The following presents the meaning of work as concluded from informal conversations with four workers and supervisory personnel. Results are compared with previous research findings.
Findings from conversations with people in the work place presented themes related to the meaning of the work experience, work satisfaction, work motivation, performance, and the organizational culture. Individuals were asked what they found to be the most positive and problematic aspects of the work environment, and whether these factors led to job meaning, satisfaction, motivation, and performance. Findings differed slightly between workers and supervisory personnel and between genders.
Findings from male workers regarding factors regarded as the most positive aspects of the work environment in rank order were as follows: good management, social aspects, representation in decision-making, and fair pay. Findings from male workers regarding factors regarded as the most problematic aspects of the work environment in rank order were as follows: long hours and lack of technological assistance.
Findings from female workers regarding factors regarded as the most positive aspects of the work environment in rank order were as follows: social aspects, care about family, representation in decision-making, and fair pay. Findings from female workers regarding factors regarded as the most problematic aspects of the work environment in rank order were as follows: long hours and too many tasks.
Findings from supervisory personnel regarding factors regarded as the most positive aspects of the work environment in rank order were as follows: fair pay, worker participation in decision-making, and cooperation among workers. Findings from supervisory personnel regarding factors regarded as the most problematic aspects of the work environment in rank order were as follows: lack of higher management support and lack of
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