Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Australian business'
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1
Gray, David Michael Marketing Australian School of Business UNSW. "A competency based theory of business partnering : an empirical study of Australian business-to-business partnerships." Awarded by:University of New South Wales. School of Marketing, 2006. http://handle.unsw.edu.au/1959.4/23302.
Abstract:
This research, conceptualizes, operationalises and empirically tests a competency-based theory of business-partnering performance within an Australian business-partnering context. Drawing on theory from social psychology and marketing, the research integrates a number of theoretical approaches including resource-based theory, competency based theory, relational factors view, relational interaction theory, and competitive advantage theory to explain why some business partnerships are more successful than others are. The results use a ???process model of business-partnering??? performance to explain the interaction process through which business partners exploit the available partnering related ???operant resources??? and how these resources influence the performance of business partnerships and their ability to achieve a competitive advantage. Specifically, this research investigates a number of important internal resources, which facilitate the building, and maintaining of external businesspartner relations including ???joint alliance competence???, ???joint alliance structure???, ???interpersonal relational competence??? and ???market orientation???. This research shows that an adequate understanding of how these ???operant resources??? are deployed/accessed and co-created by the business partners to achieve a competitive advantage requires integration of ???relational interaction theory??? into ???resource-based theory??? and ???competency-based theory???. The results of this research show that those firms that pursue business partnerships as a competitive strategy can improve performance by engaging in a range of activities, which facilitate the building of ???relational capital??? of the partnership. The results provide support for conclusion that ???communication behaviour??? is a central and important mediating variable in the performance of business partnerships. Overall, the findings are consistent with the literature in finding support for the notion that ???joint alliance competence??? is a direct antecedent of businesspartnering performance. There is support for the notion that the partnership???s ability to govern and manage itself is an important determinant of ???communication behaviour??? and ???co-ordination behaviour???. The results identified ???market orientation???, ???co-ordination behaviour??? and ???relational capital??? as all having a direct influence on business-partnership profitability. Finally, given the relatively high failure rates of business partnerships this research provides greater opportunity for a discussion of the kinds of intervention strategies that could be used to minimise the risk of failure and/or to improve partnership performance. Keywords: competency, alliance, business partnership, relationship marketing, businesspartnering competency, relational factors view, resource based view, relational interaction theory, market orientation, interpersonal relational competency, alliance structure, process model.
2
Pearce, Emma Kate. "Scripting globalisation : globalisation discourse in Australian business media /." Title page, synopsis and table of contents only Title page, synopsis and table of contents only, 2002. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09LR/09lrp3592.pdf.
3
Blake, Jacqueline. "Business-to-business communication and the requirements for an ontology for the Australian timber and wood products industry." University of Southern Queensland, Faculty of Business, 2006. http://eprints.usq.edu.au/archive/00003204/.
Abstract:
[Executive Summary]: The purpose of this thesis is to describe business-to-business communication and the characteristics of an open standard for electronic communication within the Australian timber and wood products industry. The current issues, future goals and strategies for using business-to-business communication identified by respondents in a questionnaire are discussed. The study addresses these questions, by using a self-administered questionnaire which was constructed and mailed to 2000 organisations. The questionnaire was used to ascertain a base-line of information systems’ use in the Australian timber and wood products industry, and to establish how to make successful the introduction of a more accessible means for system to system interoperation between organisations. A prototype domain specific ontology was engineered using content analysis of a representative timber and wood product organisation product listing. A visual representation of the ontology modelled using unified modelling language is presented. The formal specification of the ontology was constructed using an ontology editor, Protégé. The outcomes of the questionnaire include that the industry has a small number of large enterprises and a large proportion of small to medium enterprises. Computer and Internet use in the industry is comparable to that in other Australian industry sectors. For both intrabranch and business-to- business the established communication modes of postal service, telephone and facsimile are those most frequently used. However where advanced information technology modes exist, it is used extensively. Use of electronic data interchange is now used mostly by organisations employing over 100 employees, whereas supply chain management use is limited. Small to medium enterprises have failed to adopt an information systems strategy plan, while organisations employing over 100 do have plans in place. Attitudes toward information technology, business-to-business communication and information systems security are dependent upon organisational size while compliance to information systems’ standards was not. Barriers to adoption of technology specific communication identified in the study are location, lack of resources, organisational size and a lack of planning. Drivers to increase the bandwagon effect in the industry are education and the availability of a simple low-cost complete package to demystify technology intensive electronic business-to-business communication. For the ontology to proceed to a standard a collaborative effort must be made by industry partners to reach consensus on an acceptable standard.
4
Knox, Ian. "Web based regional newspapers : The role of content : A thesis." Thesis, University of Ballarat, 2002. http://researchonline.federation.edu.au/vital/access/HandleResolver/1959.17/43155.
Abstract:
The phenomenon and acceptance of electronic publishing has proliferated in the last five years due to the expansion in the use of the World Wide Web in the general community. The initial fears that newspapers would be decimated by the introduction of this technology have been proven groundless, but despite a high web presence by newspapers world wide, profitable models of cyber papers are elusive. In an online environment traditional relationships between newspaper advertising and editorial may not stand. Despite the considerable body of published literature concerning the movement of print newspapers to an online environment, little was found concerning online content. A need to re-evaluate what content and functions are considered to be desirable by print readers, in an online environment was identified as the main objective of this research. Evaluation the of user attitudes to web based newspapers provides a foundation for future research into areas such as developing effective models for profitable online newspapers. To achieve this objective, the research tools used were a content analysis, an online newspaper user survey and newspaper management personal interviews. The study looked at Victorian regional daily newspapers that also had online versions. By focussing on the regional newspapers, meaningful comparisons could be made between content, staff attitudes and readership interests. The content analysis measured the quantum and nature of the content of the print and online versions of the regional dailies during a one week period. This provided a measure of the type and source of the articles included both in print and online. Newspaper editorial staff interviews contributed a personalised view of content priorities, which was then contrasted with a web based questionnaire which measured user requirements in relation to content and interactivity. It was found from the survey that content alone would not provide a sufficient basis to build a profitable online regional newspaper site. The findings were analysed in relation to the literature, newspaper site content and editorial staff interviews. Despite regularly accessing online newspaper sites, it was found that users are unwilling to pay for the experience. Users indicated a desire for a higher level of interactivity, in addition to the content, which is currently provided, by online regional newspapers. Evaluation of user attitudes to web based newspapers provides a foundation for future research into the development of effective for profitable online newspapers.Master of Business
5
Knox, Ian. "Web based regional newspapers : the role of content : a thesis." University of Ballarat, 2002. http://archimedes.ballarat.edu.au:8080/vital/access/HandleResolver/1959.17/14587.
Abstract:
The phenomenon and acceptance of electronic publishing has proliferated in the last five years due to the expansion in the use of the World Wide Web in the general community. The initial fears that newspapers would be decimated by the introduction of this technology have been proven groundless, but despite a high web presence by newspapers world wide, profitable models of cyber papers are elusive. In an online environment traditional relationships between newspaper advertising and editorial may not stand. Despite the considerable body of published literature concerning the movement of print newspapers to an online environment, little was found concerning online content. A need to re-evaluate what content and functions are considered to be desirable by print readers, in an online environment was identified as the main objective of this research. Evaluation the of user attitudes to web based newspapers provides a foundation for future research into areas such as developing effective models for profitable online newspapers. To achieve this objective, the research tools used were a content analysis, an online newspaper user survey and newspaper management personal interviews. The study looked at Victorian regional daily newspapers that also had online versions. By focussing on the regional newspapers, meaningful comparisons could be made between content, staff attitudes and readership interests. The content analysis measured the quantum and nature of the content of the print and online versions of the regional dailies during a one week period. This provided a measure of the type and source of the articles included both in print and online. Newspaper editorial staff interviews contributed a personalised view of content priorities, which was then contrasted with a web based questionnaire which measured user requirements in relation to content and interactivity. It was found from the survey that content alone would not provide a sufficient basis to build a profitable online regional newspaper site. The findings were analysed in relation to the literature, newspaper site content and editorial staff interviews. Despite regularly accessing online newspaper sites, it was found that users are unwilling to pay for the experience. Users indicated a desire for a higher level of interactivity, in addition to the content, which is currently provided, by online regional newspapers. Evaluation of user attitudes to web based newspapers provides a foundation for future research into the development of effective for profitable online newspapers.Master of Business
6
Del, Rio Victor. "High-profile crisis management in Australian and New Zealand Organisations /." Connect to thesis, 2007. http://repository.unimelb.edu.au/10187/2272.
7
Mangan, S. "The impact of the Australian media's reporting of Indonesia on business relationships - A Western Australian perspective." Thesis, Mangan, S. (2016) The impact of the Australian media's reporting of Indonesia on business relationships - A Western Australian perspective. Masters by Research thesis, Murdoch University, 2016. https://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/36167/.
Abstract:
In 2011, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s current affairs program Four Corners televised an exposé of the treatment of Australian cattle in Indonesian abattoirs. The program prompted the immediate suspension of the Australian live cattle trade to Indonesia. It was another incident in the history of Indonesian-Australian relations involving the Australian media and government action since Indonesia’s independence in 1945. This paper looks at the history of Australian media reporting and how it affects business with Indonesia. It examines the extent to which reporting in the Australian press impacts the perceptions of business people pursuing commercial relationships in Indonesia, focusing on Western Australia. It analyses interviews with prominent Western Australian business executives with a vested interest in Indonesia and identifies key issues hindering closer economic ties between the two countries. Issues identified include negative reporting in the Australian media, the effect of nation branding and the perpetuation
of stereotypes in news judgement in Australian newsrooms.
8
Leith, Andrew Roydon. "Competitiveness of Australian small to medium enterprises in Indonesia /." View thesis View thesis, 2000. http://library.uws.edu.au/adt-NUWS/public/adt-NUWS20030429.163902/index.html.
Abstract:
Thesis (Ph.D.) -- University of Western Sydney, 2000.A thesis submitted as part of the candidature requirement for the award of a Doctorate of Philosophy, November 2000, University of Western Sydney. Bibliography : leaves 204-215.
9
Welsman, Sandra June. "Laws regulating business facilitation, control, or overload?: a consideration of Australian business regulation in the early 1990s." Thesis, The University of Sydney, 2001. https://hdl.handle.net/2123/28066.
Abstract:
This thesis examines interactions of business, government and the judiciary in Australia through regulatory law. This arena of policy, lawmaking and regulatory practice is explored from a number of integrated perspectives, to a depth not pursued in general reviews.
10
Manning, Elizabeth Sophie Mary. "Local content and related trade policy: Australian applications /." Title page, abstract and table of contents only, 2004. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09PH/09phm2832.pdf.
11
Khan, Maria Hameed. "Analysing media framing of women in contemporary Australian business leadership." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 2020. https://eprints.qut.edu.au/200628/1/Maria_Khan_Thesis.pdf.
Abstract:
This study explored media framing of leadership and gender in an Australian business context. The findings indicated complex differential framings, with a dominance towards traditional and heroic leadership whilst simultaneously emphasising post-heroic perspectives. Media framing of individual leaders highlighted tensions between expectations to perform leadership and conforming to gendered cultural norms. This research contributes to critical leadership studies by providing insight into the multidimensionality of heroic and post-heroic forms of leadership. There are also practical implications for how organisations and individuals perceive and enact leadership in work contexts.
12
McCarthy, Nigel Thomas Fiaschi. "The development of economic and business news on Australian television." Thesis, The University of Sydney, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/2123/1773.
Abstract:
Television is the favoured news source for most Australians and is regarded as having the potential to influence public opinion. From its inception however, television has been regarded as ill-suited to cover economic and business issues because of a perceived reliance on visual material and an inability to deal with complex issues. This tyranny of vision has been mitigated by technological developments such as electronic news gathering (ENG) and satellites that provide large amounts of varied material as well as improvements in production tools that assist the visual presentation of abstract concepts. The presentation of complex issues has also been enhanced by the increased skills and knowledge among newsworkers. Economic and business news has become a staple in television news programs and has evolved from ritualised reporting of data such as market indices and exchange rates to a genre that shares broader news values such as consequence, conflict, proximity, human interest, novelty, prominence, political controversy and scandal. Economic and business news also shares the normal imperatives of television such as a strong reliance on scheduled occasions and reliable and prolific sources. In between occasions of economic, business and political controversy or scandal, these programs are able to rely on a steady supply of economic, business and investment information. Dedicated economic and business segments and programs and now even whole channels meet two sets of demands. One is those of niche audiences seeking news and information on economic and business conditions, economic debate and policy making, the activities of economic and business leaders and an opportunity to hear and observe economic and business leaders. The other is from broadcasters seeking to maximise their profits by attracting viewers in the AB demographic (those with the greatest disposal income) to otherwise poorly-performing time slots, by broadcasters seeking an inexpensive and dependable supply of programming material and by broadcasters seeking to promote their institutional role and specific programs through presenting material that is followed up by other media. Economic and business reports however, continue to portray issues in a limited way that neglects business’s interaction with workers and the larger social environment. Economic events are often framed as political competition. These reports present a hierarchy of sources and privilege political and business elites. Television news favours debate that is presented by individuals as contrasting causal narratives. Political and economic sources have become adept at presenting brief causal narratives in response to the requirements of television. This approach highlights celebrities and favours the promotion of agency over structure. The increase in total economic and business reporting boosts the interdependence of television and political and economic sources. Technological development is continuing and traditional free-to-air television audiences are being eroded by pay television and the internet. Although these are altering the nature of political, economic and business debate their overall influence is difficult to determine.
13
McCarthy, Nigel Thomas Fiaschi. "The development of economic and business news on Australian television." University of Sydney, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/2123/1773.
Abstract:
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)Television is the favoured news source for most Australians and is regarded as having the potential to influence public opinion. From its inception however, television has been regarded as ill-suited to cover economic and business issues because of a perceived reliance on visual material and an inability to deal with complex issues. This tyranny of vision has been mitigated by technological developments such as electronic news gathering (ENG) and satellites that provide large amounts of varied material as well as improvements in production tools that assist the visual presentation of abstract concepts. The presentation of complex issues has also been enhanced by the increased skills and knowledge among newsworkers. Economic and business news has become a staple in television news programs and has evolved from ritualised reporting of data such as market indices and exchange rates to a genre that shares broader news values such as consequence, conflict, proximity, human interest, novelty, prominence, political controversy and scandal. Economic and business news also shares the normal imperatives of television such as a strong reliance on scheduled occasions and reliable and prolific sources. In between occasions of economic, business and political controversy or scandal, these programs are able to rely on a steady supply of economic, business and investment information. Dedicated economic and business segments and programs and now even whole channels meet two sets of demands. One is those of niche audiences seeking news and information on economic and business conditions, economic debate and policy making, the activities of economic and business leaders and an opportunity to hear and observe economic and business leaders. The other is from broadcasters seeking to maximise their profits by attracting viewers in the AB demographic (those with the greatest disposal income) to otherwise poorly-performing time slots, by broadcasters seeking an inexpensive and dependable supply of programming material and by broadcasters seeking to promote their institutional role and specific programs through presenting material that is followed up by other media. Economic and business reports however, continue to portray issues in a limited way that neglects business’s interaction with workers and the larger social environment. Economic events are often framed as political competition. These reports present a hierarchy of sources and privilege political and business elites. Television news favours debate that is presented by individuals as contrasting causal narratives. Political and economic sources have become adept at presenting brief causal narratives in response to the requirements of television. This approach highlights celebrities and favours the promotion of agency over structure. The increase in total economic and business reporting boosts the interdependence of television and political and economic sources. Technological development is continuing and traditional free-to-air television audiences are being eroded by pay television and the internet. Although these are altering the nature of political, economic and business debate their overall influence is difficult to determine.
14
Ashman, Adrian F. "Unfinished business." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 1999.
15
Harijono, 1970. "Capital structure decisions of Australian family controlled firms." Monash University, Dept. of Accounting and Finance, 2005. http://arrow.monash.edu.au/hdl/1959.1/5133.
16
Mangundjaya, Wustari H. "Cross-cultural comparisons of preferred role types between Australian and Indonesian managers /." [St. Lucia, Qld.], 2002. http://www.library.uq.edu.au/pdfserve.php?image=thesisabs/absthe16254.pdf.
17
Henson, Sam. "Beyond start-up : Regional small to medium enterprises (SMEs) transitioning to growth." Thesis, University of Ballarat, 2009. http://researchonline.federation.edu.au/vital/access/HandleResolver/1959.17/55624.
Abstract:
Reports on a qualitative, case-based study of the practices that contribute to the growth of Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The research engaged with growing SMEs located in regional areas of Australia, and with the entrepreneurs and owner-managers who lead them.
18
Collins, Darrian. "Economics of outbound business travel : a comparative analysis using Australian data /." [St. Lucia, Qld.], 2003. http://www.library.uq.edu.au/pdfserve.php?image=thesisabs/absthe17141.pdf.
19
Kovacs, Jane. "Facilitating change in Australian schools applying a business quality improvement model /." Swinburne Research Bank, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/1959.3/63104.
Abstract:
Thesis (DBA) - Faculty of Business and Enterprise, Swinburne University of Technology, 2009.Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Professional Doctorate of Business Administration, Faculty of Business and Enterprise, Swinburne University of Technology, 2009. Typescript. Includes bibliographical references (p. 269-284)
20
Trad, Barbara. "Motivations for Business Structure Choice for Australian Small and Medium Enterprises." Thesis, Griffith University, 2022. http://hdl.handle.net/10072/420610.
Abstract:
Knowledge about legal business structures and how to use and combine available structures to the advantage of clients is an important task of a small and medium enterprise (SME) advisor. An SME advisor, when assisting clients choose a business structure at the inception stage of the business, may focus on various substantive elements including tax considerations, limiting personal liability, asset protection, access to equity funding, and compliance costs. The choice of business structure can have significant implications, including how equity can be raised, legal obligations, and how tax is imposed. Currently, there is a gap in Australian literature about the driving motivations for this decision.
This gap is addressed by exploring the reasons behind the business structure choices adopted by SMEs, and the desired attributes of such choices. This thesis also examines why SMEs have been using discretionary trusts extensively, and whether discretionary trusts provide certain attributes not offered by other business structures. Using a review of the literature to develop the key research questions, the study in this thesis employed a sequential mixed methods approach. Initially, a qualitative stage of semi-structured, indepth interviews with 10 SME advisors (accountants and lawyers) was conducted, and this formed the basis for the 12 scenarios in Stage Two. The second, and core, stage of the research involved an experimental case study design (12 scenarios) to test the integrity of the reasons provided by advisors. Forty-eight experienced SME advisors (lawyers and accountants) were interviewed and surveyed.
Three key findings have emerged from the study. First, the findings from the case studies demonstrate that, overwhelmingly, advisors recommended, for most businesses, a combination of structures for one business operation. It is through this combination that a number of key tax and non-tax attributes are achieved. Second, the data from both the case study and the surveys indicate that discretionary trusts are used to gain tax advantages. Third, the findings ultimately demonstrate that, while discretionary trusts could offer favourable attributes to SMEs, which are not offered by other business structures, a number of issues were identified concerning the use of discretionary trust for business operations.
The findings provide strong evidence that tax considerations are an important factor for the chosen business structure. They also demonstrate that advisors perceived that there are factors other than tax which can be considered important attributes for the choice of business structures for SMEs. This knowledge provides information on what characteristics are needed for an ‘effective business structure’. The qualitative and quantitative results are drawn on to recommend tax policy reform to improve the taxation
of SMEs in Australia. To address the issue of tax structure biases, and to tackle the issue of income splitting, one of the recommendations is the adoption of the family as a unit of taxation rather than taxing individuals. Furthermore, through this analysis, recommendations are articulated to tackle some of the issues that challenge SME operators. The thesis recommends that Australia’s tax system be reformed to provide greater equity in taxing business income, regardless of the chosen legal structure.Thesis (PhD Doctorate)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Dept Account,Finance & Econ
Griffith Business School
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McCarrol, Andrew Patrick. "Accessing the Japanese food grain market by supplying Australian non GMO grain inputs: the case of an Australian small business food quality corn and soybeans exporter." University of Southern Queensland, Faculty of Business, 2006. http://eprints.usq.edu.au/archive/00004788/.
Abstract:
[Abstract]: This dissertation investigates how an independent Australian grain exporting SME has been able to access the Japanese market for food quality soybeans and corn. This firm has succeeded in entering this market despite entrenched competition from traditional suppliers in the USA and Canada and in the face of rigorous food safety and quality standards as required in this particular market. The research in this dissertation focuses on outlining the critical ‘enabling competencies’ that the firm and its suppliers developed in order to enter the Japanese market. A single case methodology involving multiple in-depth interviews with key stakeholders was used to provide triangulated evidence concerning the necessary and sufficient conditionsfor SME exporters to compete successfully in such mature markets, particularly in the face of entrenched competition from large scale suppliers of similar productsfrom the United States and Canada. From the data collected in this research, a model of SME internationalisation was proposed highlighting the driving forces whichstimulated the development of a set of ‘enabling competencies’ enabling successful entry into the Japanese market for food grains. This model has both practical andtheoretical implications for the development of trade between Australia and Japan in the food grain sector. In conclusion this dissertation suggests that firms with thecapacity to develop such competencies can succeed in entering enter such productmarkets.
22
Ryan, Suzanne Erina. "Academic Business: Tensions between academic values and corporatisation of Australian higher education in graduate schools fo business." Thesis, The University of Sydney, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/2123/5398.
Abstract:
This thesis explores the impact of institutional changes in the Australian Higher Education Sector (AHES) on academics in entrepreneurial graduate schools of business. It addresses questions about the causes, nature and effects of change, and ultimately, the impact on the values and lives of 21 academics at two points in time, 2002-3 and 2008. In addition to reviewing literature, qualitative methods of document analysis and interviews provide the data for the research. The framework for the analysis of data is based on Laughlin’s (1991) ‘skeletal’ theory of organisation change which adapts concepts from Habermas’ (1984; 87) theory of societal change. The impacts of change are viewed from the perspective of organisation participants, the academics. For the majority of these academics, the findings of the research indicate that, in the face of loss of ownership and the imposition of modernisation practices, they maintained their belief in academic values but withdrew from active engagement with their school and institution. The thesis is presented in six chapters and six papers. With the exception of Chapter One, which introduces the thesis and its contributions, and Chapter Six, which summarises and concludes the work, the four chapters in between provide background detail on the literature; the theoretical approach; the research design and method; and the findings. The six papers complement the chapters by presenting the outcomes of the research at various stages. They are ordered in such a way as to offer general overviews of the Australian Higher Education Sector (Paper One) and business schools (Paper Two) before providing more specific focus on the impacts of modernisation practices (Paper Three); effects of change on academic identity (Paper Four); and the role of disciplinarity on academic values and identity (Paper Five). Research results from the first period of research, 2002-3, are reported in Papers Three, Four and Five. Paper Six is the final paper. It provides a comparison of results for both periods with an analysis of change and its impacts using Laughlin’s (1991) framework for organisation change. Chapter Six concludes the thesis with suggested implications for policy and further research. In relation to policy, it is suggested that current government intentions to shift higher education institutions from economic to social institutions will be dependent on the ability of institutions to unravel ten years of modernisation practices aimed at controlling rather than supporting academic endeavour. Arising from this is a challenge to business schools to develop value propositions that better reflect their role as part of a social institution and not an institutional ‘cash cow’. Further research is suggested in two areas: first, in understanding the lifeworld perspectives of academic executives and heads of school about their role in absorbing or facilitating change; and second, in understanding how business schools are able to develop and implement appropriate value propositions. Overall this thesis is a response to Henkel’s (2005, p. 166) call for further empirical research into academics’ lives “to test the strength of values and identity in different institutional settings”. It does this by addressing several gaps in the literature on higher education, specifically Australian higher education. The production of a qualitative and longitudinal study within a theoretical framework contributes to overcoming the paucity of research employing these methods or applying theoretical interpretations of data within higher education. Additionally, the thesis makes a contribution to the under-researched areas of academic values and value change generally, and Australian business schools, specifically by focusing on the values of Australian business school academics in times of change.
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Ryan, Suzanne Erina. "Academic Business: Tensions between academic values and corporatisation of Australian higher education in graduate schools fo business." Connect to full text, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/2123/5398.
Abstract:
Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Sydney, 2009.Title from title screen (viewed 18th September, 2009) Submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy to the Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Sydney. Degree awarded 2009. Includes bibliographical references. Also available in print form.
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Ismail, Jumiati. "Challenges in international business communication : a study of language, culture and inter-cultural issues in Malaysian-Australian business discourse." University of Western Australia. Graduate School of Education, 2009. http://theses.library.uwa.edu.au/adt-WU2009.0107.
Abstract:
This study aims to explore communication deviances and strategies in the negotiation discourse of Malaysian-Australian business encounters, from both a linguistic and nonlinguistic perspective. Specifically, it sees miscommunications/deviances as factors that may hinder the business communication process and prevent the negotiators from achieving their objectives. The study also focuses on strategies, or those discourse skills which promote successful business negotiation. The research method is based on the analysis of discourse generated from initial 'perception' interviews, business meetings, and post-meeting 'follow-up' interviews. The research involved a cross-section of Malaysian and Australian business people from various industries; such as tourism, information technology, hospitality and financial services. The initial 'perception' interviews were intended to gather data on the prior experiences of Malaysian and Australian businesspeople, both in terms of the reported difficulties and strengths in their business interactions and dealings in Western Australia. In the second stage of the analysis, the deviances which signalled miscommunication in the negotiation were identified in the recorded meeting data. Also identified were the strategies which were used by the negotiators to increase the likelihood that their goals will be achieved. The objective of the research was then to interpret why these strategies were being used, and their influence on the negotiation process. From the data a pattern emerged in the way that deviance occurred, and the way that strategies were being performed. This has made it possible to group deviance and strategies and present the findings thematically. Altogether, five themes identified, these were: Management of topics, Building rapport; Ethical business conduct; Building recognition; Styles in business practice. The study has shown that business communication discourse reflects the embedded culture of its speakers. Topic management was also found to play an important role in the business meetings as it enabled the participants to more effectively lead their discussion towards its intended goal. Both the deviance and strategies have been managed by the business negotiators in the way they select the appropriate topic categories in order to effectively maintain the discussion throughout the meeting.
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Kremez, Zhanna. "Implementing e-Commerce Strategy in Australian Franchise Networks." Thesis, Griffith University, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10072/367265.
Abstract:
This dissertation serves three major purposes: (1) to create new knowledge in the domain of franchising research, (2) to assist future academic inquiry by advancing the understanding of the use of ecommerce in franchising, and (3) to develop a framework to assist franchisors to find suitable models in ecommerce adoption and gain franchisee acceptance. It is proposed that inherent contradictions exist when ecommerce and franchising are combined due to potential eencroachment and franchisee acceptance of the franchisor’s strategy. In addition, ecommerce challenges franchising as a mode of distribution, as it implies a high level of centralisation, whereas franchising prior to the ecommerce age was structured to decentralise the franchisor’s business and distribution arrangements. Therefore, this thesis aims to address questions around how ecommerce can be successfully incorporated into franchise networks, especially those that had not anticipated the onset and the proliferation of ecommerce in their initial structure. These research questions are addressed primarily through qualitative methods of data collection
and analysis, although a small part of this thesis contains a quantitative study used to confirm and generalise the findings of the exploratory qualitative phase. This doctoral research consisted of three main phases of data collection and analysis.Thesis (PhD Doctorate)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Griffith Business School
Griffith Business School
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Cathcart, Malcolm. "Organisational learning strategies for developing strategic capability within Australian Franchised Business Units." University of Southern Queensland, Faculty of Business, 2008. http://eprints.usq.edu.au/archive/00006185/.
Abstract:
[Abstract]Within the Australian marketplace there is often considerable similarity between competing products and services. The need for all firms to develop a competitive advantage in this market is pressing. Franchises are a growing competitive business sector in Australia, with an annual growth rate in excess of 12%. Franchised business units are no different from other firms in that they need to develop a competitive advantage. Within this current fast changing business environment there has not been any research published on how owners and operators within franchised business units in Australia use organisational learning strategies to develop their strategic capability with a view to gaining a competitive advantage. Many firms have adopted traditional training approaches in organisational learning to develop their firm’s strategic capability believing this strategy to be in line with best practice. This narrow training view of organisational learning involves key employees within a firm identifying skill gaps between where the firm needs to be and the current competencies of their staff. The gap is then bridged by traditional training methods that extend staff competencies to meet the firm’s requirements. These traditional training approaches separate learning from the work context and have been identified by many researchers over the years as an inefficient practice. This study was undertaken using a case study approach based on semi-structured interviews to gain an understanding on how franchised business units in Australia used a range of organisational learning strategies to develop their strategic capability. People were interviewed from various organisational levels at five major franchises. The study found that strategic capability is enhanced by developing a learning environment that integrated both operational and strategic learning strategies. Based on the research findings, a franchised business unit’s strategic capability will, in many cases, determine the difference between the franchise’s performance in the marketplace and that of its competitors, hence, developing organisational learning strategies to gain and apply these capabilities are of a critical importance in a franchised business unit gaining a competitive advantage. The study found a number of key ingredients in organisational learning strategy that built a firm’s capability. These key ingredients include adopting a work-based learning strategy which incorporates learning activities such as listening and observing others in the workplace; regular internal training; access to external courses; controlled on-the-job training and supporting individuals and groups within their normal work; developing and implementing accredited in-house learning which would include opportunities for staff to develop both operational and strategic levels of learning; formal and informal mentoring for developing the skills of individuals and groups; participation in higher education; and the use of internal state and national franchise conferences as a tool in developing staff and to provide a work environment where empowerment of staff at all levels is encouraged, accepted and supported by the required learning strategies to make it successful. For franchised businesses within Australia aspiring to gain or build on competitive advantage, it is envisaged that the findings of this research will foster the implementation of a combination of organisational learning strategies that encompass both operational and strategic learning, and include learning for both the individual and collective groups.
27
Cheong, Elizabeth R. "The agricultural co-operative business structure in context a Western Australian study /." Connect to thesis, 2006. http://portal.ecu.edu.au/adt-public/adt-ECU2007.0022.html.
28
Lim, Sen Lee. "Australian University Transnational Education Programs: An Empirical Investigation of the Business Models." Thesis, Curtin University, 2019. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/77508.
Abstract:
This in-depth qualitative case study explores the criteria two Australian public universities use in the selection between the Direct (DM) and Outsourced Models (OM) of TNE business delivery, and the role of the theories of the firm viz., transaction cost economics (TCE), property rights theory (PRT) and agency theory (AT) in driving these criteria and the longevity of the models. It identified significant tipping points along the TNE journeys of each university, and four new models of TNE delivery.
29
Cheong, Elizabeth. "The agricultural co-operative business structure in context: A Western Australian study." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2006. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/56.
Abstract:
Agricultural co-operative businesses are the focus of considerable academic research overseas, particularly from the perspective of agricultural economics. Research on Australian agricultural co-operatives, however, is very limited. This exploratory study investigates agricultural co-operatives at two inter-related levels. Firstly, the thesis examines the broader political economy shaping the agricultural co-operative sector, specifically policy and institutional arrangements affecting agricultural co-operatives. Secondly, the thesis considers how this external world influences the internal behaviour of the agricultural co-operative business. The study adopts a qualitative research methodology, principally using the case study method. Over 50 in-depth interviews were conducted with actors associated with the agricultural co-operative sector, including the United Farmers Co-operative Company (UFCC).
30
Mussett, Janis. "An analysis of quality practices and business outcomes in Western Australian hospitals." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2000. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1651.
Abstract:
This study aimed at identifying aspects of health care organisational management and activities that produced the highest level of quality care. A Literature review was conducted to determine the most successful quality activities currently used in a wide variety of industries. Using the findings of this review a questionnaire and interview questions were designed to identify factors associated with successful quality activities I health care organisations. Four Western Australian hospitals that were believed to have effective quality activities were randomly selected as a hospital from each of the following categories. A private hospital accredited by the Australian Council on Health Care Standards. A country hospital that had 100% patient satisfaction and a city hospital with above 96% patient satisfaction assessed by the State wide Government Patient Satisfaction with Care Survey. A hospital that the Health Department of Western Australia considered had best practice in Quality Activities. Each of these hospitals was matched with a control hospital. Data was collected through direct observation of a questionnaire and interviews with people in predetermined health service employment positions and the completion of one randomly selected supplier interview for each of the eight health services studied. The questionnaire was supplied to a range of staff members and interviews were conducted with these employees and hospital goods or service suppliers. Data was analysed using qualitative evaluation, frequency distribution and a factor analysis. Results obtained in this study identified that the most important factors required to produce the most profitable and highest quality of health care were a culture of caring, providing employees with enough time to complete their work and having effective organisation wide communication. A Quality Care Model for use in Health Services was created based on the research findings. When used this model of quality activities should provide customer satisfaction and a high standard of cost effective health care service.
31
Santarelli, Bruno. "Creativity, design and management in Australian fashion enterprises." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2016. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1770.
Abstract:
In this study a number of Australian fashion enterprises are investigated in an effort to understand how product development is managed and creativity facilitated. Of particular interest was the interaction between the various actors in the creative process and the manner in which they influenced creative output. The study was underpinned by a wideranging review of the literature that reflects the multidisciplinary nature of creativity and innovation in business.
The study is timely because Australian fashion enterprises are operating in an increasingly challenging market with a perfect storm of competitive drivers at play. Technology enables instant dissemination of fashion trends and easy international shopping online. Tariff reductions and free trade agreements provide less protection for local manufacturers and revenues have contracted sharply in recent years. Retail revenues have flat-lined at a time when a number of global superbrands are opening stores in Australia with aggressive expansion plans. In response, government and industry groups are promoting product differentiation and innovation as key levers for competitiveness for Australian businesses. The reason for undertaking the study was to investigate contemporary product development practices, to identify barriers to creativity and find ways that enterprises can leverage the creative abilities of employees to improve innovation practices.
Managers of six enterprises from a diverse range of markets and enterprise types agreed to participate in a descriptive study of their product development practices. The study deployed a qualitative case based methodology and used a combination of data collection types including participant observation and field observation, field interviews, documents and artefacts. The data was analysed within case for key contextual findings and across case for broader themes and patterns.
Participant enterprises employed a variety of approaches to product development as described in the innovation literature (for example, Cappetta, Cillo, & Ponti, 2006; Cillo & Verona, 2008; Dell'Era & Verganti, 2007; Payne, 2011; Perks, Cooper, & Jones, 2005; Ward, Runcie, & Morris, 2009; Weller, 2007), with hybrid approaches at work in some cases. Management were not always aware of the practice implications for the various approaches, and though all participants deemed creativity important, it was not explicitly measured or rewarded. The dichotomy between management and creativity, a prevalent theme in the literature (for example, Adorno, 1997; Caves, 2000; Townley, Beech, & McKinlay, 2009), did not present strongly in the participant cases. Instead, more collaborative creative practices were in evidence where designers, merchandisers, sales and business managers developed and decided on product together.
The study provides rich detail about collaborative product development practices at an operational level that balances the management and leadership focus of the literature by leading creativity scholars in the field (for example, Amabile, Schatzel, Moneta, & Kramer, 2004; Basadur, 2004; Černe, Jaklič, & Škerlavaj, 2013; Mumford, Scott, Gaddis, & Strange, 2002; Shalley & Gilson, 2004). Similar to Tran’s (2010) detailed study on the practice of fashion designers, this study provides a window into distributed creative processes involving a variety of actors. Cross case analysis has revealed a number of themes that have implications for practice. These include the need for greater alignment of product development with strategic intent; the influence of organisational structure and reporting on creative processes; and the need to develop metrics and performance management systems that focus specifically on creativity.
32
Kim, Y. R. "A cross-cultural study on complaint letters : Australian and Korean." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 1996. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/942.
Abstract:
The aim of the study is to examine the cross-cultural features of Australian and Korean complaint letters. The point of view adopted is that cultural barriers generate difficulties to producing efficient and successful intercultural communication in addition to linguistic barriers. Although the concept of complaint letters is the same in the two countries, there are difficulties when Australians and Koreans attempt to communicate with the other culture. Firstly the study will explore the validating of the concepts of Korean's four-unit structure (Ki-Sung-Chen-Kyul) and the three unit structure typical of western letter writing (Introduction-Body-Conclusion), and contrast the structures. It posits that Korean complaint letters are more reader-responsible this is defined as a reader needing to infer the implicit meaning of what is the writer's request, this Australian letters showed writer responsible language, this is defined as a reader being provided enough explicit information by a writer in order to comprehend the meaning of what the writer intends to deliver. The results might relate to the claims that Korean society is characterised by features of collectivism (Triandis, 1983), avoiding confrontation with others and saving face, which can be realised in vague and emotive terms. Secondly, the indirect speech of Korean writers will be analysed through the adaptation of Kim and Wilson’s study of request categories (1994). The results imply that Koreans use hint strategies as much as they use direct request, while Australians tend to use a more direct strategy in the interest of the readers. An Australian's politer acts are expressed on the basis of the virtue of the frankness of the request first, before the announcement. Conversely the Korean language employs the same amount of hint strategy and direct strategy which might explain typical Korean cultural attributes such as Nunchi, meaning reading others mind(Kim 1975), Kibun, 'feeling' and Cheymyen 'saving face'(Sohn 1986). As a consequence Australian letters, which tend to make obvious what they are expressing, will feature ideational functions weighted toward clear, concise and direct expressions whereas Korean letters which think highly of interpersonal functions appear to be more influenced by their collective cultural values. The results of this study will suggest that intercultural miscommunication is caused by the degree of cultural variances and that to learn the target language well is not just to achieve linguistic competence but also to be a member of its culture.
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Leith, Andrew R., of Western Sydney Hawkesbury University, and Faculty of Management. "Competitiveness of Australian small to medium enterprises in Indonesia." THESIS_FMAN_XXX_Leith_A.xml, 2000. http://handle.uws.edu.au:8081/1959.7/512.
Abstract:
The purpose of this research is to determine whether Indonesian business practices and culture inhibit the competitiveness of Australian small to medium enterprises in Indonesia. Prior to the current economic demise of the Indonesian economy, Australia's trade relations with its closest Asian neighbour were not as significant as trade with countries far removed from Australia's shores. Previous research has identified that cultural problems and inadequate communication contribute towards the lack of competitiveness of international small to medium enterprises.However there has been no rigorous and comprehensive research specially related to Australian entrepreneurs and the problems they encounter in Indonesia.Several key themes emerged from this study which indicated that thorough planning and market research are more important than a comprehensive understanding of business practices and culture. What the research brings to extant literature is a rigorous and methodological analysis of Indonesian business practices from an Australian entrepreneur's perspective. This provides a structured link between the parent disciple of cross cultural communications, the plethora of information on Asian business practices, and the reality of Australian small to medium enterprises attempting to enter the Indonesian marketDoctor of Philosophy (PhD)
34
Prananto, Adi. "Electronic business stages of growth : a definition and evaluation in an Australian context /." [St. Lucia, Qld.], 2004. http://www.library.uq.edu.au/pdfserve.php?image=thesisabs/absthe18073.pdf.
35
Riebe, Linda Margaret. "Understanding factors affecting the teaching of teamwork in Australian higher education business schools." Thesis, Riebe, Linda Margaret (2022) Understanding factors affecting the teaching of teamwork in Australian higher education business schools. PhD thesis, Murdoch University, 2022. https://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/65762/.
Abstract:
Integrating teamwork into higher education (HE) curricula has been part of the employability skills agenda for decades. Whilst HE academics have published widely on a variety of strategies utilised to implement teamwork in their teaching, there is little evidence of the interrelated factors associated with teaching teamwork and the paradoxes of critical tension points arising from challenges encountered by educators in their efforts to integrate teamwork in their courses. This thesis explores the salient influences affecting the teaching and learning of teamwork in the Australian HE business school context. The outcomes are presented in a thesis by compilation, which includes the traditional structure of introduction, literature review, methodology, findings/discussion, and conclusion chapters, along with three published articles demonstrating original, primary research.
A published global systematic literature review (SLR) identified that temporal, fiscal, psychological, and human resource transaction cost interactions for HE educators, students and institutions affected the uptake of HE teamwork. Interactions are predicated on the way in which educators derive benefits or costs from developing, coordinating, monitoring, participating in, interacting with, and evaluating HE teamwork. Transaction costs, for example, whether to engage with the employability agenda, or provide instruction in team skills, collaborative learning, curriculum design, and assessment of teamwork, represent the return on investment to educators when undertaking the teaching of teamwork. These findings are an original contribution to the HE teamwork literature as there is scant evidence of costs associated with affording or constraining HE teamwork. A second published SLR article was confined to a more rigorous review of the Australian HE teamwork literature. Numerous factors were identified as constraints to HE teamwork, with findings thematically indicating that Australian business discipline educators were mainly concerned with team formation and management, teaching and learning approaches to HE teamwork and challenges influencing teaching and learning practices, thus providing an original contribution to knowledge of the salient issues affecting the teaching and learning of teamwork in the Australian business school context.
These findings were used to inform semi-structured interview questions for a case study of business educators from a range of disciplines across four public universities in Australia. Grounded in a social constructivist paradigm, and using the case study approach, findings from 30 qualitative interviews with Australian business educators identified that performative demands on HE educators resulted in a range of critical paradox tension points, highlighting the salient influences contributing to understanding educator factors affecting the teaching of HE teamwork. Specifically focusing on the performativity paradoxes of performing/organising, performing/learning, and performing/belonging, illuminated the lived experience of business educators navigating performativity with HE teamwork and their reactions to critical tension points in their required or perceived performativity. In this thesis the third published article presented in Chapter Five, conceptualises how business school educators negotiated the inherent stresses, conflicts, and tensions in their teaching to understand, react and influence their approaches to HE teamwork.
Theoretically, the utility of transaction cost and paradox theories as heuristic conceptual lenses to understand the dynamic interactions for educators’ facilitating the teaching of teamwork is demonstrated. Conceptual understandings are expanded through the application of paradox theory in the educational context, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and/or professional practice acknowledged by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (2018) as a core aspect of HE scholarship. This is a unique feature of this study, generating original contributions to the understanding of the scholarship of teaching and learning in the field of teamwork in the Australian business school context.
Implications for theory and practice have wider application within HE and provide a sound basis for the development of teamwork as a requisite skill to satisfy not only the broader aspects of the employability agenda, but also advancement of knowledge in the field which has implications for future research, providing opportunities to broaden the scholarship of teaching and learning as it relates to the functionality of teamwork pedagogy.
36
James, Kieran E. "Accounting for acquired goodwill in Australian business combinations: is there value to choose?" Thesis, Curtin University, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/1144.
Abstract:
This research explores the empirical association between takeover bid premium and acquired goodwill, and tests whether the empirical association changes after the passage of approved accounting standard AASB1013: Accounting for Goodwill. AASB1013 mandates capitalization and amortization of acquired goodwill to the profit and loss account, over a maximum time period of 20 years. Using real options and contracting cost frameworks, this study argues that reducing the variety of accounting policy options available to bidder management after an acquisition results in a systematic loss in firm value. An empirical model developed by Robinson and Shane (1990) and Choi and Lee (1991) is used to measure the average effect on bid premiums of the mandatory change in accounting rule, after controlling for a range of confounding variables including mode of payment, managerial share ownership, and bidder prior share ownership. Based on a final sample consisting of 127 pre-AASB1013 bids and 134 post-AASB1013 bids, the results show that the goodwill accounting rule contained in AASB1013 significantly reduces both the mean and median level of bid premium and the strength of the association between acquired goodwill and bid premium.
37
James, Kieran E. "Accounting for acquired goodwill in Australian business combinations: is there value to choose?" Full text available, 2005. http://adt.curtin.edu.au/theses/available/adt-WCU20061129.142400.
38
Penter, Kevan John. "Offshore Business Processing Outsourcing by Australian Enterprises to Service Providers Located in India." Thesis, Curtin University, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/69389.
Abstract:
The primary research question for this PhD was: “What are the key factors that contribute to the success of offshore business process outsourcing (OBPO) by Australian and international organisations to service providers located in India and the Philippines?” A qualitative research design in the positivist paradigm was adopted, involving longitudinal case studies of five client companies. A primary contribution was identification of critical success factors for management of OBPO at the individual company level.
39
Fagg, Jennifer. "Managing the Credit Risk Attitude in Australian Retail Banks across the Business Cycle." Thesis, The University of Sydney, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/2123/8189.
Abstract:
The management of credit risk attitude in Australian retail banks is examined in this thesis. An underlying query is why retail banks repeatedly have been “economically irrational” in managing credit risk across numerous credit cycles. The period of study is 1996-1999 - characterised by a benign economy, intense competition and technological/analytical innovations. Initially, the theory of credit rationing, which is an economic construct, is examined. Subsequent analysis of the data uses models from the theories of decision making under uncertainty (particularly prospect theory), organisational culture/climate and the Balanced Scorecard. Based on the grounded theory approach, the largely exploratory research incorporates data, theory and methodological triangulation. The research design includes individual interviews, focus groups and one questionnaire, with participants including Senior Credit Managers and Lending Officers. Several models are developed. The multi-level model of “credit culture” is created to incorporate: Organisation culture, which resides at the subconscious, enduring “assumptions” level; Credit principles/culture, which resides at the relatively enduring “values” level and is the credit functions’ interpretation of organisation culture; Credit risk attitude, which is the Senior Credit Managers’ weighting of the credit risk versus income reward tradeoff at a point in time; and Credit infrastructure/climate, which resides at the behavioural level and operationalises the credit risk attitude through the controls and disciplines by which credit risk is managed throughout the organisation. The overall model of credit risk attitude across the business cycle incorporates the phases of shock/remorse, resolve, cautious optimism and disaster myopia. The drivers of credit risk attitude model highlights the tradeoff between revenue growth and the visibility of credit losses (particularly the availability, threshold and representativeness heuristics). The Credit Confidence Survey measures the credit standards currently being applied. The Balanced Credit Scorecard provides a performance measurement framework with the dimensions of credit principles, policy, risk management methods, business processes/systems, staffing and controls. Additional heuristics/ motivators affecting individual and group decisions also are outlined. A primary conclusion of the research is that retail credit managers benefit from using advanced risk management techniques to maximise the risk-adjusted return on assets, whilst maintaining non-volatile losses within the FI’s risk appetite.
40
Wingham, Dianne. "Attitude and behaviour dichotomy in SME strategic alliance: A south west of Western Australian study." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2000. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1650.
Abstract:
Strategic alliances are generally perceived as cooperative relationships constrained within the parameters of bounded rationality, seeking to maximise their levels of control in a turbulent economic environment. They are also commonly conceptualised as a means of creating competitive advantage in business. In regional areas of Western Australia they are favoured by government instrumentalities as a means of making small to medium enterprises (SMEs) more competitive. With the dominant global emphasis in the literature on big business, relatively little is known still about strategic alliances in small to medium enterprises. Moreover, the research on strategic alliances within Australia s also limited, and since 92 %or businesses in Australia arc SMEs (ABS 1999), there are significant gaps in the literature about a significant contributor to economic health or the nation. For these reasons this thesis focuses attention on SMEs in Australia, in particular the South West of Western Australia. This thesis is concerned with strategic alliance propensity in selected small to medium enterprises with less than 500 employees but three or more employees including family members. Mixed methodology data collection was used; based on an extensively validated international survey instrument, and a series of in-depth interviews. The outcome of the study was a synthesised model of SME strategic alliance decision-making which addresses the impacts on attitudes of SME Key Decision-Leaders choosing either positive or negative behaviours relating to strategic alliance formation. The development of this model, the Strategic Alliance Participation Paradigm (SAPP) was achieved through an iterative approach to environmental exploration, literature scanning and analysis and the application of a mixed methodological approach to data collection. Chapters One to Three present the development of the research questions and the research process adopted to address important elements or the research. Chapter Four presents the major consolidated findings based on factor analysed outcomes. Variables were subjected to logistic regression statistical analysis determining support for hypothesised research outcomes. In depth interviews provide evidence of the SME domain, in the context initially of the regional area under review. Conclusions arc further reviewed in the context or a recent significant Norwegian culturally based survey. The Strategic Alliance Participation Paradigm reflects the work carried out by a small group of earlier researchers, and further, empirically tests the determinants of SME Key-Decision-Leader strategic alliance behaviour. Recommendations for future research developed from the research findings arc presented in Chapter Five supporting the conclusions und implications of this study for future SME strategic alliance research both regional and global. Benefits from this process will be seen in the enhanced ability to benchmark at source regional differences and similarities, and thereby to further enhance the value of the outcomes to scholars and practitioners. Researchers could do well to pursue understanding of identified gaps in knowledge and to cooperate with industry to enhance alliance behaviour, achieving benefits through philosophy of competitive tendering. Significant within the outcomes however, was the identified need to research ways to support and grow the large sector of Australian business, the small to medium enterprise.
41
Venkatesan, Venkateswara S. "The marketing orientation of small and medium enterprises: An Australian study." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2000. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1497.
Abstract:
The market orientation construct has emerged as a key marketing theme in the 1990's. While the concept of being focussed on the market (customers and competitors) has been known since the early 1950's (e.g. Drucker,1954), putting the concept into practice through a set of specific actions has eluded many organisations and academics. As a result, market orientation (also termed market focus, customer focus and competitor focus) had remained a business philosophy (Bennett & Cooper, 1979: Felton, 1959; Konopa & Calabro,1971) more than a strategic approach. While there have been sporadic attempts at defining or operationalisinga marketing or customer orientation in the past (Gronrnos, 1989: Kotler, 1977: Masiello, 1988: Webster,1988), the first serious effort in the early 1990's when Kohli and Jaworski (1990) and Narver and Slater (1990 defined market orientation as a set of organisational activities or behaviours. Narver and Slater also found a positive link between having such an orientation and business performance. The emphasis in both models was on obtaining and understanding customers and competitors and responding to customers' needs better than competitors through a coordinated effort across the organisation. Subsequently a number of studies have supported the positive relationship between market orientation and business performance. However, results have not been consistent and several variables have been shown to moderate the market orientation performance relationship. All of the major market orientation studies have been undertaken within large organisations and very little is known about the market orientation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), or of its relationship to their performance. It is recognised that SMEs are different from large businesses some of their marketing practices are unique to SME. Given this uniqueness, the present research examined the applicability of existing market orientation constructs and models to SMEs. For this purpose, Kohli and Jaworski's and Narver and Slater's constructs were modified and some unique SME items were added. Following a staged research approach, as recommended by Churchill (1979), a randomly chosen sample of Australian SMEs was surveyed. In all, more than 700 responses were received, of which 542, were used in the present study. The results obtained suggested that while a form of market orientation existed in SMEs, its operationalisation was different. Of Kohli and Jaworski’s (1990) three dimensions, (intelligence generation, dissemination and organisational response), organisational response could not be supported. The study also provided support for Narver and Slater's (1990) customer and competitor orientation constructs. The third construct 'inter-functional coordination' was not included as early qualitative interviews made it clear that it had no meaning in an SME context. Customer and competitor orientations emerged as distinct constructs but the interrelationship between the two suggested the presence of a higher order 'market orientation' construct. Compared to the organisations analysed in earlier studies, the SMEs in the current study were small in size and very few had multiple functional areas. In most of the businesses, marketing did not exist as a separate function. Consequently there was 110 support for constructs such as organisational response and inter-functional coordination. The informal nature of SMEs marketing activities was evident in the market orientation constructs. It appeared that SMEs collect their intelligence through informal means. Their marketing activities were also based more on intuition than logic. Apart from customer and competitor orientations, a customer service orientation emerged as an important element. Having a customer service orientation led to customer satisfaction and, hence, to repeal business, which was considered to be extremely important by the small businesses surveyed. Having a customer service orientation also had a positive impact on the organisational commitment of employees, repeat business and business performance. The overall impact of customer orientation and competitor orientation on business performance was positive, but small. This was not surprising as respondents took a casual or intuitive approach to marketing. It seems that small business performance is constrained by factors other than marketing, such as the availability of resources. Further, even among large businesses. The market orientation-performance relationship has not been consistently positive or significant. The present results suggest that market orientation, as practised in large businesses, or as articulated by academics, may not be applicable to SMEs and that customer service elements needed to be included in the model. As regards performance, the results obtained suggest that factors other than marketing are also critical and fun her research is needed to tease out the nature of these additional factors.
42
Barut, Meropy. "Triple bottom line reporting a study of diversity and application by Australian companies /." Australasian Digital Thesis Program, 2007. http://adt.lib.swin.edu.au/public/adt-VSWT20071005.113714/index.html.
Abstract:
Thesis (PhD) - Faculty of Business and Enterprise, Swinburne University of Technology, 2007.Submitted for the degree Doctor of Philosophy, Faculty of Business and Enterprise, Swinburne University of Technology - 2007. Typescript. Bibliography: p. 302-340.
43
Diemont-Ebes, Anja, and adiemont51@hotmail com. "From second board to angels : an analysis of government support for new ventures, 1984-1994." Swinburne University of Technology, 1996. http://adt.lib.swin.edu.au./public/adt-VSWT20060317.113350.
Abstract:
During the past decade (1984-1994), Australia experienced its worst recession since the depression of the 30's, followed by a no-growth period and an unemployment rate hovering around nine per cent.
The awareness of Commonwealth and State Governments of the need for specific policies to stimulate new ventures and support small and medium enterprises (SME's), was increased by a range of reviews which resulted in a variety of initiatives.
However, two key national initiatives, licensed Management and Investment Companies (MIC's) and the Second Board Stock Market, which aimed at making access to funds easier for new ventures, failed to provide sustained financial support to new innovative firms.
Small businesses in Australia account for some 80 per cent of all businesses and 50 per cent of employment in the private sector. While many factors contribute to the successful establishment and growth of new businesses, a key factor is the availability of and access to affordable finance.
The major objective of this study was to identify key success/failure factors in new venture creation and to review in detail the rise and fall of the Second Board Stock Market (1984-1992) - arguably one of the most significant Government initiatives during the 80's to provide access to equity funds.
A survey of Melbourne companies listed on the Second Board was to provide valuable information on the success/failure of the Second Board Stock Market and to illuminate desirable Government initiatives meeting SME's survival needs.
44
Martin, Johannes J. G. "An impact analysis of the Australian wine industry over the past decade." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/49687.
Abstract:
Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2001.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study project investigates the impact of major factors that influenced the Australian wine industry over the past decade. The project starts of with an in-depth look at the history of the Australian wine industry whilst simultaneously comparing the plantings and growth in production within their industry from 1994 to 1997 to that of their operations when the industry started out in 1788. The thesis concentrates on the factors that characterized the global wine industry during the mid 1990's that were: • Wine trade would continue to grow in terms of volume in spite of a continuing fall in the quantities consumed worldwide. • Commitments undertaken by signatories to the GATT's Uruguay Round Agreements in Marrakech in 1994 would ensure that trade develops not just within trading blocs but amongst them too. • New World and Eastern-European exporters would threaten EU dominance of international markets. Furthermore, focus is placed on the driving forces within the current global wine industry with special emphasis on the new world countries showing growth in production and consumption in contrast to the old world countries predominantly. Taxation gets investigated from a consumer, producer and the Australian government's point of view as well as a comparative model between Australian wine consumption and consumption in the rest of the world during the pre-tax period as well as the post-tax period. Chapter 6 looks at Vision 2025 that the Australian wine industry developed due to a need identified to become globally competent by the industry themselves. Emphasis is placed on the whole issue of one industry turning a production-driven wine economy around into a market-driven industry with every participant within the industry "marketing" a set of strategic objectives that will ultimately benefit their whole industry. Chapter 7 looks at the Australian wine industry from an objective point of view whilst benchmarking the industry against the major global wine trends as well as against quality performances of the global role players. Emphasis is placed on the differences and similarities that Australia's wine booms have in common as well as the lessons that any upcoming wine producing country have to learn form Australia's wine boom such as: o Developnew market opportunities o Develop a long-term vision for sustainable growth o Invest in the latest technologies o Develophealthy relations with growers and marketers o Investment in product differentiation through promotions o Attract the necessary resources Finally, focus is placed on South Africa's Vision 2020 and how the local industry will benefit from the objectives been set out to be achieved.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Hierdie studieprojek ondersoek die impak van verskeie invloedryke faktore wat 'n beduidende rol gespeel het in die Australiese wynbedryf die afgelope dekade. Die projek begin deur te kyk na 'n indiepte studie van die Australiese wynbedryf se geskiedenis terwyl daar gelyktydig vergelyking getref word tussen die aanplantings van die Australiese wynbedryf vanaf 1994 tot 1997 aan die eenkant teenoor die operasionele sy van dieselfde industrie met sy ontstaan in 1788. Die tesis konsentreer op die faktore wat die globale wynindustrie gekenmerk het tydens die middel 1990's. Hierdie faktore was onder andere: • Die wynhandel het aanhoudende groei getoon ten spyte van die wêreldwye tendens van 'n afname in wynverbruik. • Verpligtinge aangegaan deur ondergetekendes tot die GATTUruguay rondte van samesprekinge in Marrakech in 1994 het verseker dat wynhandel nie net binne handeisblokke plaasgevind het nie, maar ook tussen hierdie handelsblokke. • Die nuwewêreld produserende lande, asook die Oos-Europese lande het 'n beduidende bedreiging vir EU-beheerde markte begin word. Verder is fokus geplaas op die dryfkragte binne die globale wynindustrie met spesiale verwysing na die nuwewêreld produserende lande wat groei toon in die aanplantings van wingerde, die produksie van wyn asook die verbruik daarvan - in kontras met die ouwêreld produserende lande. Belasting word ondersoek vanaf n verbruiker, produsent en die Australiese regering se oogpunt af. n Vergelykende model word geskets waarin daar gekyk word na Australiese wynverbruik voor die belastingimplimentering asook daarna. Hoofstuk 6 kyk na Visie 2025 wat deur die Australiese wynbedryf ontwikkel is as gevolg van 'n behoefte wat geidentifiseer is om globaal mededingend te wees. Klem is geplaas op die proses van n wynindustrie wat ontwikkel het vanaf 'n produksie gedrewe industrie na 'n markgedrewe industrie met elke deelnemer in die industrie wat die strategiese doelwitte van Visie 2025 slaafs "bemark" met die wete dat hul hele industrie uiteindelik daarby sal baat. Hoofstuk 7 kyk na die Australiese wynindustrie vanaf 'n objektiewe oogpunt terwyl die industrie gemeet word teen globale wyntendense asook teen die kwaliteitsvertonings van die globale rolspelers. Fokus is geplaas op die verskille en ooreenkomste tussen Australië se twee wyn groeitydperke asook die lesse wat daaruit te leer is vir enige opkomende wynproduserende land. Hierdie lesse is: o Ontwikkel nuwe markte o Ontwikkel 'n langtermyn visie vir volgehoue groei o Investeer in die nuutste tegnologie o Ontwikkel gesonde verhoudings met kontrak wingerdplanters en bemarkers o Investeer in produkdifferensiasie deur promosies o Verkry die nodige hulpbronne Laastens is klem geplaas op Suid-Afrika se Visie 2020 en hoe die plaaslike industrie daarby sal baat indien die uiteengesette doelwitte behaal sou word.
45
Sharma, Narender. "Strategies to succeed in an emerging market: a study of Australian service sector MNEs in India." Thesis, The University of Sydney, 2010. https://hdl.handle.net/2123/18356.2.
Abstract:
This study focuses on post entry strategies of Multinational enterprises (MNEs) from a
developedeconomy (Australia) operating in an emerging market (India). The research is
organised around two core questions: (a) What are the post entry institutional challenges for
service sector MNEs operating in an emerging market and (b) How do firms respond to
institutional distance following their initial entry into an emerging economy? These questions
are closely allied to the fundamental questions confronting international business (IB) such as
“What drives firm strategy in international business (IB)?” and “What determines the success
and failure of firms around the world?” (Peng et al., 20081920).
This study draws on institutional theory (IT) and the network perspective to identify
challenges faced by Australian service MNEs in India and the strategies they adapt to mitigate
the liability of foreignness (LOF). The institutions in emerging economies are quite different
from those in the developed economies, and recent research suggests that both formal and
informal institutions, more commonly known as the "rules of the game" (North 1990) have an
impact on the strategy and operations of MNEs (Hoskisson, et al., 2000; Wright, et al., 2005).
Operating in emerging markets is challenging as the rule of law is poorly enforced (Hoskisson
et al., 2000), proprietary technology and knowledge cannot be protected through enforceable
legal mechanisms (Delios and Henisz, 2000) and there are large differences in culture and
business norms. Contemporary institutional theory (Scott, 1995) indicates that, in order to
survive, organisations must conform to the rules and belief systems prevailing in the
environment (DiMaggio and Powell, 1983; Meyer and Rowan, 1977). Scott (1995) defined the
institutional environment in terms of three pillars - regulative, normative and culturalcognitive.
These unfamiliar institutions in the emerging markets often lead to unforeseen
transaction costs as a result of which MNEs struggle to implement successful strategies in
emerging markets. This thesis describes how the Australian service MNEs adaptively curb
these costs by developing strategies that suit emerging markets as they acquire relevant local
knowledge, re-script mental models and adapt plans and tactics.
This study investigates key areas of concern to MNEs seeking competitive advantage in
emerging markets through the development of superior strategies post-entry within the
institutional framework of India. The AT. Kearney FDl Confidence Index 2007 rates India as
the second most attractive destination for FDI. Its dynamic environment provides a rich
context for examining the success strategies of Australian service MNEs. Finding effective
strategies that can overcome the challenges of operating in an emerging market is the central
issue in this thesis.
46
Hossari, Ghassan, and hossari7@bigpond net au. "A ratio-based multi-level modelling approach for signalling corporate collapse a study of Australian corporations." Swinburne University of Technology. Australian Graduate School of Entrepreneurship, 2006. http://adt.lib.swin.edu.au./public/adt-VSWT20060320.114422.
Abstract:
The objective of this study is to introduce a more refined methodological approach for signalling corporate collapse. The proposed methodological approach provides informed stakeholders in a corporation with a tool that would help them signal impending collapse with a higher degree of accuracy than the existing mainstream methodology. By doing so, the proposed methodological approach helps stakeholders take appropriate measures, if possible, to save their company from collapse.
The motivation behind this study emanates from a need in the literature in relation to coming up with a new methodological approach that is superior to what is available. For example, Jones and Hensher (2004), one of the most recent studies in the field, stated that over the past three decades there has been a conspicuous absence of modelling innovation in the literature on financial distress prediction, as well as a failure to keep abreast of important methodological developments emerging in other fields of the social sciences.
Specifically, this study introduces a new ratio-based multivariate methodological approach for signalling corporate collapse, called Multi-Level Modelling (MLM). Moreover, this study demonstrated that MLM provides informed stakeholders in a corporation with a tool that would help them signal impending collapse with a higher degree of accuracy than Multiple Discriminant Analysis (MDA), which is the mainstream benchmark methodological approach. By doing so, MLM helps stakeholders take appropriate measures, if possible, to save their company from collapse.
The empirical results depicted the superiority of MLM over MDA. MLM generated better overall predictive power and dramatically reduced the occurrence of Type I error (classifying a collapsed company as non-collapsed). Moreover, MLM achieved those results while at the same time capturing variations in industry sectors among the data sample of companies. This is something that MDA was not capable of.
47
Bryan, Angela E. "Face-to-face communication in Australian workplaces : a social rules approach /." St. Lucia, Qld, 2002. http://www.library.uq.edu.au/pdfserve.php?image=thesisabs/absthe16510.pdf.
48
Ryan, Ernest Leslie, and Not available. "The bunyip and the dragon the psychodynamics of Australian and South Korean business encounters." Swinburne University of Technology, 1997. http://adt.lib.swin.edu.au./public/adt-VSWT20050506.152251.
Abstract:
This study attempts to identify and explore the psychodynamics of Australian
and Korean business encounters in Seoul, Republic of Korea, by describing and
discussing 'Australian-ness' and 'Korean-ness' as representations of what I will call
'National character in-the-mind'. A guiding hypothesis is that in highly charged
emotional settings, like those associated with foreign business encounters, National
character in-the-mind acts as a psychological and emotional container, and a protective
screen to hide more intricate institutional anxieties and defences. The data supporting
the study is drawn from my interviews with 12 Australian and 6 Korean business people
conducted between 3 and 14 June 1996 in Seoul, Republic of Korea. The study also
reflects my experience and role as researcher in the research as a source, creator and
interpreter of data through the exploration of my own introspection. The findings
demonstrate how Australian-ness and Korean-ness appear to represent projections of the
human imagination, willed within the bounds of individual experience and perception.
A model for evaluating Cultural Misunderstanding and Defensive/Adaptive Behaviour
is proposed with the aim of seeking improved understanding of the Australian and
Korean National character. The model applies learning from the research experience
which emphasises the need for Australian and Korean business people to take a more
adaptive approach to the contrary behaviours they encounter. The model also
acknowledges the value of investing time to establish and maintain cross-cultural
business relationships based on access, whereby Australian and Korean business people
see themselves as resources of mutual gain, reducing the potential for
misunderstanding, fear and mistrust and the subsequent invocation of defensive
responses.
49
Dean, Anthony Francis. "Australian universities in the information economy electronic commerce and the business of distance education /." Access electronically, 2004. http://www.library.uow.edu.au/adt-NWU/public/adt-NWU20050929.114913/index.html.
50
Martin, Geraldine M. "Outsourcing in Western Australian hospitals: Management considerations." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 1996. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/961.
Abstract:
This thesis examines Health Care Managers' considerations with and experiences of outsourcing services in Western Australian hospitals. Support services such as cleaning and maintenance are some of the areas which have been targeted for outsourcing (contracting out) by the state government. These services have traditionally been delivered by permanently employed staff either on a full or part- time basis, usually with active union involvement. Core services such as nursing and medical care which involve direct patient care delivery are not included in the outsourcing debate. Firstly, this thesis reviews the literature on outsourcing and its application to the health care industry. Performance indicators and benchmarking are also explored within the context of contracted out services in a variety of settings. The implicit economic, social and legal implications are discussed. This study involved Health Care Managers in Western Australian hospitals and was conducted between June 1995 and May 1996. Their experiences with outsourcing of services together with the hospitals and the communities they served were key considerations in the final analysis. The research findings support the views of more recent studies which emphasize the importance of the context within which outsourcing is implemented, such as rural versus metropolitan hospitals. Hospital size, location, accessibility to contractors, human resource issues and funding arrangements such as those which affect teaching and non- teaching facilities were identified as major determinants affecting the degree to which outsourcing had been embraced. Finally, the implications of this research for future studies are discussed.