A sequence of finite-dimensional quotients of affine Hecke algebras is studied. Each element of the sequence is constructed so as to have a weight space labelling scheme for Specht/standard modules. As in the weight space formalism of algebraic Lie theory, there is an action of an affine reflection group on this weight space that fixes the set of labelling weights. A linkage principle is proved in each case. Further, it is shown that the simplest non-trivial example may essentially be identified with the blob algebra (a physically motivated quasihereditary algebra whose representation theory is very well understood by Lie-theory-like methods). An extended role is hence proposed for Soergel's tilting algorithm, away from its algebraic Lie theory underpinning, in determining the simple content of standard modules for these algebras. This role is explicitly verified in the blob algebra case. A tensor space representation of the blob algebra is constructed, as a candidate for a full tilting module (subsequently proven to be so in a paper by Martin and Ryom-Hansen), further evidencing the extended utility of Lie-theoretic methods. Possible generalisations of this representation to other elements of the sequence are discussed.
Reports the efforts of six British small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to enhance their new product development (NPD) capabilities. Finds a strong recognition by managers of “the need for NPD” yet they consistently deprioritised work on NPD when faced with other shorter‐term pressures. The involvement of manufacturing managers was limited in their firms’ NPD activities. What involvement there was occurred late in the process. Identifies a major problem in terms of the lack of information available, with only a few of the firms recording the activities undertaken in the NPD process. This has a number of serious consequences; it was difficult to compare their performance with other firms and they did not have the information needed to improve systematically their systems and procedures. In those firms that did maintain records, their record keeping was limited. Much of what was recorded had little value, as it was not used systematically to improve performance. This shortage of suitable information also hindered the ability of management to learn and thus improve future generations of new products.
Reports the product innovation activities of 30 British manufacturing SMEs, all with aggressive growth ambitions. Shows that ten of these companies meet their aims by repeatedly introducing innovative new products that open up new market niches, which they successfully exploit. This is seen to contrast with the remaining, larger group that performs less well by introducing incremental improvement products into their current markets only. A longitudinal study identifies managerial approaches typical to the more successful group. These include a multi‐functional approach to decision making and the use of market and competitor analysis in strategic product planning. This is supported by effective cross company communication of decisions and plans. Concludes that this combination of approaches offers ambitious small firms a potentially powerful competitive advantage over their larger rivals.
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