Being More Productive (2017)

IntroductionEvery organization at one time or another faces the problem of lack of productivity. High productivity is something all companies strive for, but when the ratios of output to input are low, resources and time can be wasted, costs of operations can rise and companies may eventually see declines in profits. Quality workers are key to organizational success and some employees are naturally more productive than others, but the burden of responsibility does not fall solely on them. If companies wish to thrive, management must identify areas that need to be improved and implement necessary steps to help workers perform to the best of their abilities.Job satisfaction, inspirational leadership, a supportive environment, correct guidance and goal-oriented approaches to work are a few of the ways firms have been able to boost productivity. In the case of the company Rotaform Plastics9, product quality relied heavily on the skill of the employees. Rotaform started a program where the workers were tutored in literacy and quickly realized that the employees were not operating at even levels. After the implementation of this program, the workers were able to document their processes and procedures properly, leading to improvements in quality control. This in turn also boosted their confidence and morale which gave them a higher sense of pride in their work and job satisfaction. Since the literacy program, Rotaform has improved its sales by 34% and its profits by 31%.9Often times leadership is the key to higher productivity, as is the case with the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. This 450bed not-for-profit hospital was struggling with ineffective productivity management and a l ack of knowledge and direction among the employees. After discovering this, the hospital changed their system and ensured that strong leaders would be available on all shifts for support. They also found ways to improve their retention and ended up saving $1 million in the first fiscal year.8These cases showed companies who used specific methods to turn their businesses around, but there are also general practices that any organization can adopt to improve employee productivity. Managers should make sure their workers are properly trained. They should also provide positive feedback regularly and respect their subordinates as individuals, not just employees7. There are also things companies should stray away from doing such as poor communication, not holding its bad bosses accountable and rewarding busiest employees instead of the most productive.5The productivity of employees can make or break a company which is why it is crucial for managers to constantly analyze situations and try to set their workers up for as much success and satisfaction as possible. There are even more methods and philosophies, apart from the ones listed above, that can be implemented. This paper will continue to expand upon those previously mentioned and delve even further into the topic of how to be more productive.Review of LiteratureIn an article written by Dawn Johnson6, she outlines factors affect employee's productivity. Johnson's begging question is what motivates employees? The first factor of motivation for productivity she lists is fair treatment. She states that [i]t is essential for a manager to give each employee a sense of playing an integral role in something that is much larger6. In giving the employee the same treatment as all other employees, the employee gains an understanding of his role is and how important he is. The strong understanding of each job and loyalty to the individuals creates trust throughout the workforce.6 The next factor outlined by Johnson6 is praise. In speaking on the topic of praise, Johnson stresses, and recognition have been shown to dramatically increase productivity6. The praise that is given by a manager-or any different superior-give the worker a sense of worth and a way to be tied or devoted to their work in a more important way, rather than just busy work for the company. …