Purpose – To identify a possible method of generating funds from an academic library's registered users. Design/methodology/approach – Focusing on the Delta State University Library, a study was conducted to determine whether the recent introduction of a library registration fee adversely...

Describes the history and evolution of the Kentucky Library Network from an independent, not‐for‐profit organization to a membership‐based, state‐operated organization. Covers some of the key points of transition in this process and describes an evolving philosophy of inclusion and...

This paper describes a methodology for the structured development of manufacturing information systems based on a collaborative action research project. The methodology starts from the premise that a company has an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system in place. It can then be used to...

A significant feature of business management in the 1990s has been the practice of outsourcing. Firms and public sector bodies have reconsidered where the boundary of their organisation should be set, and passed to third parties responsibility for many business activities. However, many firms...

Presents an assessment of the use of simulation modelling to assist in business process reengineering projects. Considers the relevance of the simulation technique to modelling business systems and relates its use to the main stages of a reengineering project. Presents a case study of the use of...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to open up the research and development (R&D) organisation by separating product and process innovation and exploring these activities in terms of the structural variable of centralisation versus decentralisation. Design/methodology/approach – Case...

Purpose – Between 1997 and 2002, Shell changed the way it organised its advertising activity, switching from a local approach to a global organisation. The transition was significant, given the group's long history of decentralisation. It was also very successful. This paper explores how this...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to carry out queuing analysis to analyse patient load in outpatient and inpatient services to facilitate more realistic resource planning. Design/methodology/approach – The paper adopts an analytical approach based on real life data (e.g. not a priori...

The development of the ResIDe Electronic Library at the University of the West of England, Bristol, is traced from its origins as an eLib funded research project. Different aspects of the system are analysed through their potential to increase economy, efficiency and effectiveness in library...

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) went through many development cycles since its beginning in the 1970s until it established itself as a backbone of most major enterprises in the world. In spite of its countless advantages, most ERP implementations require heavy customisation to achieve their...