Emerald | Journal of Technology Management in China | Table of Contents

Accessing external knowledge by Chinese firms: a conceptual framework

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Osama Al-Kwifi, Zafar U. Ahmed) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to introduce a conceptual framework for knowledge transfer between Chinese firms and universities around the world, based on a joint learning process. The transfer of knowledge is important to increase the innovative capabilities of Chinese firms by accessing more sources of new knowledge not available locally. Design/methodology/approach – The framework is derived from the resource-based perspective. Its main characteristics are defined, and the required stages are explained. The framework stresses the dynamic relationship among all stages, and the active interaction between interorganizational and intraorganizational learning processes. Findings – Having a suitable process for selecting a partner is the pre-condition for achieving effective knowledge transfer between university and firm, because it determines similar capabilities and how both partners can enhance the requirements of each other. In addition, the joint learning experience between university and firm will be rewarding to a large extent if high transparency, collaborative intent, informal communication and organizational commitment are adopted as the basis for joint learning. Research limitations/implications – The study proposes a conceptual framework for knowledge transfer between Chinese firms and universities around the world, based on previous research in this domain. An empirical study will be beneficial to support this framework and to suggest needed modifications. Originality/value – The study provides a greater understanding of the importance of a joint learning process between university and firm to support the innovative capacity of a firm. It emphasizes that the successful collaboration with a university can make a firm function as an external R&D hub.

Understanding the application of Kaizen methods in construction firms in China

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Gao Shang, Low Sui Pheng) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose – Kaizen or continuous improvement is a renowned Japanese management philosophy implemented in many industries all over the world. It is geared towards the everyday worker and management, and aims to continually improve the workplace, even on a small scale. The extent of implementation in China is unknown. This paper seeks to discuss this issue. Design/methodology/approach – This study has the objective of filling a gap by addressing the implementation issues facing kaizen in a project setting, and employs qualitative methods to investigate the application of kaizen within large Chinese construction firms. The material for this study is taken from interviews of 27 Chinese building professionals from 16 large Chinese firms in 2011. Findings – The interview results indicate that different types of activities associated with kaizen have been adopted by Chinese construction firms at the project level. Research limitations/implications – There are considerable challenges identified in this study. This includes the lack of a supporting culture, compressing schedules, limited resources and especially the lack of professionals with sufficient understanding of kaizen. In order to put Chinese construction firms in a better position to implement kaizen, this study concludes with a number of strategies for overcoming these challenges. Originality/value – The respondents' perceptions of kaizen, as well as its possible applications in real life projects, were sought. In addition, the infrastructure of kaizen within the Chinese construction project setting was also investigated in this study.

The utility of Mobile Apps as a Service (MAaaS): a case study of BlueBridge Digital

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Santiago Jaramillo, C. Daniel Harting) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose – This case study aims to examine the Software as a Service, Mobile Apps as a Service (MAaaS) as pioneered by BlueBridge Digital and their subsidiary VisitApps. This system is analyzed against current market trends in relation to the niche industry of tourism mobile application development and the broader mobile application development industry as a whole. Design/methodology/approach – A survey of the industry is conducted via current literature and market analytics. The information for the case study is provided directly by BlueBridge founder and CEO, Santiago Jaramillo, in addition to other employees. Additionally, the problem of implementing this model in China and other developing economies is explored via existing literature. Findings – This paper finds the model BlueBridge's subsidiaries offer to be a superior model of application development, delivery, and support than other common existing models for mobile application vendors. Further, many of its best practices may be replicable in developing economies. Originality/value – The originality of the business model in question and the exploration of its possible implementation in developing economies provide value and new information to the body of literature and record surrounding mobile application development.

The interaction of leadership and personality among Chinese and American nascent entrepreneurs

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Luke Singer, Phil Millage) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to analyze the intersection of leadership and personality among nascent entrepreneurs in China and the USA to further understanding and provide application of the personality traits of entrepreneurs and how that affects their leadership. The goal is to extend and deepen the comprehension of what makes entrepreneurs become entrepreneurs to improve fostering this powerful economic engine. Design/methodology/approach – A sample was collected that comprised a total of 422 respondents, 58.8 percent male and 41.2 percent female. There were 209 surveys from the USA with a gender segmentation of 61.7 percent male and 38.3 percent female, and 213 responses from China with 55.9 percent male and 44.1 percent female. The Least Preferred Coworkers Scale was used to measure leadership and A Very Brief Measure of the Big 5 Personality Domains was used to measure personality in entrepreneurs. Findings – In this paper, all of the “Big Five Personality” components were correlated to the Least Preferred Coworkers Scale. The significant correlations include LPCS with Extraversion, Openness to Experience, Emotional Stability, and Lack of Conscientiousness. Only one of the four correlations demonstrated a bi-cultural significance which was Openness to Experience. Originality/value – This paper adds to the limited research that can be found between cross cultural entrepreneurs. Value is added not just through the study of Least Preferred Coworkers Scale and The Very Brief Measure of the Big Five Personality Domains, but through the comparison between cultures at the intersection of leadership and personality. It also provides insight into how to develop nascent entrepreneurs in both countries founded in empirical data.

Work-in-progress and cross disciplinary work

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Shawn M. Carraher) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100