Focus group methods: Using interactive and nominal groups to explore emerging technology-driven phenomena in accounting and information systems

This paper puts forth arguments for why focus group methods should be used more frequently in accounting and information technology research in order to address emerging technology-driven phenomena in accounting. In this overview of focus group methods and their application to studying accounting and information technology phenomena, we focus on what alternative types of focus group methods may be applied, when such methods are applicable, and what methodological challenges the researcher must address. In examining the methodological challenges that face researchers when using these methods, we demonstrate how these challenges have been addressed in our own research as a way of exemplifying the challenges researchers may face and what compensating strategies researchers might use. Our objective is to highlight when focus groups may be the best method for accounting information systems researchers and demonstrate how they can be used when they are applicable.     

Does strategy pay?

Empirical research on the relation between strategy and performance is rarely conclusive. This paper reviews a number of such studies, and suggests that while the links between planning or market share and performance have been fairly clearly established for certain circumstances or time periods, the results for diversity or merger are much more equivocal. Further, it suggests that even ‘established’ results are of little help to strategists, and that the unanswered questions relating to empirical studies must continue to limit their usefulness for strategic planning.     

Lobbying of accounting standard-setting bodies in the U.K. and the U.S.A.: A Downsian analysis

This paper examines the response of those affected by financial accounting standards to new accounting rules. The efforts of individuals and organizations to promote or obstruct such rules are described collectively as lobbying. The Downsian voting model provides the framework for the discussion of important aspects of lobbying, namely the characteristics of lobbyists, the timing of their lobbying and the methods they are likely to employ. The analysis is illustrated with examples drawn from U.K. and U.S. experience of standard-setting.     

Using empirical data to investigate the likelihood of brands being admitted or readmitted into an established evoked set

Empirical data is used to follow the maturation and change an evoked set exhibits as the decision-maker proceeds to a final choice. Results indicate that after an evoked set has been established, a subject is more likely to include newly found brands in his evoked set versus previously rejected brands even though additional positive information had been received for the previously rejected brands.     

Dual-track versus single-track sell-outs: An empirical analysis of competing harvest strategies

We investigate two non-traditional harvest strategies for selling a privately-held company. Dual-track private firms file for an IPO while also courting acquirers. These firms withdraw the IPO to be taken over. Dual-track public firms complete an IPO and are taken over shortly thereafter. Examining 679 takeovers from 1995–2004, we find private dual-track sell-outs earn a 22–26% higher premium and dual-track public sell-outs earn an 18–21% higher premium than single-track sell-outs. Larger, VC-backed, prestigious underwritten, and bubble-year firms have a higher propensity to take the dual-track path. The implication is that entrepreneurs may increase their harvest value by using a dual-track strategy.