Abstract
M.Com. (Business Management)
A high level of productivity is of utmost importance to any
nation seeking economical growth and stability. However,
South Africa has fallen behind its most important trading partners regarding levels of productivity. This decline in
productivity started during the late 1960's and has resulted
in a subsequent decline in competitiveness. Even more alarming
is the fact that some third world countries have overtaken
South Africa regarding productivity, and are currently
maintaining economical growth rates in excess of five percent
per annum.
Another trend of modern times is the rapid growth in the number
of white-collar workers (including knowledge workers). This
rise of the knowledge worker is a result of the swing towards
technology- and service organizations. It is thus clear that.
the importance of knowledge worker productivity cannot be
underestimated. There are however a number of problems
regarding the management and improvement of knowledge worker
productivity. Most of these problems have their origin in the
unique characteristics of knowledge work. The aim of this study
is thus to investigate the problems regarding the measurement
of knowledge work, methods of improving productivity in general
as well as improving knowledge worker productivity
specifically, and finally to develop a guideline for the
management and improvement of knowledge worker productivity.
The study begins with a thorough literature study regarding
productivity, knowledge workers and productivity improvement
techniques. Following this is an empirical study to investigate
certain specific factors which influence productivity. Finally
a conclusion is made, resulting in a guideline for the
management and improvement of knowledge worker productivity.