Test Project
Test Project
Test Project
Chapter 1
Introduction
competitive edge. Employee motivation is one of the key factors influencing organizational
productivity. Employee motivation refers to the internal and external factors that stimulate
enthusiasm and persistence in performing tasks. According to Deci and Ryan (2000), motivation
is a crucial element that drives employees' engagement and performance, which in turn impacts
organisational productivity.
motivation. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs (1943) proposes that a series of hierarchical needs,
Theory (1959) divides factors influencing employee motivation into hygiene factors and
motivators. Hygiene factors, such as salary and work conditions, prevent dissatisfaction, while
motivators, such as recognition and personal growth, drive satisfaction and performance.
Financial rewards are among the most commonly used motivational incentives in
organizations. These rewards include salaries, bonuses, and other monetary benefits. Studies by
Gupta and Shaw (2014) indicate that financial incentives significantly enhance employee
productivity by directly rewarding performance. Ibrahim and Abiddin (2023) reinforce this
3
finding by reviewing previous literature and confirming the substantial impact of incentives on
opportunities, and a conducive work environment, also play a vital role in motivating employees.
Brun and Dugas (2008) highlight that recognition programmes, including employee of the month
awards and public praise, foster a sense of accomplishment and enhance job satisfaction.
Similarly, Krivenko (2023) emphasizes the importance of material stimulation in boosting work
promotions, are essential for long-term employee motivation. Noe et al. (2014) highlight that
opportunities for professional growth increase employees' commitment to the organisation and
their willingness to perform at higher levels. Alanizan (2023) corroborates this by demonstrating
employee well-being and productivity (Saks, 2006). Ignatyuk and Tunina (2023) emphasise that
employee motivation, whether through material or non-material incentives, plays a crucial role in
improvements in productivity. The problem lies in the lack of empirical data on the specific
strategies and suboptimal organisational performance. This study aims to address this gap by
Hasanova et al. (2022) highlight that motivational incentives play a crucial role in enhancing
performance and activity in fulfilling their duties. Zulkarnaen and Riyanto (2022) found that
motivated and enthusiastic employees tend to fulfil their responsibilities with their best abilities,
resulting in increased production levels. Gomathy (2022) further supports this by showing that
motivated employees lead to increased work productivity and allow the organisation to achieve
Moreover, Pradhani (2021) discusses how awards given by the company can trigger
individual self-reward and motivate employees to work more effectively, potentially leading to
increased organisational productivity through higher work performance and goal achievement.
Muneeb and Ahmad (2020) found that both financial and non-financial rewards positively and
enhancing their enthusiasm and drive to achieve job satisfaction and ultimately boosting
organisational productivity.
5
Raj (2017) underscores the importance of motivation in the workplace, emphasizing that
managers and leaders must understand individual employee preferences and needs to effectively
implement various motivational strategies. Garg (2016) notes that employee incentive
programmes, whether monetary or not, are effective ways to motivate and retain employees,
ultimately leading to increased productivity, lower turnover, and improved performance within
the organisation.
productivity highlights the critical role that motivational incentives play in enhancing employee
performance and overall organizational success. This study seeks to provide empirical evidence
incentives that yield significant improvements in productivity. This problem is multifaceted and
Firstly, there is a lack of empirical data on the specific impact of different motivational
incentives on productivity. Although we commonly use financial incentives like bonuses and
motivation and productivity. For instance, Gupta and Shaw (2014) highlight that, while financial
6
rewards can significantly enhance employee productivity in the short term, their impact may
into their strategies. Despite evidence suggesting that these incentives play a vital role in
enhancing job satisfaction and performance, many organisations fail to leverage them
effectively. For example, Brun and Dugas (2008) found that recognition programmes can foster a
sense of accomplishment and job satisfaction, yet many organisations overlook these low-cost,
high-impact strategies.
While Noe et al. (2014) and Alanizan (2023) emphasise that opportunities for professional
growth increase employees' commitment and performance, organisations often lack structured
programmes to support continuous learning and career advancement. This gap can lead to
management style, flexible work arrangements, and a positive organisational culture are essential
for employee well-being and productivity (Saks, 2006). However, many organisations struggle to
cultivate such environments, leading to high employee turnover and suboptimal performance.
Ignatyuk and Tunina (2023) emphasise that both material and non-material incentives are crucial
for enhancing workforce productivity, yet achieving this balance remains a challenge for many
organisations.
7
Given these challenges, this study aims to fill the empirical data gap by investigating the
both financial and non-financial incentives and their combined impact, the study seeks to provide
strategies. The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of how to sustain employee
The aim of this study is to examine the effect of employee motivation incentives on
productivity.
productivity.
productivity?
The study will test the following null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance:
and productivity.
productivity.
The significance of this study is multifaceted, encompassing both academic and practical
Academic Significance
explored the impact of financial and non-financial incentives separately, this research
performance.
Vroom's Expectancy Theory, the study not only tests these theories in a contemporary
strategies. The findings will either support or challenge these theoretical frameworks,
combining quantitative and qualitative data, enhances the robustness and validity of the
findings. This methodological rigor can serve as a model for future research in the field,
demonstrating the value of using diverse data sources and analytical techniques to study
Practical Significance
1. Managerial Implications: The study provides actionable insights for managers and HR
identifying the specific types of incentives that most significantly impact productivity,
managers can tailor their motivational programs to meet the needs and preferences of
10
their employees. This targeted approach can lead to more efficient use of resources and
2. Policy Formulation: Organizations can use the findings to develop or revise their HR
policies related to employee motivation and rewards. For instance, the study might reveal
structures. Such policy adjustments can enhance employee satisfaction, reduce turnover,
4. Strategic Planning: The insights gained from this research can inform strategic planning
processes, helping organizations align their motivational strategies with broader business
5. Benchmarking and Best Practices: The study's findings can serve as a benchmark for
current practices with the best practices identified in the research, organizations can
11
identify areas for improvement and adopt more effective approaches to employee
motivation.
12
Societal Impact
motivation can have broader economic benefits. Higher productivity can lead to increased
This cultural shift can lead to more humane and supportive workplaces, where employees
employee well-being, and broader societal benefits. The findings are expected to guide
organizations in designing effective motivational strategies that enhance productivity and foster a
sector organizations. The study will be conducted in a specific geographic region, to be clearly
defined in the full research proposal, over a five-year period, allowing for a longitudinal analysis
of trends and long-term impacts. It will focus on relevant industries within the manufacturing
13
sector (such as automotive, electronics, textiles, or food processing) and the service sector
research will investigate various types of incentives, including financial rewards, recognition
The study will include organizations of varying sizes, from small and medium enterprises
to large corporations, and consider employees across different organizational levels, from entry-
metrics, which may include output per hour, sales figures, customer satisfaction ratings, or other
relevant indicators. Data collection will involve both quantitative and qualitative methods,
gathering productivity metrics, financial performance data, employee surveys, and interviews
from participating organizations. The scope excludes public sector organizations and non-profit
entities, focusing solely on for-profit businesses in the manufacturing and service sectors.
Through this focused yet comprehensive approach, the research aims to provide valuable insights
into how motivational incentives affect productivity in key economic sectors over an extended
period, offering benefits for both academic understanding and practical application in the
business world.
Potential limitations of this study include the reliance on self-reported data, which may be
subject to biases. Additionally, the study's findings may not be generalizable to all industries or
geographic regions. Time constraints and limited access to proprietary organizational data may
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
behaviour in terms of achieving workplace objectives and completing tasks. In other words,
motivation is a combination of internal and external factors that motivate individuals to remain
engaged and dedicate themselves to a work, function, or subject, or to make an effort in order to
The understanding of employee motivation has undergone significant changes over the
last century. Early views, such as Taylor's (1911) scientific management, regarded motivation
solely from the standpoint of economic incentives. Nevertheless, as our comprehension of human
psychology in the workplace has become more profound, more subtle perspectives have arisen.
McGregor's (1960) Theory X and Theory Y proposed that managers' beliefs about human nature
complex and diverse concept. Pinder (2014) describes work motivation as a collection of
powerful influences, originating from both within and outside an individual, that prompt work-
related actions and shape their kind, direction, intensity, and duration (p. 11). This definition
emphasizes the intricate interaction between internal psychological processes and external
into two types: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation is the act of participating in an activity
because it brings personal satisfaction, rather than doing it for any external reward or outcome
An employee in a professional setting may experience gratification from the work itself, a
sense of achievement, or find pleasure in the difficulty of a task. Extrinsic motivation refers to
the act of doing something with the intention of achieving a distinct result or outcome, as
explained by Ryan and Deci in 2000. These motivations may encompass seeking monetary
correlation between elevated levels of employee motivation and various positive outcomes such
as greater job performance (Judge et al., 2001), increased commitment to the organisation
(Meyer et al., 2004), improved creativity and invention (Amabile, 1996), and reduced intentions
activities, going above and beyond their official job responsibilities to support their colleagues
and the organisation (Organ et al., 2006). Nevertheless, organisations face difficulties in
upholding elevated levels of employee motivation. Job design, leadership style, corporate
culture, and reward systems are all significant factors that influence employee motivation
(Latham & Pinder, 2005). Moreover, variations in personality, values, and career stage can
impact the way employees react to various motivational approaches (Kanfer & Ackerman, 2004).
17
Recent studies have also emphasised the ever-changing character of motivation. Ployhart
(2008) posits that we should view motivation as a dynamic concept that evolves over time,
shaped by both enduring human traits and evolving environmental circumstances. This viewpoint
emphasises the necessity for organisations to embrace flexible and adaptable strategies for
motivating employees. With the rise of globalisation and the growing variety of the workforce,
the importance of cross-cultural variances in motivation has become more prominent. Erez
(2010) observes that cultural values have a substantial impact on employee motivation and their
achievement and liberty, whereas collectivistic cultures prioritise community cohesion and
loyalty.
Technology's emergence and the changing nature of work have introduced new factors to
consider in employee motivation. Organisations are currently facing the challenge of sustaining
employee engagement and motivation in virtual environments due to the increasing prevalence
of remote work and digital platforms (Cascio & Montealegre, 2016). In addition, the emergence
of the gig economy and non-traditional employment arrangements has prompted enquiries into
how to effectively incentivize individuals who may have fewer formal connections to a particular
business (Petriglieri et al., 2018). Employee motivation is a critical subject for research and
application in the fields of organizational psychology and management. The intricate nature and
extensive influence on individual and organizational results highlight the importance of ongoing
studies, representing the efficiency with which an organisation converts inputs into outputs
organisational performance, including efficiency, effectiveness, quality, and innovation (Sink &
Tuttle, 1989).
1987). However, in organisational contexts, this straightforward ratio becomes more intricate due
to the multiple character of both inputs (such as labour, money, materials) and outputs (such as
perceived as a comprehensive notion that encompasses both quantitative and qualitative aspects
(Pritchard, 1992).
success (Porter, 1990). High levels of productivity enable organisations to produce more with
fewer resources, leading to increased profitability, higher wages for employees, and improved
Traditional approaches focused primarily on labour productivity, measuring output per worker or
per hour worked (Syverson, 2011). However, these measures have been criticised for their
narrow focus and inability to capture the full complexity of modern organisational processes
(Neely, 1999).
19
developed. For instance, the balanced scorecard approach, introduced by Kaplan and Norton
customer, internal process, and learning and growth perspectives. Similarly, the performance
prism framework (Neely et al., 2002) emphasises the importance of stakeholder satisfaction and
Recent studies have identified some crucial elements that impact the efficiency of an
1. Technology and Innovation: Technology and innovation play a vital role in driving
productivity increase (Brynjolfsson & Hitt, 2000). Research has demonstrated that the
2. Human capital: Human capital refers to the skills, knowledge, and capacities of the
Becker (1994). Research conducted by Dearden et al. (2006) has established a positive
organisational productivity.
structured and managed can have a significant impact on its productivity. Lean
management practices, for example, have been associated with higher productivity levels
employee well-being can influence productivity. A positive work environment has been
2011).
The correlation between productivity and other organisational outcomes is intricate and
productivity. However, it is important to note that improved productivity can also result in
increased levels of job satisfaction and motivation (Judge et al., 2001). Organisational learning
and knowledge management have a mutual relationship with higher production (Argote &
Miron-Spektor, 2011).
Within the framework of globalisation and significant technical advancements, the notion
economy has redirected attention towards intangible assets and intellectual capital as crucial
factors influencing productivity (Marr & Moustaghfir, 2005). In addition, the growing
significance of sustainability has given rise to the development of ideas like "sustainable
productivity," which takes into account the enduring environmental and social effects of
The COVID-19 epidemic has emphasised the necessity for flexible and robust methods of
managing production. Organisations have been compelled to swiftly adapt to distant work
21
arrangements, digital revolutions, and evolving customer behaviours, all of which have
stimulate desired behaviors and performance among employees. These incentives are designed to
align individual goals with organizational objectives, thereby enhancing overall productivity and
effectiveness (Gerhart & Fang, 2015). The concept of motivation incentives is deeply rooted in
various motivational theories and has evolved significantly over time to encompass a wide range
of approaches.
Incentives can be broadly categorized into two main types: extrinsic and intrinsic (Ryan
& Deci, 2000). Extrinsic incentives are external rewards or punishments that motivate behavior,
while intrinsic incentives relate to the inherent satisfaction derived from the task itself. This
distinction is crucial in understanding the complex nature of human motivation in the workplace.
Financial rewards are among the most traditional and widely used extrinsic incentives.
These include:
1. Base Salary: The fixed amount an employee receives for their work, which provides a
fostering a sense of ownership and alignment with organizational goals (Kruse et al.,
2010).
While financial rewards can be powerful motivators, research has shown that their
effectiveness can vary depending on factors such as individual preferences, job characteristics,
and cultural context (Rynes et al., 2004). Moreover, excessive focus on financial incentives may
al., 2009).
2. Peer Recognition Systems: Platforms that allow colleagues to recognize each other's
enhancing job satisfaction, and improving employee engagement (Bradler et al., 2016).
However, their success depends on factors such as perceived fairness, consistency, and alignment
offering tangible benefits while also satisfying employees' need for growth and self-actualization.
These include:
1. Training and Skill Development Programs: Formal and informal learning opportunities
that enhance employees' capabilities and value to the organization (Aguinis & Kraiger,
2009).
3. Clear Career Progression Paths: Transparent frameworks that outline potential career
4. Job Rotation and Lateral Moves: Opportunities to gain diverse experiences across
Research has consistently shown that career development opportunities are strong
(Kraimer et al., 2011). However, the effectiveness of these initiatives depends on factors such as
organizational support, individual career aspirations, and the alignment between development
The work environment encompasses various factors that can serve as motivational
incentives:
1. Flexible Working Hours: Allowing employees to adjust their work schedules to better
2. Remote Work Options: Providing the opportunity to work from locations outside the
4. Team-Building Activities: Events and initiatives that foster positive relationships among
managing their personal and professional lives effectively (Beauregard & Henry, 2009).
satisfaction, and overall well-being (Bakker & Demerouti, 2007). However, the impact of these
26
factors can vary based on individual preferences, job characteristics, and organizational culture
(Johns, 2006).
employ to enhance employee performance and engagement. The effectiveness of these incentives
depends on various factors, including individual differences, organizational context, and the
specific nature of the work. As such, organizations often need to adopt a holistic and tailored
The theoretical framework for understanding employee motivation and its impact on
psychology and management. These theories provide a foundation for understanding the
human motivation. Maslow proposed that human needs are arranged in a hierarchical order, with
basic physiological needs at the bottom and self-actualization at the top. The hierarchy consists
of five levels:
should address employees' lower-level needs before focusing on higher-level needs (Wahba &
Bridwell, 1976). For instance, fair compensation and job security (addressing physiological and
safety needs) should be in place before implementing recognition programs or offering career
While Maslow's theory has been influential, it has also faced criticism for its rigid
hierarchical structure and lack of empirical support (Neher, 1991). Nevertheless, it continues to
provide a useful framework for understanding the diverse needs that can motivate employees in
the workplace.
(1959), proposes that job satisfaction and dissatisfaction are influenced by two distinct sets of
factors:
1. Hygiene Factors: These are extrinsic factors that, when absent, can lead to job
dissatisfaction. They include salary, job security, working conditions, company policies,
and interpersonal relations. However, their presence does not necessarily lead to job
satisfaction.
28
2. Motivator Factors: These are intrinsic factors that, when present, contribute to job
satisfaction and motivation. They include achievement, recognition, the work itself,
Herzberg's theory suggests that addressing hygiene factors can prevent job
dissatisfaction, but to truly motivate employees and enhance productivity, organizations need to
focus on motivator factors (Herzberg et al., 1959). This theory has implications for the design of
motivation incentives, suggesting that a combination of both extrinsic and intrinsic rewards may
be most effective.
While the Two-Factor Theory has been influential in management practice, it has also
faced criticism for its methodological limitations and oversimplification of the relationship
between satisfaction and motivation (House & Wigdor, 1967). Despite these criticisms, the
theory continues to inform discussions about job design and motivation strategies.
three factors:
1. Expectancy: The belief that increased effort will lead to increased performance.
2. Instrumentality: The belief that if one performs well, a valued outcome will be received.
3. Valence: The importance that the individual places on the expected outcome.
This theory suggests that employees will be motivated when they believe that: a) Their
effort will result in acceptable performance (expectancy) b) That performance will be rewarded
Vroom's theory has important implications for the design of motivation incentives. It
1. Employees have the necessary skills and resources to perform their jobs effectively
(addressing expectancy)
The Expectancy Theory has received considerable empirical support and has been
influential in management practice (Van Eerde & Thierry, 1996). However, it has been criticized
for its complexity and the difficulty in practically applying it to all workplace situations
(Mitchell, 1974).
Self-Determination Theory (SDT), developed by Deci and Ryan (1985), focuses on the
degree to which human behavior is self-motivated and self-determined. SDT proposes that
1. Autonomy: The need to feel in control of one's own behavior and goals
30
2. Competence: The need to gain mastery of tasks and learn different skills
According to SDT, when these needs are satisfied, individuals experience enhanced self-
motivation and mental health. In the workplace context, this theory suggests that organizations
inherently interesting or enjoyable) and extrinsic motivation (doing something because it leads to
a separable outcome). The theory proposes that extrinsic motivators can be internalized to
varying degrees, leading to different types of motivation ranging from external regulation to
This theory has significant implications for the design of motivation incentives,
suggesting that organizations should focus on creating environments that support autonomy,
Developed by Edwin Locke and Gary Latham (1990), Goal-Setting Theory proposes that
specific and challenging goals, along with appropriate feedback, contribute to higher and better
task performance. The theory states that goals affect performance through four mechanisms:
31
2. Effort: Goals mobilize effort in proportion to the perceived difficulty of the goal
4. Strategy Development: Goals foster the development of strategies and action plans
According to this theory, the most effective performance seems to result when goals are
specific and challenging, when they are used to evaluate performance and linked to feedback on
Goal-Setting Theory has important implications for motivation incentives, suggesting that
organizations should:
The theory has received substantial empirical support and has been widely applied in
management practice (Locke & Latham, 2002). However, it has been criticized for potentially
encouraging unethical behavior when goals are too specific or challenging (Ordóñez et al.,
2009).
motivation and the design of effective motivation incentives. While each theory offers unique
insights, they collectively emphasize the complexity of human motivation and the need for a
32
multifaceted approach to motivation in the workplace. Organizations can draw upon these
theories to develop comprehensive motivation strategies that address both intrinsic and extrinsic
factors, set clear goals, meet psychological needs, and align rewards with employee values and
expectations.
This section provides an overview of empirical studies that have investigated the
relationship between various motivation incentives and organizational productivity. The review
is structured around the main types of incentives discussed earlier: financial rewards, recognition
financial incentives and performance quantity, but not quality. They concluded that financial
incentives were most effective for simple, routine tasks where performance was under the direct
Lazear (2000) conducted a seminal study on the impact of piece-rate pay on worker
productivity at an auto glass company. He found that switching from hourly wages to piece-rate
pay increased average worker output by 44%, with about half of this gain coming from increased
productivity of existing workers and half from attracting more productive workers.
33
However, the effectiveness of financial rewards is not universal. A study by Ariely et al.
(2009) found that while moderate levels of financial incentives improved performance, high
levels of financial incentives led to decreased performance, particularly for tasks requiring
cognitive skill. This suggests a potential "choking under pressure" effect when stakes are too
high.
Gneezy and Rustichini (2000) famously demonstrated that introducing a small financial
they termed "pay enough or don't pay at all." This highlights the complex interaction between
studies and found that the relationship between pay-for-performance and future performance is
generally positive but subject to multiple contingency factors, including pay plan type, pay plan
employee performance and productivity. A field experiment by Bradler et al. (2016) found that
public recognition in the form of a thank-you card from the employer increased subsequent
performance substantially, particularly for employees who had not previously been high
performers.
34
modification interventions and found that social recognition programs had a significant positive
However, the effectiveness of recognition programs can depend on how they are
implemented. Feys et al. (2013) found that employees' reactions to coworkers receiving
recognition depended on the perceived fairness of the recognition. When recognition was
perceived as unfair, it led to negative emotions and decreased helping behavior among
coworkers.
opportunities and employee motivation and productivity. A longitudinal study by Kraimer et al.
(2011) found that perceived career opportunities within an organization were positively related to
Lee and Bruvold (2003) found that employees' perceptions of investment in their
development were positively related to job satisfaction and organizational commitment, which in
motivation and training outcomes. They found that training motivation was strongly related to
learning outcomes and transfer of training to the job, highlighting the importance of employee
The impact of work environment on productivity has been the subject of numerous
studies. A meta-analysis by Gajendran and Harrison (2007) found that telecommuting had small
but positive effects on productivity, job satisfaction, and turnover intentions. However, high-
intensity telecommuting (more than 2.5 days a week) was associated with deterioration in
Flexible work arrangements have also been shown to have positive effects on
productivity. A meta-analysis by Baltes et al. (1999) found that flexible work schedules had
The physical work environment has also been shown to impact productivity. Vischer
(2007) reviewed studies on the effects of the physical environment on job performance and
found that factors such as lighting, temperature, noise, and office layout can significantly affect
motivation that combine multiple types of incentives. For example, Cerasoli et al. (2014)
conducted a meta-analysis examining the joint effects of intrinsic motivation and extrinsic
incentives on performance. They found that intrinsic motivation was a medium to strong
and intrinsic motivation together accounted for 45% more variance in quality of performance
employee motivation and found that transformational leadership, which often involves elements
of recognition, career development, and a positive work environment, had significant positive
In conclusion, the empirical evidence generally supports the positive impact of various
can vary depending on factors such as the nature of the task, individual differences among
employees, and the specific context of implementation. This underscores the need for
Despite the extensive body of research on employee motivation and its impact on
organizational productivity, several important gaps remain in the current literature. These gaps
present opportunities for further research and more comprehensive understanding of the complex
studies. Many research projects examine the immediate or short-term effects of motivation
incentives on productivity, but fewer investigate the long-term sustainability of these effects. For
instance, while Lazear's (2000) study on piece-rate pay showed impressive short-term gains in
productivity, it did not explore whether these gains were maintained over extended periods or if
many studies focus on specific types of incentives (e.g., financial rewards, recognition
simultaneously. This approach may not accurately reflect the complex motivational
Furthermore, much of the existing research has been conducted in Western, developed
countries, potentially limiting the generalizability of findings to other cultural contexts. As noted
by Erez (2010), cultural values can significantly influence what motivates employees and how
There is a pressing need for more comprehensive analyses that consider the interplay
between various motivation incentives and their combined impact on organizational productivity.
While meta-analyses like that of Cerasoli et al. (2014) have begun to address this gap by
examining the joint effects of intrinsic motivation and extrinsic incentives, more research is
Additionally, there is a need for more studies that consider the role of individual
differences in the effectiveness of motivation incentives. Factors such as personality traits, career
stage, and personal values may moderate the relationship between incentives and productivity,
an under-researched area. While some longitudinal studies exist, such as Kraimer et al.'s (2011)
research on career opportunities and job performance, there is a need for more extended studies
that track the effects of motivation incentives over several years. Such research could provide
valuable insights into the sustainability of various motivational strategies and their long-term
deserve further attention. For example, while performance-based financial incentives may boost
short-term productivity, their long-term effects on employee well-being, creativity, and ethical
foundations and empirical evidence related to employee motivation incentives and their impact
Theory offer valuable frameworks for understanding the complex nature of employee
motivation.
Empirical studies have generally supported the positive impact of various motivation
particularly for simple, routine tasks. Recognition programs have demonstrated significant
development opportunities have been linked to improved job performance and reduced turnover
intentions. A positive work environment, including factors such as flexible work arrangements
and well-designed physical spaces, has also been associated with increased productivity.
However, the review has also highlighted several important gaps in the current literature.
These include the need for more long-term studies, comprehensive analyses of multiple
incentives implemented simultaneously, and research that considers cultural and individual
In conclusion, while substantial progress has been made in understanding the relationship
significant scope for further research. This research will be crucial in helping organizations
design and implement motivation strategies that are not only effective but also sustainable and
Chapter 3
Research Methodology
collecting and analyzing quantitative data first, followed by qualitative data collection and
managers across multiple organizations. This survey will gather data on types of motivation
Phase 2 (Qualitative): Based on the quantitative results, in-depth interviews and focus
groups will be conducted with selected employees and managers to explore the reasons behind
the observed patterns and to gain deeper insights into the relationship between motivation
productivity. The quantitative phase will allow for statistical analysis of relationships between
41
variables, while the qualitative phase will offer rich, contextual data to explain these
relationships.
The study will be conducted in Lagos State, Nigeria, focusing on medium to large-sized
organizations in the manufacturing and service sectors. This area is chosen for its diverse
economic landscape, featuring a mix of traditional industries and emerging sectors, which allows
contexts.
The population for this study consists of employees and managers working in medium to
large-sized organizations (50+ employees) in the manufacturing and service sectors within Lagos
The study will include employees at various organizational levels, from entry-level
motivation incentives and their impact on productivity. This diverse population allows for a
thorough examination of how different motivation strategies affect productivity across various
For the quantitative phase, a stratified random sampling technique will be used to ensure
representation across different organizational levels and sectors. The sample size will be
Where: n = sample size N = population size (150,000) Z = Z-score (1.96 for 95%
confidence level) p = estimated proportion of the population (0.5 for maximum variability) e =
= 383.16
different strata, we will increase this sample size by 20%. Therefore, the final sample size for the
Within each sector, further stratification will ensure representation across different
For the qualitative phase, purposive sampling will be used to select participants for
interviews and focus groups. The selection will be based on the quantitative results, aiming to
include individuals who can provide diverse and insightful perspectives on the research
questions. Approximately 30 individuals will be selected for in-depth interviews, and 4-6 focus
This sampling strategy aims to provide a statistically representative sample for the
quantitative analysis while allowing for in-depth exploration of key themes in the qualitative
phase.
Quantitative Phase:
self-reported productivity.
Qualitative Phase:
44
employees' and managers' experiences with motivation incentives and their perceived impact on
productivity.
b) Focus Group Discussion Guide: A structured guide for facilitating group discussions
1. Content Validity: The questionnaires and interview guides will be reviewed by a panel
2. Face Validity: A pilot study will be conducted with a small group of employees (not
included in the main study) to ensure the clarity and relevance of the questions.
3. Construct Validity: Factor analysis will be performed on the quantitative data to confirm
2. Test-Retest Reliability: A subset of participants will complete the EMPQ twice, two
Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to assess the overall fit of the proposed model
Thematic analysis of interview and focus group transcripts to identify key themes and
patterns.
Joint displays will be used to present quantitative results alongside qualitative findings.
A narrative approach will be employed to explain how the qualitative results help to
The following ethical considerations will be adhered to throughout the research process:
1. Informed Consent: All participants will be provided with detailed information about the
3. Voluntary Participation: Participants will be informed of their right to withdraw from the
4. Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval: The research protocol will be submitted for
review and approval by the relevant IRB before data collection begins.
5. Data Protection: All data will be stored securely in accordance with data protection
regulations.
7. Avoiding Harm: The research design and data collection methods will be carefully
By adhering to these ethical considerations, the study aims to protect the rights and well-
being of all participants while ensuring the integrity of the research process.
47
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