Participation And Involvement

Question 1

Why involve employees in decision making?

Answer 1

Protection and extension of workers’ rights
Economic reasons - new ideas, ownership, effort
Behavioural reasons - lower cost and risk of disruption

Question 2

What is employee participation?

Answer 2

Supported by legislation
Goal is to protect workers interests
Collective and indirect

Eg. Collective bargaining, work councils, health & safety committees

Question 3

What is employee involvement?

Answer 3

Management initiated
Engage employees with objectives
Individualistic and direct
Financial participation

Eg. Quality circles, suggestion schemes

Question 4

What is some evidence of success?

Answer 4

Lawler et al (2005) - info sharing leads to better financial results

Pfeffer & Veigar (1999) - EI improves commitment

Peccei & Al (2005) - info sharing leads to labour productivity and quality

Question 5

Methods of EPI that are increasing

Answer 5

Staff workplace meetings
Team briefings
Info on finances
Staff surveys
Problem solving groups