Productivity paradox: workplace settings for knowledge work

Type Journal
Author(s) Kaplan A , Aronoff S
Publication year 1994
Notes ID: KAPLANA1994A; This paper identifies that there appears to be a "productivity paradox" with regard to the introduction of computers in to the office environment. The theory being that there should have been a rapid increase in productivity. The paper identifies that the issues that tend to be raised are: - problems that inhibit the performance of the office work, and - limitations on the measurement of office productivity Kaplan and Aronoff propose that the office environment and worker performance are correlated. $" A person's work environment directly affects the quality and quantity of work he or she is able to produce" p10 $It should be pointed out that the authors propose no data to support their claim. The paper discusses at great length the issues with regards to using computers in the office. On of the conclusions drawn is that the is no reliable methods for measuring the business value of improving the workplace environment, it is therefore left to the senior executive to have a leap of faith in the benefits of improved productivity through upgrading office quality. It should be noted that the main limitation of this paper is that it was written in 1994, since then other authors have tried to develop methods of measurement of office productivity, the most notable are Leaman and Oseland.
Publication Facilities
Volume 14
Issue 03-Apr
Start page 6
End page 14
Availability In File
Relevance to practice Medium
Ease of application Low
Evidence base Low
Readability Medium

Comments

No comments yet for this article.

Post a comment

You must be logged in to post comments. Login now.