Technology Attribute-Diffusion Pattern Nexus: Evidence from the Early Experiences of 3G Mobile Communications

The diffusion patterns of 3G cellular technologies indicate that the reality is not matching the optimistic estimates of various consulting firms regarding the size of the network. What factors influence the diffusion of rapidly developing network goods? This paper draws upon innovation diffusion literature and the early experiences of 3G mobile technologies to examine the influence of supply-side factors on the 3G diffusion trajectory. We also propose a model that classifies various 3G related attributes in terms of their influence on present utility vs. expected future utility and the mechanism of influence: via 3G device vs. via 3G network. The central argument of this paper is that while the breadth of offers has been wider in 3G compared to lower generation cellular technologies, there has been digression rather than progress on some dimensions (e.g., bulky 3G handsets, very short battery lives, small geographical coverage, and lower network externality effects). The problems are compounded by the lack of strategic pricing and industryregulator coordinations

Chapter 20 Data management

Before new interventions can be used in disease control programmes, it is essential that they are carefully evaluated in “field trials”, which may be complex and expensive undertakings. Descriptions of the detailed procedures and methods used in trials that have been conducted in the past have generally not been published. As a consequence, those planning such trials have few guidelines available and little access to previously accumulated knowledge. In this book the practical issues of trial design and conduct are discussed fully and in sufficient detail for the text to be used as a “toolbox” by field investigators. The toolbox has now been extensively tested through use of the first two editions and this third edition is a comprehensive revision, incorporating the many developments that have taken place with respect to trials since 1996 and involving more than 30 contributors. Most of the chapters have been extensively revised and 7 new chapters have been added

Laptop requirement usage and impact in graduate ILS education

A new requirement for personal laptop computer ownership was implemented for graduate information and library science (ILS) students. This study evaluates the impact and usage of laptop computers, and the real and envisioned benefits of laptop ownership during the first six months of the requirement’s implementation. Online and email surveys were used for data gathering, and a combination of quantitative and qualitative data were collected. Student perspectives were emphasized, and institutional background were examined. It was found that students' reaction to the requirement and their usage of laptops was influenced by their previous experiences with computers, their computer skills, and their expectations of the academic program. Understanding of Institutional context of laptop implementation was found to be important for the success of the program

Field Trials of Health Interventions: A Toolbox

Before new interventions can be used in disease control programmes, it is essential that they are carefully evaluated in “field trials”, which may be complex and expensive undertakings. Descriptions of the detailed procedures and methods used in trials that have been conducted in the past have generally not been published. As a consequence, those planning such trials have few guidelines available and little access to previously accumulated knowledge. In this book the practical issues of trial design and conduct are discussed fully and in sufficient detail for the text to be used as a “toolbox” by field investigators. The toolbox has now been extensively tested through use of the first two editions and this third edition is a comprehensive revision, incorporating the many developments that have taken place with respect to trials since 1996 and involving more than 30 contributors. Most of the chapters have been extensively revised and 7 new chapters have been added