ito, 1996, syn. n. The brachypterous and dimorphic species of Bottchrus known from the Himalaya are divided into eight informal groups based mostly on the degree of reduction of hindwings and the configuration of the median lobe of the aedeagus, and their relationships are briefly discussed. The distributional data of all these species are mapped.

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate: first, the effects of a user’s grandiosity on the loneliness of another user on Facebook who detected it in terms of his/her well-being status; second, the mediational role of envy between grandiosity and loneliness; and, third, whether different effects are given on narcissism, envy, and loneliness depending on social or para-social relationships on Facebook. Design/methodology/approach This study’s focus is to investigate how observing others’ grandiose behaviors impact on individuals’ feeling of loneliness. The authors propose that this relationship is mediated by the feeling of envy. The authors further postulate that social relationships that participants may have with other Facebook users would play a key role in feeling different types of envy (i.e. malicious vs benign). Therefore, the current study employed a 2 (levels of grandiosity: high vs low) × 2 (social relationship: para-social vs social) between-subjects design. Findings The authors found that one’s grandiosity as reflected on Facebook significantly affects other users’ loneliness through malicious envy. However, no moderated mediation via envy (either benign or malicious) was found within the social relationship group. Originality/value Social comparison generated by the use of Facebook was found to have an effect on the user’s loneliness through the mediation of envy. In particular, the possibility that such effects could be triggered in para-social relationships was identified.

The two of factors Orientation towards Finance (ORTOFIN) Scale tests the financial information and personal financial planning of the respondents. The Scale helps in identifying the personal financial management behavior of a general and non-specific nature. The present study was undertaken to test the relationship between status of residence and financial orientation using ORTOFIN Scale. Towards this the ORTOFIN scale was administered on 167 resident employed Indians and 62 expatriates working in Saudi Arabia. Since most of the expatriates work in unique situations that are often beset with risks, they have to face an uncertain future. This unique situation was hypothesized, would induce in them a different type of financial behavior, distinct from those who are settled and work in the home country. Results of the study, however, show that there is no relationship between the status of residence and financial orientation of the respondents. The results of the study are of great significance and of practical implication to those financial institutions with which expatriates are associated.

Couples making the transition to parenthood experience challenges that can threaten the quality and stability of their relationships and the health of family members. Currently, the educational infrastructure to support the delivery of couple-relationship education during the transition to parenthood is limited. Because new-parent couples interact with the health care system at many points during this transition time, an opportunity exists for strengthening couple relationships within the system to improve the well-being of adults and children. In this article, we propose a productive collaboration between marriage/couple educators and health care systems to integrate couple-relationship education into the standard of perinatal care.

Este artículo tiene como objetivo revisar la relación entre la población y los indicadores del desarrollo para México en el periodo de 2010 a 2016. Iniciamos con la revisión del desarrollo conceptual, metodológico e instrumental aplicado a la experiencia del México reciente. Se pro-pone una visión de conjunto de los conceptos e indicadores que constituyen un sistema que puede orientar la discusión respecto del avance en la consecución de objetivos y metas determinados de la población y el desarrollo sostenible de México. En términos simples el trabajo busca revisar qué variables se integran al binomio de la población y desarrollo sostenible. Para empezar, se sostiene que la dimensión demográfica está ausente en la discusión del desarrollo sostenible y que merece una revisión desde el punto de vista sistémico.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore independent small business owners’ perceptions of franchisees relationships with their franchisors, their fellow franchisees within the chain, their employees and their customers. Design/methodology/approach – The authors use a qualitative approach and, more specifically, 26 in-depth interviews conducted with independent small business owners from various business sectors. Findings – These independent small business owners perceive that franchisees have a dependency-based relationship with their franchisors; a competition-based relationship with their fellow franchisees; a rather complicated relationship with their employees; and a superficial relationship with their customers. Research limitations/implications – This study contributes to the franchising literature by presenting an outside-chain view of franchisees’ relationships with their franchisors, other franchisees, employees and customers. Practical implications – The findings may have practical implications for franchisors, enabling them to better understand the concerns of independent small business owners as potential franchisee candidates. Originality/value – The outside-chain view of franchisees’ relationships is innovative.

Small businesses often do not have a sufficient capacity to put the appropriate R&amp;D activities into action. Nevertheless, they are able to be innovative towards their products, processes, distribution channels, and geographical markets. Therefore, even for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the level of innovativeness can be high. The literature shows that the firm marketing capabilities are very important for innovation in the food industry, to guarantee that innovation reflects the market needs. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the relationship between the level of firm innovativeness and different steps of the marketing management process, to understand if good marketing capabilities can affect the firm innovativeness. An interactive questionnaire available on the web was used for the data collection. The survey was conducted on 468 European SMEs. Linear Regression was run to assess the link between marketing activities and the level of firm innovativeness. Our empirical analysis reveals that the SME marketing capabilities show significant and positive relationships with firm innovativeness. &nbsp;

Este trabalho é parte da dissertação “Pelo diálogo entre a Universidade e a Educação Básica: um estudo sobre as Licenciaturas da UFSCar – campus Sorocaba” e trata sobre Universidade, Educação Básica e a interação entre ambas, objetivando estabelecer relações entre as ações que visam aproximar os dois níveis de ensino. É uma pesquisa de abordagem qualitativa, em que o eixo teórico-metodológico se constitui de levantamento bibliográfico especializado sobre a temática no Banco de Teses e Dissertações da CAPES e outras plataformas como Scielo, Redalyc e Google Acadêmico. Em pesquisas recentes, observa-se que a relação entre escola e universidade, enquanto processo de aprendizagem colaborativa, estabelece uma conexão entre ações e discursos, possibilitando a renovação constante de saberes. Os resultados da pesquisa revelaram que a relação entre a universidade e a educação básica é necessária e relevante, no entanto, ainda é insuficiente.

The aim of the article is to provide answers to two research questions. Firstly, what in business practice is needed to convert a contact into beneficial relationship. And secondly, whether numerous personal contacts, the so-called “connections” are sufficient to achieve sustained success in creating business relationships. The authors responded the questions by using the results of research conducted among 419 companies. As a result they proposed a scheme of the development process from contact to a beneficial relationship. Introduction Relationships are formed between entities conducting business as an effect of repeated interactions. Although crucial to the business, the notion of relationships is often not entirely understood, due to the fact that relationships are not limited to formal relations between companies. In practice of running business, relationships are seen as a remedy for the lack of opportunities for the development of the company, ensuring the expansion and success of the business. This, in turn, promotes the belief in the need to establish numerous contacts, which then have to transform into relationships being the source of many benefits. But in practice the transformation of contacts into relationships is not so simple. Hence, two research questions arise, the answer to which will be given by this article. First, what in practice of doing business is needed to transform a contact into a beneficial relationship? Second, are numerous contacts, i.e. so-called “connections” sufficient to achieve sustainable success in building business relationships? This paper will present the results of the research conducted among 419 companies of different sizes in Poland. The research “The global and local dimension of business networks” was carried out from November 2014 to June 2015. The structure of the analysed companies corresponds to the general structure of companies in Poland – 87 percent of them are small and medium-sized companies (the remaining 13 percent are large entities) and 74 percent are private entities with national capital. In the survey, we asked the representatives of management of companies about the characteristics and benefits of relationships connecting their companies with their most important key customers and key suppliers. This enabled indication of the essential conditions necessary for the creation of beneficial relationships. The essence of relationships between companies A relationship is a phenomenon that is formed during a long time and is developed through repeated interactions between entities [Easton, 1992]. Thus, a relationship is defined as an interdependent process of continuous interaction and exchange between at least two entities within a business network [Holmund, Törnroos, 1997] or as a mutual orientation of two companies towards each other, which means that the companies are prepared to work together and expect such actions from each other [Johanson, Mattsson, 1987]. During the process of development of a relationship, the entities create strong and wide, social, economic, service, and technological bonds, in order to reduce total costs over time, and to increasethe added value, thus achieving mutual benefits [Anderson, Narus, 1991]. An important characteristic of relationships is the fact that they need a longer time to be formed. The emergence of a relationship takes time and effort on the part of both entities [Forsgren, et al., 2015, Håkansson, Ford, 2002, Szymura- Tyc, 2015]. A long-term nature can be described as a reciprocal expectation on the part of entities that the relationship will continue [Ratajczak-Mrozek, 2009], although unexpected events can always lead to its break. Another typical features describing the real relationships, as opposed to usual contacts, include trust, commitment, and also loyalty [Leszczyński, 2014, Morgan, Hunt, 1994, Farrelly, Quester, 2003]. These features are related to the concept of the quality of a relationship, taking into account that from the perspective of the company, not every relationship is equally important. Relationships are developed only with a limited number of entities [Håkansson, Waluszewski, 1992], and there is also the claim that an average company has ten important relationships [Håkansson, Henders, 1992], and a limited number of relationships stems from the investments that are required in order to develop them [Ford, Håkansson, 2006]. These investments involve commitment of resources, including financial resources, as well as time. The assumption concerning a limited number of important business relationships means that the interactions themselves may or may not lead to the development of a relationship [Blois, 1997]. Hence, more important is the question about the conditions of transferring individual interactions, embodied by the network of one-off contacts, into relationships that bring benefits. Key features and benefits of relationships between companies To answer the question on what is necessary to transform a contact into a beneficial relationship in practice of running the business, the answers obtained from 419 companies, as mentioned above, have been analysed. The method applied involved a survey delivered by post and via the Internet, with both questionnaires including the same research questions, and the companies could receive the questionnaire only once. The address list has been prepared on the basis of a nationwide company database Kompass Poland, and the sampling frame included companies from all around Poland, representing all sectors and all sizes of companies. The sample was selected at random. The return rate of 11.8 percent was obtained in the case of surveys by post, and 2.4 for Internet surveys, which led to the total of 419 responses. The questions about key relationships of companies were answered by the representatives of management, which was to provide representative opinions on important relationships from the perspective of the entire company. In the first phase, the characteristics of relationships have been analysed (see Figure 1), which enables identification of the most important areas distinguishing the relationships from all contacts of the company, and allows to indicate what is necessary to convert contacts into relationships. It is widely believed that the formation of relationships takes time. The presented research confirms this dependency. For a relationship to be established, it is essential to develop informal standards of cooperation and trust, and it usually takes time. What is more, the fact of building trust is proved not only by the duration of interactions, but also by the conviction about the long-term attitude of the partners towards joint activities. It must be emphasised that these conditions apply both to the relationships with customers, as well as with suppliers. Also the quality of what is going on in the course of cooperation is important. A relationship connected with routine assignments once in a while will not necessarily bring a wide spectrum of benefits. Among other things, the transformation of a contact into a relationship can be accelerated by a frequent and regular cooperation. Whereas, it is essential for this frequency to be related not only with keeping contacts, but with actual offering of benefits. The research conducted shows that each time 59 percent of relationships, both with key customers and suppliers, is based on the economic calculation (not excluding, however, at the same time, the importance of other factors), which indicates that the relationship is not only an idealistic vision of cooperation. Generally, the companies guided by maximising profits are looking for the most economical and financially beneficial solutions. Thus, the question arises, what might be the motives of the companies to maintain the remaining 40 percent of relationships? If in their case the most important is not the simple economic calculation, than they must be associated with other than strictly direct financial benefits. Relationships can bring not only financial benefits but also imply the improvement of flexibility and speed of operation, reduction of transaction costs, risks, and uncertainty by the creation of routine proceedings, unwritten principles of cooperation, trust and mutual adaptation. As a consequence, the closer the cooperation is, the more difficult it becomes to change the partner. On the other hand, if for almost 60 percent of the companies the economic factor plays an important role, in their case it can mean either the lack of place for other reasons to build relationships or the lack of differences in the perception of the existing key business partners. The latter creates a special market opportunity for those companies, that have already possessed the ability to build long-term business relationships based on non-financial factors, as it allows to stand out against the closest competitors. In this context, the research conducted showed the main benefits achieved by the companies thanks to relationships with key customers and suppliers, which is the second stage of the research (Figure 2). Apparently, there is a certain group of common benefits for all relationships, regardless of the type of a partner. They are related to the widely understood development (which may be supported in terms of economics, technology, competence, reputation), creation of new products, trust, and risk mitigation associated therewith. Moreover, in the case of key customer relationships, there are benefits associated with sales – directly, its growth and factors supporting it (recommendations and prestige). In turn, in the case of relationships with key suppliers, there are benefits related with the costs of operation (directly, reduction of costs, greater flexibility, and an increase in the margin). The broad range of benefits achieved by relationships at the same time indicates the key condition that must be satisfied to convert the contacts into relationships. If one of the parties does not achieve benefits, it means that there is no interest in the development of long-term and close relationships. In such a case, the relation is a rather forced contact (for example, due to the lack of alternatives in choosing a supplier, impossibility of allowing oneself to lose the customer providing revenues). Hence, for a contact to result in a relationship, it is necessary to appropriately identify and offer benefits sought by the other party. Speaking of relationships, the importance of having connections in the business is often emphasized. Meanwhile, the research conducted shows that the personal contacts are of a limited importance and in the absence of significant benefits, business relationships gradually erode. Bearing in mind the respondents’ answers, it should rather be stated that it is the effort made in the longer period to maintain mutually beneficial relationships, including frequent contacts with customers, that promotes the widening and deepening of the existing connections, which consequently sometimes also have the chance to be continued on the business and non-business grounds. In the above situation, contacts between people play a role in creating quality of the already existing relationships. It will be expressed in the way of communication, the depth and scope of cooperation, the distinguishing feature of which will be, in particular, the informal, direct and quick solving of emerging conflicts of interest or current problems. It should be remembered that the condition for this is the presence of benefits valued by both parties. Otherwise, the effort made sooner or later will begin to be perceived by one or the other side as unjustified. It is worth to note here that due to the dominant share of financial benefits in business relationships indicated in the research, the time horizon within which the parties assess the relationships, can be relatively short. And this in turn may affect the growth of their dynamics, and can cause their low resistance to changing conditions. Therefore, as indicated above, numerous contacts do not have to convert into numerous and durable relationships of the company at all. Wide personal contacts are good as a starting point, enable breaking through formal barriers associated with complex organisational structures or the lack of resources, and establishing the first contact between the companies, but not necessarily translate into real and beneficial relationships. On the other hand, business relationships do not have to be permanent, especially if they are based only on achieving financial benefits. The process of developing a contact into a beneficial relationship Building relationships takes time and requires orientation towards a long-term cooperation. For a contact to develop into a relationship, one needs to remember about the benefits that can be offered and which are important to the future or existing partner. But such benefits cannot be provided to all customers and suppliers, thus, it is important to be selective. It does not mean being closed to new contacts, on the contrary. It is important, however, to search for such contacts for which a high potential to build relationships based on mutual benefits can be indicated. Selectivity is not just a matter of choosing of those with whom direct contacts will be established, but relates also to the scope of time and effort necessary to be borne in order to transform particular contacts into established relationships. It may be considered that the expected benefits will be greater in the case of sustained involvement in several selected contacts and building business bonds with them, than in the case of blind devotion to establishing numerous contacts, and then making cursory attempts to “build relationships” with everybody. In this context, a considerable involvement of time and resources in building bonds with customers and suppliers that are guided only by the economic calculation (in this case the only criterion will always be a lower price), who, guided by undisclosed premises showed a lack of loyalty or turned out to be opportunist entities, who value immediate benefits more than long-term cooperation, may be found doubtful. Based on the survey, several key conditions necessary for the transformation of the established contact with a potential partner into a long-term beneficial relationship can be distinguished. They include the selectivity in relation to contacts, focusing on the target group (not – the more the better), discovering of this group and offering significant benefits to them, and then devoting time and keeping appropriate frequency of contacts. At the same time, these conditions are reflected in the process of developing relationships, which can be divided into four main stages, as shown in Figure 3. How might this process look like in practice, for example, in relation to a company providing B2B (business-tobusiness) services? The first stage can pose some difficulties, especially when one does not have extensive““connections”, and the target group, which can be offered the most benefits, while maximising one’s own, has not been precisely defined. After gaining interest in a potential partner that meets certain criteria, where the personal contacts can turn out to be helpful, the company oriented towards building longterm relationships will be more focused on awakening and increasing confidence than on maximising their financial benefits in the short-term. Due to the lack of previous experience in working together, and the risk associated therewith, the first contacts may be limited to rather small assignments. The development of the relationship at this stage will be promoted by considerable commitment, frequent contacts between people, ensuring that certain benefits have been achieved, which in turn should build trust, which will allow for the continuation of cooperation and obtaining new, possibly larger assignments. They will be an opportunity to strengthen cooperation, mutual matching, simplifying and making the operations more routine, which will greatly reduce the costs incurred and will improve the profitability of orders. In turn, a well-established cooperation will promote building relationships aiming at achieving objectives other than purely financial (Figure 2). Summary and managerial implications The suggestions presented in this article are not a guarantee of success and building beneficial, long-term relationships with every business partner. The results of the research indicate, however, that the orientation towards the simultaneous achievement of financial and nonfinancial benefits by both sides of the relationship is not common, and therefore, it may become a significant factor differentiating the company from others operating on the given market. Above all, however, this will require time, added value offered to the other partner, selection of and concentration on the most prospective partners, and effort spent on searching for mutually beneficial solutions and maintenance of proper daily contacts. Sometimes, despite the efforts undertaken, there may appear disappointment, frustration and discouragement. This is due to the fact that the assessment of the benefits arising from business relationships may change together with changing circumstances, and even despite the best efforts of one of the partners, the overall balance of benefits may lead the other party to decide to terminate or limit the existing relationship. Potential benefits of permanent business relationships, indicated by the surveyed respondents, however, are high enough to fully justify this effort. On the other hand, it may be so large that despite its efforts the entity will be able to create only few or one strong relationship with its business partner. It is, therefore, recommended for this partner to be significant or at least with a large development potential. It is important to recognise that a personal feeling and gaining a direct contact to a decision-maker of a potential business partner does not necessarily mean that there will be a commercial transaction completed, and even more, that one managed to establish a lasting business relationship. As shown in the article, there is still a long way to go, and requires crossing a number of stages of the defined process of developing the contact into the beneficial relationship.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to extend the utilitarian value of the dedication-based relationship maintenance mechanism of social exchange theory and customer perceived relationship investment to investigate the relationship performance of a retailer launching a self-service technology (SST). Computer anxiety and time consciousness are hypothesized to moderate the effects among these relationships. Design/methodology/approach – The results of the structural equation model, with in-store kiosk use experience data collected for 211 respondents, supported the research model. Multiple regression analysis was used for testing the moderating effects. Findings – The utilitarian value of dedication-based relationship maintenance is related to perceived relationship investment. Higher levels of customer-perceived relationship investment impact relationship performance. Computer anxiety and time consciousness act separately as both partial and full moderators. Research limitations/implications – First, this study did not consider different kinds of products/services to have different effects with regard to customer cognition. Second, most of the respondents were students, and this is a limitation in business research, because of such factors as lower incomes and higher information technology ability as compared to individuals with other occupations. Third, it is difficult to distinguish whether the level of perceived convenience is due to the convenience stores per se or the in-store kiosks that they have. Future research may thus consider analyzing in more detail how perceived convenience is evoked. Finally, future research can consider constraint-based relationship maintenance mechanisms with regard to operating in-store kiosk businesses. Practical implications – Retailers who are willing to continually launch SSTs should tie such efforts to their relationship marketing strategies. Moreover, retailers who are willing to launch e-businesses should establish strategies designed to enhance customer experience with regard to the use of technology. Finally, launching SSTs should involve the continual development of an effective purchasing process and functional relationship marketing strategies. Originality/value – This paper can help managers organize relationship maintenance mechanisms, especially with regard to the development of user utilitarian value, in order to obtain improved relationship performance.

Purpose – Effective management of IT outsourcing continues to be a challenge to organizations today. Organizations in China suffer from even bigger problems than other regions of the world. The IT outsourcing market is in its infancy and the outsourcing practice is still at its initial stage. Regarding to the outsourcing management issues, the literature has explored the role of either the relationship or contract in governing IT outsourcing success. However, few efforts have been paid to investigate the effects of both relationship and contract on IT outsourcing success from a holistic view. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – This study develops a conceptual model and empirically tests it through a cross-sectional survey conducted in five big cities of Mainland China. Findings – The data analysis results identified the dimensionalities of relationship, contract and IT outsourcing success and proved the causal relationships between these three constructs. Originality/value – This research re-emphasizes the importance of relationship in IT outsourcing success and the fundamental role of contract in developing a sound relationship. It also gives some implications on how to evaluate IT outsourcing success in China, an emerging market for IT outsourcing.