Determining the expected value of information for new product introduction

Bayesian analysis is an important technique for marketing decision-making. To this point, however, these procedures have been used infrequently by practicing managers. Two major obstacles to the application of Bayesian analysis are the difficulties associated with generating input values and with performing the necessary calculations. In this paper a procedure is presented which, in most cases, removes both of these obstacles. The procedure has assessment needs with which the practicing manager may be more familiar. Tables are developed to alleviate computational difficulties.     

Assessment of family planning programme effects on births: Preliminary results obtained through direct matching of birth and programme acceptor records

Abstract In order to match birth and family planning acceptance records and thereby to obtain estimates of pre- and post-acceptance fertility, use is made of seven-digit national identity card numbers, issued to all adult West Malaysians. These unique numbers are recorded on live-birth records and national family planning programme acceptor records of West Malaysian women. The application and preliminary results of this method of direct computer matching of these sets of records for assessing the effects of a family planning programme on fertility are described. Pre- and post-acceptance fertility rates are presented in terms of contraceptive methods used, and the key characteristics of race and age of programme acceptors, and are discussed in terms of marital duration and number of children at the time of acceptance.     

Foster child health care supervision policy

Foster children represent a high-risk group for physical, emotional, and social health problems, yet few federal or state policies explicitly address foster child health. This article reviews foster child health and the legal background for policy, then discusses components of a comprehensive health care supervision program.     

Balancing regulation and affordability of housing

Housing regulation is a growing concern because affordability of housing has been declining and regulations which increase housing costs have been escalating. Many of the regulations which have been adopted fulfill goals of protection of health, safety, or welfare; preservation of the environment; or improved energy conservation. Little attention, however, has been paid to the effect of these regulations on affordability. This article reviews the role of government regulation on housing, and discusses the parameters of the affordability/regulatory issue.Helpful comments and suggestions were made by Vincent Brannigan, Bob Cleveland, Deborah Godwin, Roger Swagler, Anne Sweaney, and Frank Walter.Dr. Meeks received her Ph.D. from The Ohio State University and is interested in housing economics and policy, and the economic well-being of households.     

Faculty Support of Student Dissent

This paper replicates an earlier study of faculty status and tolerance of political dissent by Abramson and Wences. The data support the hypothesis that length of residence on a university campus is inversely related to faculty tolerance of student dissent. The expected relationship between academic rank and tolerance was eliminated by controlling for longevity, but the predicted relationship between academic field and tolerance was unaffected. The effect of longevity appears to be independent of political orientations, and the data suggest that peer group influence is operative among faculty members.