The aim of this paper was to achieve a better understanding of the specific role of physical prototyping in the product development process. Data from a survey of 25 companies revealed that the direct effect of prototyping on multidimensional project performance is limited. However, physical...

The aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which people from two different sectors are ‘armed’ to deal effectively with change. Change is apparently the only constant factor in current work surroundings. A crucial issue to manage change professionally is coping with the involved...

In this paper, we present a meta-heuristic algorithm for the well-known resource-constrained project scheduling problem with discounted cash flows. This optimization procedure maximizes the net present value of project subject to the precedence and renewable resource constraints. The problem is...

Within the scope of the TSER-project (1998-2000) which aimed to examine new HRD initiatives in learning-oriented organisations throughout Europe, this paper presents the general findings and some country specific differences for Belgium. The study aimed to answer the following questions: How do...

This paper investigates the relationship between two outcomes of relationship marketing affective commitment and behavioral loyalty and consumers unethical behavior. The main objective of the study is to assess whether affective commitment and behavioral loyalty to a store translate into more...

This paper experimentally investigates the value-enhancing effects of more accurate customer profitability analysis (CuPA) reports on customer pricing decisions and firm profitability when customers place different demands on the firm's support functions. Activity-based driven CuPA reports are...

This paper reviews theory and empirical findings on the effects of empowerment in the workplace. Data from existing studies is used to assess the effects of the four empowerment dimensions on affective and behavioral employee responses. Data is reanalyzed using hierarchical regression analysis....

The launch of the first product is an important event for start-ups, because it takes the new venture closer to growth, profitability and financial independence. However, entrepreneurship literature lacks theory and data on new product development and innovation speed. Integrating insights form...

Few studies have addressed the performance of smaller unquoted companies involved in take-overs, especially in the Continental European countries. Therefore this study addresses the post-take-over financial characteristics of privately held companies involved in 143 Belgian take-overs between...

In a free market economy the importance of small business as a major job supplier, innovator and source of growth is widely recognized. Given the importance of small business for an economy, the survival, success and performance of these firms is an issue of continuous concern. Research that can...