High Performance Work Systems and the End of Fun: Do High Performance Work Systems Provide a More Human Work Environment?

Abstract

High Performance Work Systems are generally considered to have a positive impact on workers' well-being. But is this actually the case? This article will discuss this question from the point of view of "End of Fun", a controversial and widely-discussed book by Judith Mair (2003), claiming that traditional work systems provide a more beneficial work environment as well as better organizational performance. In order to do so, this article gives an introduction to High Performance Work Systems (HPWS) and discusses their components from the "End of Fun" perspective. In the process it gives an overview of the most important aspects of HWPS. Thus it can also be used in advanced management classes; so for this purpose teaching material is added in a separate document.