" The highly motivated individual performs best when goal difficulty increases and when goals are specific and accepted by the worker"

Edwin A. Locke
Organization Behavior & Human Performance
(vol 3, 1968)

Labor Management Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions about labor management programs. We offer that most of these are the result of an unbalanced focus on the technical aspects of labor management implementations – engineered labor standards and software systems. While these elements are required to accurately report metrics, they are merely enablers.

Labor management is a “people project” and the sustainable success results from motivated associates and involved management. Workforce motivation is dependent on skills of managers and a receptive environment for associates.

Associates that are recognized for their efforts will perform at high levels. Managers that remove performance obstacles and frequently praise or counsel (coach) their workforce will develop a self-motivated, unified, efficient and productive team. In both situations, the key is “fair, accurate and achievable” goals, with both associate and manager understanding and performing to the goal. Goal alignment is critical to the success of any project.