The research into SME”s is often presented as quite distinct from strategy or general management research. This paper examines the literature on Strategic Decision Making (SDM) process, drawing in some findings from the SME sector which show some key similarities. The paper makes proposals for...

Drawing on the work of Niccolo Machiavelli and his appreciation of management and power, this paper explores the contemporary role of public affairs in UK organisations and the type of roles enacted by practitioners. The paper reviews how public affairs and, particularly, the corporate lobbying...

Purpose – This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and...

Against a background of deregulatory change both within the UK and the broader European context, examines the future prospects for building society branch networks. Identifies the important determinants of change and discusses: technological innovations, the need for greater profitability, the...

Banks have turned to technology in search of a competitive edge in a dynamic and sometimes hostile environment. Unfortunately, technical feasibility rather than market need has motivated them, giving no lasting advantage. An apparently profitable in‐home banking system, using Prestel, is here...

In this article the authors present the results of recent research into the much neglected, but increasingly important, area of marketing information systems in banking. Interviews were conducted with most of the major UK banks, the results of which, combined with literature review, give insight...

The US manned space flight program is interpreted as an expression of American culture. Since the inception of the program one can detect a regression in the projected image from that which the original astronauts built around themselves to that which NASA constructed with Christa McAuliffe —...

Outlines the methods and costs of converting existing robotic systems to new applications and gives research results of software and hardware conversion strategies which speed up re‐configuration. Discusses the trade‐offs between buying new solutions or upgrading old ones, describes the uses...

Identifies and compares characteristics of firms in the telecommunications industry who have high new product performance. Performance comprises two dimensions: impact of new products on the company and goal performance. Explore profiles of high performance firms with regard to how they organize...