A high performance work system: definitions, concepts, and practices

Based on a review of the literature, we have developed a prescriptive framework of a high performance work system (HPWS) and compared it to actual practices. We define a HPWS as a systemic approach to organizational design that seeks to align the organization and its environment as well as align the organisational structure, systems, and processes using team structures to achieve operational effectiveness, innovation, and high quality results for customers. We prescribe five foci necessary for achieving a HPWS that encompass specific organizational practices: (1) top leadership support; (2) employee empowerment and team-based structures; (3) innovative human resource management; (4) performance measures; and (5) knowledge management.