Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Hong Kong, 2002. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 451-486).

Thesis (M. Phil.)--University of Hong Kong, 2002. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 252-300).

published_or_final_version / abstract / toc / Economics and Finance / Master / Master of Philosophy

No description available.

This thesis evaluates the role of inquisitiveness considered as a soft management skill as a characteristic of leaders in managerial positions in the manufacturing sector in Australia. There is considerable academic focus on the leadership attributes of people. In recent years leadership has become a much-debated theme of management behaviour. Previous published research has stated that inquisitiveness is a core characteristic of global leaders, but little has been written that addresses leadership in the context of manufacturing. / The aim of this research is to test the validity of inquisitiveness as a characteristic of leaders within Australia's manufacturing sector by collecting and analysing data both theoretically and empirically. The manufacturing sector is under considerable pressure to survive and prosper in a competitive international market. This research may lead to improved techniques for the training, selection and promotion of managers in manufacturing organisations in Australia. / The outcome of the empirical research shows that inquisitiveness is a characteristic of leaders in manufacturing management in Australia. It also found that the current practices used by Human Resources Managers in manufacturing organisations, whether hiring or promoting people, do not consider inquisitiveness as a characteristic of potential leaders. This research develops a contrary view and concludes that a measurable and appropriate test for inquisitiveness in current and potential leaders should be developed by the manufacturing industry. / The recognition that inquisitiveness is a desirable characteristic of managers in Australian manufacturing industry may lead to developing leaders who can participate in creating a sustainable Australian manufacturing sector that thrives in, and does not merely survive the global competition from emerging markets. / Thesis (PhD)--University of South Australia, 2007.

This paper is a review of the literature on quality management practices and firm performance. Theoretical frameworks linking ISO 9000 and Total Quality Management (TQM) were analyzed. ISO 9000 has been recommended to be used as a route to TQM. The emergence of constructs of quality management practices was examined. Eight most popular constructs have been identified - top management support, quality information availability, quality information usage, employee training, employee involvement, product/process design, supplier quality and customer orientation. A thorough review of the literature pointed to three categories of empirical studies on quality management practices and firm performance, i.e., comparative studies, longitudinal studies and impact studies. This paper suggests that future research in quality management should focus on the link between quality management and financial performance. / Thesis (DBA(DoctorateofBusinessAdministration))--University of South Australia, 2004.

Thesis (MEducation)--University of South Australia, 2003.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Chicago, 1911 / Includes bibliographical references (p. 134-139). Also issued in print and microfiche.

Thesis (M.S.)--Rochester Institute of Technology, 2007. / Typescript. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 81-82).

Thesis (M.S.)--Ohio University, 2002. / Title from PDF t.p.