Study into Reward Systems and Their Effect on Employee Motivation

Study into Reward Systems and Their Effect on Employee Motivation Reward systems are one of the basic components of a performance management system and a reward system is a broad term and it encompasses to include all organizational components linked to rewards including people, processes, rules, regulations, procedures and decision making processes that are involved in allocating the benefits and compensation among employees in return for the contribution that have made to the organization in terms of the work achieved (Griffin and Moorhead, 2009). Employee motivation is defined as the willingness or effort exerted by the employee in order to achieve goals of the organization and this phenomenon of motivation is universal and results because of certain unsatisfied desires of the employee. The basic motivation process has four steps; an individual has certain preferences and likes and dislikes that he/she wants to fulfill. When these wants and desires are not satisfied, a drive or motivation is created in that person to achieve that goal (Gunkel, 2006). Keeping these two important factors in mind, this study is aimed at determining the significance and importance of the impact that reward systems have on employee motivation. A study conducted to determine the impact of reward on motivation found that there is a direct relationship between the level of rewards and intrinsic motivation, the higher the reward, the more will be the extrinsic motivation (Ryan and Deci, 1985). Another study was also conducted that endeavored to inspect the relationship between rewards and employee motivation and revealed that there is a statistically significant impact of payment, promotion, recognition, benefits on employee motivation (Khan, Farooq and Imran Ullah, 2010). Roberts (2005) also supports this and his findings reveal that better the reward and recognition systems lead to higher levels of motivation and satisfaction among employees and therefore may lead to higher levels of performance and productivity. These facts revealed by various previous studies emphasize the importance of determining the relationship between reward systems and employee motivation and motivation affects the productivity of the employees and therefore has serious implications for the company. The purpose of this research study is to explore the relationship in a company specific setting using ASDA and determine how the total reward structure affects the employee motivation level in that company. Problem Statement The problem being discussed is current as well as relevant for any organization as employees are the main resource for any organization and these rewards directly have an impact on them. Motivation is an intangible and subjective term and is related to human behavior while reward systems are objective and clearly well defined and attempting to relate one subjective concept to an objective one is a daunting task. The relationship between motivation and rewards can also be viewed from the perspective of human behavior and this problem existed and is likely to continue into the future as human behavior remains the same and employees bring their behaviors to the work place as well. Therefore the results generated by this study will have practical applications in rationalizing future reward systems. Human behavior is reinforced or abandoned depending on the consequences that action has generated. When the person experiences anything good or satisfying related to an action then it results in positive reinforcement and the person will try to repeat the behavior in future. On the other hand, negative reinforcement occurs if an action results in criticism. These principles are equally applicable to the employees in a workplace and rewards can be considered as factors that help in reinforcing a desirable behavior like good performance (Wilson, 2003). Therefore the purpose of reward system is to reinfo rce positive behaviors so that employees repeat these behaviors. The problem therefore to be addressed by this research study is to investigate what motivates employees and what rewards are being offered to them. In case the reward is something that does not have any significance for the employee then it may not be enough to motivate the employee. Similarly, another problem to be addressed is that how the reward systems are developed and implemented so that these appear as positive consequences for showing the desired behavior which in this case is good performance and reinforcing this consequence which leads to motivation among employees. The general purpose of this study is to investigate what are the factors that motivate employees to work and how these factors can be incorporated into a reward system and what is the impact of these rewards on employee motivation. In order to investigate these factors the sample of employees to be studied belongs to a company called Associated Dairies Farm Stores Limited (ASDA). The basic overview of the research is that ASDA employees will be asked to fill out questionnaires through which their motivation will be judged in relation to the total reward system they are being offered. Introduction to the Company Associated Dairies Farm Stores Limited (ASDA) was established in 1949 in Britain and over the years it has grown into a supermarket chain. Initially its product line was limited to grocery and general merchandise but over the years the product markets have been diversified and ASDA also operated a financial services segment as well. It is a very successful business and owing to its success, Wal-Mart decided to acquire ASDA and operate it as its subsidiary in the year 1999. It has been an innovative company that has introduced distinctive store formats in Britain like one stop shopping superstores during the 1970à ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s, introduction of supermarket owned brand and then finally moved into financial services business as well. This portfolio requires a large number of employees who specialize in their own areas of expertise and the company at present employs 170,000 colleagues in 400 stores  [1]  . ASDA is one of the largest retailing chains in UK along with a few other notable names such as Tesco and Sainsbury. ASDA has more than 1000 employees managing and running its stores throughout the country. The total reward system of ASDA includes components include Bonuses, Colleague Discounts, Private Medical Cover, Share Plans and share save Plans, STAR Points, Colleague Share Ownership Plan, Pension, Voluntary Benefits, ASDA Stars, Long Service and employee recognition  [2]  . Reports have shown that ASDA has expansion plans on the horizon and the company is expected to acquire Netto stores in the UK which will help ASDA increase its number of stores and employees  [3]  . Developing a reward system at ASDA and that keeps all or most of the employees motivated are a difficult task. There is a dire need to study how the total reward system of ASDA is viewed by the employees and what are the pitfalls of the system. Being such a large supermarket chain operating throughout the country with a large number of employees and plans of further expansion makes ASDA an ideal candidate to be studied for this study. Aims of the Study Developing and administering reward systems is one of the most important responsibilities of the human resource management department. Rewards are given to the employees in return for the work they contribute and are also a form of recognition for the employees. Rewards can be both monetary and non monetary. When one thinks about rewards, monetary rewards are the most obvious ones that come to mind however these may not necessarily be the most effective and include factors such as basic salary, bonuses, commission etc. On the other hand non-monetary rewards can be termed as career incentives or intrinsic rewards and include factors such as promotions, holiday trips and so on (Christiansen, 2000). The aims of this study therefore include: Explore the significance of reward systems in determining motivation level of employees Exploring the major components of the total reward system Exploring they types and components of motivation Objectives of the Study The main components of any reward systems include policies, practices, structures, schemes and procedures (Armstrong, 2002) and the purpose of this study is to study these processes is ASDA and study how job evaluation and performance management, practices are being used for motivating employees through the use of reward systems. The objectives of the study include: What type of reward systems are in place? How have these reward systems been developed and how are these systems kept current and up to date? Do the employees fully understand and appreciate these reward systems? Do the employees view these reward systems as being effective and in line with their needs and requirements? What is the level of job satisfaction and motivation in ASDA employees? Do employees view the appraisal process as just, equitable and fair? Does the reward systems discriminate employees on some basis such as age and gender etc? Do the rewards systems address factors that motivate or de motivate the employee? What are the missing links between what the employees want and what the reward system is offering? Results Expected The results expected from this study are to be able to generate a list of factors that serves as motivators and de motivators for the employees and what they are expecting form the reward system. The most important factors affecting employee motivation can be identified through this process. The study is also expected to help dissect the reward system of ASDA and compare whether this reward system addresses the employeeà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s expectations and what are factors that are lacking in the system. Finally, the comparison will reveal what elements need to be incorporated into the rewards systems o make it more effective in motivating employees. Conceptual Framework The research study will be based on primary data collection that will be carried out through questionnaires to be filled in by the employees of the company. The questionnaire has been designed to study the main components of the reward system of ASDA, whether this system has been developed keeping the employee and organizational needs in mind and how it does relate to the extrinsic and intrinsic motivation among the employees. A brief description of these three themes is discussed in the next few paragraphs. .The main components of any reward system include policies, practices, structures, schemes and procedures (Armstrong, 2002). Processes are developed so that the worth of the job and the contribution of the employee can be measured and may include job evaluation and performance management, practices are for motivating employees through the use of reward systems, structures are developed to link the value of the position to the level of benefits offered, schemes are for providing incentives based on the performance and procedures refer to the ways in which the system is maintained so that it operates efficiently. In the same way, the total reward system of ASDA will be studied to determine how effective it is in gauging employees. Even though a reward system is developed keeping in mind its intended audience which are the employees but it also needs to consider the needs and requirements of the organization. According to Griffin and Moorehead (2009), rewards carry both symbolic as well as surface value for the employees. The surface value refers to the objective value that the rewards offers to the employee and can be measured like for example a 20% pay raise. On the other hand rewards also have a symbolic or subjective meaning that carries some personal worth for the employee for example rewards that help an employee realize that his worth is more than the other employees. This study will explore how effective the reward system in ASDA is in dealing with the aspirations of the employees. There are two aspects of motivation, extrinsic intrinsic, which shows that motivation is subjective and has different meanings for different people. Extrinsic Motivation is defined as the desire to perform a certain behavior or task because of the contingent results or the positive consequences that action produces while Intrinsic Motivation is a desire to do something based on the enjoyment and interest in that task (Ryan and Deci, 2004). Intrinsic motivation includes factors such as job satisfaction, achievement of personal goals, compliance to standards, fairness, team spirit and ethical standards etc (Frey and Osterloh, 2002). The study will attempt to uncover whether the total reward system in ASDA deals with both extrinsic and intrinsic factors or not. Outline of Subsequent Chapters The introductory chapter will be followed by a review of the literature to build a foundation for this research study in the light of the studies carried out previously and will deal with the major theoretical themes relevant to this study. The next chapter will provide a detailed description of the methodology that will be undertaken for designing and filling the questionnaires to collect data for the research. The next chapter will them move to more specific issues and describe the current reward system being offered in ASDA while the section following this one will take on a critical approach and analyze and evaluate the system. After the analysis, data analysis and findings will be presented in a separate chapter and the final chapter of the study will summarize and conclude the entire research study.

Unforgettable Vacations Essay

Most of us have had new experiences. Everyday people are looking new ways to have fun, especially how to have the most memorable vacation of their life. As my eighteen years old I had the opportunity to meet one of the most beautiful place in my country Honduras known as Roatan. The experiences in Roatan such as attention in the hotel, different activities and unique beaches made that vacation stay in my mind and in my heart for my whole life. First of all, the attention that I received in the hotel was unique. I had the opportunity to be in one of the most famous hotel in Roatan known as Henry Morgan. In this hotel the personal is very friendly, generous, and helpful with everything I needed. Also the rooms were huge and spacious and all the facilities were clean and had all necessary. In addition, the hotel had a delicious and unique banquet for each day from what was breakfast, followed by lunch, and ending with dinner. After that I realized that my adventure was just beginning. The best parts of my vacations in Roatan were the different activities that could be done during the day both the hotel and the city of Roatan. During the day I enjoyed to do exercises aerobics at the pool and on the beach. The horse riding along the sea was another activity I enjoyed doing because it was done in the afternoon before nightfall. At night the hotel did activities like night of theater in which the members of the hotel organized a play for children and adults. On that night everyone was dressed with different colorful costumes, performed jokes, telling stories that keep everyone alert to the presentation. In addition, during the night the hotel also organized dances between couples which lasted all night. These activities made every moment unforgettable. Lastly, Roatan beaches are exclusive with many palms and mangroves and is known for its tranquility, transparency and the beautiful color turquoise can be observed. Diving is one of the activities that are performed on these beaches. I had the opportunity to see the coral reef that surrounds the Island of Roatan is the world’s second largest. Diving with dolphins is another of the great experiences I had the opportunity to perform on the beaches of Roatan. In addition, I had my first experience to fishing, these beaches are perfect for that. I never imagined doing these things, but now I realize the diversity of wonderful things that has my country. In  conclusion, courtesy existing in your people, the many events and attractions of this Island Roatan make an exceptional adventure. Now, I know Roatan has many places to explore and this is what makes it a paradise impossible to forget. However, I hope to one day be able to return and enjoy the same or new things and have the opportunity to create new experiences in my life.

Shocking Facts Regarding Writing a Speech Uncovered

Shocking Facts Regarding Writing a Speech Uncovered Ideas, Formulas and Shortcuts for Writing a Speech When you compose a speech, your audience is composed of listeners. Utilizing jargon and slang when you attempt to get in touch with your audience. The crowd doesn't defend the weak. You're a specialist in whatever the speech is all about and familiar with the subject issue. There are a couple topics to omit from your very best man speech. There may be various regions of life whenever you're requested to make a speech. So once you get into the center portion of your speech and you do not anymore understand what things to write, you could always return to the outline of your speech so that you'd be in a position to easily continue from where you suddenly had a brain fart or that temporary mental lapse. The majority of the students don't understand how to compose a presentation, because they don't have such a subject at school. There are various types of speeches, and it's vital that speakers understand when to give which one. Learning how to compose a speech is straight forward once you learn how to write out loud. The New Angle On Writing a Speech Just Released Poor writing could lead to an audience to quit taking you seriously, even if your primary message is solid. If you are searching for top essay writing companies, try out the mentioned above. Narrative essays are normally assigned pieces of writing at various stages through school. There are numerous essay writing services that think they're the very best, and thus don't be cheated and check the legitimate list of the very best. Any mocking ought to be gentle and good-natured. Every speech story should incorporate an overall estimate of the number of folks are in the audience. If you get a hard time beginning to compose a speech, acquiring a speech outline would always work a great deal of wonders since it can also function as a guide for when you're writing. In addition, there are individuals who are more on visual learning as an alternative to hearing and you're doing them a terrific favor if you would take advantage of visual aids. Complete the purchase form and your speech help is going to be on the manner. You should write for your audience and not to write for your private satisfaction because, in the very first location, you're requested to deliver a speech for those people to hear and not just for you to hear. When you have the help you require, you're more likely to attain the results that you are wanting with your speech. Writing a Speech Can Be Fun for Everyone There are certain sorts of speeches, and each type consists of certain characteristics. You can learn more about the different forms of speeches and make a decision as to what speech type fits your assignment. If you wish to earn a funny best man speech, think about poking some type fun at the groom. An informative speech is practically the exact same as a demonstr ative speech but differs in the simple fact it does not use demonstrations. Where to Find Writing a Speech Regardless of what subject you're addressing, make sure to remain tolerant. Always utilize transition words between your examples in order for your audience will have the ability to adhere to the logic you're attempting to deliver. If you concentrate on a minor point too long then the audience will find the incorrect idea about what's vital. To assist you write from an audience perspective, identify either a true person or the sort of person who is probably to be listening to you. Two things have to be settled in your mind before you're prepared to compose your speech. When some individuals are excellent at improvising, it's still required to compose your speech in advance, let it soak in, then take another look at it to find any flaws you may have initially missed. They give speeches for a number of reasons, from arguing a point to explaining a process.

Issue Of Pover In Star Wars - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 2 Words: 678 Downloads: 1 Date added: 2019/08/16 Category Cinematographic Art Essay Level High school Tags: Star Wars Essay Did you like this example? The movie, Star Wars, is about the struggle for control of the galaxy between the Rebels, representing the old Jedi Republic, and the Imperial Empire. The movie opens with a rebel space ship being stopped, boarded, and seized by Darth Vader and the Galactic Empire. Previously, the galaxy was a republic. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Issue Of Pover In Star Wars" essay for you Create order After a war and now a little over a decade later, the Galactic Empire controls the galaxy and seeks to end the rebellion. In an early scene, you see Grand Moff Tarkin, commander of the Empires super-weapon, the Death Star, order the firing of a missile to destroy the supposed rebel base planet of Alderaan. The International Relations concept best displayed in this scene would be realism. Realism is an idea in international relations that stresses competitiveness and the conflict for power. Someone who believes in realism would see nations and states, or in the case of Star Wars, galactic regimes, as actors in a production, concerned with their security in the grand scheme of things. Realpolitik would see a state acting in pursuit of their own national interest and having a great self interest in their struggle for power over an opposing state or political party. This destruction of Alderaan scene from Star Wars connects to the article Democratization and War by Edward D. Mansfield and Jack Snyder. In this article, the authors make a point to mention how Pushing nuclear-armed great powers like Russia or China toward democratization is like spinning a roulette wheel: many of the outcomes are undesirable. (Foreign Affairs pg. 80). Here the authors are referring to the long standing American ideal of pushing democracy, specifically in communist states. The idea that America is the global police and a global enforcer of democracy is an example of realism; both in the sense that the United States government is afraid of non-democratic nations taking over the world, but also in a hubris sense where America feels that its their God given duty to push its western ideals on other nations. In regard to the scene from Star Wars, this scene shows exactly what can happen when an autocratic state is being threatened by democracy and has access to weapons of this magnitude. At this point in time the rebels are just that, rebels. They seek to overthrow the current government and, as far as the Empire knows, this planet is where the rebel alliance is plotting their attack on the Empire. This action is best compared to the United States dropping two atomic bombs on Japan in response to the bombing of Peral Harbor. during the second World War. The Data shown in War and Peace, specifically in the diagram The 100 Worst Atrocities over the last millennia published by the New York Times, shows that World War II was had the largest amount of death, or Population Control, Marauder Style. Another International Relations concept the movie Star Wars deals with is liberalism. The article Liberal Internationalism 3.0: America and the Dilemmas of Liberal World Order G. John Ikenberry, defines some aspects of liberalism as open markets, international institutions, cooperative security, democratic community, progressive change   Ikenberry lays out three versions of modern liberalism, and the one that would most compare to Star Wars would be the second version, which has the following characteristics: Western oriented security and economy system, modified sovereignty where states compromise legal independence to gain greater state capacity, a hierarchical order with rule based relations and voice opportunities, enforcement of rules, economic regulation   (Perspectives on Politics pg. 74). This relates to Star Wars because before the Imperial Empire came into power, the Jedi Knights were the senate to the Republic. There they would hold round table discussions and act as a congress almost similar to the United Nations. Looking at The Correlates of War Project, you can see the data for Militarized Interstate Disputes, which is a record of all instances when one state threatened, displayed, or used force against another (v4.2 1816-2010 period). Here you can see once again the idea of realism in force against states for the sake of gaining power.