Generalized Enterprise Reference Architecture Methodology

Sodium Thiosulphate Coursework Essay We should create a bit of coursework researching the paces of response, and the impact various changes have on them. The pace of response is the pace of loss of a reactant or the pace of arrangement of an item during a substance response. It is estimated by partitioning 1 when taken for the response to happen. There is five elements which influence the pace of a response, as indicated by the crash hypothesis of responding particles: temperature, convergence (of arrangement), pressure (in gases), surface are (of strong reactants), and impetuses. I have decided to explore the impact temperature and focus have on a response. This is on the grounds that they are the most pragmatic to explore it would take more time to set up a strong in powdered and unpowdered structure, and it is hard to get precise readings because of the certainties of human mistakes, and as gas is generally lackluster it is hard to check a response changing the weight, and if a substance is added to give the gas shading, it might impact the result of the trial. Essentially the utilization of an impetus convolutes things, and whenever utilized mistakenly could adjust the result of the analysis. Trial 1 Changing the fixation 5 cm3 of HCl (at focus 1 mol./dm3) and 15 cm3 of sodium thiosulphate (at different fixations 10 to 35 g/dm3) are emptied out into two estimating chambers and afterward filled a funnel shaped carafe, which is put on a board set apart with letter X. The stopwatch will currently be begun. At the point when the blend has turned adequately overcast with the goal that the letter X can never again be seen the stopwatch will be halted and the time will be recorded. The analysis is rehashed with all the focuses. The entire system is then rehashed. Investigation 2 Changing the temperature 5 cm of HCl (at focus 1 mol./dm3) and 15 cm of sodium thiosulphate (at different fixations 10 to 35 g/dm3) are emptied out into two estimating chambers. A recepticle is half loaded up with high temp water from a tap. The water is set on a Bunsen on a blue fire and the two estimating put inside the water shower. The water is warmed to the essential temperature (30?C to 70?C) at that point the two apportioning chambers are taken and the substance of both are filled a funnel shaped chamber. The time it takes for the X to vanish is coordinated and recorded. The analysis is continued utilizing all the temperatures. The whole technique is the rehashed. Rehash results and midpoints will be taken to improve the validity of the discoveries, and present strong establishing for the last end. The recurrent outcomes will assist with resolving any inconsistencies and the normal will give a decent outline of the aftereffects of the investigation. Be that as it may in the event that one lot of results is totally unique to the next, a third test will be performed to supplant the bizarre arrangement of results. Security A couple of goggles will be worn during the warming piece of the analysis so as to ensure the eyes. A cover will likewise be worn to secure the skin and attire. When dealing with hot recepticles and estimating chambers a couple of utensils will be utilized. A bandage and heatproof tangle will be utilized while warming to maintain a strategic distance from any harm to the gear. Reasonable Test In request for my discoveries to be substantial the examination must be a reasonable one. I will utilize a similar standard each an ideal opportunity for deciding when the X has vanished. I will ensure that the estimating chambers for the HCl and thiosulphate won't be stirred up. The measure of HCl will be 5 cm3 each time, and the measure of thiosulphate will be fixed at 15 cm3. During the warming phase of the examination, a blue fire will be utilized all through. Additionally a similar Bunsen burner and gas tap will be utilized to look after progression. These safety measures will make my conclusive outcomes progressively solid and keep irregularities at any rate so in this way make the whole examination increasingly fruitful. Expectation I anticipate that as the temperature is expanded the pace of response will increment. I additionally foresee that as the grouping of the sodium thiosulphate builds the pace of response will increment. This implies the two diagrams drawn up in my investigation will have positive connection, and will likely be bended as the expansion in pace of response won't be actually equivalent to the concentrationtemperature is expanded. This can be defended by identifying with the crash hypothesis. At the point when the temperature is expanded the particles will have more vitality and in this manner move quicker. Hence they will impact all the more regularly and with more vitality. Particles with more vitality are bound to conquer the initiation vitality hindrance to response and in this manner respond effectively. In the event that arrangements of responding particles are made progressively thought there are more particles per unit volume. Impacts between responding particles are in this way bou nd to happen. This can be seen better with full comprehension of the impact hypothesis itself: For a response to happen particles need to slam into one another. Just a little percent bring about a response. This is because of the vitality boundary to survive. Just particles with enough vitality to defeat the obstruction will respond subsequent to impacting. The base vitality that a molecule must need to defeat the boundary is known as the actuation vitality, or Ea. The size of this enactment vitality is distinctive for various responses. On the off chance that the recurrence of impacts is expanded the pace of response will increment. Anyway the percent of effective impacts continues as before. An expansion in the recurrence of impacts can be accomplished by expanding the fixation, weight, or surface zone. Fixation If the convergence of an answer is expanded there are more reactant particles per unit volume. This builds the likelihood of reactant particles crashing into one another. Weight If the weight is expanded the particles in the gas are pushed nearer. This expands the focus and in this way the pace of response. Surface Area If a strong is powdered then there is a more prominent surface zone accessible for a response, contrasted with a similar mass of unpowdered strong. Just particles on the outside of the strong will have the option to experience crashes with the particles in an answer or gas. The particles in a gas experience irregular impacts in which vitality is moved between the impacting particles. Subsequently there will be particles with contrasting energies. Maxwell-Boltzmann vitality circulation bends show the dissemination of the energies of the particles in a gas. The central matters to note about the bends are: 1. There are no particles with zero vitality. 2. The bend doesn't contact the x-hub at the better quality, on the grounds that there will consistently be a few particles with high energies. 3. The territory under the bend is equivalent to the all out number of particles in the framework. 4. The pinnacle of the bend shows the most plausible vitality. The actuation vitality for a given response can be set apart on the conveyance bend. Just particles with vitality equivalent or more prominent than the actuation vitality can respond when a crash happens. In spite of the fact that Maxwell-Boltzmann circulation bends are for the particles in a gas, similar conveyances can be utilized for the particles in a fluid or strong. Impacts of a temperature change The diagram beneath shows Maxwell-Boltzmann dissemination charts for a fixed mass of gas at two temperatures T1 and T2, where T2 is generally 10?C higher than T1. The all out region under the bend continues as before, since there is no adjustment in the quantity of particles present. A little increment in temperature makes huge changes the dissemination energies. At the higher temperature: 1. The pinnacle is at a higher vitality. 2. The pinnacle is lower. 3. The pinnacle is more extensive. 4. There is a huge increment in the quantity of particles with higher energies. It is the last change that outcomes increment in rate, even with a moderately little increment in temperature. A little increment in temperature incredibly builds the quantity of particles with vitality more prominent than the enactment vitality. The concealed zones on the vitality conveyance bends show this. Impact of an impetus An impetus works by giving an elective response pathway that has lower enactment vitality. An impetus doesn't modify the Maxwell-Boltzmann dissemination. Since an impetus gives a response course of lower enactment vitality, in any case, a more prominent extent of particles will have vitality more noteworthy than the actuation vitality. Investigation In this analysis I have discovered that as the temperature and focus is expanded the time taken for the response to happen diminishes. This implies the pace of response increasers as it requires some investment for a response to occur, so more happen every second. In the temperature try the time taken for a response to occur diminished by about 10 to 15 seconds for each 10?C increment in temperature, with the one oddity being the 30?C perusing. There is additionally a pattern in the expansion in pace of response as the temperature increments. The thing that matters is in every case pretty much 0.02 s-1, with a similar exemption. Utilizing the diagrams, with lines of best fit, I can reach a determination from my investigation. Right off the bat I can see that with the time charts (that plot temperature and fixation against time taken for the response to occur) the diagrams have negative connection in the two cases, implying that as the temperatureconcentration expanded the time taken for the response to happen diminishes. The time diagram for the temperature analyze has an a lot more extreme bend than the one for the focus explore, implying that the decline in time taken for the response was unquestionably progressively quick. Normally, the above implies that the both the charts plotting rate against temperature and focus have positive relationship as the temperature and fixation are expanded so does the pace of response. This is on the grounds that when the temperature is expanded the particles will have mor

Obtaining Objective Truth in Regards to Martin Luther Kings Role in the Fight for Equality in the United States

Acquiring Objective Truth in Regards to Martin Luther Kings Role in the Fight for Equality in the United States Presentation Martin Luther King is one of the most praised human rights contenders who battled for the second freedom in the United States. History specialists and columnists have expounded a great deal on his life and the commitments he made towards the battle against racial separation in this country.Advertising We will compose a custom research paper test on Obtaining Objective Truth in Regards to Martin Luther Kings Role in the Fight for Equality in the United States explicitly for you for just $16.05 $11/page Learn More Martin Luther King came out unequivocally to battle for the privileges of the blacks and other minority races in this nation when obviously the ideal opportunity for balance had come (Hermann 94). Hermann says that the credit given to Martin Luther was merited in view of the dedication he had given to that battle. Albeit numerous human right activists had preceded him and the others came after, he is commonly considered as a symbol in the battle against racial se paration and shameful acts that were extremely normal during his period. Sitkoff (55) credits his notoriety to his expert articulation and his degree of information. He gave moving discourses that contacted the hearts of individuals. The way that he adopted the peacefulness strategy in his showdown additionally had influence in his developing prevalence. Ruler turned out to be significantly increasingly famous after his death the same number of connected his passing to his battle against racial segregation. Nonetheless, there has been an issue of whether he merited the consideration that was given to him or not. This exploration is centered around deciding whether target truth is conceivable to acquire as to Martin Luther Kings job in the battle for equity in the United States. Students of history and Scholar’s View of Martin Luther King’s Role in the Fight for Equality in the United States Historians and researchers have made a ton of commitments to finding the life o f Martin Luther King and his job in the battle for uniformity in the United States. As per Helg (67), King was one of the individuals who made monstrous commitment to the battle against racial separation. He gave moving discourses and occupied with elevated level talks with different individuals from the general public trying to end the segregation. During his battle to end the segregation, he was by and large observed as a man who was genuine to his kin and was constantly centered around accomplishing the primary plan of uniformity for all the individuals from the general public. Baldwin (112) says that albeit numerous other human rights crusaders preceded and after him, the greater part of them were wolves in sheep's clothing who were just keen on accomplishing benefits for themselves. The researcher further says that different activists who were before him were significantly keen on picking up acclaim and monetary riches. The vast majority of them were even utilized by the admini stration and other incredible associations to endanger the battle for opportunity. Be that as it may, King provided his life so as to accomplish the most significant goal of correspondence for everyone.Advertising Looking for inquire about paper on history? We should check whether we can support you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Martin Luther King made a great deal of commitment in the battle for the second freedom in the nation (Hermann 94). This researcher says that before King could ascend to notoriety as a human rights crusader, he had made a few forfeits as an individual keen on accomplishing uniformity in the general public. In spite of the fact that he had gotten decent training and made sure about a well-paying occupation, King preferred connecting himself with the poor individuals from the general public who were the most influenced by the social segregation in the general public. This could be halfway what caused him to look like a legend. The greater part of the others of his group favored driving a very existence of abundance. Be that as it may, King didn't consider such life essential when different individuals from the general public were enduring a result of separation. Sitkoff (31) noticed that Martin Luther King was a legend who didn't dread of going up against the relentless individuals from the general public who firmly had confidence in racial prevalence. He says that King was consistently prepared to confront them and disclose to them that it would be a superior spot if everybody were given equivalent rights and openings. There were situations where King confronted various dangers before he was at long last killed, however he didn't yield in the battle for equity. The way that he was at last killed is a reasonable showing that the dangers he had been accepting were genuine (Hermann 98). Individuals who were not satisfied by his conviction that there is requirement for balance were prepared to do everything to stop him. He r ealized that these dangers were genuine. He knew that some covert gatherings were arranging his homicide in light of the development he had begun and was driving in this nation (Helg 89). Be that as it may, this didn't stop him. This made him much progressively persuaded that there was have to battle for opportunity of the blacks and different races that were victimized in that society. He generally demanded that it is smarter to forfeit his life for freedom of million of other people who were experiencing the warmth of separation (King 67). This clarifies why Martin Luther went on with his battle for equivalent privileges of Black Americans. Of all the noticeable individuals in the United States who advocated for equity, King remains over the rest as a result of his earnestness, and the conviction he gave towards the battle for equity for all the Americans (Hermann 56). Could target truth be acquired as to Martin Luther Kings job in the battle for correspondence in the United State s? This is one of the most significant inquiries that numerous researchers have been posing about the pretended by King in the battle for equity in the United States. The above short examination has given a general image of what history specialists and writers have been revealing about Martin Luther King Junior. Lord has increased a great deal of distinction after his demise. At the point when he was killed, numerous individuals credited his demise to his battle against racial separation (Hermann 56).Advertising We will compose a custom research paper test on Obtaining Objective Truth in Regards to Martin Luther Kings Role in the Fight for Equality in the United States explicitly for you for just $16.05 $11/page Learn More He was along these lines seen as a saint who passed on so as to free different individuals from the general public from misery. Demise caused him to be related with progress that was later accomplished in the battle against segregation. Begag (90) says this could have been the motivation behind why numerous students of history and researchers have been loaded with acclaims when expounding on his life. As indicated by this researcher, there is a likelihood that in the greater part of these authentic records, much has been overlooked concerning Kings life, particularly gives that could be viewed as slanderous. It might be trying to acquire the target truth about the commitment of King in the battle for equity in the United States on the grounds that the greater part of his commitments were made after his passing. The vast majority of the students of history and columnists have been profoundly dependant on his moving addresses when describing his commitment in the battle against segregation. In the short investigation done above, there might be given a feeling that there were no other human rights crusaders who supported for correspondence in this nation however Martin Luther King. Nothing can be further from reality. There were different activ ists who made genuine commitments to that battle, however their thoughts have been overlooked by the students of history. The deeds made by King could have dominated them, however they made exceptional commitments that ought not be disregarded. A few researchers accept that it is conceivable to get some target truth with respect to Martin Luther King’s job in the battle for fairness in the United States. A few students of history and columnists have set aside effort to delve into the existence history of King. The majority of their reports have been extremely objective in announcing about the exercises that King occupied with before his death (Hermann 56). Albeit the majority of the accessible reports vary in the methodology taken in investigating the existence history of King, they agree in the particular jobs that King played in battling for equity. King’s life history has been retold, and as Cohen (26) notes, at certain focuses, there have been a few bends dependent on the interests of individuals deciphering his commitments. The way that King kicked the bucket as a result of his human rights activism earned him a ton of regard and appreciation among the history specialists and columnists who have detailed about his commitment towards fairness. Numerous individuals have considered taking a gander at his exercises from only one edge the positive effects he had on this battle. Following his death, the American culture experienced enormous decrease on racial separation. Begag (87) additionally holds that target truth can be acquired with respect to Martin Luther King’s job in the battle for balance. This researcher says that King made monstrous commitments to battling for racial equity in the nation, and this has generally been accounted for by history specialists and journalists.Advertising Searching for inquire about paper on history? How about we check whether we can support you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Find out More The vast majority of the materials accessible from numerous history specialists and writers have broadly talked about his positive effect on battling racial treacheries. Ruler has been viewed as a holy person in the United States, yet in addition in different pieces of the world. The late Nelson Mandela and King have been viewed as the symbols in advocating for balance. Hence, the majority of the perusers are constantly keen on realizing how King partook in the war, what discourses he conveyed, which challenges he confronted, and how he figured out how to beat them. The reality t

Writing a Formal Letter/Example

Dear Mr. Patel, According to your meeting, we comprehend that you are carefully against the utilization of cellphones notwithstanding the way that there are numerous valid justifications to utilize them . I needed to state that I both concur and differ with your assessments at various focuses. At the beggining of the meeting, you referenced people’s consideration was detracted from the generous things throughout everyday life and furthermore guaranteed that the dissapointment of not recieving any writings made them upset or rather neurotic.Afterwards proceeded with commenting cellphones are to some degree convincing and said they undermine our lifes whenever utilized while driving. Additionally brought up the normal puctuation blunder which youngsters make in light of the language they use when they compose a book and said there were interruptions in classes and claimed the utilization of cellphones as an explanation. You told the questioner cellphones attacked one’s se curity and isolation and individuals looked senseless while chatting with cellphones at that point pronounced that you would prefer to be without a cellphone.The questioner expressed a few assessments of his, opposite to your feelings. Contradicting the conclusions againt the utilization of cellphones, he confirmed that it was fundamental four speaking with one’s youngsters and educating individuals if one’s vehicle stalled or is going to delay. He included there were very few phone land lines in certain spots, for example, Africa, which made cellphones helpful. At that point finished his words with saying cellphones have an extraordinary job in fathoming crime.Whilst I concur with half of your assessments, for example, messaging and driving compromises lifes and they ruin our tranquility and isolation, I don't concur with you on your assessments of kids interruption. Albeit the vast majority of the youngsters use cellphone, not every one of them are occupied or commit ting accentuation errors. Before being this biased about cellphones, if it's not too much trouble think about the upsides of them. It may be the best to attempt lessen the utilization without totally dismissing them. Yours earnestly Related paper: â€Å"Co Curricular Activities Letter†

Effects Of Board Size And Promoter Ownership Finance Essay - Free Essay Example

Corporate governance structures play a vital role in enhancing the firm value. This paper examines the effect of two important corporate governance variables board size and promoter ownership on the firm value. The research using linear regression analysis on 176 non-financial listed companies for year 2008 finds a negative association of Tobin Q with board size and a significant positive association with promoter ownership. The research makes an endeavor to search for an ideal board size and gives insights on moderating effect of firm size on corporate board performance. Study also finds that above the critical ownership level of forty percent, promoters interest is much aligned with that of company and there is positive effect on firm value. Corporate governance has developed as an important mechanism over the last two decades. The recent global financial crisis has reinforced the importance of good corporate governance practices and structures. It is now well recognized that corporate governance structures play an important role in enhancing firm performance and sustainability in long term (Bonn, 2004; Erickson et. al., 2005; Ehikioya, 2009; Iwasaki, 2008; Cho and Kim, 2007). There has been tremendous research on corporate governance structure and firm performance particularly in the developed world. On the other side, there is very little research on the influence of corporate governance variables such board structure on firm performance in India (Dwivedi and Jain, 2005). India as an emerging giant is gradually moving from controlled to market based economy with market capitalization of all listed companies touching nearly rupees 1 trillion (Sehgal and Mulraj, 2008). Corporate governance has now become a norm in India with Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI) making it mandatory for all the listed to adopt Cause 49 of the Listing Agreement. However, capital markets are still nascent and market for corporate control is weak (Standard and Poors 2009). Indian firms are predominantly of family origin and promoters controlled (Chakrabarti, 2005). Corporate governance structures, therefore, rely much on internal structures rather than external one for enhancing the value. The corporate board and insider ownership (promoters) are in Indian business are two important internal corporate governance structures. Shleifer and Vishny (1997) have suggested that corporate governance deals with the ways in which suppliers of the finance to corporation assure themselves of getting a return on their investment. Shareholders are owners of company who contribute their wealth. Through corporate governance mechanism, they apply control over the management of the company for the wealth maximization. The boards of directors act as representatives of shareholders achieve this endeavor by reducing the agency cost (Fama and Jensen, 1983). In Indian regulatory environment board of directors of a company act as fiduciaries of the shareholders, provide active supervision and do strategic decision-making. The Indian investors, however, have general predisposition to discount the role of board due to stronger ownership concentration and insider control. The board is an important corporate governance mechanism under Indian context to protect the minority shareholders from dominant shareholders. In addition, insid er ownership by the promoters of the company is general characteristic of most firms. India is gradually moving towards market-based economy, however, such is the peculiarity that ownership lies predominately in hands of few people of group of peoples. In order to expand our understanding on emerging and transforming economy of India, the present study attempts to investigate effect of two corporate governance parameters on the firm value. The study is based on the 176 non-financial firms listed on Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) for period 2008-09. The research done is during the period when entire world was eclipsed by global financial crisis and Indian firms were under financial distress to some extent. The study attempts to testify the different theoretical and empirical foundations establishing a relationship of board size and promoter ownership with TobinQ. We also investigate the moderating effect of firm size on corporate board performance and different levels promoter ownership on firm value. The results of this study extend the literature on corporate governance structure and opening up new avenues for further research. We first begin with theoretical background with literature leading to development of our hypothesis THEORETICAL BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS DEVELOPMENT Board Size and Firm Performance Boards of directors are the representatives of shareholders and other stakeholders of the company. A corporate board is delegated with the task of monitoring the performance and activities of the top management to ensure that latter acts in the best interest of all the shareholders (Jensen and Meckling, 1976; Erickson et al., 2005). In addition, Ruigrok et. al. (2006) suggest that the board has important roles such as design and implementation of strategy, and fostering links between the firm and its external environment. Under statutory provisions delineated in Indian Companies Act, 1956 the board is vested with sufficient powers and responsibilities to act in diligent way, manage and control the management of the company in order to maximize the value of shareholders and stakeholders. The board of the company is considered as one of the primary internal corporate governance mechanism (Brennan, 2006).A properly constituted board with optimum number of directors can effectively monitor the management and drive value maximization. Some researchers, however, been skeptical about boards ability to mitigate the agency problem and enhance firm value (Erickson et. al., 2005). The number of directors on the board (or board size) is therefore, a critical factor that can influences the performance of a company. The board acts on behalf of shareholders and considered as a major decision-making group. The complexity of decision-making and effectiveness is largely affected by the size of the board. There has been mixed response to board size and corporate performance. The direction of influence depends upon the extent to which board is able to reach consensus, and take advantage of the knowledge and expertise of the individual members. There is, however, no agreement over whether a small or a large board is effective in enhancing the performance of a company. Two contrasting views emerge from the extant literature on the contemplating effect of board size on firm value. One school thought views larger boards are effective in driving the performance of company. Various researchers (Ehikioya, 2009; Coles et. al., 2008; Dwivedi and Jain, 2005; Klein, 2002; Dalton et. al., 1999; Kathuria and Dash, 1999; Pearce and Zahra, 1992) document a positive relationship of board size with the firm value. There have been several arguments in support of larger boards. One view is that larger boards allow directions to specialize, which in turn can lead to more effectiveness (Klein, 2002). Larger boards have people from diverse field. The knowledge and intellect of this increased pool of experts can be utilized for making some strategic decision of the board, which can drive performance of the company (Dalton et al., 1999; Pearce an d Zahra, 1992). The larger pool of people on the board results in greater monitoring capacity, and also enhances the firm ability to form greater external linkages (Goodstein et al., 1994). Coles et. al. (2006) find that firms requiring more advice derive greater from the larger boards. There are, however, strong contrasting views and evidences to the above argument. Contrary school of thought views larger boards are less effective in enhancing the performance of the company. Many researchers find a negative association between board size and performance of companies (Yermack, 1996; Eisenberg et. al., 1998; Cheng, 2008; Boon et al., 2004; O Connell and Cramer, 2010; Rashid et. al., 2010; Conyon and Peck, 1998; de Andres et. al., 2005). Cheng (2008) suggest that larger boards exist even though they are value reducing because they necessary for some type of companies and under certain conditions. Coles et. al. (2008) point negative association of board size with firm value exists due to some other exogenous factors. Many scholars suggest that as board size increases above the ideal value, many problems surface which outweigh the benefits of having more directors on the board, as mentioned above. Contrasting to smaller boards, larger number of director on board increas es the problem of communication and coordination (Jensen, 1993; Boon et. al., 2004; Cheng, 2008) and higher agency cost (Lipton and Lorsch, 1992; Cheng, 2008; Jensen, 1993). Lipton and Lorsch (1992) suggest that dysfunctional behavioral norms and higher monitoring cost due less diligence in larger boards give rise severe agency problem. Larger boards may also have problem of lower group cohesion (Evans and Dian, 1991) and greater levels of conflict (Goodstein et. al., 1994). Goodstein et. al. (1994) and Jensen (1993) similarly argue that greater problem of coordination leads slow decision making and information transferring which drives inefficiency in companies with larger board size. Larger boards may be skeptical about taking a strategic decision that can maximize the value of company (Boon et. al., 2004; Judge and Zeithamal, 1992).The larger boards, therefore may become more of symbolic and less a part of management process (Hermalin, and Weisbach, 2001). The above discussion clearly lays down a platform to propose that board size may have positive or negative association with firm performance. The vast literature on board size on firm performance predominately foresees that board size is negatively associated with firm performance, which gives support to develop our hypothesis 1. We also argue that increasing the number of directors above certain limits may have more deteriorating effect on firm value. Below certain board size, there is relationship of firm value with board size is less negative and above that, it increases. Therefore, in order to support our argument we propose our second hypothesis that above certain board size (in our case median board size of entire sample) has negative association with firm performance increases. We also propose third hypothesis that boards of larger companies have less negative association with firm performance than those of smaller firms. The argument is that boards of larger companies may wel l equipped with resources, skill base and knowledge expertise to take strategic decisions in period of financial distress. The board of smaller companies may lag behind to actively utilize resources and drive performance. Hypothesis 1. Board size exhibits a negative association with firm performance Hypothesis 2. Smaller Boards have less negative association with firm performance than larger boards Hypothesis 3. Boards of larger companies have less negative association with firm performance. Promoter ownership and Firm Performance Promoter in general sense are persons or group of persons who are involved in the incorporation and organization of a corporation. Promoters are important part of companies in Indian business context as most of the companies are of family origin. Promoters are integral part of business element, but not have statutory recognization in the Indian Companies Act, 1956 as the term Promoter does not have any legal connotation. The term, however, finds its place in Securities Exchange Board of Indias (SEBI) Disclosure and Investor Protection, 2000 (DIP Guidelines) and Substantial acquisition of Shares and Takeover Regulations, 1997 (Takeover Code). According to these SEBI regulations, Promoter or Promoter Group exercise sufficient control over the company by virtue of their shareholding and management rights. Evidences show that concentrated ownership is most common form in most countries (La Porta et.al., 1999), and also in India. Family houses and corporate groups, who are generally the promoters, have substantial ownership in companies. The pyramiding and tunneling effect of ownership is prevalent in India (Chakrabarti, 2005). These effects provide promoters enough them control over management of the company. According to Mathew (2007), promoters of BSE 500 were having 49 percent shareholding. In Indian companies, promoters in such a case raise the issue of owner- manager control similar to that of some other Asian countries. Promoters by virtue of their position and control have considerable power and wield significant influence on the board and management of the company over the key strategic decisions. La Porta et. al. (1999) believe high ownership concentration by particular group positions their interest above other shareholders and gives them the predominant voting rights and con trol over the management. Under these conditions, they may pursue policies, which benefit them and deteriorate firm performance. On other side, Shleifer and Vishny (1997) point that presence of dominant large shareholder or group can enhance their controlling ability, reduction in agency cost and therefore the firm performance. La Porta et. al. (1998, 1999) has observed that controlling shareholders (like promoter groups) exist in countries with investors low legal and institutional protection. According to Jensen and Meckling (1976), high ownership concentration may lead to more alignment effect. This effect may impart promoters a strong incentive to flow value-maximizing goal. However, in contrasting argument by Demsetz (1983), this can also have entrenchment effect, which can decrease the firms value. Claessens et. al. ( 2002) in similar arguments suggest the same thing, until a particular level of stock concentration alignment effect are more predominant and after that expropriation cost of minority shareholders out these benefits and firm performance declines. It is, however not clear, whether measures of corporate governance affect performance in the same way when ownership is not in general widely dispersed, in particular when ownership is concentrated in the hands of families that are promoters (Corbetta and Salvato, 2004). The promoters are in general sense the owners and managers in Indian business context. Jensen and Meckling (1976) have pointed as level of managerial ownership increases, conflicts reduces and that increases firm performance. Fama and Jensen (1983) and Stulz (1988) also argue that greater ownership control by insiders (managers) give enough powers over externals owners to influence firm performance. Many scholars have studied the effect of ownership by different group on Indian companies (Dwivedi and Jain, 2005; Sarkar and Sarkar, 2000; Khanna and Palepu, 2000; Salerka, 2005), but none of these studies does give any particular reference on effect of promoter ownership on the firm performance. Salerka (2005), however, has analyzed the insider ownership effect on the firm value, and found a curvilinear relationship. Studying the effect promoter ownership on the corporate performance may be of utmost important in period of financial distress. They are who can in position to take any imp ortant strategic decision to drive the performance. Therefore, high promoter ownership in period in such a period may enhance the firm performance. This leads to development of our fourth hypothesis that promoter ownership is positively associated with firm value. Further, above certain ownership, promoters may exert significant control over firm and drive the decision-making in the company, thereby increasing firm value. 4. Promoter ownership exhibits positive relationship with firm performance 5. Greater promoter control is positively related with firm performance RESEARCH DESIGN Data The sample used in this study includes 176 firms listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) of India during the financial year 2008-2009. The sample includes only non-financial firms from BSE 200 index, which accounts for 72 percent of market capitalization. The data on board size and promoter ownership (company has to separately disclose promoter ownership under Clause 35 of Listing Agreement) was collected from annual reports of the companies. The other financial and market data was obtained from Prowess database of Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE). The data thus obtained was used calculating and measuring the different variables used as control variable in the model. Model The model for our study represented by following equation: T Tobin Q = ÃÆ'Ã… ½Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ²0 + ÃÆ'Ã… ½Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ²1 BSize + ÃÆ'Ã… ½Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ²2 PrOwn + ÃÆ'Ã… ½Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ²3 LAge + ÃÆ'Ã… ½Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ²4 LSize + ÃÆ'Ã… ½Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ²5 Lev + ÃÆ'Ã… ½Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ²6 SGrowth + e Performance Variables: The researchers have used different parameters for the assessing the firm performance in conjunction with various predicator variables. The commonly used performance variables cited in the corporate governance literature being the Tobins Q, return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), market to book value ratio (MBV), price to earnings ratio (PE). The present regression model uses only TobinQ for assessing the firm performance against the predictor and control variables. Variables of Interest: Two variables of our interest that have used to test our five hypotheses are board size (BSize) and promoter ownership (PrOwn). The variables have used under different specifications to empirically find out their net effect on firm performance. Control Variables: Different control variables such firm age (LAge), firm size (LSize), leverage (Lev) and growth control (SGrowth) have been included in the study for account for potential advantages of economies of scale, scope of market power and risk characteristics of firms. These variables have been used in many prior studies, and are correlated with firm performance (Hermalin and Weisbach, 1991; Vafeas and Theodorou, 1998; Bonn et. al., 2004) Table I Variable definitions and Measurement Type of Variable Variable Definition and Measurement Dependent: Performance TobinQ Tobins Q , measured as market value of equity plus book value of short-term and long-term debt divided by total assets Independent: Predictor BSize Board Size, the number of director on the board of a firm. Independent: Predictor PrOwn Promoter Holding, percentage of total equity ownership of promoter group in the company Independent: Control LAge Firm Age, measured as the logarithm of the number of years since the establishment of a firm Independent: Control LSize Firm Size, measured as the natural logarithm of total assets. Independent: Control Lev Firm leverage, measured as the ratio of long term debt to the total assets Independent: Control SGrowth Sales growth, measured as total sales of the current year minus total sales in the previous year divided by total sales in the previous year RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The analysis begins with presentation of the Pearsons correlation matrix (table II) which shows that the degree of correlation between the independent variables is either low or moderate, which suggests the absence of multicolinearity between independent variables. Table II Correlation Between Explanatory Variables Correlation BSize PrOwn LAge LSize Lev SGrowth BSize 1                PrOwn -0.039 1             LAge 0.137 -0.024 1          LSize .275(**) 0.094 .153(*) 1       Lev -0.038 -.215(**) -0.104 .273(**) 1    SGrowth 0.105 -0.13 -0.042 0.067 0.07 1 ** Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed). * Correlation is significant at the 0.05 level (2-tailed). The Pearsons correlation between each pair of independent variables should not exceed 0.80, if that happens then independent variables may suspected of exhibiting multicollinearity (Bryman and Cramer, 1997). Correlations are within the acceptable range (0.01 0.775). In addition, the colinearity diagnostic statistics (e.g. tolerance (TOL) and variance inflated factor (VIF)) support the Pearsons correlations and provide no proof of a multicollinearity in the regression model. The analysis of Table II, further reflects board size is positively correlated with firm size (significant at 1 percent) implying that larger companies tend to have larger boards. The summary of descriptive characteristics of the dependent and independent variable is presented in Table III. The results show mean (std deviation) board size is 10.74 (3.08), reflecting that most of firm have board size between 8 to 14 (128 firms) which is 72 percent of entire sample. The promoter ownership shows high variation with minimum and value being 0 and 100 with average (std deviation) of 53.32 (21.48). It can be observed that promoters with such ownership right have controlling stake in most of the firms. As already discussed, high insider ownership may drive firm value. Sales growth and leverage also reflect a high variability in their values for the given period. Average leverage of 25.86 percent shows that firms (our sample) rely on more on equity capital and other sources of fund than debt. In order to analyze further, we have segregated smaller and larger firms based Table III Descriptive Analysis of Variables TobinQ BSize PrOwn LAge LSize Lev SGrowth Mean 1.46 10.74 53.32 3.31 8.87 25.86 55.71 Std. Deviation 1.32 3.083 21.48 0.76 1.16 21.91 473.79 Minimum 0.0042 5 0 0.69 6.6717 0 -100 Maximum 8.6548 20 100 4.86 12.41 89.61 6286.93 Table IV Smaller and Larger Companies Smaller Companies BSize PrOwn ( percent) Asset ( Rs Crore) N    88.000 88.000 88.000 Mean 10.060 50.558 3140.306 Median 10.000 49.991 2943.995 Std. Deviation 2.684 17.366 1379.618 Minimum 5.000 9.733 789.720 Maximum 20.000 99.506 5859.540 Larger Companies BSize PrOwn ( percent) Asset ( Rs Crore) N    88.000 88.000 88.000 Mean 11.430 56.088 28216.983 Median 11.000 55.070 16215.695 Std. Deviation 3.311 24.732 36429.286 Minimum 5.000 0.000 5986.080 Maximum 20.000 100.000 245953.160 Difference between Means (Z value) 3.015* 1.716*** 6.452* * significant at 1 percent, ***significant at 10 on median asset size of Rs. 5922.1 Crore. The noticeable aspect of statistics reflected in Table IV is significant difference in average board size between small and large firm. (10.06 vs. 11.43), inferring that larger companies take people from wider pool to sufficient expertise and intellect on the board. The table IV also shows that average promoter ownership between small and large firms is significant at 10 percent (50.55 vs. 56.08). The results of empirical findings with coefficients and t values (* significant values) are presented in Table V, VI and VII. The findings of Table I show result for the entire sample that supports our hypothesis 1 and 4. Hypothesis 1 forecasts a negative association between board size and firm value and this supported by negative coefficient of BSize (ÃÆ'Ã… ½Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ²1) in the model, though relationship is not significant. The results are in line with international studies but do not support results of previous Indian studies (Dwivedi and Jain, 2005; Kathuria and Dash, 1999). Promoter ownership was found to positively correlated (ÃÆ'Ã… ½Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ²2= 0.011) with firm performance in our model (Table II) giving support to our hypothesis 4. The results prove that high promoter ownership in the company, help them to take important decisions and drive performance during the financial distress period. Table V Model Summary Dependent Variable TOBINQ Independent variables Coefficients t (Constant) 3.271 4.081* BSize -0.031 -0.968 PrOwn 0.011 2.492** LAge 0.144 1.150 LSize -0.255 -2.839* Lev -0.011 -2.462** SGrowth 0.000 0.413 R 0.406 R square 0.165 Adjusted R square 0.135 F change 5.556* * Significant at 1 percent, ** significant at 5 percent Hypothesis 2 predicated that smaller boards have less negative correlation with firm performance than larger boards. In order to so, we segregated entire sample companies between two parts, one those having board size less than equal to median board size ( of entire sample) 10 and other having more than 10. The results (table III), however, reject our second hypothesis as coefficient of board size (ÃÆ'Ã… ½Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ²1) is greater for smaller boards (-0.148) than larger board (-0.012). This may be interpretated as ideal board size is above the median board size of 10, and smaller boards may not have enough expertise and resources to enhance firm performance. Also it can be observed that due to high ownership rights and say in smaller boards, promoters are able play value maximizing role. Hypothesis 3 predicted a less negative relationship of board size with firm value for the large companies than small companies. Small companies and large companies here are classified based on the medi an assets of Rs 5922.1 Crore. The model supports our hypothesis as coefficient of board size for large companies (-0.023) is more than that of small companies (-0.063). The results, however, are not significant at any level. Further, in small companies promoter ownership is positively correlated to firm performance at 10 percent significance level. Table VI TobinQ- Model Board Size Dependent Variable Smaller Board Larger Board Small Companies Large Companies Independent variables coeff t coeff t coeff t coeff t (Constant) 4.826 2.93* 2.819 2.70* 12.113 5.17* 3.082 2.14** BSize -0.148 -1.54*** -0.012 -0.23 -0.063 -1.29 -0.023 -0.59 PrOwn 0.025 2.81* 0.001 0.27 0.020 2.58** 0.003 0.58 LAge 0.389 1.98** -0.045 -0.31 0.358 2.00** 0.076 0.47 LSize -0.525 -3.28* -0.083 -0.87 -1.514 -5.16* -0.160 -1.03 Lev -0.005 -0.70 -0.018 -3.17* -0.002 -0.24 -0.012 -2.10** SGrowth 0.004 0.84 0.000 -0.09 0.000 -0.05 0.000 0.00 R 0.515 0.408 0.622 0.324 R square 0.265 0.166 0.387 0.105 Adjusted R square 0.213 0.101 0.342 0.038 F change 5.108* 2.563** 8.52* 1.579 * significant at 1 percent, ** significant at 5 percent, *** significant at 15 percent Table VII TobinQ -Model Promoter Ownership Prom Ownership 0-40 40.1-65 65.1-100 Independent variables coeff t coeff t coeff t (Constant) 0.924 0.791 2.691 1.366 3.798 1.868*** BSize 0.023 0.492 -0.017 -0.345 -0.044 -0.644 PrOwn -0.013 -1.135 0.028 1.295 0.031 1.361 LAge -0.028 -0.168 0.311 1.630*** -0.038 -0.095 LSize 0.074 0.540 -0.372 -2.583** -0.400 -2.188** Lev -0.010 -1.700*** -0.016 -2.168** -0.008 -0.721 SGrowth 0.000 -0.486 0.006 1.467 -0.005 -0.855 R 0.386 0.496 0.462 R square 0.149 0.24 0.213 Adjusted R square 0.007 0.181 0.101 F change 1.05 4.069* 1.9 * significant at 1 percent, ** significant at 5 percent, ***significant at 10 percent Higher promoter ownership leading to greater promoter control on the company was predicated in Hypothesis 5. To test this hypothesis, entire sample is classified into three groups, companies having promoter ownership less than equal to 40 percent, between 40 to 65 percent and above 65 to 100 percent. The results are presented in table VII that support our hypothesis 5. For companies having promoter ownership below 40 percent coefficient (ÃÆ'Ã… ½Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ²2) is negative (-0.013). This may suggest that on lower levels of ownership control, promoters interest may not fully align with company. The companies having promoter ownership above 40, correlation was positively with firm performance with coefficient being greater for companies having more ownership control. This suggests that above certain ownership control on firm, promoter are able to drive the performance of company. CONCLUSIONS The study explores the relationship of board size and promoter ownership on the firm value for a sample of firms listed on Bombay Stock Exchange of India. Some results of the study are quite revealing in contrast to earlier Indian studies. As opposed to previous Indian studies, our results indicate a negative relationship between board size and firm value. This augments the previous international researches and establishes belief that board size is negatively associated firm performance. We also find significant difference between board size of small and large companies of our sample. The relationship between board size and firm value is less negative large companies than smaller ones. We find a significant positive association of promoter ownership with firm performance. The regression results suggest that firms with high ownership concentration of promoters have high market valuations (TobinQ). The findings show that below ownership control of 40 percent, the entrenchment effect is more pronounced and negative relationship exists. We may conclude that due to financial distress on Indian firms due to global financial crisis, larger boards may not able to strategic decision due to problem of coordination and communication resulting in lower firm value. In similar case, higher promoter ownership gives enough incentive and control to monitor and enhance firm value. The study contributes to existing literature of corporate governance on board size and insider ownership. The outcome of research gives firm support the agency theory that high ownership has more alignment effect resulting reduced agency cost. One of the important empirical considerations taken in our study is moderating effect of firm size on the board performance. The study looks upon insider ownership particularly that of promoters on company valuations. LIMITATION AND DIRECTION FOR FUTURE RESEARCH The current research along with its contribution has some major limitations. First, we have used only a small sample of 176 firms. The entire sample was classified into different categories to analyse further effect of board size and promoter ownership on firm performance. The classification has resulted in smaller sample size and some models were not significant. Second, model uses only one performance variable for ease of analysis while variables would also be merit consideration. Thirdly, the important aspect left out in our study pertains to board composition and other ownership patterns that may also affect firm performance. The current study opens avenue for future research ideas. Our research indicates a negative association between board size and firm performance, which is in contrast previous studies. This may be due fact that period of study is year 08-09 during which global financial crisis was persisting and Indian firms were under financial strain. Therefore, we firmly believe multidimensional approach for performance measurement with large sample size would be appropriate for future research. Investigating effect of other corporate governance variables like board structure and ownership structures on firm performance during period of our study would also provide new insights. Lastly, the qualitative analysis using primary data can give better insights and support our research.

Major corporate ethical disasters impacting the environment - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 26 Words: 7931 Downloads: 9 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Statistics Essay Did you like this example? 1. FOCUS OF THE STUDY 1.1 Introduction Major corporate ethical disasters impacting the environment, human resources, and the community have heightened the demand for public firms to voluntarily disclose their CSR activities for stakeholders. As a result, CSR has become more than an important issue in the business world (Waller Lanis 2009). Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Major corporate ethical disasters impacting the environment" essay for you Create order In addition, CSR disclosure is an extension of the financial disclosure system, which reflects the wider anticipation of society concerning the role of the business community in the economy. Furthermore, with the rapid collapse of cross-border economic barriers and the globalization of business, progressively the role of CSR is being debated in an international arena (van der Laan Smith, Adhikari Tondkar 2005). The WBSCD[2] (2000) (as cited in (May Khare 2008, p. 240)) defined CSR as: Also, Mathews (1993, p. 64) has defined CSR disclosure as: According to these definitions, CSR activities and disclosure play a relevant role in OP[3]. In addition, CSR includes many activities such as community responsibilities, environmental responsibilities, employee responsibilities, investor responsibilities, customer responsibilities, and supplier responsibilities. Many studies have emerged concerning the link between CSR and OP (Margolis Walsh 2003; McWilliams, Siegel Wright 2006). In the business context, Rettab, Brik Mellahi (2009) notice that to date, there has not been a research focus on the examination of the strategic value of CSR in developing economies, despite the consensus between scholars and researchers about the impact of CSR activities disclosure creating more pressure on firms from several stakeholders to enhance their OP. Crane et al (2005) notices that business systems differ from country to country. Therefore, this study will attempt to understand the institutional and managerial characteristics of different countries economies. In particular the institutional environment in the emerging economy of Libya has experienced dynamic changes over a short period of time (Mateos 2005). Libya is considered one of the most important producers of high quality and low sulphur oil and gas, and is strategically well placed to take advantage of the Mediterranean and European market. In addition, it is the members of the Organisation for Petroleum (World Markets Research Centre, 2002; Terterov, 2002) (as cited in (Abdulhamid et al. 2005)). Therefore, it possesses a significant world economic standing and has a unique economic and political system. During the last two decades, it was punished by the Security Council and was excluded from international investment with development almost totally frozen. However, from the year 2000 Libya has opened its commercial office in Libyan capital (Tripoli). Knipe and Venditti (2005, p.2) explain ( as cited in (Abdulhamid et al. 2005, p. 2) that. The main influential factor that leads to and regulates the attitude and behaviour of Arab societies, including Libya, is the Islamic religion. This is, according to Ali (1996, p. 6) due to the fact that In 1977, the political system has enabled the Libyan people to make decisions directly, and municipal peoples congresses and basic peoples congresses established across the country. These congresses have their own budgets with legislative and executive powers, and elect a secretariat to represent their decisions at the national general peoples congress. they also approve the budget, laws and policies (Pratten Mashat 2009). Figure (1) shows the structure of the peoples congresses and peoples committee. Libya has a special system which is based on what is called the third Universal Theory inside the Green Book. This system tackles the economic problems such as wages for production. Furthermore, these developments in Libya have led to unequal welfare distribution and unlimited market opportunities that have formed high incentives for opportunistic behaviour. Moreover, Libya established a public organisation for the environment in 2000. Also, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and International Monetary Fund (IMF) have characterised Libya as one of the developing countries which is attempting to rapidly move towards economic growth (UNDP 2007). The business media often show unscrupulous firms resorting to socially irresponsible practices to gain high profits at the expense of employee welfare, customer safety, and the environment. Although the government has made some laws to regulate firms conduct, many companies monitor and enforce such regulations themselves (Mellahi 2007). In spite of the will of political actors in most emerging economies expectancy fast economic growth such as China, India, and the UAE to disclose CSR activities on pollution, customer protection, and labour practices, the CSR remains at a low level of disclosure in these countries compared with western developed countries (Al-Khater Naser 2003; Rettab, Brik Mellahi 2009). Therefore, Libya has the same condition, as it is developing and growing economically. However, the level of CSR disclosure has increased since 2000 in Libya compared to previous years (Pratten Mashat 2009) due to pressures from stakeholders which may influence OP for Libyan compa nies. Thus this study will attempt to examine the relationship between CSR disclosure and OP in terms of FP[4], EC[5], and CR[6]. 1.2 Statement of the problem Over the years, many studies have emerged concerning the relationship between CSR initiatives and OP (Margolis Walsh 2003; McWilliams, Siegel Wright 2006). Therefore, this study will examine the interrelations between corporate social responsibility disclosure and organizational performance in the Libyan context. This research defines CSR value as follows: to what extent firms are estimating their CSR activities, identifying important CSR activities for organizations in the Libyan context, and how they are managing these issues. Research on CSR disclosure and OP is limited in developing countries especially in the Libyan context, in spite of concerns from the stakeholders about the impact of CSR activities on OP. This research will investigate CSR and disclosure practices in Libya from different sectors (manufacturing sector; banks and insurance sector; services sector; and mining sector) and whether there is any difference between the industry sectors. In addition, this study inve stigates the question of how CSR activities, disclosure affects OP. 1.3 Research objective The research project has four major objectives. First, it will evaluate the level of social disclosure relating to annual reporting within Libya. Second, the project will explore whether CSR disclosure affects OP in terms of FP, EC, and CR. Third, it will investigate CSR disclosure practices and OP under the stakeholder theory and value theory in the Libyan context. Finally, this research project seeks to assist firms in understanding the nature of the relationship between CSR disclosure and OP. The significance of understanding this relationship stems from one source: firms have incentives to utilise their CSR activities and ensure disclosure, to enhance their performance. The research proposal is organised as follows the next sections provide a review the relevant literature and framework; research design (research question and conceptual framework) of the proposed research; research methodology (approach; sample and data collection; instrument and data analysis); the last section shows study motivation. 1.4 Scope of the study This study focuses mainly on CSR disclosure (CSRD) that impacts on OP in terms of FP, EC, and CR. Identifying the level of CSR disclosure is employed by companies for stakeholders frames the boundary of this study. In addition, it will focus on 77 of companies in the Libyan context (manufacturing companies; banks and insurance companies; and service companies; mining companies). To support the purpose of this study, several items of relevant literature have been reviewed to identify some gaps to be addressed in this research. 2. LITERATURE REVIEW AND RESEARCH FRAMEWORK 2.1 Theoretical perspectives 2.1.1 Stakeholder theory Stakeholder theory involves the identification of a companys stakeholders and explains the ethical and social obligations of management to consider the interests of these stakeholders (Freeman 1984). This theory claims that a firm should provide their stakeholders with all the information necessary about their firms performance in spite of different interests. Therefore, stakeholder theory considers that the success of an organization depends on the extent to which the organization is capable of managing its relationship with key groups, such as financial and stakeholders, but also customers, employees, and even communities or societies. (van Beurden Gssling 2008, p. 408). In addition, Freeman (1984) explains that stakeholder theory offers a pragmatic approach to strategy that motivates organisations to be cognizant of stakeholders to achieve appropriate performance. As Frederick notes (as cited in Laplume, Sonpar Litz 2008, p. 1153) the stakeholder idea fits into the mentality of strategically-minded corporate managers; in its latest phases, some companies are now justifying broader social policies and actions, not for normative reasons but for strategic purposes. Ullmann (1985) suggested (as cited in Snchez Sotorro 2007) that stakeholder theory associates social disclosure with financial and social performance by combining three dimensions such as stakeholder power, the strategic position of the company concerning social activities, and the past and present financial efficiency of the organisation, to develop a theoretical framework. Snchez and Sotorro (2007) reveal that stakeholder powerhelps the identification of stakeholders interests which need to be considered by companies; the strategic position of the company with regards to social activitiesdescribes companies concerns about environmental and social issues emanating from stakeholders demands; and the past and present financial efficiency of the organisationshould be concerned with social issues as well. In addition, Donaldson and Preston (1995) indicated that originally, stakeholder theory emphasized shareholders interests, and they made a case for the theorys normative base, where the moral, ethical and legal claims of all stakeholders of organizations were advocated. In addition, the concepts of CSR and stakeholder theory are fundamental to the study of business and society (Marom 2006). Moreover, stakeholder theory suggests that the stakeholders establish the social performance of their firms by means of a complex evaluation related to their expectations, which is represented by its reputation (Neville, Bell Menguc 2005). Furthermore, the instrumental aspect of stakeholder theory focuses on the cause-effect relationships between corporate performance and stakeholder management practices (Marom 2006). Thus, this theory focuses on the importance of a correlative relationship between a firms disclosure and key groups. This theory attempts to answer some questions about this relationship, such as: how far a company has performed its roles in accordance with the stakeholders needs. Customers, for instance, need to know whether the product sold by the company does not use wood from illegal logging or whether it uses production technology that causes pollution. In addition, the theories deal with how organizations communicate with those stakeholders is important. Furthermore, is their firms performance matching the stakeholders demands? How do stakeholders evaluate the performance of these organizations? Gray, Kouhy and Lavers and ODonovan (2002) point out (as cited in Deegan 2009) that stakeholder theory is overlapping with small differences in explaining the firms behaviour toward the society. Moreover, stakeholder theory posits that organizations are performing in order to fulfilling the expectations of particular stakeholders who are able to impact on their performance. Previous studies (e.g. Buchholz Rosenthal 2004; Cormier, Gordon Magnan 2004; Sch warzkopf 2006) show that stakeholder theory is used to explain improvements in business organisational performance while providing disclosures to create better relationships between companies and their stakeholders. Although there are many studies that found the relationship between CSR disclosure and OP in terms of FP, EC, and CR to be a positive relationship (Aguilera et al. 2007; Rettab, Brik Mellahi 2009; Saleh, Zulkifli Muhamad 2008; Simpson Kohers 2002; Waddock Graves 1997), there are studies which found a negative and mixed relationship (Griffin Mahon 1997; Wright Ferris 1997). Thus, this theory has been supported by some studies (e.g. Neville, Bell Menguc 2005; Orlitzky, Schmidt Rynes 2003; Peloza Papania 2008; Snchez Sotorro 2007; van Beurden Gssling 2008). 2.1.2 Value theory Value theory claims that although stakeholders are different in terms of their value priorities, the interest of a stakeholders value system is universal. This means that the stakeholders differ only in terms of the relative importance that they place on these universally important value types (Siltaoja 2006). Therefore, large firms have as many reputations as there are distinctive groups that take an interest in them (Bromley 2002). In addition, MacMillan et al (2005) points out that stakeholders (employees, shareholders, customers, community, investors, supplies) prefer coherence with a common concern for a reputation entity. Hence, in order to maintain these firms reputations, they should improve the relationship with their stakeholders via CSR disclosure. Many studies set out the importance of stakeholder perceptions in order to understand the nature of a firms reputation (Dowling 2004). In addition, Siltaoja (2006, p. 95) suggests that value [is an] over arching matter, meaning a company with good reputation has values, which suit to individuals own values. Value theory was employed to explore the nature of CSR and corporate reputation using qualitative (Siltaoja 2006). Schwartzs study (1999) shows ten motivationally distinct types of values such as power, achievement, hedonism, stimulation, benevolence, and security that enable scholars to use them in culture world wide. These motivations are included within CSR actions that are disclosed in annual reports of firms. Furthermore, there are other studies that explain the eight most common survey instruments to use in order to create values (measures) through corporate reputation such as Fombrun, Gardberg and Sever (2000). One of the most used measures (values) is the Reputation Quotie ntSM that consists of six measures (values). Thus, this study will use CSR disclosure that is variously associated with reputation via the Reputation QuotientSM to determine the relationships between CSR disclosure and CR through value theory. 2.2 Review of the related literature 2.2.1 CSR disclosure and organisational performance Researchers efforts have been made to comprehend the impact of CSR activities on OP (Husted Allen 2000; Husted de Jesus Salazar 2006; Marom 2006; McWilliams Siegel 2001; Moneva, Rivera-Lirio Mu oz-Torres 2007; Orlitzky, Schmidt Rynes 2003; Wright Ferris 1997). The above studies found that there is a relationship between CSR activities, disclosure and OP but which indicates positive, negative, mixed, and non-significant results. On the one hand, some studies found that there is a positive relationship between CSR activities and OP (DeMaCarty 2009; Marom 2006; May Khare 2008; Peloza 2009; Ruf et al. 2001; Saleh, Zulkifli Muhamad 2008; Simpson Kohers 2002; van Beurden Gssling 2008; Waddock Graves 1997). Furthermore, Rettab, Brik Mellahi (2009) revealed that there is a positive relationship between CSR activities and OP in developing countries (UAE firms) in Dubai. On the other hand, some studies have reported a negative relationship Vance (1975) and Mackinlay (1997) (as cite d in Park Lee 2009) and Wright and Ferris (1997) or no significant relationship (Aupperle et al, 1985; Davidson and Worrell, 1990; Preston, 1978; Spicer, 1980) (as cited in Park Lee 2009); and McWilliams and Siegel (2000) between CSR and OP. However, these findings cannot be generalised from western developed economies to developing countries without further research because of different business systems. In Libya, there is no research about the impact of CSR disclosure on OP. Figure (2) shows the relationship between CSR, disclosure and the factors of estimating OP. 2.2.2 CSR disclosure and financial performance (FP) Financial performance (FP) is considered one of the most important indicators of the strategic value of CSR (Orlitzky, Schmidt Rynes 2003). Researchers started the empirical study of CSR and FP over three decades ago in western countries. There are two types of empirical studies of the relationship between CSR and FP. The first set uses the event study methodology to measure short-term financial impact when companies engage in socially responsible or irresponsible acts (e.g. Hannon Milkovich 1996; Margolis Walsh 2003; McWilliams Siegel 2000; Orlitzky, Schmidt Rynes 2003; Saleh, Zulkifli Muhamad 2008; Wright Ferris 1997). The relationship between CSR and FP was mixed in the results of these studies. For instance, McWilliams Siegel (2000) revealed no relationship, Wright Ferris (1997) found that the relationship between CSR and FP was negative and Saleh, Zulkifli Muhamad (2008) that it was a positive relationship. In addition, Margolis and Walsh (2003) found that 4% of the 16 0 studies examined reported a negative relationship between CSR and FP, 55% a positive relationship, for 22% there was no relationship, and 18% reported a mixed relationship. Furthermore, Orlitzky, Schmidt and Rynes (2003) achieved another meta-analysis and revealed similar results. While other studies are not similarly stable concerning the relationship between CSR and short-term financial return (McWilliams Siegel 2001). The examination of the nature of the relationship between measures for long-term financial performance and measures of CSR is the second set that is used from accounting and financial measures of profitability (e.g. Aguilera et al. 2007; Mahoney Roberts 2007; McGuire, Sundgren Schneeweis 1988; McWilliams Siegel 2000; Simpson Kohers 2002; Waddock Graves 1997). They also gained mixed results in these studies. Waddock Graves (1997) and Simpson Kohers (2002) found a significant positive relationship between CSR and profitability. While McGuire, Sundgren Schneeweis (1988) revealed that subsequent performance was less closely related to CSR than prior performance. Aguilera et al (2007) discuss the relationship between CSR and FP. They found that there is strong evidence for a positive and significant association between them. In addition, McWilliams and Siegel (2000) examined the relationship between two with a regression model that measures financial performance as the dependent v ariable while social performance as the independent variable during the period 1991-1996 for 524 large companies. They concluded that there was no link between CSR and FP if the regression model was properly specified. Moreover, Simpson Kohers (2002) tested the relationship between CSR and FP in the banking industry. The community Reinvestment Act (CRA) was used as a social performance measure. They found that there is a positive relationship between CSR and FP. Griffin Mahon (1997) revealed that the relationship between CSR and FP was mixed between a positive and negative relationship. However, most of the findings found a positive relationship. Furthermore, Moore Robson (2002) analysed the link between CSR and FP of eight firms. They used the derivation of a 16-measure social performance index and a 4-measure financial performance index. They depended on statistically significant results. They found a positive relationship between CSR and FP in spite of small numbers of firms. Mahoney Roberts (2007) also examined the relationship between CSR and FP in a large sample of public companies during four years of panel data in Canada. This study yielded no significant relationship between them. Yet, they revealed a significant relationship between some CSR activities such as environmental and international activities and FP. Finally, Rettab, Brik Mellahi (2009) in the UAE market as an emerging economy conducted the latest study of CSR and FP. They tested the relationship in 280 industries (manufacturing, trading and repairing services, hotels and restaurants, real estate, rental, and business services, education, banking and financial services, mining and quarrying, and others). Although there are some challenges that have contributed to ineffective engagement with stakeholders and the lack of communication of CSR activities, they found a strong positive relationship between CSR and FP. All of the studies above were done in western countries and the US except the Rettab, Brik, and Mellahi study. Rettab, Brik Mellahi (2009) examined the relationship between CSR and FP by questionnaire, while this study will examine the relationship between CSR disclosure through annual reports and FP. This indicates that there is limited research that has investigated CSR disclosure and FP in developing countries. In addition, no known study has examined the relationship between CSR disclosure and FP in Libya. Therefore, this study will attempt to contribute in this area and may facilitate more intensive research on CSR disclosure and FP links outside of western countries and US markets in the future, especially in Libya as a developing and emerging country. Based on the above, this studys hypothesis is that: h3: There is a relationship between CSR disclosure and financial performance (FP) in Libya. 2.2.3 CSR disclosure and employee commitment (EC) Employees are considered one of the most important factors in a firm; they affect an organisation in fundamental ways. Therefore, (Collier, Esteban Street 2007, p. 22). In recent years, employee commitment has been one of the most studied indicators of the strategic value of CSR. Jaworski and Kohli (1993, p 60) (as cited in (Rettab, Brik Mellahi 2009)) employee commitment is defined as: Carroll (1979) suggests that CSR and community contributions reflect the way in which a firm interacts with the physical environment and its ethical stance towards consumers and other external stakeholders. External CSR relates to internal and external information sources including the media and personal experiences within the company which may be expected to base the opinion of their employees about these activities. Employees and managers have a greater stake in the success of the corporation than investor, owners, because their jobs and economic livelihood are at stake (Post 2003). Branco and Rodrigues (2006) suggest that CSR disclosure leads to important results in the creation or deletion of other fundamentally intangible resources, and may help build a positive image with employees and managers. Maignan and Ferrell (2001), Maignan and Ferrell (2004), Backhaus, Stone and Heiner (2002), Brammer, Millington and Rayton (2007), and Peterson (2004) expected that there is a positive r elationship between CSR and EC. Furthermore, Albinger and Freeman (2000), Backhaus, Stone and Heiner (2002), Greening and Turban (2000), Maignan, Ferrell and Hult (1999), and Peterson (2004) revealed that there actually is relationship between CSR and EC. At the same time, the relationship between procedural justice and affective commitment may be expected to be positive because employees may be expected to identify with ethical organizations (Brammer Millington 2005). The existing literature provides compelling empirical support for these arguments; a strong relationship has been found between the ethical climate of organizations and job satisfaction (Koh Boo 2001; Viswesvaran, Deshpande Joseph 1998) and studies about the relationship between organizational commitment and procedural justice suggest that they are positively and significantly related (Albinger Freeman 2000; Backhaus, Stone Heiner 2002; Cohen-Charash Spector 2001; Greening Turban 2000; Meyer et al. 2002; Peters on 2004; Turban Greening 1997). Overall past studies illustrate that a firms social responsibility deal with matter to its employee and expect to have a positive impact on EC (Albinger Freeman 2000; Backhaus, Stone Heiner 2002; Cohen-Charash Spector 2001; Greening Turban 2000; Meyer et al. 2002; Peterson 2004; Turban Greening 1997). These studies also illustrated that a firms social responsibility deals with matters that relate to its employees and can be expected to have a positive impact on employees commitment. In addition, Maignan et al (1999) expected that firms that disclose CSR activities might enjoy enhanced levels of EC for two reasons: they are devoted to ensuring the quality of the workplace experience, and they inform their stakeholders about social issues such as the welfare of the community or the protection of the environment. Rupp et al (2006) noticed that employees perceptions of their firms CSR activities lead their perceptions of the firm. In addition, firms that disclose CSR activities work to ensure their employees protection through fair and socially responsible practices (Rupp et al. 2006). Thus, it can be seen that firms that engage in CSR activities should result in a positive relationship in relation to their EC because they might earn employees commitment compared with firms that do not engage in appropriate CSR activities (Aguilera et al. 2007). In addition, a positive relationship between CSR and FP is more likely to lead a positive relationship between CSR and EC (Rettab, Brik Mellahi 2009). Rettab, Brik and Mellahi (2009) found that there is a positive relationship between CSR and EC in the UAE market. One the other hand, Turker (2009) found that there is no link between CSR to government and the commitment level of employee by using social identity theory. Most of the studies above indicated that there is a positive relationship between CSR and EC, whereas few studies found a negative, insignificant and fixed relationship between them. In addition, there is limited research that has investigated CSR disclosure and EC in developing countries. Furthermore, no known study has examined the relationship between CSR disclosure and EC in Libya. Therefore, the proposed research hypothesis is that: h3: There is a relationship between CSR disclosure and employee commitment (EC) in Libya. 2.2.4 CSR disclosure and corporate reputation (CR) There is significant research which provides evidence to define corporate reputation (CR) as according to Siltaoja (2006, p. 91): CR also is (Neville, Bell Menguc 2005, p. 337). Emerging CSR lead to enhanced corporate reputation whereas non-emerging CSR leads to destroyed CR for a firm. According to McWilliams and Siegel (2001, p. 120) CSR. Similarly, (Battacharya Sen, 2003 as cited in Rettab, Brik Mellahi 2009, p. 377) that shows CSR. Additionally, some companies may employ social responsibility disclosure as one of the informational signals upon which stakeholders base their assessments of CR under conditions of incomplete information (Branco Rodrigues 2006). Also, Branco and Rodrigues (2006) explain that enhancing the effects of CSR in CR is a particularly important aspect of CSR disclosure. In addition, Hooghiemstra (2000) argues that one of the most important communication instruments that is used by firms to enhance, create, and protect their images or reputations is CSR disclosure. Moreover, it is not easy to create a positive reputation without making the associated disclosures for firms investing i n social responsibility activities to realise the value of such reputation (Hasseldine, Salama Toms 2005; Toms 2002). Furthermore, Toms (2002) explains that disclosure in annual reports, disclosure of environmental policies and their implementation were found to contribute explicitly to creating a positive CR. Besides that, Toms (2002), and Hasseldine, Salama and Toms (2005) found that the qualitative nature of environmental disclosure is more important than the quantitative nature of environmental disclosure, and has a strong effect on the creation, enhancement, and protection of CR. Thus, the relationship between CSR disclosure and CR should be clear and positive. However, the relationship between CSR and CR in developing countries as well as emerging economies is not explicit. Although the link between CSR and CR is not straightforward in emerging economies, the link between CSR and EC is observed because employees are able to observe their firms CSR activities, and thus the impact of CSR on corporate reputation can be measured (Rettab, Brik Mellahi 2009). It can be observed in the national media or in the annual report. Communicating effectively a with wide range of stakeholders enables firms to demonstrate their ability to enhance their CR. Therefore, firms operate in accordance with social and ethical criteria; they are able to create a positive reputation, but failing to do so can be a source of risk to their reputation (Branco Rodrigues 2006). The growing attention to reputation has helped to increase a number of different construct measures (Helm 2005). Fombrun (1998) engages six criteria that appear to dominate the construction of reputation in the annual reports: community involvement, employee treatment, product quality, financial performance, environmental performance and organizational issues. Most of these criteria represent some CSR activities. Lewis (2001) lists similar criteria but with an emphasis on responsibility: product quality, customer service, treatment of staff, financial performance, quality of management, environmental responsibility and social responsibility. Schultz, Mouritsen and Gabrielsen (2001) showed the reputation criteria as being based on environmental responsibility, price, human resources, internationalization, financial strength and importance to society. Therefore, all of these criteria affect corporate reputation. Peterson (2004) noted that recent corporate experience in the oil and phar maceuticals industries has emphasized negative consequences for CR which is more likely to flow from inappropriate behaviour towards the environment or consumers. At the same time, Brammer and Millington (2005) have found positive relationships between CR and CSR activities and Hess, Rogovsky and Dunfee (2002) have shown a similar relationship between corporate involvement in social causes and reputation. Also, Clarke and Gibson-Sweet (1999) note that the importance of the use of corporate disclosure is considered an effective factor in the management of reputation and legitimacy. Finally, Rettab, Brik and Mellahi (2009) found that there is a positive relationship between CSR and CR in the UAE market. Most of the studies above were done in western countries and the US except Rettab, Brik, and Mellahis (2009) study. This indicates that there is limited research that has investigated CSR, disclosure and CR in developing countries. In addition, no known study has examined the relationship between CSR, disclosure and CR in Libya. Regarding the conflict about the expected direction of this relationship, this research project hypothesises that: H3: There is a relationship between CSR disclosure and corporate reputation (CR) in Libya. 2.3 Gaps in the literature and the contribution After reviewing the literature, this study identified the following gaps: firstly, all studies evaluating CSR disclosure in Libya have not examined the link between CSR disclosure and OP. In addition, the amount of research is limited that has investigated the impact of CSR disclosure practices on OP either in Australia or internationally especially the relationship between CSR disclosure and CR. Furthermore, the linkage between CSR disclosure and OP in developing countries is inexplicit because there are two studies about this relationship whereas there is no published study that is Libya-specific. Finally, most of the previous studies about OP have not included FP, EC, and CR in the measurement of performance. To fill these gaps, this study will discuss conceptual CSR disclosure in Libya and its impact on OP by utilizing social disclosurein the annual reports, employee measures, and CR measures (Reputation QuotientSM). Therefore, this study is supported by previous studies (e.g. Blowfield Frynas 2005; Helm 2005; May Khare 2008; Rettab, Brik Mellahi 2009). The points that follow will explain how the study contributes to knowledge. First, this research will contribute to the literature relating to CSR disclosure in Libya. In addition, it will examine the relationship between CSR and OP because there is a lack of research focusing on CSR disclosure and OP in developing countries. There are only two studies that have focused on CSR and OP in the Emirates Arabic united (EAU) in terms of FP, EC and CR while another study in Malaysia examined the relationship between CSR disclosure and FP. Furthermore, the contribution of this study is not only restricted to the Libyan environment. It is extending to the wider field of CSR research. It will be especially relevant for both western countries, and developing countries. Secondly, this study will develop a comprehensive definition and measures for CSR disclosure and OP. Thirdly, it extends prior research that links CSR disclosure with FP, EC, and CR, by investigating the association between CSR d isclosure and OP. Finally, this study is the first known study in Libya to investigate the interrelations between CSR disclosure and OP. It also will provide insights into CSR disclosure and OP and whether the relationship between CSR disclosure and OP in the Libya context is positive, negative, or mixed. Thus, this study will make a significant contribution to the growing body of literature in the area of developing countries in terms of the area of concern. 3. RESEARCH DESIGN 3.1 Research questions This project will focus on the existence and extent of the relationships between CSR activities disclosure and organisational performance (OP). Therefore, the main question to be investigated is: What is the extent of the association between corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure and organisational performance (OP) in Libyan companies (manufacturing sector, banks and insurance sector, services sector; and mining sector)? The following sub-questions have been designed in order to answer the main question: 1. What is the extent of the association between corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure and financial performance (FP)? 2. What is the extent of the association between corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure and employee commitment (EC)? 3. What is the extent of the association between corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure and corporate reputation (CR)? 3.2 Conceptual framework Previous studies contribute to the current debate on the effectiveness of CSR disclosure, as there is widespread and growing concern about corporate social performance. They note the existence of a correlation between CSR disclosure and OP in terms of FP, EC, and CR. Therefore, this study assumes a link by stakeholder and value theory between CSR disclosure and OP in terms of FP, EC, and CR and its contribution towards improving OP, (See Figure 3). Pratten and Mashat (2009) note that there is increasing the level of social disclosure in Libyan companies compared to previous years due to increasing demands from stakeholders. Stakeholder theorywill be employed in investigating the relationship between CSR disclosure and FP. Orlitzky, Schmidt and Rynes (2003) use some measures of CSR disclosure and some accounting measures such as revenue and return on equity. In addition, stakeholder theory will be used to explain the level of social disclosure and its impact on OP. Thus, stakeholder theorywill be utilized to explain ethical and moral activities and to consider the interests of companies stakeholders (Freeman 1984) in disclosing environmental and social performance (Cormier, Gordon Magnan 2004; Elijido-Ten 2005). The theory will also help to find the relationship between CSR disclosure and OP in terms of FP, EC, and CR. Value theory will be used to explain and determine the relationship between CSR, disclosure and CR. This study will utilize measures of CSR, disclosure and CR. In order to determine the relationship, this study will use reputation QuotientSM which consists of six measures (values). Each measure presents value for stakeholders. Thus, value theory will be employed to explain ethical and moral activities that are considered important for stakeholders in companies (Siltaoja 2006). In addition, this study will employ stakeholder theory and value theory to investigate the relationship between CSR, disclosure and CR. 4. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 4.1 Approach The study employs quantitative and qualitative approaches to collect and analyse data using triangulation for credibility (Kreuger Neuman 2006), thus avoiding social bias, and building strong results (Gorard Taylor 2004; Johnson Onwuegbuzie 2004; Kreuger Neuman 2006). Although mixed methods use different approaches for data collections and analysis, mixed methods can be productive in analysing various sources of data and to support the interpretation between the two methods (Johnson Onwuegbuzie 2004; Somekh Lewin 2005). Somekh and Lewin (2005) suggest that although the concepts of data collection and analysis are different between quantitative and qualitative methods, mixed methods can be productive in analysing various sources of data, resulting in data being more reliable and trustworthy. Johnson and Onwuegbuzie (2004) also claim that mixed methods enable the application of quantitative results to support the interpretation of qualitative results. Also, Leedy and Ormrod (2005 ) state that: Regarding the qualitative approach, more information will be provided in both data collection and data analysis sections. Thus, mixed methods will be employed for this study. As an exploratory study, this study will employ the quantitative method of surveys to identify the relationship between CSR, disclosure and OP that are intended to be employed by companies for social disclosure. The results of the survey will be used to compare with an analysis of CSR disclosure in Libyan companies by using qualitative methods. In employing a qualitative approach, this study will investigate and evaluate levels of CSR disclosure and OP of Libyan companies from different industry sectors (manufacturing sector, banks and insurance sector, and services sector, mining sector). Using multiple case studies is considered an appropriate approach for this study to create a deeper understanding of existing business activities without pre-expectation and/or prediction (Patton 1990). This study will use inductive analysis as a paradigm of choice (Patton 1990) to analyse EC and CR of Libyan companies. In addition, secondary data, such as analysing annual reports of companies will also be explored to identify levels of CSR disclosure, from the past three years that support measures. Secondary data will be useful for this study because it saves time and is a cost effective way of collectin g data to support the quantitative and qualitative research methods adopted (Davis Cosenza 2000). 4.2 Sample and data collection The sample of this study will consist of seventy seven Libyan companies. The sample represents four different sectors. These sectors include (based on the classification presented by the Public Control Office) Manufacturing companies, financial service enterprises (banks and insurance companies), other service companies, and mining companies. A three-year period from 2006 to 2008 was chosen for this study. This study will use a survey of organisations, interview questions and annual reports to measure the relationship between CSR disclosure and OP in terms of EC, FP, and CR. This sample is expected to yield around 400 responses from managers and employees, while interviews with 5 financial managers (from each company) will be conducted. Semi-structured interviewees will be conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the quantitative data gathered and analysed (Kreuger Neuman 2006). Interviews will be conducted taking an estimated time of between 30 and 45 minutes. Examination of com panys annual reports for 2006-2008 has been chosen to determine the level of CSR disclosure and to measure the relationship between CSR disclosure and FP. This sample is expected to yield around 450 annual reports (2006-2008) from 50 companies. The researcher uses corporate annual reports as the main source of social information. Simple random sampling of the population is considered an appropriate method for this study to create an equal probability of every company being selected (Breakwell et al. 2006; Kreuger Neuman 2006). Data on EC and CR in the Libyan companies will be collected through a survey of organisations (questionnaires). The survey will be designed in Arabic because all samples are Arabic companies. This study will depend on three sources of data collection to ensure validity of data. Furthermore, this study will depend on annual reports to examine the relationship between CSR disclosure and FP, whereas it will depend on annual reports and the questionnaires to examine the relationship between CSR disclosure and EC as well as CR. On the other hand, the companies to be studied using qualitative and quantitative methods will be evaluated in terms of the levels of CSR disclosure and OP in terms of EC, FP and CR. Therefore, this study is designed to examine seventy seven companies that are applying the best social disclosure in their annual reports. As a result, the purposive sampling method will assist to determine impact of CSR disclosure on OP in terms of FP, EC, and CR. Thus, this study wil l employ quantitative and qualitative approaches to obtain appropriate data for credibility and reliability. 4.3 Instruments To achieve the objectives and purposes of this study the researcher will use three data collection methods: (interview questions, survey questionnaire, and secondary data).Interview questions will evaluate levels of CSR and OP in terms of EC, FP and CR in selected companies in Libya. Note taking will be used to write headings and main concepts being addressed, while tape recorders will be employed to record responses of participants. In addition, data gathered by the annual reports will be analysed to test hypotheses (1) for a three year period. Moreover, Data gathered by the questionnaires and from the annual reports will be analysed to test hypotheses (2, 3). Questions will be adopted from previous studies, which will enhance the validity and reliability of the instruments to be used. In the questionnaire, 5-point Likert-type scale will be used for the measurement of the constructs. 4.4 Data analysis 4.4.1 Quantitative data analysis Quantitative data will be explored to check missing data and extreme values before the analysis process is initiated. If data appears missing, it will be imputed with mean values from the rest of the responses. Descriptive statistics will be conducted in making some general observations about the data gathered. Multivariate techniques will primarily be used to analyse both primary and secondary data. Firstly, applications of regression analysis will be employed to identify and analyse the relationship between both dependent and independent variables (Hair et al. 1998). Other interpretative statistical tests will be run on opinions and perception data will be collected using Likert-type scales. The measurement procedures in the present study will employ many phases: a. Descriptive statistics This study will use descriptive statistics in order to test collected data in terms of distribution and normality, and to provide information about levels of CSR disclosure for these companies. b. Correlation analysis The correlation analysis will be used to explore the relationship between variables that have been used in this study. These variables include dependent variables: FP, EC, and CR; independent variables: CSR activities disclosure that include environmental categories, consumers categories, community involvement categories, and employees categories; and the control variables such as the size of the firm, the sector of activities firms, and the age of the firm. c. Multivariate regression models This study employs the following regression models to examine the proposed hypotheses: 1. Hypothesis (1) To examine the link between CSR disclosure and financial performance (FP), the study will utilise the following regression model drawn from Rettab, Brik and Mellahi (2009). The following model indicates the use of time series analyses for the estimated period of (2006-2008) in the case of Libya. FP = + 1 CSRD + 2 SIZE + 3 AGE + 4 SEC + (1) Where FP is the dependant variable (in this study it refers to financial performance measures, return on investment, revenue, and return on assets as dependent variable; CSRD represents the independent variables (in this study it refers to the variables CSR, Dimensions of CSR, namely, Employee Relation (EMPL), Community involvement (COM), Consumers (CONS), Environment (ENV), and all of the control variables including the age of the firm (AGE), the sector of activity (SEC), and the Size of the firm (SIZE); B is the coefficient of the independent variables. Furthermore, this study will test the relationship between CSR disclosure and FP. 2. Hypothesis (2) To test the relationship between CSR disclosure and employee commitment (EC), this study will employ regression for the employee performance measure; with the control variables which are the size of the firm, the age of the firm, and the sector of activity. The following model indicates the use of time series analyses for the estimated period of (2006-2008) in the case of Libya. EC = + 1 CSRD + 2 SIZE + 3 AGE + 4 SEC +.. (2) Where EC is the dependant variable (in this study it refers to employee commitment measures as dependent variable); CSRD represents the independent variables, and all of the control variables including the age of the firm (AGE), the sector of activity (SEC), and the Size of the firm (SIZE); B is the coefficient of the independent variables. 3. Hypothesis (3) To examine the relationship between CSR disclosure and corporate reputation (CR), this study will employ regression for corporate reputation measure; with the control variables which are the size of the firm, the age of the firm, and the sector of activity. The following model indicates the use of time series analyses for the estimated period of (2006-2008) in the case of Libya. CR = + 1 CSRD + 2 SIZE + 3 AGE + 4 SEC +.. (3) Where CR is the dependant variable (in this study it refers to corporate reputation measures, the reputation QuotientSM as dependent variable; CSRD represents the independent variables, all of the control variables including the age of the firm (AGE) , the sector of activity(SEC), and the Size of the firm (SIZE), B is the coefficient of the independent variables. 4.4.2 Qualitative data analysis Qualitative method will be employed in this study in order to determine levels of CSR disclosure and their impact on OP in terms of FP, EC and CR, and also to gain an in depth understanding of the phenomenon being researched. Qualitative data analysis and interpretation will be used in the study to support the questionnaire in this stage. This stage will present a descriptive analysis of the data collected from the interviews in order to investigate the relationship between CSR disclosure and FP, EC and CR. Data which is gathered from interviews will be recorded by note taking and Tape recorders which will be used to write headings and main concepts being addressed, and to record responses of participants categorized (Leedy Ormrod 2005). Qualitative data will be analysed using contain analysis method. According to Siltaoja (2006, p. 97) [t]he method has two main tendencies: it may analyse the data either from a qualitative or a quantitative approach. Content analysis can be employed in various ways: it is used to describe societies, organisations, and cultural models group in order to reveal the social attachments of individuals, groups and organisations, or to describe the content of communication (Weber 1990). The results of the current study will be in the form of categories (Polit Hungler 1995) or conceptual maps (Weber 1990). The words category and conceptual map will be utilized synonymously in this study. To analyse the data collection, content analysis will use three stages. The first stage is data reduction that the interviewees stories will reduce to descriptions of one or two sentences which will make in different categories related to the subject. The second stage is data display. The gained categories will be divided into supplementary subcategories and then analysed category by category as set out in the interview guide (Kyngs Vanhanen 1999). The last stage is extractions of conclusions. 5. STUDY MOTIVATION The main motivation for this study is the ongoing concern about the relationship between CSR disclosure and OP in the business world (Margolis Walsh 2003; McWilliams, Siegel Wright 2006). The CSR literature is dominated by empirical research in the industrialized countries of Western Europe, the USA and Australia. The vast majority of comparative research of CSR has also focused on analyses and evaluations of the differences and similarities of CSR practices and their impact on OP in these countries alone ( (DeMaCarty 2009; Husted Allen 2007; May Khare 2008; Pratten Mashat 2009; Rettab, Brik Mellahi 2009); (DeMaCarty 2009). Research on CSR disclosure and OP is limited in developing countries especially in the Libyan context in spite of concerns from the stakeholders about the impact of CSR disclosure on OP (Pratten Mashat 2009). In addition, some of these studies were undertaken in the context of newly industrialised countries such as Malaysia, Singapore and some African count ries such as South Africa, Nigeria and Uganda (Belal 2001). In relation to the Arab world context, in which Libya occupies an important position, there is still a paucity of research on CSR practices (e.g. Abu-Baker Naser 2000; Al-Khater Naser 2003; Jahamani 2003). Therefore, much of the previous research recommends performing future research to investigate and understand the nature of the relationship between CSR disclosure and OP through quantitative research and qualitative research (via interviews or case studies) due to the lack of research especially in terms of the relationship between CSR disclosure and CR, and EC. It would appear that from a research perspective (Bebbington, Larrinaga Moneva 2004, 2008; Hasseldine, Salama Toms 2005; Rettab, Brik Mellahi 2009; Rose Thomsen 2004). Islamic religion is considered one of the most important motives behind the increase in pressure to achieve social activities and disclosing them. Islamic societies are also varied in terms of their notions of CSR and their disclosure, which may vary. Hence Libya is a particularly interesting country, as socialist and Islamic factors could identify the nature of disclosure. According to Pratten and Mashat (2009, p. 312) the Islamic influence adds further demands on legislation, behaviour, and industrial change. Furthermore, Libya has a unique economic and political system. It is different compared to classical or bourgeois societies. It is based on the Third Universal Theory and it derives its basic values from the Green Book. The main influential factor that leads and regulates the attitudes and behaviour of Arab societies, including Libya, is the Islamic religion (Pratten Mashat 2009). Therefore, the religion and the Green Book were concluded to be the motivating factors for such contributions to socially responsible business conduct. Libya is considered one of the most important producers of high quality and low sulphur oil and gas, and is strategically well placed to take advantage of the Mediterranean and European market. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and International Monetary Fund (IMF) have characterised Libya as one of the developing countries which is attempting to rapidly move towards economic growth (UNDP 2007). Moreover, Libya established a public organisation for the environment in 2000 to reduce the negative effects of environment. The level of social disclosure has increased since 2000 in Libya compared to previous years (Pratten Mashat 2009) due to pressures from stakeholders which may influence organisational performance for Libyan companies. Thus, there is a need to examine the relationship between CSR, disclosure and OP in Libya in order to fill up some gaps in the literature. [1] Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) [2] The world Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBSCD, 2000) [3] Organisational Performance (OP) [4] Financial Performance (FP) [5] Employee Commitment (EC) [6] Corporate Reputation (CR)