Worker Involvement in a Quality Management Program and Perceived Impact on Job Characteristics: Results from a Study in the Public Sector

Abstract

Although Quality Management (QM) programs are theoretically related to positive employee outcomes such as job satisfaction and organizational commitment, there is little empirical evidence to support this relationship. It was predicted that employees who were involved in QM programs, through either quality improvement projects or formal training, would perceive QM as having a positive effect on their jobs. The hypotheses were only partially supported. Training was significantly related to one out of five outcome measures, while project involvement was significantly related to two out of the five measures, with one effect approaching significance. The results are discussed in the context of the lack of formal activity within the organization in recent years. The implications for future studies of programs such as QM are also discussed.