Behavioral Strategies for Enhancing Productivity
Abstract
A three stage process is proposed for enhancing productivity through the utilization of human resources. The stages comprising the process are: (1) identifying poor performance; (2) deciding what causes poor performance; and (3) coping with poor performance. Together these strategies form a performance enhancement system. Strategies for identifying a poor performance include examining discrepancies between goals and measured achievement, making comparisons across people, units or organizations, and making comparisons across time. A model for diagnosing and responding to poor performance is presented based on attribution theory. Empirical results in support of the model are discussed. Steps for coping with poor performance include (1) defining performance behaviorally, (2) training managers to minimize rating errors, (3) setting specific hard goals, and (4) ensuring that the consequences of working toward and attaining the goals are positive for the employee.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA091620
Entities
People
- Gary Latham
- L. L. Cummings
- Terence Mitchell
Organizations
- University of Maryland