exploring indicators of one’s ability to identify opportunities for corporate improvement
John R. Latham
abstract
This paper explores the effects that individual and organizational factors have on the ability of employees to recognize opportunities for improvement (OFIs) in their workplace environment. This research rests on the general assumption that a critical element of continuous improvement is recognizing the need for it. Without the recognition of opportunities to improve there can be no subsequent courses of action for the improvement process. The original research in this area was conducted by Del Rio (1996). Using a measurement instrument developed by Del Rio, the study involves measuring one’s ability to recognize OFIs while also addressing key personal and organizational factors. Findings of the statistical analysis supported the general hypotheses that one’s level of formal education, years of work experience, and experience with a quality award-winning company are statistically significant in predicting the ability of employees to recognize OFIs. The implications of these results suggest that organizations could benefit by training their employees in Baldrige criteria, applying for an award, and giving strategic positions to employees with significant education and experience. Keywords: Baldrige award, Criteria for Performance Excellence, Employee involvement, MBTI, Performance
excellence, Personality, TQM, Quality, Workforce.
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Mirabella, J. & Latham, J. R. (2012). Exploring Indicators of One’s Ability to Identify Opportunities for Corporate Improvement. Journal of Global Business Management. Vol. 8, Iss. 1, (February).