Integrated Response Research Articles

The mediating performance role of staffing options in MNE subsidiary strategies within rapidly deteriorating environments

PurposeIn an environment of intensive global mobility, this study aims to investigate the performance role of staffing choices within diverse MNE subsidiary strategies. Incorporating the integration-responsiveness (IR) framework with a contingency perspective, this study proposes that the performance success of distinct MNE subsidiary strategies depends on staffing choices. This study argues that performance differences of staffing choices such as assigned expatriates, self-initiated expatriates, former inpatriates and host-country nationals derive from their different knowledge/experience advantages regarding the intra-firm environment and local market conditions.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilizes a unique sample of 169 foreign subsidiaries located in Greece that faced the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic (in 2020). For robustness reasons, this study also captures the imposition of capital controls (in June 2015).FindingsThis study finds important mediating performance effects of a diversified human resource portfolio across distinct subsidiary strategies in difficult times. Integration strategy tends to use more assigned expatriates, locally responsive strategy tends to utilize more host-country nationals, whereas multi-focal strategy favors self-initiated expatriates and former inpatriates, with positive subsidiary performance effects accordingly. So, staffing policies that are suitable to balance the needs of Human Resource Management (HRM) portfolio differ from strategy to strategy. Moreover, this study finds that managing HRM diversity is crucial in turbulent times.Originality/valueWhile the empirical evidence has been predominantly accumulated from large economies, largely neglecting performance effects of MNE subsidiary staffing in crisis contexts, the analysis sheds light on a small open economy (i.e. the Greek context) emphasizing rapidly environmental deterioration. The findings extend existing theorizing on international performance and HRM management by providing an integrative conceptual framework linking integration-responsiveness motivated strategies with distinct groups of high-quality human resources under contingency considerations, so creatively synthesizing largely fragmented IB and HRM research streams. The study provides valuable insights into the performance role of non-conventional staffing choices such as self-initiated expatriates and former inpatriates, given that relevant studies examine either exclusively expatriates or compare expatriates with host country nationals, reaching inconclusive results.

Feasibility of Using Non-Destructive Ultrasound Measurement Technique to Evaluate Binder Content of Asphalt Mixtures

The non-destructive ultrasound technique is an easy and inexpensive technique widely used in industry to evaluate the properties of engineering materials. Despite its popularity in industrial applications, such as evaluating steel materials, the ultrasound technique has not been thoroughly investigated for the purpose of characterizing asphalt materials in general, nor specifically determining the asphalt binder content of asphalt mixtures. The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of utilizing measurements based on the non-destructive ultrasound technique to detect changes in the asphalt binder content in asphaltic mixture specimens. Two performance-grade binders, PG64-28 and PG76-22, and two rubber-modified binders were selected. The rubber-modified binders were produced by adding crumb rubber to the two performance-grade binders, PG64-28 and PG76-22, and were designated as PG64-28R and PG76-22R. The amount of crumb rubber added to these rubber-modified binders was 15% by weight of the PG64-28 and PG76-22 binders. The aggregate gradations for all of the asphalt mixtures were the same. The asphalt mixture specimens were used to obtain measurements for: (1) the ultrasound wave speed through the specimens; and (2) and the integrated response (IR) of the specimens. The results indicated that, generally, the ultrasound wave speed decreases with an increase in binder content. This is expected due to the binder’s attenuation and slowing effect on the wave speed. The results also indicated that, generally, the integrated response (IR) decreases with an increase in binder content. This can be explained by the fact that the increased binder content in asphalt mixture specimens increases their tendency to absorb more energy.

Approximation and Analysis of Single Band FIR Pass Integrator Centered around Mid-band Frequencies with Degree k = 1, 2, 3…

In this paper, a modified Finite Impulse Response based linear Pass integrator for centered frequency, ranging between 0.1 π to 0.9 π has been realized. Both the cases have been considered i.e. for what values the phase response is of use and where the phase response has zero value. An iterative formula has been used to calculate the weights depending upon the Transfer Functions, and applying differentiation method. A flat output approximation for the desired frequency ω has been applied for which the results overlap with the ideal integrator. Performance comparison of the proposed integrator has been done with the previous one and relative percentage errors have been observed for both cases implemented. Graphical analysis has also been carried out for frequency responses having degree greater than one (i.e. k = 2, 3, 4) for both cases of proposed integrator and compared with the ideal integrator's response.

Analysing corporate political activity in MNC subsidiaries through the integration-responsiveness framework

Our study applies the well-known, market-strategy focussed integration-responsiveness (IR) framework and extends it to incorporate the non-market corporate political strategies of MNC subsidiaries. We find government regulation and the market strategies of integration and innovation have positive relationships with MNC subsidiary political activities. Interestingly, whereas the market strategy of innovation has a positive effect on subsidiary performance (but not on legitimacy), the non-market corporate political activities undertaken by MNC subsidiaries enhance subsidiary legitimacy (but not subsidiary performance). In addition, both market innovation and non-market subsidiary political activities are useful tools to gain favourable government decisions. Overall, our study incorporates both market and non-market strategies within a single overarching IR framework, and highlights their complementary role in achieving the twin goals of performance and legitimacy respectively.

Integration-responsiveness, local hires and subsidiary performance amidst turbulence: Insights from a survey of Chinese subsidiaries

We study MNE subsidiary performance in a turbulent, emerging economy, focusing on how locally hired managers and integration − responsiveness (I-R) influence performance outcomes. We augment I-R by considering how locally hired managers support or hinder global integration (GI) and local responsiveness (LR) in China. Analysis of data from 104 Chinese subsidiaries suggests higher proportions of locally hired managers do not support GI; GI is sufficient in its own right in dealing with turbulence, positively moderating the relationship between turbulence and performance. However, a higher proportion of locally hired managers does improve subsidiary performance amidst turbulence when accompanied by LR.

Application of a weight of evidence approach utilising biological effects, histopathology and contaminant levels to assess the health and pollution status of Irish blue mussels (Mytilus edulis)

A weight of evidence (WOE) approach, integrating biological effects, mussel histopathology and tissue contaminant levels is proposed to evaluate mussel health and pollution status. Contaminant levels, histopathology and several biological effects (BEs) including Lysosomal membrane stability (LMS), acetylcholinesterase (AChe), metallothionein proteins (MT) and alkali labile phosphate (ALP), in Mytilus edulis are presented, improving the current knowledge base for these data. Potential links between histopathology, BEs and contaminants and ranking of sites are investigated with an integrated response (IR) indexing technique. Histopathological condition indices (Ih) in mussel digestive gland are used to calculate health indices. A spatial and temporal assessment is conducted at Irish coastal locations. Linear mixed effects modelling revealed effects of confounding factors such as reproductive condition on NRRT (gonad stage (p < 0.001)). Higher prevalence of inflammation, brown cells and epithelial thinning of the digestive gland was evident at Dublin and Wexford and this linked well with the Ih. Levels of contaminants were generally found to be low with few exceptions as were BE responses. Using the IR approach, Dublin was ranked as being most impacted while Shannon ranked the least impacted, this being consistent with the BE ranking.

Feasibility of ultrasonic measurements for characterizing rheological properties of asphalt binders

Ultrasonic measurement (UM) may provide an inexpensive alternative to sophisticated tests currently used to characterize rheological properties of asphalt binders. This research investigates the feasibility of application of high frequency immersion UM to characterize performance grade (PG) asphalt binders. Nine different PG asphalt binders were selected for this investigation. Short term aged, long term aged and un-aged samples were prepared for ultrasonic measurements. For each binder, velocity (V) and integrated response (IR) of the ultrasonic wave were measured at five temperatures. Mechanical test to obtain rheological properties were also performed on the same asphalt binder grades. Variation of ultrasonic measured parameters with temperature was studied. Correlations between the ultrasonic measurements and rheological properties were explored. Results indicated that ultrasonic velocity of the asphalt binders decreases with increase in their temperature. Modified asphalt binders showed lower velocity compared to un-modified ones.

Integration and responsiveness in subsidiaries in emerging economies

The integration-responsiveness (IR) framework with the typology of international, multi-domestic, global and transnational MNE strategies has become a standard in international management textbooks. In particular, the ‘transnational strategy’ is advocated by some gurus, but considered unworkable by other scholars. Yet, despite the popularity of the framework, and the concept of ‘transnational strategy’ in particular, surprisingly little evidence exists for under which conditions this strategy is most appropriate. This paper revisits the typology using a contingency approach suggesting that the transnational strategy works well if it “fits” with other elements of a subsidiary's strategy. We test hypotheses derived from this perspective on a sample of subsidiaries in two emerging economies. We find that transnational strategy enhances subsidiary performance in particular if the subsidiary is wholly owned, if it was not established by acquisition, and if it is highly export oriented.

How do Chinese multinationals perceive factors affecting the integration-responsiveness framework?

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to clarify how Chinese multinationals perceive factors affecting the integration-responsiveness (I-R) framework. Design/methodology/approach – This study extends quantitative and conceptual studies that have clarified and assessed the underlying factors that influence multinational enterprises’ (MNEs) international business strategy choices relating to global integration and local responsiveness with the use of cross-level and in-depth interviews. Top management perceptions from nine Chinese MNEs with operations in Australia are detailed. Findings – The study obtains empirical evidence on applying the I-R framework in the context of MNEs from emerging markets. Also the hybrid factors affecting both integration and responsiveness synchronously have been confirmed by Chinese multinationals. Research limitations/implications – As a cross-sectional study, the paper focuses on senior executives’ perceptions on factors affecting the I-R framework. This analysis would be en...

Local Context and Global Strategy: Extending the Integration Responsiveness Framework to Subsidiary Strategy

The integration‐responsiveness (IR) framework is a leading analytical tool of global strategy but it is less valuable in explaining the heterogeneity of strategic choice for subsidiaries within an MNE. We propose an IRE framework of subsidiary strategy that complements the IR framework for the subsidiary level with a third dimension—selling to local versus export markets (E). Resource‐based considerations suggest that subsidiary strategies must fit the resources both the parent MNE and the local context. We examine how our three dimensions of subsidiary strategy are locally contingent. We suggest that local resource endowments, local competition, and the distance between the home and host country influence the use of responsiveness and exporting strategies, but influence integration strategies only to a small degree. We find empirical support for hypotheses developed from these arguments using survey data from MNE subsidiaries in two Central and Eastern European economies.

Adding the Perspective of Process Integration to the Bartlett and Ghoshal Typology of MNCs

Our current understanding of MNC organization has traditionally focused on the hierarchical interdependence between headquarters and subsidiaries. Yet, the pressure caused by globalizing markets and the rise of emerging market MNCs has forced all MNCs to escalate their search for ways to add value and to reduce costs. This effort has pushed firms to go beyond headquarter-subsidiary integration, aligning multiple business functions and their typically interdependent activities through cross-functional integration along business processes. In this paper, we argue that the horizontal process organization is a distinct key component of any MNC’s organizational structure, requiring equal consideration beyond the hierarchical structural organization perspective established in the integration responsiveness (IR) framework used to create typologies of MNCs' international strategy and structure (Bartlett and Ghoshal, 1987; Prahalad and Doz, 1987). To describe MNCs in a more meaningful way, one should consider not only the hierarchical interdependence between headquarters and subsidiaries but also the cross-functional integration along business processes. We combine the literature on MNC's organizational structure in international business with the operations management literature on process organization to develop an extended integration framework. We then hypothesize eight typologies of MNCs and discuss respective examples from business practice. We conclude that the traditional focus on headquarter-subsidiary integration in the IR framework ignores a substantial variance among MNCs that could be better accounted for by considering MNCs' integration of business functions along their business processes.

What determines MNC subsidiary performance? Evidence from China

The paper challenges the view that MNC dictates a subsidiary's business strategy and operations in accordance with the integration-responsiveness (IR) framework. The paper integrates the IR framework with contingency theory to argue that a subsidiary needs discretion to craft its own effective business strategy in light of the environmental exigencies facing the subsidiary in the host country. It may do so at variance with the MNC's strategy. Evidence from China supports that subsidiary managers should take strategic initiatives in response to specific host country environment.

Preferences and Performance of International Strategies in Retail Sectors: An Empirical Study

This study examines the international strategies of retailers that have been internationalising aggressively, especially since the 1990s. By applying the Integration-Responsiveness (I-R) framework, we hypothesise that retailers use all four strategies (international, global, multinational and transnational) but that their preferences for these strategies vary across retail sectors (food and non-food). From the inter-sector-based and sector-specific perspectives, we also hypothesise that the strategies correspond to different levels of performance. Based on extensive pre-tests, in-depth face-to-face interviews with 112 executives in 90 retailing firms' headquarters and a two-tailed measurement of the framework dimensions, the results support most of our hypotheses. Thus, for both scholars and managers, this study provides, for the first time, empirical insights into successful international strategies for retailers.

Noncontact ultrasound imaging applied to cortical bone phantoms

The purpose of this paper was to take the first steps toward applying noncontact ultrasound (NCU) to the tasks of monitoring osteoporosis and quantitative ultrasound imaging (QUS) of cortical bone. The authors also focused on the advantages of NCU, such as its lack of reliance on a technologist to apply transducers and a layer of acoustical coupling gel, the ability of the transducers to operate autonomously as specified by preprogrammed software, and the likely reduction in statistical and systematic errors associated with the variability in the pressure applied by the clinician to the transmitting transducer that NCU might provide. The authors also undertook this study in order to find additional applications of NCU beyond its past limited usage in assessing the severity of third degree burns. A noncontact ultrasound imaging system using a pair of specially designed broadband, 1.5 MHz noncontact piezoelectric transducers and cortical bone phantoms, were used to determine bone mineral density (BMD), speed of sound (SOS), integrated response (IR), and ultrasonic transmittance. Air gaps of greater than 3 cm, two transmission and two reflection paths, and a digital signal processor were also used in the collection of data from phantoms of nominal mass densities that varied from 1.17 to 2.25 g/cm(3) and in bone mineral density from 0 to 1.7 g/cm(3). Good correlations between known BMD and measured SOS, IR, and transmittance were obtained for all 17 phantoms, and methods for quantifying and minimizing sources of systematic errors were outlined. The BMD of the phantom sets extended through most of the in vivo range found in cortical bone. A total of 16-20 repeated measurements of the SOS, thickness, and IR for the phantom set that were conducted over a period of several months showed a small variation in the range of measurements of ±1%-2%. These NCU data were shown to be in agreement with similar results using contact ultrasound to be within 1%-2%. Transmittance images of cortical bone phantoms showed differences in the nominal overall BMD values of the phantoms that were large enough to be distinguished by a visual examination. A list of possible sources of errors in quantitative NCU was also included in this study. The results of this paper suggest that NCU might find additional applications in medical imaging, beyond its original and only previous usage in assessing third degree burns. The fact that the authors' phantom measurements using conventional, gel coupled ultrasound are in agreement with those obtained with NCU demonstrates that in spite of large additional levels of attenuation of up to 150 dB and new error sources, NCU could have comparable levels of accuracy to those of conventional quantitative ultrasound, while providing the medical and patient comfort-related advantages of not involving direct contact.

Improved Performance of Nanohole Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensors by the Integrated Response Method

We examine both experimental and simulated data of the optical transmission response of nanohole arrays in metal films to bulk and surface refractive index changes. We compare the signal-to-noise performance of the following three different analysis methods: the conventional peak shift method, a normalized-difference integrated-response method that is commonly used in 3-D plasmonic crystals, and an integrated response (IR) method. Our IR method shows a 40% and 90% improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for bulk and surface binding tests, respectively, compared with the direct measurement of the transmission-peak wavelength shift, promising improved sensing performance for future nanohole-array sensor applications.

Knowledge-based resources as determinants of MNC structure: tests of an integrative model

This paper develops and tests a theoretical model of the structural choice by multinational corporations (MNCs). The model draws on three research streams: the contingency framework, integration–responsiveness (IR) framework, and organizational economics. Insights from the three streams of work are integrated into a theory of optimal structural choice under the assumption that both the MNC and its managers make decisions on the basis of their self-interests. An important feature of the model is its exposition of knowledge-based resources as a key determinant of MNC structure. The predictions of the model are tested on a sample of 101 MNCs using a multivariate regression approach. The results confirm the role of knowledge-based resources in influencing MNC structures.

Strategic Use of Information Technology in International Business

Information Technology’s (IT) link to the strategy of the firm has been explored in Information System literature, but the application of IT to the strategy of the international firm has received limited attention. This paper addresses the topic by exploring the use of IT in conjunction with a popular framework, the Integration- Responsiveness (IR) framework, of international business strategy. The framework’s three subgroups; global integration, multifocal, and local responsiveness are discussed. Specific applications of IT are then examined with reference to the dimensions that have been used to operationalize the IR framework. They are complex innovation, marketing differentiation, breadth, and conservative cost control. The paper concludes with implications for practice and research.

Affective Dependent Measures: the Use of a Response Integrity Scale To Enhance the Validity of Experimental and Quasi-Experimental Research

This paper discusses some unique problems associated with affective dependent measures in comparative studies. The importance of situational factors is presented, together with methods for maximizing the validity of affective measures in research and evaluation studies (where their validity can ordinarily be much greater than when they are used for clinical and personnel purposes). The use of a brief response integrity (RI) scale (in the context of the variables being assessed) is recommended to assess differential magnitude of the social desirability response style when groups are to be compared. The meaning and validity of group differences on affective criteria can be better understood when viewed in relation to the pattern of group means on the RI scale. Data from a research study are given which illustrate the usefulness of the ancillary RI scale.

Hypopituitarism and idiopathic delayed puberty: a longitudinal study in an attempt to diagnose gonadotropin deficiency before puberty.

Fifty-five hypopituitary patients (43 boys and 12 girls) treated with human GH were studied longitudinally before and during puberty, occurring either spontaneously or induced with testosterone enanthate (100 mg/month, im) in boys and ethinylestradiol (10 micrograms/day, orally) in girls. In addition, 53 boys with idiopathic delayed puberty (IDP) were studied. Gonadotropin integrated responses (IRs) during 90 min after the iv injection of 25 micrograms/m2 LRH, bone ages (BA), and plasma levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and testosterone were determined at least yearly. Prepubertal hypopituitary patients with gonadotropin deficiency were characterized by: 1) a lowered FSH IR to LRH in most boys and in all girls; 2) a low LH IR for BA; 3) adrenarche either absent or delayed BA; 4) height age close to BA; and 5) the presence of several pituitary deficiencies. In contrast, most prepubertal hypopituitary patients without gonadotropin deficiency showed: 1) a normal FSH IR to LRH; 2) a normal or intermediate (greater than or equal to 75 mIU/ml . 90 min) LH IR for BA; 3) a normal adrenarche for BA; 4) a height age below BA; and 5) isolated GH or GH plus TSH deficiencies. A significant linear correlation was found between LH IR and the logarithm of plasma testosterone. The slopes and levels were similar in controls and hypopituitary boy without gonadotropin deficiency. In IDP, the level was significantly higher. All data obtained in these patients show that the increase in plasma testosterone and the clinical onset of puberty are delayed for the observed pubertal pattern of LH responsiveness. It is concluded that the study of several clinical and biological features, especially the gonadotropin IR to LRH, are of predictive value for the diagnosis of normal or deficient gonadotropic function in prepubertal patients with IDP and hypopituitarism.

Assessment of gonadotrophin deficiency in pituitary dwarfism

Fifty three patients with idiopathic (45) and organic (8) hypopituitarism, 43 boys and 10 girls, were studied during treatment with hGH. The gonadotrophin responses to GnRH (25 μg/m2) and serum levels of DHEA-s were measured yearly ; 15 patients remained prepubertal whereas 38 patients were studied before and during puberty occuring either spontaneously (11) or induced (27) by testosterone propionate (100 mg/mth) or ethinyloestradiol (10 μg/day) Gonadarche and adrenarche were dissociated in some patients : among the 11 patients with spontaneous gonadarche, 2 had no previous biological adrenarche ; among the 27 gonadotrophin deficient (G.D.) patients, 9 had spontaneous adrenarche. In prepubertal patients who were subsequently confirmed to be G.D., 27 GnRH tests were performed ; 23/27 integrated responses (I.R.) of FSH were found to be markedly lower than those observed in prepubertal controls of both sexes. In 9/27, I.R. of LH were below the control range. However, when in boys, I.R. of LH were analyzed according to bone age, 17/19 were below the lower limit of the control range. These data might stress the importance of calculating I.R. of FSH to GnRH in hypopituitary patients in order to predict gonadotrophin deficiency.