i Job Satisfaction of Public and Private Sectors of Manufacturing Industry in Lahore, Pakistan By STELLA MARIAM SARDAR C0255RBRB0813 Supervisors: Prof. Jokull Johannesson Dr. Lynne Nikolychuk A Thesis Submitted in Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy of Cardiff Metropolitan University December 2017
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i
Job Satisfaction of Public and Private Sectors of Manufacturing
Industry in Lahore, Pakistan
By
STELLA MARIAM SARDAR C0255RBRB0813
Supervisors:
Prof. Jokull Johannesson
Dr. Lynne Nikolychuk
A Thesis Submitted in Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor
of Philosophy of Cardiff Metropolitan University
December 2017
ii
Declaration
I declare that this work has not previously been accepted in substance for any degree and is
not being concurrently submitted for any degree.
I further declare that this thesis is the result of my own independent work and investigation,
except where otherwise stated. A bibliography is appended.
Finally, I hereby give consent for my thesis, if accepted, to be available for photocopying and
for inter-library loan, and for the title and abstract to be made available to outside
organizations.
Signed: ……………………………………… (candidate)
Date: ………………………………………...
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Firstly, I would like to thank the Almighty God for His guidance and strength in the
completion of this study. I want to thank my father Sardar Masih and my mother Surriya
Sardar, my guardian Rina Sardar, my sisters, my friends and my extended family, which
provided me with love, inspiration and support towards the completion of this task.
I am deeply grateful to my director of studies Professor Jokull Johannesson and my
supervisor Dr. Lynne Nikolychuk for their great support and guidance, brilliant suggestions
and constructive comments and for their words of wisdom and encouragement which have
been invaluable throughout my research. Without their guidance and persistent help to the
researcher, this thesis would not have been possible. I would like to thank the managers and
employees of the government and privately owned organisations who selflessly shared their
time and efforts with me. I would like to express my profound thanks and deepest
appreciation to those who have generously shared their precious times and extended their
valuable assistance to me during the preparation and completion of this study.
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List of Abbreviations
JS Job Satisfaction S Salaries C Co-workers V Supervision Jsec Job Security WC Working Conditions TS Task significance WE Working Environment P Promotion WI Work Itself A Achievement REC Recognition Res Responsibility CFA Confirmatory Factor Analysis CV Convergent validity DV Dependent Variable IV Independent Variable DM Dummy Variable DV Discriminant validity HRM Human Resource Management EFA Exploratory Factor Analysis PLS Partial least square SE Standard Error Sig. Significant SPSS Statistical Package for Social Sciences α Cronbach’s alpha UK United Kingdom USA United States of America KMO Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin
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Abstract
This study is conducted to investigate the statistical relationship between motivational factors
(extrinsic/intrinsic) and job satisfaction of public and private-sector employees in the
manufacturing industry of Lahore-Pakistan. Memon and Tahir (2012) stated that the
manufacturing industry in Pakistan, which is one of the leading industries of the world, has
shown decline in productivity in recent years. Various studies have shown that productivity
improvement could be achieved when employees are satisfied with their jobs as it has direct
influence on the performance of organisations (Aziri, 2011).
This thesis represents an original contribution of job satisfaction in the manufacturing
industry of Lahore, Pakistan. In the last decade, Lahore has moved internationally to capture
the global market. As a result, it is essential that it should concentrate on the employees of
manufacturing industries in the region (Raza et al. 2015). However, due to increase in
competition, some companies have failed to maintain their positions in the market. Hence,
studies to date have provided some indication about how job satisfaction could be enhanced
to the benefit of employees in these industries. However, although this subject area is a
popular area in management studies, conclusions are frequently either inconclusive or
conflicting.
Using multiple regression analysis, research findings indicate that job security, supervision,
working conditions, task significance, work environment, promotion, work itself,
achievement, recognition and responsibility hold a statistically significant relationship with
job satisfaction except for salaries and co-workers. The results obtained from the T-Test
indicated that a statistical significant difference exists between the public and private-sector
employees in the manufacturing industry of Lahore-Pakistan.
The findings of this research, therefore, indicate that public sector employees are more
satisfied with their jobs as compared to private sector employees. This study has implications
for the public and private-sector entities and has opened a gateway for future researchers to
explore further the variables which could enhance employee’s job satisfaction in the private
sector of the manufacturing industry in Lahore-Pakistan.
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Table of Contents Declaration.....................................................................................................................................ii Aknowledgement...........................................................................................................................iii List of Abbreviations.......................................................................................................................iv Abstract ....................................................................................................................................... v Chapter One: Introduction ........................................................................................................... 1 1.1 ResearchBackground ........................................................................................................................ 1 1.2 Research Problem and its Significance ............................................................................................. 4 1.3 Geographical Background and History of the Proposed Study ......................................................... 6 1.4 Motive of Study ................................................................................................................................. 8 1.5 Aim of the Research ......................................................................................................................... 9 1.6 Objectives of the Research................................................................................................................9 1.7 Research Questions ......................................................................................................................... 9 1.8 Connection between Research Aim, Research Objectives and Research Questions ..................... 10 1.9 Development Need in Public and Private Sectors of Pakistan ........................................................ 12 1.10 Research Structure ........................................................................................................................ 13 1.11 Summary and Conclusion ............................................................................................................. 13 Chapter Two: Literature Review....................................................................................................15 2.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 15 2.2 The Concept of Job Satisfaction ...................................................................................................... 15 2.2.1 Definitions of Job Satisfaction ................................................................................................ 16 2.2.2 Different Approaches of Job Satisfaction ............................................................................... 18 2.2.2. (I) Classical Management Approach.............................................................................19 2.2.2 (Ia) Merits and Demerits of the Classical Management Approach.............................. 22 2.2.2. (II) Neoclassical Approach............................................................................................23 2.2.2. (IIa) Merits and Demerits of the Neoclassical Approach..............................................24 2.2.3 Job Satisfaction and Welfare..................................................................................................25 2.2.4 Importance of Job Satisfaction ............................................................................................... 26 2.2.5 Measurement of Job Satisfaction ........................................................................................... 28 2.2.6 Consequences of Job Satisfaction .......................................................................................... 30 2.3 Job satisfaction Theories ................................................................................................................. 31 2.3.1 Maslow’s Hierarchical of Needs Theory ................................................................................. 32 2.3.2 Alderfer’s ERG Theory ............................................................................................................ 33 2.3.3 Herzberg’s Two Factor Theory of Job Satisfaction ................................................................. 34 2.3.4 Comparison of Content Theories............................................................................................36 2.4 Hackman and Oldham Job Characteristics Model...........................................................................36 2.5 Determinants of Job Satisfaction .................................................................................................... 38 2.6 Rationale for the Selection of Mixed Theories................................................................................43 2.7 Public versus Private Sectors .......................................................................................................... 44 2.8 Manufacturing Industry and Job Satisfaction ................................................................................. 46 2.9 Research Gap .................................................................................................................................. 49 2.10 Conclusion ..................................................................................................................................... 51 Chapter Three: Conceptual Framework and Research Hypotheses ............................................... 53 3.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 53 3.2 Research Framework ...................................................................................................................... 53 3.3 Salaries ............................................................................................................................................ 55 3.4 Co-workers ...................................................................................................................................... 57 3.5 Job Security ..................................................................................................................................... 58 3.6 Supervision ...................................................................................................................................... 59
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3.7 Working Conditions......................................................................................................................... 60 3.8 Task Significance and Work Environment ...................................................................................... 61 3.9 Intrinsic Factors and Job Satisfaction .............................................................................................. 62 3.10 Comparison of Job Satisfaction in Public and Private Sectors...................................................... 64 Chapter Four: Research Methodology ......................................................................................... 65 4.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 65 4.2 Research Paradigms ........................................................................................................................ 65 4.2.1 Ontology ................................................................................................................................. 67 4.2.2 Epistemology .......................................................................................................................... 68 4.3 Research Philosophies .................................................................................................................... 70 4.3.1 Positivism ................................................................................................................................ 70 4.3.2 Realism ................................................................................................................................... 70 4.3.3 Interpretivism ......................................................................................................................... 70 4.3.4 Pragmatism ............................................................................................................................. 71 4.3.5 Justification of Selected Research Philosophy ....................................................................... 71 4.4 Research Approaches ...................................................................................................................... 72 4.4.1 Deductive Approach ............................................................................................................... 72 4.4.2 Abduction Approach ............................................................................................................... 73 4.4.3 Inductive Approach ................................................................................................................ 74 4.4.4 Justification of Selected Research Approach .......................................................................... 75 4.5 Research Design .............................................................................................................................. 77 4.5.1 Descriptive Design .................................................................................................................. 78 4.5.2 Justification of Selected Research Design .............................................................................. 78 4.6 Components of Research Design .................................................................................................... 79 4.6.1 Research Strategy (Survey) ..................................................................................................... 79 4.6.2 Research Choice ..................................................................................................................... 80 4.6.3 Time Horizon .......................................................................................................................... 80 4.7 Population ...................................................................................................................................... 81 4.8 Sampling .......................................................................................................................................... 82 4.8.1 Gender and Age.....................................................................................................................83 4.8.2 Experience.............................................................................................................................87 4.8.3 Education...............................................................................................................................89 4.8.4 Sector.....................................................................................................................................90 4.8.5 Position..................................................................................................................................91 4.9 Sampling Frame .............................................................................................................................. 92 4.10 Rationalefor Adopting Probability Method .................................................................................. 92 4.11 Research Instruments ................................................................................................................... 93 4.12 Measurement Scale ...................................................................................................................... 94 4.12.1 Demographic Variables ........................................................................................................ 94 4.12.2 Independent Variables ......................................................................................................... 95 4.12.3 Dependent Variable .............................................................................................................. 95 4.12.4 Dummy Variable ................................................................................................................... 95 4.13 Pilot Study ..................................................................................................................................... 97 4.14 Data collection Techniques and Analysis Procedures ................................................................... 98 4.14.1 Primary Data Sources .......................................................................................................... 98 4.14.2 Tertiary Data Sources .......................................................................................................... 99 4.14.3 Administering the Questionnaire ........................................................................................ 99 4.14.4 Response Rate ................................................................................................................... 100 4.15 Confirmatory Factor Analysis ...................................................................................................... 100 4.16 Multiple Regression Analysis ...................................................................................................... 101
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4.16.1 Sample Size ........................................................................................................................ 101 4.16.2 Multicollinearity................................................................................................................. 102 4.16.3 Outliers .............................................................................................................................. 102 4.17 Independent Sample T-Test (Group Difference Test) ................................................................. 102 4.18 Ethical Considerations ................................................................................................................. 103 4.19 Summary ..................................................................................................................................... 105 Chapter Five: Findings, Analysis and Hypothesis Testing ............................................................ 106 5.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 106 5.2 Reliability Analysis ......................................................................................................................... 106 5.2.1 Job Satisfaction ..................................................................................................................... 107 5.2.2 The Independent Variables .................................................................................................. 108 5.3 Descriptive Analysis ...................................................................................................................... 109 5.4 Data Screening .............................................................................................................................. 161 5.4.1 Missing Data ........................................................................................................................ 162 5.4.2 Linearity ............................................................................................................................... 163 5.4.3 Multicollinearity................................................................................................................... 165 5.5 Confirmatory Factor Analysis ........................................................................................................ 168 5.5.1 Convergent and Discriminant Validity.................................................................................168 5.5.2 Test of Normality................................................................................................................ 168 5.6 Hypothesis Testing: Ordinary Least Square Regression Results....................................................170 5.6.1 Multiple Regression Analysis ............................................................................................... 170 5.6.2 T-Test ................................................................................................................................... 180 5.6.3 Model Adequacy..................................................................................................................181 5.7 Results without Dummy Variable ................................................................................................. 183 5.8 Overview of the Main Findings.....................................................................................................183 Chapter Six: Discussion of the Main Findings ............................................................................ 186 6.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 186 6.2 Data Entry and Sample .................................................................................................................. 186 6.3 The Relationship between Job Satisfaction and Extrinsic and Intrinsic Factors ........................... 187 6.4 Conclusion ..................................................................................................................................... 196 Chapter Seven – Conclusions, Implications, Contribution and Recommendations ...................... 198 7.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 198 7.2 Thesis Overview ............................................................................................................................ 199 7.3 Realisation of Objectives...............................................................................................................202 7.4 Theoretical Implications ................................................................................................................ 203 7.5 Practical Implications .................................................................................................................... 204 7.6 Study Limitations .......................................................................................................................... 206 7.7 Recommendations ........................................................................................................................ 207 7.8Knowledge Contribution ................................................................................................................ 209 7.9 Need for Future Research.............................................................................................................211 References..................................................................................................................................212 Appendix A ............................................................................................................................. 239 Appendix B .............................................................................................................................. 242 Appendix C .............................................................................................................................. 243 Appendix D .............................................................................................................................. 244
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List of Figures
Figure 1.1: Location of Lahore-Pakistan (Source: SleepingAway, 2005) ................................................. 7
Figure 1.2: Attainment of Research Aim via Research Objectives and Research Questions ................ 11
Figure 1.3: The Solution of Research Problem......................................................................................12
Figure 2.1: Types of Classical Management Approach (Source: Author’s Own Diagram Based on Celik,
Figure 2.2: Diversification of Job Satisfaction while Retiring (Source: Author’s Own Diagram Based on
Helman et al. 2008).............................................................................................................................. 27
Figure 2.3: Content Theories and Models of Job Satisfaction (Source: Author’s Own Diagram Based
on Kaur, 2012) ....................................................................................................................................... 31
Figure 2.4: Variables of Hertzberg's Two Factor Theory (Source: Author’s Own Diagram Based on
Hertzberg’s Two Factor Theory, 1966) .. .............................................................................................. 35
Figure 3.1: The Conceptual Framework of Research ............................................................................ 55
Figure 4.1: Research Paradigm Structure (Source: Author’s Own Diagram Based on Saunders et al.
Table 5.49: Results of a Multiple-Regression including all Independent Variables, the interactions and
Control Variables (Model 3) ............................................................................................................... 177
Table 5.50: The T-test Results ............................................................................................................. 180
Table 5.51: Final Structural Model ...................................................................................................... 181
Table 5.52: Summary of the Results ................................................................................................... 185
1
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Research Background
Employee job satisfaction is one of the main concerned topics of today. Organisations
performing at international levels are required to focus on their workers. For this reason most
firms use Human Resource (HR) policies such as ethics, fascinating work, and development
of competencies in their day-to-day operations. More so, managers use these as crucial points
of employee job satisfaction to provide good working conditions as stated by Raza et al.
(2015). Similarly, Tett and Meyer (1993) also stated that job satisfaction is one of the most
researched topics in the management area, as researchers want to explore the factors that are
responsible for boosting job satisfaction levels of employees. With the help of analyses of
attitude and behaviour of employees towards work, researchers can comprehend the
connection between employees and their performances within the organisation. An increase
in competition due to innovative technologies around the world has led the management of
different businesses to keep their employees satisfied to avoid future losses. Various studies
have shown that different factors are associated with employee job satisfaction (Yang &
Wang, 2013). This also shows that different factors have direct influences on an employee’s
job satisfaction.
The manufacturing industry in Lahore-Pakistan is the main target-subject of this study. In
Pakistan, most of the studies are conducted in universities, medical institutions, information
technology houses and banks, thereby neglecting the large industries of the country (Rukh et
al. 2015). Memon and Tahir (2012) stated that the manufacturing industry of Pakistan has
faced losses in profitability in recent years. Taking into consideration the current position of
this industry, the researcher selected different companies within the manufacturing industry to
investigate the relation between motivational factors and job satisfaction. Furthermore, public
and private sectors are targeted in this study because both sectors play important roles in
revenue generation for the country’s economy. To investigate the perception of employees
towards job satisfaction, it is useful to compare both these sectors as this would give a useful
insight of the researched topic (Hyder & Batool, 2013).
Various studies have been conducted to find out the job satisfaction level of employees
working in different organisations as they are considered as the key contributors towards
2
revenue generation in the organisation or the country’s economy. The main reason behind this
is due to their performances, which have direct impacts on the successes of the organisation.
Researchers, therefore, have undertaken various studies to explore the factors which impact
job satisfaction. Yang and Wang (2013) stated that job satisfaction has attracted the attention
of many practitioners and scholars for decades in the human resource management field.
Similarly, Malik et al. (2010) mentioned that there are various studies that show that job
satisfaction and organisational commitment are the most researched and widely-studied topics
in the management and psychology literature. Numerous studies have also worked on the
same issues; for example, the research conducted by Park et al. (2005) and Allen & Meyer
(1990). The main reason behind this knowledge is that when employees are satisfied, they
fully commit themselves towards work. The commitments of employees towards their jobs
are measured with the help of their performances and accomplishments of the organisation’s
goals as explained by Azeem (2010).
Also, Rainey (2009) as cited by Yang and Wang (2013, p.567) stated that job satisfaction is
“one of the most intensively studied variables in organisational research”. This means that
due to the rapid increase in the competition around world management, practitioners want to
adopt better strategies by which they can satisfy their staff in order to gain competitive
advantage.
Different researchers have defined job satisfaction in different ways. Yang and Wang (2013)
said that job satisfaction has a connection with some desirable organisational outcomes
including high productivity, low absenteeism, and low turnover rates. Job satisfaction is a
conflicting topic studied by various researchers producing different outcomes on the
performances of an organisation and its relationship with the chosen variables. One study
conducted by Haorei (2012), linked the consequences of job satisfaction to three variables,
including: a) increased productivity; b) lower turnover rates; c) lower absenteeism. Haorei’s
work concluded that job satisfaction of the workforce differs with respect to the occupation
category and revealed that 55 per cent of managers, 52 per cent of supervisors and 53.3 per
cent of other workers agreed that job satisfaction resulted in high productivity for a company.
Haorei (2012) further stated that the maximum percentage of managers and 48.3 proportions
of non-managers supported the approach that job satisfaction could also result in a lower rate
of turnover whereas more than half, i.e. 52.3 per cent of supervisors, showed partiality in this
3
regard. In regards to low absenteeism, Haorei (2012) concluded that the ratio of the managers
was 40:40 in support of the above consequence of job satisfaction which remained
unanswered by 62.5 per cent of supervisors and 48.3 per cent of labourers (Haorei, 2012).
According to Durst and DeSantis (1997) the topic of job satisfaction is a serious concern.
This is because their study findings revealed that public-sector employees needed a
considerable amount of attention as compared to private-sector employees; and for this reason
identification of the factors was required to increase job satisfaction among public-sector
workers. Previous studies (Khalid et al. 2012; Ayub, 2010) have revealed that job satisfaction
levels differ among public and private-sector employees. For this reason Durst and DeSantis
(1997) utilised the National Surveys of the Youth that consisted of a large sample size (i.e.
12,686 women and men) to evaluate the job satisfaction along with the personal
characteristics and work experiences of public and private-sector employees. With the
analysis of the existing data, they concluded that the job satisfaction of the employee differed
in the public and private-sectors. And that the private-sector employees were comparatively
more satisfied with their work compared to the public-sector employees.
This concept works in the opposite direction in Pakistan as the research conducted by Latif et
al. (2011) revealed that public-sector employees were more satisfied with different
components of job satisfaction, mainly: pay; promotion; job security; nature of work;
education; family and work life balance. In addition to this, Batool (2010), as cited by Hyder
and Batool (2013), suggested that there are factors that need clarification, such as the
differences in job satisfaction among employees in the public and private-sectors. A
comparative study conducted by Kumari and Pandey (2011) stated that the employees of the
private sector need to be visible and accountable for and every action they take (Kumari &
Pandey, 2011). Hence, an argument in this topic gives an opportunity for researchers to find
out innovation about the reasons for a weak bond between the practitioners of management
and employees’ job satisfaction in the public sector as well as the private sector.
From the literature, it has been accessed that most of the research work is carried out in the
Western countries. In developing countries like Pakistan, less work has been conducted which
has motivated the author to carry out the research project in Pakistan. Job satisfaction is
important because it is responsible for generating the revenue of an organisation and the
country. The uniqueness of the culture from that of the Western context and the environment
4
in which they work would possess different determinants of job satisfaction. The current
study, therefore, will analyse the relationship between job satisfaction and organisational
attributes and will evaluate the job satisfaction levels in both the public and private sectors of
Pakistan, mainly in the city of Lahore.
1.2 Research Problem and its Significance
According to USC Libraries (2014), the problem statement of the research can be defined as
that area of research, which needs the attention of the researchers, so that it could be
improved. This is a problem that concerns and requires considerable measures to be removed.
Failure to do this could pose a problematic question which could be found in existing
literature, in practice or in theory that requires an innovative and planned analysis. Keeping in
mind the above explanation of the problem statement, the researcher has identified the
problem in the literature concerning the factors, which can increase the job satisfaction of
employees. Further investigation and research are needed in developing countries, especially
in Pakistan, and as most of the research has been conducted in Western countries mainly the
United Kingdom and the United States of America in the view of Koustelios (2001) as cited
by Khalid et al. (2012).
This study has been motivated by the research conducted by Khalid et al. (2012) which was
done in the public and privately-owned education sectors of Pakistan where different public
and private universities from the Punjab were taken to find out the job satisfaction levels in
organisations by academicians. In other words, this study is limited to the education sector
only and does not consider other important factors of job satisfaction.
According to Rukh et al. (2015) very limited research is conducted in Pakistan on the factors
that affect job satisfaction and that much of the research is carried out in medical institutions,
banks and universities and that none of the large organisations have been researched so far.
Therefore, this research will consider different public and private manufacturing companies in
Lahore, which will be selected based on their ownerships.
The manufacturing industry of Pakistan has suffered a lot in recent years and has shown a
slow growth (Memon & Tahir, 2012). Hence, this study will be useful to overcome this issue
5
by investigating the factors that could enhance the job satisfaction of employees in the
manufacturing industry as their satisfaction with the work is directly linked to positive
outcomes (Yang & Wang, 2013). On the other hand, when the employees are unhappy with
their jobs it leads to various inappropriate outcomes such high staff turnovers, absenteeism
and engenders a big loss to the organisation. To overcome this issue, managers want to find
out the strategies, which could be used to combat the problem and increase job satisfaction
levels among employees. There are various factors suggested by researchers in the literature
(see chapter two), which could increase the job satisfaction level of the employees.
Aycan et al. (2000) stated that limited research has been conducted in the Human Resource
Management field, which includes different areas like developmental programme for the
employees along with their training agendas, the rewarding system and the recognition of the
workforce that requires a lot of attention for further improvements. Michaels et al. (2001)
stated in “The War for Talent” book that the managers are responsible for the organisational
outcomes and it is very essential to build the managers in such a way so that they should be
accountable for their revenues (Abbasi et al. 2011). The workforce plays a vital role in the
productivity of different organisations. Hence, for the effective and the productive work of an
organisation - it is essential that the practitioners of HR (especially the managers) should be
satisfied with their jobs because it is observed that human resource management plays a vital
role in delivering the service (Ali & Wajidi, 2013).
In this research, the researcher will take into consideration public and private-sector
manufacturing companies based in Lahore-Pakistan because workers serving in public-sector
organisations are considered to be attractive as they have to provide services to the
community (Ashraf et al. 2013) and are, therefore, responsible for giving the satisfactory
performance (Mohammad & Kolachi, 2013) while in the private sector employees have to be
visible and accountable for the actions they take (Kumari and Pandey, 2011). The above
literature depicts that limited research has been conducted in the context of Pakistan, which
gives an opportunity for the researcher to explore the factors that act as a source of employee
job satisfaction, especially in manufacturing industry which has a low productivity rate as
stated by Memon and Tahir (2012). It is important to research in area Lahore as it is main hub
which connects transport to other regions of Pakistan. For example the Allama Iqbal Airport
is situated Lahore and most of the flights fly from this airport both at national and
international level. Previous researches have been conducted in different industries mainly: an
6
education sector, banking sector and medical institutions of Lahore and limited research is
carried out in the manufacturing industry of Pakistan (Rukh et al. 2015). According to
Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (2015) the highest population was recorded for the Punjab
province and since Lahore is situated in this region therefore its findings will be useful for the
entire population. Moreover, most of the big industries are situated in Lahore. This shows that
Lahore is the highest contributor towards the economy of Pakistan. The socio-economic
factors in Lahore are different from the ones in other provinces of Pakistan as a result of
which the findings of previous studies cannot be applied to this region.
Hence, this study will tend to fill in the gap in the literature by investigating the influences of
organisational factors on public and private sector employees, which could benefit the
management to adopt strategies that could increase the job satisfaction of their employees to
have fruitful and beneficial outcomes in Lahore-Pakistan. .
1.3 Geographical Background and History of the Proposed Study
The selected country of this research is located in the southern part of Asia where it shares
two main borders; one with China and the other with India. According to One World Nations
Online (2016) the total region of Pakistan covers approximately 796,095 square kilometres
which is larger than the size of the UK. The entire population of Pakistan is 188 million in
2014. The tribes in Pakistan are segmented into four different provinces: the Punjab; Sindh;
Balochistan; Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey (2014-2015).
The national language of Pakistan is Urdu; however, there are other languages as well
(Sindhi, Balochi, Punjabi and Pashto) which are quite commonly spoken in the different
regions of the country. Based on the figures presented by US Library (2010) it is revealed that
the majority of people in Pakistan are Muslims with more than 90% of the total population
and the remaining percentage is covered by other religions and includes Christians, Hindus,
Sikhs, and Bengalis.
In Pakistan most of the revenues are generated by large industries of both the public and
private sectors. However, due to the recent decline in the productivity rate of manufacturing
industry of Pakistan, managers are putting together efforts to know the strategies that could
help them retain their companies’ positions in the international market (Memon & Tahir,
2012). Employees are considered as the assets for any organisation and their job satisfaction
7
levels have a direct link with the performance of the firm. Hence, it would be useful to
investigate the factors which could enhance the job satisfaction of public and private sectors
of manufacturing industries in Pakistan as it is one of the main leading sources of employee
motivation and needs much attention (Memon & Tahir, 2012; Rukh et al. 2015). To
investigate the influence of predictors of job satisfaction on employees, this study considered
the city Lahore as it is the centre of Pakistan, and is directly linked to major regions of
Pakistan and contributes more towards income generation. Unfortunately, this status has
declined in recent years. It would, therefore, be appropriate to conduct research in Lahore as
the performances of big firms have a direct impact on the economy of a country.
Figure 1.1: Location of Lahore-Pakistan
Source: Based on SleepingAway (2005)
1.4 Motive of Study
Job satisfaction is one of the most researched topics with “more than 5,000” publications as
cited by Hussain (2012, p.1916). This shows that in the present era, job satisfaction topic has
achieved much of the attention of the researchers which is due to contradictory findings
(Yang & Wang, 2013). Similarly, Kinzl et al. (2005) stated that job satisfaction is one of the
most influential variables, and it has great implications for organisations and working fields.
Human Resource managers believe that employee satisfaction is always associated with
positive outcomes, which means that when employees are happy, they perform well in an
organisation and actively participate in achieving the organisation’s goals and objectives.
However, this idea is not always supported as some researchers have revealed that there is no
8
straight relationship between employee satisfaction and their performances as mentioned by
Sousa-Poza and Sousa-Poza (2000).The main differences in the findings is due to nature of
sectors (Kumari & Pandey, 2011).
There are many factors with the help of which management can identify the satisfaction levels
of their employees. Various types of theories have been proposed by different researchers to
analyse the job satisfaction level of workers. One of the most common theories of job
satisfaction is Maslow’s theory which states that individuals needs and wants develop from
time to time which he termed as hierarchy of needs. In contrast, Hertzberg’s two-factor theory
divided factors into two categories: hygiene factors and motivating factors. Similarly, other
researchers came with different concepts and models (see chapter two) for further discussion.
However, this study is motivated by Khalid et al. (2012) in which they argued that job
satisfaction is the main function of promotion, salary, co-workers, job security and
supervision. Khalidet al.’s (2012) study was limited to the education sector. This research
project will consider these factors along with the addition of important intrinsic factors and
extrinsic factors (see chapter three). One of the most important factors that contribute to job
satisfaction is employee working conditions as suggested by Jain and Kaur (2014), a study
which was conducted in India. To analyse the important factors of job satisfaction Jain and
Kaur (2014) collected data from the managers and non-managers of the company called
Dominos. Results revealed that there are six factors (working conditions, refreshment and
recreation, fun at workplace, duties and responsibilities, health and safety and grievance
handling procedure), which actually foster the job satisfaction of the employees surveyed.
Among them working conditions is the most influential factor to predict satisfaction levels of
the employees.
To conclude, the main motive of the proposed research work is to explore the relationship
between job satisfaction and extrinsic as well as intrinsic factors. It also aims to identify
differences between the public and private sectors with regards to the above-mentioned
factors in the manufacturing industry of Pakistan as most of the studies are conducted in other
institutions such as medical institutions, the banking sector and in education (Rukh et al.
2015). More so, Memon and Tahir (2012) stated that the manufacturing industry needs much
attention as it is one of the leading industries of Pakistan but its productivity has declined in
recent years. Hence, employees are the main contributors towards the performance of an
organisation it is therefore, vital to investigate the job satisfaction levels of employees.
9
1.5 Aim of the Research
The aim of this research is to examine the relationship between job satisfaction and salaries,
co-workers, job security, supervision, working conditions, task significance, work
environment, promotion, work itself, achievement, recognition and responsibility. The
research also analyses the differences in the job satisfaction levels among public and private-
sector employees of the manufacturing industry in Lahore, Pakistan.
1.6 Objectives of the Research
In view of the aforementioned discussions on the background of the research, the objectives
of the study, therefore, are:
Objective 1: To critically evaluate the secondary research on job satisfaction within the
manufacturing industry of Pakistan.
Objective 2: To identify the relationship between job satisfaction and extrinsic as well
intrinsic factors in the manufacturing industry of Lahore-Pakistan.
Objective 3: To find out the difference between the public and private-sector employees of
the manufacturing industry of Lahore-Pakistan.
Objective 4: To analyse the existing framework of job satisfaction and develop a model used
in improving job satisfaction in the manufacturing industry of Lahore-Pakistan.
1.7 Research Questions
The central research question of this study arises from the fact that there are factors that need
clarification, such as the differences in job satisfaction among employees in the public and
private-sectors (Batool, 2010). The specific questions that this study will consider are:
1. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and salaries?
2. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and co-workers?
3. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and job security?
4. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and supervision?
10
5. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and working conditions?
6. What is the relationship of task significance and work environment with job satisfaction?
7. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and promotion, work itself, achievement,
recognition and responsibility?
8. Does a significant difference exist between the public and private-sector employees of the
manufacturing industry of Lahore-Pakistan with respect to job satisfaction and extrinsic
factors (salaries, co-workers, job security, supervision, working conditions, task significance,
work environment) as well as intrinsic factors (promotion, work itself, achievement,
recognition, responsibility) ?
1.8 Connection between Research Aim, Research Objectives and Research
Questions
The following figure shows the research aim, which has been linked together for its
attainment in this study. The main agenda of this connection is to investigate the relationship
between job satisfaction and extrinsic as well as intrinsic factors among public and private-
sector employees of manufacturing industry of Pakistan. The figure shown below illustrates
the linkage of research aim with research objectives and research questions.
11
Figure: 1.2: Attainment of Research Aim via Research Objectives and Research Questions
B
Furthermore, the researcher has shown the graphical presentation of solving the problem in
figure 1.3. The questionnaires that were used are given in the appendix A.
Research objectives (RQ)
Research aim
Research questions (RQ)
The aim of this research
is to examine the
relationship between job
satisfaction and salaries,
co-workers, job security,
supervision, working
conditions, task
significance, work
environment, promotion,
work itself, achievement,
recognition and
responsibility. The
research also analyses
the differences in the job
satisfaction levels among
public and private-sector
employees of the
manufacturing industry
in Lahore, Pakistan.
RQ1) What is the relationship between job satisfaction and salaries?
RQ2) What is the relationship between job satisfaction and co-workers?
Objective 1: To critically
evaluate the secondary
research on job satisfaction
within the manufacturing
industry of Pakistan.
Objective 2: To identify the
relationship between job
satisfaction and extrinsic as
well as intrinsic factors in
the manufacturing industry
of Lahore-Pakistan.
Objective 3: To find out the
difference between the
public and private–sector
employees of the
manufacturing industry of
Lahore-Pakistan.
Objective 4: To analyse the
existing framework of job
satisfaction and develop a
model used in improving job
satisfaction in the
manufacturing industry of
Lahore-Pakistan.
RQ3) What is the relationship between job satisfaction and job security?
RQ4) What is the relationship between job satisfaction and supervision?
RQ5) What is the relationship between job satisfaction and working conditions?
RQ6) What is the relationship of task significance and work environment with job satisfaction?
RQ7) What is the relationship between job satisfaction and promotion, work itself, achievement, recognition and responsibility?
RQ8) Does a significant difference exist between the public and private-sector employees of the manufacturing industry of Lahore-Pakistan with respect to job satisfaction and extrinsic factors (salaries, co-workers, job security, supervision, working conditions, task significance, work environment) as well as intrinsic factors (promotion, work itself, achievement, recognition, responsibility)?
12
Figure: 1.3: The Solution of Research Problem
RQ1 RH1
RQ2 RH2
RQ3 RH3
RQ4 RH4
RQ5 RH5
RQ6 RH6
RQ7 RH7
RQ8 RH8
1.9 Development Need in Public and Private Sectors of Pakistan
According to Abbasi et al. (2011), the main reasons for improper functioning of public sector
organisations are due to low-income criteria and insufficient resources. Along with the impact
of political issues, lack of experienced and trained employees, delay in the completion of
projects and inefficient procedure of promotion because in public sector organisations
employees are promoted by their employment period.
On the other hand, a survey report conducted by Mangi et al. (2012) stated that certain factors
need to be considered in the development of the private sector in Pakistan because 77% of
private-sector organisations comprise of different sectors like telecommunications, textile and
commercial banks and the largest segments of privately-owned companies include sugar,
cement, fertiliser and automobile sectors (Mangi et al. 2012). This shows that the private
PRO
BL
EM
Survey questionnaires Results solve the problem
Survey Questionnaire
13
sector in Pakistan needs to have considerable notice for the development and better
functioning as it would lead to prosperous outcomes. Based on the above reviews it has been
that both the public and private sectors hold important positions in different aspects. As a
result, this research will attempt to recommend strategies to both public and private sector
managers with the help which they could enhance the satisfaction levels of their employees so
that they could perform well and help the organisation to achieve the goals of the company.
1.10 Research Structure
This research thesis comprises of seven chapters together with the first chapter. Chapter two
discusses different theories and concepts of job satisfaction in the light of literature. Chapter
three represents the conceptual framework containing dependent and independent factors,
which will be presented in the form of a regression equation that will be used for the data
analysis. Chapter four represents the methodology in which the researcher will discuss in
detail the methods and tools that were used to collect data and the techniques that were
applied to analyse the data whereas, chapter five represents the findings in the form of graphs,
charts and tables. Chapter six discusses the results of the main findings in the light of
literature and Chapter seven reviews the findings followed by implications of the study,
recommendations, limitations and the contribution to the knowledge.
1.11 Summary and Conclusion
Organisations are persistently facing new challenges to maintain their market positions.
Several recent studies have shown that productivity improvement could be achieved when
employees are satisfied towards their jobs. These research outcomes motivate some managers
to search for strategies that encourage employees to be dedicated to their work especially in
the manufacturing industry of Pakistan which has faced losses in recent years as mentioned
by Memon and Tahir (2012). Job satisfaction is a positive outcome of employee satisfaction.
Different factors are responsible for increasing the job satisfaction of employees. This has a
direct influence on the performance of an organisation as happy workers tend to achieve goals
on time (Aziri, 2011).
In a comparative study conducted by Latif et al. (2011) on the college teachers of district
Faisalabad, he revealed that job satisfaction is a function of certain factors like job security,
14
salary, nature of work, supervision and promotional opportunities which help in measuring
the overall job satisfaction levels of the workers. This study is based on Latif et al. (2011) to
examine the correlation between certain facets of job satisfaction in the public and private
sectors of Pakistan along with addition of intrinsic factors and other important determinants
of job satisfaction.
Moreover, it has been reported that public-sector organisations in Pakistan are bureaucratic
and hierarchical in nature where managers hold important positions and are responsible for
the outcome of their organizations’ performances. This makes their work more fascinating
and challenging. Most of the studies reported that workers of the public sector organisations
should be satisfied with their jobs as this would lead to the enhancement of the success of an
organisation with numerous outcomes (Mafini & Pooe, 2013).
To conclude, in chapter one, the researcher has discussed the overview of the research along
with research aim, objectives and research questions. It has further discussed different
concepts by defining it and the importance of employees in the various sectors of Pakistani
manufacturing industries. Also, this study has mentioned the contribution of the research
towards the development of the job satisfaction theory. The second chapter of this study will
take into account the literature review based on the determinants of job satisfaction in the
different sectors of Pakistan and the correlation between them.
15
Chapter Two: Literature Review
2.1 Introduction
This research study analyses the relationship between job satisfaction and the independent
factors that are held responsible in analysing specific needs of employees within the
organisation. The study continues to examine the differences between the two sectors (public
and private) regarding job satisfaction and determinants of job satisfaction in the
manufacturing industry of Pakistan.
In this chapter, previous studies are critically evaluated to find the gap in the literature that
can lead to the contribution of new knowledge to the existing body of knowledge and to
develop the conceptual framework. Various researches done in past on job satisfaction are
examined against both sectors and some fundamental determinants are reviewed to justify the
satisfaction levels of employees. Different countries have different ways of making their
employees satisfied. This research explains the truth and the reality based on particular
hypotheses on how satisfied most employees are with their jobs in Lahore-Pakistan and what
are the determinants which increase their levels of satisfaction. Moreover, both private and
public sectors are dealt with separately and are examined against each other to come up with
the results with justifications.
2.2 The Concept of Job Satisfaction
Job satisfaction has become one of the most concerned topics in Human Resource
Management. Hussain (2012) stated that employees are the assets of an organisation without
which the business cannot achieve its goals. Hussain’s (2012) findings revealed that there are
five key factors (job security, supervision, relationship with co-workers, pay and promotional
opportunities) which increase job satisfaction among public and private sector employees of
the banking industry of Punjab, Pakistan. Various scientists have concluded findings which
vary from each other as a result of which the total number of articles and dissertations written
on the job satisfaction is around 3,350 according to Locke (1976) as mentioned by Hussain
(2012). This shows that the majority of the studies have shown different outcomes of job
satisfaction and its relationship with the various facets of the subject matter, as some studies
revealed similar results whereas others presented different ones. The concept used by Hussain
16
(2012) is very similar to the concept used in this study. That is job satisfaction depends on
upon five key factors as explained above. However, the main limitation of Hussain’s (2012)
study was that only public and private banking sector employees were considered in a
different region of Pakistan. According to Ahmad et al. (2010), job satisfaction is not only
considered in the manufacturing industries but also in the service sectors as well. Hence, it
can be said that job satisfaction occupies an equal rank of all sectors in order to have
successful outcomes.
Rast and Tourani (2012) explained that the concept of job satisfaction was developed by
Elton Mayo at the Western Electric Company in Chicago. The leading prospect of Rast and
Tourani’s (2012) study was that job satisfaction has a direct influence on the perceptions of
employees towards their jobs after analysing data from the private sector employees of the
airline industry of Iran. For this aspect they considered five main factors (supervision, present
pay, nature of work, co-worker and opportunities for promotion) in investigating the level of
job satisfaction of employees. This shows that the organisations should focus on the needs
and wants of their employees and should react accordingly to create a positive image in the
eyes of the employees as this leads to the loyalty phenomenon of employees towards their
respective firms, and a healthy environment could be created in the workplace. This concept
is used in this study as employees of both public and private sectors of the manufacturing
industries in Pakistan were given survey questionnaires to give their perceptions towards job
satisfaction.
Various researchers defined job satisfaction in different ways. Some of the most commonly
phrases used to define job satisfaction are discussed in section (2.2.1) in which researcher
critically evaluates the thoughts of authors in regards to job satisfaction.
2.2.1 Definitions of Job Satisfaction
Morrell et al. (2008) stated that, jobs have become important contributing factors towards the
sustainability of families and survival of life. The effectiveness of the job depends on how
much satisfaction employees get from their work. Studies have shown that the research
conducted on behaviour aspects of employees in different organisations has led to various
approaches to defining job satisfaction (Mafini and Pooe, 2013). This statement was
supported by Yang and Wang (2013), in which they stated that the study of job satisfaction
17
had become an interesting topic to be ever studied by the researchers investigating on the
behaviour of the individual towards work.
Robbins and Sanghi (2006) describe job satisfaction as a phenomenon in which individuals
perceive and regard their jobs. This means that job satisfaction is a collection of thoughts
which could be positive, negative or neutral depending on the nature of an individual, and
how that individual evaluates his or her job and holds an opinion. In support of this argument,
Yang and Wang (2013), define the term of job satisfaction into two main types: the positive
and negative approach and the neutral approach.
In the opinion of Locke (1970), the positive and negative aspects of a job are engenders cause
and an effect reaction; and that is what an individual attains from his or her job and how they
value their jobs. This view was supported by Kreitner and Kinichi (2007) in which they
described job satisfaction as an occurrence of an imbalance situation of what an individual
perceives from his or her job, and the happening of facts like the implementation of
employment ethics and balanced management of justice will ultimately lead to an employee
satisfaction. Also, Sousa-Poza and Sousa-Poza (2000) came up with a new thought that
employee satisfaction would result if there is a balance between input sources and output
sources. The input sources include hardships such as effort and time required to get the job
and the output resources consisting of salary, limited profit, external environment of the job
and other fundamental prospects of the work. This study believes that job satisfaction will
result in optimum levels for employees if there is an equal balance between both the input and
the output factors.
Islam and Siengthai (2009), define job satisfaction as an optimistic condition of the
employees that results due to an appreciation of one’s experiences regarding the work or the
presentation of the job. This shows that job satisfaction is the feeling of indulgence which the
employees perceive from their work (Asegid et al. 2014). Keeping in mind several
approaches of defining job satisfaction, according to Locke (1969) as cited by Yang and
Wang (2013), the most common approach that could be used to simplify the term of job
satisfaction is that it could be considered as a positive state of an employee which arises when
they are admired and treated well in the workplace. Mathis and Jackson (2004) also, in their
study described job satisfaction by the analysis of the perception of the employees towards
work. This shows that most of the authors consider job satisfaction as an intangible source,
18
Contrary to this assertion, Gordan (2011) argued that job satisfaction is regarded as an
outcome of how one perceives his or her work. This shows neutralism in the statement of the
job satisfaction terminology meaning job satisfaction is not only the positive response of the
workers, but it depends on what one gets from his job. Based on the arguments it has been
observed that job satisfaction has a connection with the perception of the workers in which
they work. However, in this thesis the researcher considers Robbins and Sanghi’s (2006)
approach job satisfaction in Pakistan as a developing country where the level of job
satisfaction are measured by how employees evaluate dimensions of job satisfaction which is
discussed later in this chapter. Moreover, when job satisfaction is measured, it will be judged
by its interaction with certain factors in both sectors of the manufacturing industry in Lahore,
Pakistan.
From the above literature regarding job satisfaction, it is concluded that job satisfaction is a
subjective assessment of different facets of the subject matter in regards to some domestic
thresholds erected by numerous factors such as pay scales, promotions and career
opportunities, relationships with co-workers, working conditions, supervision, individual
satisfaction and so on. Most studies have focused more on the factors which help to
investigate job satisfaction of the employees. This study, therefore, uses the same concept to
measure job satisfaction among public and private sector employees of different
manufacturing companies.
In the next section, the researcher discusses different approaches of job satisfaction. These are
mainly the classical management approach and the neoclassic approach (see section 2.2.2) for
further explanation.
2.2.2 Different Approaches to Job Satisfaction
To gain competitive advantage, firms are in a continuous struggle to create a positive image
of their brands. Numerous factors are associated in gaining the competitive advantage. These
include cheap products with features showing high quality and more likely that fulfil the
requirements of the customers as compared to other products. This has a direct impact on
customers as they feel satisfied. Continuous analyses of the performance of employees and
better deliverance of services result in the establishment of businesses. Productive results can
19
only be achieved when the management functions properly. Hence, it is vital that the
managers should have knowledge of different management theories which could assist them
increase the efficiency of the workers. Classical management theories are considered bases of
management theories as stated by Mahmood et al. (2012). According to Celik (2011), there
are two main types of management approaches; these are discussed one by one in the
following sections (2.2.2.I and 2.2.2.II).
2.2.2. (I) Classical Management Approach
The first approach of job satisfaction is the classical management approach and the second
one is known as the neoclassic approach. The classical management approach believes that
employees only possess economic needs along with physical needs and the satisfaction of
employees does play an important role in an organisation and should not be considered. The
classical management approach was first proposed in 1900 and continued till the 1920s
during the industrial revolution. The main focus of this approach was to increase the
efficiency and productivity of an organisation with the help of proper management. The
positive aspect of this classical approach is that, it increases the effectiveness of management
within the organisation. Its weakness, on the other hand, is that it decreases the growth and
motivation of the employees thereby disregarding their active involvement in the
organisation. There are three main types of classical management. These are a) Taylor’s
theory of scientific management, b) Comprehensive analysis of management or Fayol’s
theory of administrative management and c) Weber’s Bureaucratic management. Figure 2.1
below represents the graphical approach of the classical management theory.
Figure 2.1: Types of Classical Management Approach
Source: Author’s Own Diagram Based on Celik (2011)
Scientific management
Administrative management
Bureaucratic management
20
Taylor’s theory of scientific management deals with the finding of the best method with the
help of which they can structure the situation to have fruitful results that are to yield high
levels of production from the workforce. Taylor (1911) is considered as the father of
scientific management theory and was a mechanical engineer who worked in the steel
industry and observed that workers do not work in an efficient way. His primary focus,
therefore, was to enhance the productivity of the workers using scientific methods. Taylor did
the experiment (known as time studies) to examine the optimum procedure to increase the
performance of the employees. A stopwatch was used to calculate the efficiency of the
workers. He was able to increase the output of shovellers from sixteen to fifty-nine
tonnes/daily and condensed the figure of yard workers from five hundred to one hundred and
forty (Mahmood et al. 2012).
The scientific management covers mainly the lower managers as a result of which it is
commonly known as lower level management analysis. The scientific management approach
is defined as the procedure of discovering “one best way” for doing the job (Certo & Certo,
2006, p.2) as cited by Sarker and Khan (2013). Sarker and Khan (2013) wrote a book on
“Scientific Management Theory” in which they mentioned four basic features as given below:
1. The first rule is that the work should be based on scientific method, and new ways of
performing tasks should be developed accordingly.
2. New scientific approach should be adopted to train employees, and each employee should
be allotted an individual task for better results.
3. Cooperation with the workers allows the management to ensure that the scientific criteria
are fulfilled.
4. The work should be divided between the managers and the employees equally so that the
managers should implement the scientific principles and in return, the workers should
perform their tasks in an effective way.
Taylor’s (1911) study was very effective during the era of the industrial revolution and is still
adopted by the practitioners around the world as the workers are rewarded for their
performances within the organisation. On the other hand, there are some critics that did not
consider the social need of workers and required more work from the workers with less
compensation. Moreover, the outcomes of production rates are discussed with the workers
and these revealed different findings when applied to the industrial area as productivity of
work varies from one individual to another individual. However, his work was later
21
developed by dividing the tasks into further sub-segments and to execute that task in a more
scientific way (Mahmood et al. 2012).
The second type of scientific management is known as administrative management which
deals with the designing of the job leading to the examination of the management style. In
other words, this type of management is directly linked to the performances of the managers.
Its main function is to concentrate on the efficiency of an organisation. Another name for this
technique is the comprehensive analysis of management. The pioneer of this approach is
Fayol (1949) who wrote the book named the “General and Industrial Management” (Sarker &
Khan, 2013, p.3). Fayol (1949) was a mining engineer and management theorist. His main
contribution towards the administrative management is due to principles he highlighted for
the better performance of the managers. The main functions of his theory are planning,
organising, commanding, and coordinating the management process and finally the
implementation of the process. The positive aspect of Fayol’s (1949) theory of management
is that it is widely used in big businesses and is most commonly practised in the military. The
management functions presented by him are still adopted in the modern era. On the other
hand, the negative aspect of his theory is that his two principles of management theory mainly
unity of direction and unity to command were excluded from the matrix management as cited
by Mahmood et al. (2012).
The last type of classical management approach is the bureaucratic management. The pioneer
of this approach is Max Weber (1947). He was a German sociologist. He felt the development
of the management theory and suggested that the organisation should adopt a modern system
of management which could be achieved with the help of pre-planned activities. He divided
bureaucratic management into hierarchical ranks which assures that the management can
function in a better way. This means that when managers are allotted tasks, individually they
can work effectively and efficiently. The main strength of this approach is that it can be used
in different sectors both by publically owned businesses and privately owned companies.
Hence, it can be said that every sector follows the hierarchy of management which makes
them successful and competitive (Mahmood et al. 2012).
22
2.2.2. (I a) Merits and Demerits of the Classical Management Approach
The classical management approach has both positive and negative aspects of this approach.
The main positive aspect of the classical management approach is that it is considered as a
significant contributor towards the enhancement of management theories. It has three key
elements as stated by Griffin (2006) where the scientific management approach deals with the
employees working in an organisation and the methods by which their efficiency to do work
can be enhanced.
This theory was later overcome by an administrative approach which concentrates more on
the performance of an organisation rather than just the employees. Another type of classical
management approach is the bureaucratic management approach which mainly focuses on
erasing the inconsistency of the managers. This shows that its key function is to highlight the
post of managers instead of individuals.
To conclude from the above literature, it is found that the classical management approach is
the representative of all the rules and regulations associated with management. It has created
the difference between the performance of the management and the operational activities.
Moreover, it recognised the usage of scientific technique in solving the issues related to
management and has created the awareness for the requirement to have a mutual
understanding between the workforce and the employers.
Contrary to this, the classical management theory also possesses various drawbacks as well.
The main drawback of this approach is that it does not consider the needs and wants of
humans and is totally based on the designed structure of the organisation. This shows that the
classical approach disregards the requirements of human beings at the workplace by
identifying the designed organisational structure which goes against the nature of the
employees within the organisation. This creates stress among the workers for they are unable
to participate in the organisation’s decision-making process and are derived from freedom of
communication. The practice also relies on the money given to employees as a part of work
which, if paid less, could lead to depression and unbalanced family lives among the
employees of the organisation. Other weaknesses associated with this theory are that it is “too
formal” (Sarker & Khan, 2013, p.3) and is more likely to be more suitable for uncomplicated
and stable businesses as compared to complex entities which can be seen in today’s era.
Lastly, it is based on the basic principles and does not cover some complex situations in
reality.
23
2.2.2. (II) Neoclassic Approach
After the criticisms by various researchers on the classical management approach of job
satisfaction, the later management theory that came into being is the neoclassical management
approach. It is depicted from the above literature that the classical management approach did
not consider the needs of workers. It was later criticised for this presumption and was
overcome by another approach known as the neoclassic approach which was the foundation
of employees as they were given free will to share their ideas in the decision-making process,
were allowed to communicate with the managers and assist them where ever required. These
components of neoclassic approach were considered to be more efficient for the success of an
organisation in the form of productivity. The main constituents of this approach are that
liberty to participate and the intrinsic worth-value of work are both assured.
The interaction between the managerial and non-managerial workers provide them with the
sense of job security as the workers were given a chance to respect the rights of employees
thereby, giving them authority and providing them with promotional and career advancement
which the employees deserve. The neoclassical management was established by Mayo (1949)
as mentioned by Sarker and Khan (2013) who came with the idea that much of the attention is
required towards the human perspective. There are three main types of neoclassical
management approach. The first type is known as the Hawthorne Experiment. The second
one is called the Human Relation Movement; and the third one is named as Organisational
Behaviour. The Hawthorne Experimental study conducted various experiments in the United
States of America on the electric company between 1927 and 1932 and concluded that
humans hold crucial positions within organisations Other experiment conducted on a similar
group revealed that there is a direct relationship between the working environment and
productivity, which means that when management provides healthy conditions to their
employees, they would be motivated to do more productive work. This approach is further
extended by other researchers to a new approach commonly known as Human Relation
Movement. The main purpose of the Human Relation Movement method was to analyse the
perception of employees towards their job satisfaction by taking into consideration various
dimensions which include personal characteristics, interpersonal characteristics and others.
This movement was supported by various scholars, mainly Abraham Maslow and Frederick
Hertzberg as suggested by Singh (1983). The third and last type of neoclassical management
approach is the organisational behaviour. This category is mainly concerned with the analysis
of the attitude and behaviour of employees along with their performances whether it is at
24
individual or collective levels. Since this approach is mainly concerned with the attitude and
behavioural study of employees in an organisation, it is known as the organisational
behaviour approach. See section 2.2.2. (IIa) for more on the literature on positive and
negative aspects of the neoclassical management approach
2.2.2. (IIa) Merits and Demerits of the Neoclassical Management Approach Various researchers criticise the neoclassical management approach to employees in job
satisfaction. In light of this aspect, the researcher first discusses the strengths of this theory
followed by its weakness. The positive side of this approach is that it realises and fights for
the needs and welfare of the workforce within the organisation. This virtually opens the gate
of success for future researchers to interpret job satisfaction based on the perception of the
worker, where one can evaluate the satisfaction with the job and the life itself as it has a direct
impact on the social behaviour of workers. Furthermore, it identifies the factors that are
directly related to the human attitude. This idea led to the perception that the neoclassic
management approach is useful as it considers the workers as important sources for the
success of an organisation. Moreover, it has led to the establishment of a type of unique
management approach within the organisation.
However, besides, the positive aspects of the neoclassical management approach, there are
some limitations as well. The chief drawback of this theory is that it does share the ideas of a
classical management theory as the perception of human thinking deviates from time to time.
Further, it is not scientifically validated and possesses a biased connotation towards some
employees within the organisation. Also, it is hard to apply in the current situation as it very
much depends on the attitude and behaviour of both managers and employees.
From the above literature, it is it could be argued that both the classical management theory
and neoclassical approach have played vital roles in the development of different
management practices and theories in regards to the employees of the organisation. With the
help of these approaches, businesses can take advantage and gain competitive advantage.
The Classical management theory holds an equally important positive position in the
management discipline as it was the first theory used to introduce management approaches
whereas the neoclassical management approach is regarded as the basis of all management
25
approaches,. This shows that every management theory has its identity and the application of
these theories depends on the nature of the organisation. Based on the current situation of the
manufacturing industry of Pakistan, it is observed that the country’s manufacturing industry
has declined by 11% of its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product as suggested by
Memon and Tahir (2012). The outcome of any organisation is known by the performance of
its employees; happy employees are expected to perform creditably well. This shows that the
manufacturing industry should focus more on neoclassical approach as this approach would
assist the managers to realise the needs of the employees, and it will enhance the satisfaction
levels of the employees which are directly associated with their best performances. This will
ultimately lead to the success and productivity of the organisation.
2.2.3 Job Satisfaction and Welfare
A recent study conducted by Gamboa et al. (2011) based on job satisfaction in the developing
country of Columbia stated that job satisfaction is one of the elements of individual
contentment. It is linked with a variety of positive outcomes including a) self-perception of
labour stability, b) the positive externality of workmates, c) an index of personal success, d)
an emotional state resulting from the appraisal of one’s job and e) an attitude towards one’s
job.
The term welfare has various concepts such as individual satisfaction which comes when a
person is self-satisfied with personal life. Secondly, the appraisal sentiments which ultimately
lead to positivity and thirdly the satisfaction from the influential sphere which comes from
various factors like family, leisure, social network and the work itself (Gamboa et al. 2011).
In an analytical study conducted on workers within an organisation, welfare in a developing
country where the case of India was taken into consideration concluded that nearly twenty
two per cent of the workers were satisfied with the process of welfare within the organisation.
Thirty-nine per cent of the workers fall into the category of average scale and least per cent of
the employees, i.e., sixteen per cent showed dissatisfaction (Sabarirajan et al. 2010).
Gamboa et al.’s (2011) findings revealed that job satisfaction and welfare measure have a
proportional relationship with each other. The employees of Textile Mills in India were found
to be happy with the welfare measures granted by their management. One study by Linley et
al. (2009) conducted in the United Kingdom also supports this idea by defining well-being as
26
an assemblage of happiness and satisfaction which shows that happiness can be analysed by
examining the perception of employees towards the job.
Since welfare is associated with the combination of happiness and job satisfaction, it is very
important to understand the significance of job satisfaction. This is discussed in (section
2.2.4) and the theories are required to put forward this suggestion suggests the theoretical part
where the theories help the illustration in detail (See section 2.3).
2.2.4 Importance of Job Satisfaction
There are many aspects in which we consider the employees to be satisfied with their jobs.
These include their mental health, working attributes, and relationships with other colleagues
and most importantly, the element of liking and helping increase production in the job. Scheid
(2010) stated that when workers are happy with their personal lives, they are also satisfied
with their work. This Scheid (2010) referred to as a dispositional theory. A significant amount
of research also supports this idea (Scheid, 2010, p. 1). The above statement depicts the idea
of the positive attitude of the life cycle to the positivity of job satisfaction. This also indicates
that workers who are satisfied with their jobs are more humble, happier and more enthusiastic
towards their lives. So, the question arises that, are the people satisfied with their occupations
the ones to be happier in life? A recent retirement survey carried out by Helman et al. (2008)
suggested that people retiring have attributes of satisfaction to their jobs, and the ratio is quite
diverse (See Figure 2.2 below).
27
Figure 2.2: Diversification of Job Satisfaction while Retiring
Source: Author’s Own Diagram Based on Helman et al. (2008)
The above chart depicts that out of hundred people surveyed, only 11 % of employees are
highly satisfied when they retire and a combined percentage of 43% also shows the satisfied
and somehow satisfied. Around 40 % of the people who are not satisfied may have problems
such as less career and promotional opportunities that could stop the future development of an
employee, less salaries scale, non-mutual relationships with the colleagues, insecure jobs,
lack of supervision and poor working conditions within the organisation.
This research highlights and uses the determinants mentioned above (extrinsic as well as
intrinsic factors) to analyse their influence on job satisfaction levels. The survey questionnaire
is administered using mathematical equation and statistics software to interpret the results
(See chapter 5). Moreover, the elements which are healthy in making an employee satisfied
with the job are the main reasons and cause him or her to be happier in the lifetime of his
employment period.
In the view of Sousa-Poza and Sousa-Poza (2000) job satisfaction is the outcome of the
stability between the internal and external factors. For example when employees receive the
expected rewards based on their hard work then job satisfaction increases. This theory has
clearly mentioned the exact elements of job satisfaction which not only make the employee
Highly Satisfied11%
Satisfied21%
Somewhat Satsfied
22%
Dissatisfied25%
Highly Dissatisfied
21%
Job Satisfaction at the time of making decision to retire
28
satisfied, but also guarantees the desired life of employees. It is worth, therefore,
understanding the influence of job satisfaction.
Various studies have concluded that job satisfaction assists in maintaining the workforce as it
is linked to reducing high turnover rates as the employees retain themselves in their jobs for
long periods. In other words, they become loyal and dedicated towards their jobs. On the
other hand, however, it would be injudicious to perceive that job satisfaction-turnover levels
have direct proportional connections, since job satisfaction is presumed to play a vital role in
reducing the percentage of employees quitting the job despite their chances of developing
their careers. Lack of job satisfaction would lead to high level of intention to leave a job even
if there are opportunities to build up the career and have more chances of promotion.
There are numerous outcomes of job satisfaction such as the reduction of levels of employee
job absenteeism; for example. This view was supported by Ellickson and Logsdon (2001) by
stating that job satisfaction is significant as it results in various aspects like a low level of
turnover rates in the organisations, less percentage of absenteeism and so on. What this
suggests is that, there is an inverse relation between job satisfaction and absenteeism rate.
Moreover, it has been suggested that job satisfaction could also be the cause of better
performances by organisations. However, this has not always been the case as the literature
shows that the relationship between job satisfaction and performance levels within the
organisation to be spurious (Halepoda, 2011). In the next section, the researcher takes into
consideration different theories of job satisfaction and discusses the pros and a con of each
theory based on the literature and provides the rationale for the selection of an appropriate
theory as applied in this study.
2.2.5 Measurement of Job Satisfaction
Different authors perceive that job satisfaction is a vast topic which is measured with the help
of various determinants which comprise the job satisfaction itself. For example Yang and
Wang (2013) suggested that job satisfaction is composed of certain determinants such as
personal characteristics, job characteristics and organisational characteristics which are
further composed of factors. Most of the researchers analyse job satisfaction in different
industries based on an intrinsic and extrinsic phenomenon. The intrinsic factors include:
promotions and pay, and extrinsic factors consist of supervision, co-workers and the nature of
29
work (Judge & Klinger, 2008). After analysing the determinants with the help of which one
can interpret job satisfaction best, the next issue raised by most of the researchers is that of
how to measure the job satisfaction itself.
It is observed from the literature that most of the authors rely on measuring job satisfaction
with the help of scales; these include the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (Weiss et al.
1967) and the Job Descriptive Index (Smith et al. 1969). The Minnesota Satisfaction
Questionnaire possess long and short forms which consists of certain facets which the
researcher uses to examine job satisfaction. The application of long and short forms depends
on upon the nature of each study. Job Descriptive Index, on the other hand, analyses job
satisfaction with the help of certain facets (promotion, pay, supervision, co-workers and the
nature of work) which could be used to measure the job satisfaction. Various researchers have
validated both measures. However, the usage of specific questionnaires depends on the study
of the research. The scale is the most appropriate method of measurement of job satisfaction
as suggested by Brayfield and Rothe’s (1951). On the other hand, there are some critics
regarding the facets employed in measuring job satisfaction. For example, the Job Descriptive
Index is based on certain facets and does not measure job satisfaction on its own; that is to
examine the job satisfaction level the researchers have to calculate all the related facets. In
this way, it could be defined as the combination of all facets. Results have revealed that facets
measuring job satisfaction have no correlation with the “global measures” as cited by Judge
and Klinger (2008, p.397). On the other hand, however, researchers argue that job satisfaction
can be measured without considering the facets that measure job satisfaction having the
reliability of .67 (Wanous et al. 1997). However, the reliability value is less than the
assemblage of three facets measuring job satisfaction having the reliability of .85.
To sum up, it is more appropriate to use scale having certain facets with the help of which one
can analyse job satisfaction. However, there are certain demerits of using the facet technique
as some of the items require a lot of time from the respondents to fill in the forms as a result
of which they would commit negligence and will provide either wrong information or will
refuse to fill in the form. Hence, some researchers have come up with the questionnaires
which better analyse job satisfaction levels of the employees by analysing the Cronbach’s
alpha value which tells the reliability of the items used for the study.
30
2.2.6 Consequences of Job Satisfaction
In the previous section (2.2.4) the researcher discussed the importance of job satisfaction.
Now the researcher will throw more light on the effects and consequences of job satisfaction
regarding organisational perspectives. There are various positive effects of job satisfaction.
The first positive impact of job satisfaction is the productivity of the employee. This means
when employees are satisfied with their jobs, they will produce more work. The second
consequence of job satisfaction is how well the employees are loyal to their work, and this is
usually analysed when employees have low rates of absenteeism. This view was supported by
Pandey and Khare (2012) when they conducted a study to investigate the influence of job
satisfaction and organisational commitment on employee loyalty. With the help of their study,
they were able to analyse the relationship between job satisfaction and employee loyalty.
Similarly, Jawahar (2006) discussed that when employees are admired for their work, the
relationship between job satisfaction and employees loyalty is more likely to increase. Hence,
to increase the loyalty phenomenon, it is crucial that employees should be given good
remarks and should be appreciated for their work as this leads to low staff turnovers. The
literature, however, on the other hand, indicates that job satisfaction is not positively linked to
the productivity of the workforce as stated by Aziri (2011). This means even when employees
are satisfied with their jobs, they are less likely to be influenced and do not always produce
100% effort in their works.
Different factors play major roles in the job satisfaction levels of employees and act as
moderators. One of the most common and influential indicator of job satisfaction is when
employees are promoted and given rewards. This shows when employees are rewarded for
their work, they are more likely to observe the equality term in their organisations which
gives them mental satisfaction as well. For further discussion see section (2.5).
In the light of the literature, the key influence of job satisfaction concerning organisational
commitment is employee loyalty which most of the Human Resource managers identify.
What this means is that, with its absence organisations suffer a lot. This can be measured with
the help of questionnaires as well. There are three main types of employee’s loyalty, namely:
normative loyalty, continuity loyalty and effective loyalty. Another important factor that is
considered to be the influence of job satisfaction is low staff turnover. When employees are
absent from their jobs, it concerns the managers, and they try to find out means with which
they can get help to reduce the absenteeism phenomenon and this can only be achieved when
31
employees are satisfied with their jobs (Aziri, 2011). It is depicted from the literature as
mentioned earlier that when job satisfaction is high then absenteeism is more likely to be less.
2.3 Job Satisfaction Theories
Different ideas are formulated by researchers to understand the job satisfaction phenomenon
better with the help of underlying theories (Yang & Wang, 2013). However, subdividing
various theories of job satisfaction is not so simple due to overlapping of ideas. Despite this,
it is appropriate to categorize these theories into two common approaches: process and
content theories as stated by Kaur (2012). The following section outlines these approaches
and explains the reasoning for the theory chosen for this research.
The process theories deal with specific needs of employees which must be fulfilled in order to
satisfy the workforce whereas content theories look for the factors which have direct impacts
on the job satisfaction (Oosthuizen, 2001). Various researchers have applied different theories
while conducting similar research. However, the application of a specific theory depends on
the nature of the study. For example, if the researcher is looking for specific needs of
employees and the factors required to strengthen, direct, maintain and prevent behaviour then
it will be more appropriate to adopt content theories. The main motive of this study is to find
out the factors which enhance job satisfaction of employees working in the manufacturing
industry of Lahore-Pakistan as this industry has faced losses in recent years as stated by
Memon and Tahir (2012).The graphical presentation of a model of most prominent content
theories is illustrated as follows:
Figure 2.3: Content Theories and Models of Job Satisfaction
Source: Author’s Own Diagram Based on Kaur (2012)
The contrast between these theories has motivated the researcher to research and develop the
concept of job satisfaction as apply them to the situation on the ground in the manufacturing
Content theories of Job Satisfaction
Maslow’s theory of hierarchical needs
Alderfer’s ERG theory Herzberg’s two factor theory
32
industries of Pakistan. New knowledge gained will be added to existing knowledge in this
field of study. Each of these theories will be discussed one by one in the following ways:
2.3.1 Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory
Maslow’s (1943) theory is considered to be an early theory of job satisfaction. This theory
suggests that humans require developments in their needs with the passage of time which he
named as the hierarchy of needs. According to his theory he suggested that humans require
developments in their needs with the passage of time which he named as the hierarchy of
needs. Maslow’s theory argued that if the fundamental level of needs of people is fulfilled,
then this could motivate them to go further for the next level of needs which could be self-
actualization and achievement (Luthans, 1998). Maslow’s theory assisted Human Resource
practitioners to know about the attitude and behaviour of their employees towards work in an
organisation using the motivation technique. This eventually became the first theory to
provide the concept of individual needs, as posited by Abraham Maslow.
The main motive of Abraham Maslow was to analyse the perception of the people in a
working place when an organisation does not meet the needs of the individual’s then it affects
their performance. The psychology of Maslow’s theory was based on the hierarchical needs of
the workers (Carr, 2005). According to him, there are five main categories of human needs
that have been arranged by hierarchy meaning that the core needs of individuals must be
accomplished first in order to proceed to the next step. Hence, his theory works in a process
form where the basic needs of a person are fulfilled first before the initiation of the other
needs in a hierarchical order. However, from the motivational aspect, it proposes that
differences in the needs of an individual could be the best source to increase the productivity
(Steyn, 2002). But on the other hand, he argues that when all the needs of people are met then,
motivation does not influence them as a result of which performance of an organisation is
affected. Maslow insisted on the importance of hierarchical needs of people. The five main
needs which should be kept in mind by the management to motivate their employees as
indicated by Maslow (1943) are physiological factors, safety factors, social factors, esteem
factors and self-actualization.
The Maslow theory is one of the pioneer theories of management which is considered to be
useful in assisting managers and is very simple to understand and present as stated by Benson
(2003). On the other end, certain economists and socialists have ideas that go against
33
Maslow’s theory. Koutsoyians (1991), argues that man has unlimited needs and wants. If we
relate this to the Maslow theory in which he suggests that needs are at the stage development
of individuals, goes controversial with Koutsoyians. According to Koutsoyians (1991)
consider that there are infinite “wants” not “needs”. This shows that an individual does not
require a need if there is no need of it in actual. Criticising the Maslow theory Buchanan and
Huczynski (2004) considers that it is not appropriate to apply this theory as it possesses the
ideas that are unclear and does not examine the behaviour of an individual. Carr (2005) stated
that this theory is not empirically supported as Maslow did not provide any empirical
evidence to support his findings. Moreover, this theory is cultured based which means that it
depends on the norms and values of individuals. Based on the limitations, Maslow’s theory
was extended and modified by Alderfer in 1969.
2.3.2 Alderfer’s ERG Theory
Another theory that was introduced in the management field based on the needs of individuals
was formulated by Alderfer (1969). According to his theory there are three major needs
(existence, relatedness and growth) that held responsible in fulfilling the desired needs of
employees (Spector, 2000).He contradicts the idea of Maslow and stated that the needs do not
depend on levels. Oosthuizen (2001) stated that existence needs include basic needs (shelter,
water, food, working environment and pay), relatedness corresponded to Malow’s social
needs (co-workers relationships, friends and family) and lastly is the growth needs which
refers to Maslow’s self-actualisation in which individuals desire to grow and be more
productive. Although Maslow theory and Alderfer’s ERG theory resemble with each other
with respect to hierarchy level of needs but still their work has significant differences. For
example Maslow’s theory focus on specification of five levels in which individuals move
from low level to high level with respect to needs while Alderfer’s (existence, relatedness and
growth) theory have categorise these five needs into three basic needs(Greenberg and Baron,
2003).Above all, the Alderfer’s ERG theory is considered as an extended version of
Maslow’s work and it assist the managers to comprehend the attitude of their employees and
to know that they have certain needs which can be fulfilled at the same time. This shows that
the ERG theory does not have to follow any order and states that need can be fulfilled again
irrespective of order. Further, this theory is considered as one of the approach which accounts
intrinsic factors which become a reason for the management to take actions. Such knowledge
34
can be helpful to enhance the performance of the employees but lacks empirically evidence
(Ivancevich et al. (2008) as cited by Caulton, 2012).
2.3.3 Herzberg’s Two- Factor Theory of Job Satisfaction
Frederick Herzberg’s (1966) two-factor theory is considered as one of the most commonly
known theories of job satisfaction which is also known as a motivator-hygiene theory (Carr,
2005). This theory suggests that job satisfaction and motivation techniques hold an important
position in the workplace. Moreover, Herzberg explained that how job satisfaction is different
from that of dissatisfaction of the employees by suggesting moderators of job satisfaction that
contribute to the motivation mainly recognition of the needs and accomplishment of the
goals. The motivation technique plays an essential role to make the workers perform well and
to satisfy them. The consequences of motivation lead to enhancement in the productivity,
identification of the needs and more chances of promotion. In contrast to this, the hygiene
factors like job security and salaries were held responsible for the job dissatisfaction. In the
following section, the researcher will explain the generation of the two-factor theory.
Herzberg (1966) formulated the two-factor theory of job satisfaction when the strikes were
being carried out by the workers due to dissatisfaction. The main motive of the two-factor
theory was to know the reasons of employee job dissatisfaction and how this stigma can be
overcome. This led to a question in the minds of the researchers to know about the factors
that could satisfy employees. According to Herzberg et al. (1966) the principle of the two-
factor theory of job satisfaction was to know about the impact of job satisfaction on the
workers. Herzberg predicted that job satisfaction and job dissatisfaction of the employees
function in the same manner showing neutralism in the centre point where the employees are
neither satisfied with their jobs nor dissatisfied (Behling et al. 1968).
The critique of the two-factor theory was that when the researchers applied this approach in
their studies, it did not support this theory as the results showed variations. For instance, the
research work conducted by Kendall and Robinson (1975) showed mixed results by
sustaining the impact of job satisfaction factors but did not support the dual continuum of the
factors (Kendall & Robinson, 1975). Moreover, the Herzberg two-factor theory was
supported by other scientists in verifying the discrimination between job satisfaction and job
dissatisfaction, but failed to support the factors that contribute towards the motivation
35
techniques of the people and the hygiene variables. The research conducted by Ewen et al.
(1966) argues that the role of motivation factors and hygiene factors were different from that
of the Herzberg two-factor theory anticipations as mentioned by (Stello, 2011). Further, they
concluded that factors of job satisfaction and job dissatisfaction showed results in the
opposite ways, which means the motivator factors could significantly impact on the job
dissatisfaction. Likewise, the hygiene factors such as salaries and the others were regarded as
essential tools which showed a radical influence on the job satisfaction of employees
Figure 2.4: Variables of Hertzberg's Two-Factor Theory
Source: Author’s Own Diagram Based on Hertzberg's Two Factor Theory (1966)
Further to the findings of the need theories it is seen that they play a crucial in understanding
the needs of individuals and motivating them simultaneously as stated by Greenberg and
Baron (2003).
Achievements
Recognition
Motivators
Salary
Security of job
Hygiene factors
Job
satisfaction
determinants
Job
dissatisfaction
determinants
36
2.3.4 Comparison of Content Theories
Table 2. 1: Summary Table of Content Theories
Motivation
type
Level of needs Type of theories
Maslow Hierarchy needs
Hertzberg two factor
Alderfer ERG
Intrinsic
Extrinsic
5 Self-
actualization
Motivating
factors
Growth need
4 Esteem
3 Social
Safety
Physiological
needs
Hygiene factors Relatedness need
2 Existence need
1
Source: Author’s Own Table Based on Kian et al. (2014)
Table 2.1 shows the comparison of three major content theories. The first theory is the
Maslow’s theory which was further extended by Alderfer in the form of ERG model. The
main difference between the Maslow and Alderfer’s theory is level of fulfilment. On the other
hand Hertzberg’s theory further defines the work of both researchers and divided hygiene
factors as lower level factors and motivating factors into higher order level. According to
Ozguner and Ozguner (2014) Hertzberg two-factor theory would be useful in providing
significant results in analysing job satisfaction as previous researchers were mostly based on
Maslow’s theory.
2.4 Hackman and Oldham Job Characteristics Model
Herzberg (1966) considered work environment as one of the crucial factor of employee’s job
satisfaction. Keeping into consideration his work, Hackman and Oldham (1975) build a
model to investigate important factors in the work environment which helps to determine job
satisfaction. The main components of their model are given as follows:
37
Table 2. 2: Components of Hackman and Oldham Model
Autonomy The degree of independence, discretion and liberty granted by the occupation in analysing various factors such as the work environment, breaks in work and distribution of different tasks.
Identity of task The amount of work identified by an employee in accomplishing the targeted job.
Variety of skill The degree of opportunities provided by the job to the workers in utilising different levels of aptitudes and abilities.
Feedback of task The evaluation of work provided by the job to the employees in regards to their performance and achievement of the objectives and organisational goals.
Importance of task The impact level of the job performance executed by the employees either on their colleagues working in the same organisation or different one.
Source: Author’s Own Table Based on Halepota (2011)
According to Rousseau (1977), most of the studies were in favour of this model. The job
characteristics model strengthened the work done by Arthur and Paul (1965). They examined
the connection between the attitude and behaviour of employees towards their work and the
main aim of that work. The job characteristic theory argues that the work which is derived
from objectives to be accomplished in a particular span of time and the same schedule of
work leads to a) an increase in job dissatisfaction of employees, b) more chances of quitting a
job and c) high rates of absenteeism. This ultimately results in difficulty in handling the
employees working on even a simple task. The specific features of the Hackman and
Oldham’s job characteristic model are that the employees should possess the awareness and
understanding of their work, the deliverance of the work should be performed in an efficient
manner so that they should be obliged towards their responsibility for the fulfilment of the
assigned task.
Likewise, the main limitation associated with the Hackman and Oldham job characteristic
model in the view of Brass (1981) is that it did not consider the organisational/interpersonal
variables which may have an influence on the job satisfaction. This shows that organisational
environmental factors should be considered for they have a significant relationship with job
satisfaction. Nevertheless, this theory is also useful to apply in Lahore-Pakistan as it helps to
identify the factors which are responsible to energise employee’s job satisfaction within the
manufacturing industries of Pakistan.
38
2.5 Determinants of Job Satisfaction
It is crucial to know the constituents of job satisfaction. For this reason, different theories
were reviewed earlier which provided various perceptions and concepts of the researchers
about job satisfaction. The expectancy theory of job satisfaction formulated by Porter and
Lawler (1968) developed the concept of other motivational theories by providing a broad
model consisting of factors which play fundamental roles in representing various
determinants of job satisfaction. The primary focus of illustrating different theories as
discussed above in section (2.3) is that they have strong connections with employee job
satisfaction within the organisation. In this way, it acts as the foundation for conducting the
respective research by providing the basis for the interpretation of the attitude and behaviour
of the employees towards the job satisfaction phenomenon. As discussed before that the
origin of all theories of job satisfaction was formulated and developed mainly in developed
western context, particularly the United States of America and that their work was mostly
industrial based. It can, therefore, be visualised that all these theories of job satisfaction do
not provide further encouragement to other cultures mainly in an Asian environment. For this
purpose, the particular study has been taken into consideration to evaluate and assess the
effectiveness, generalizability and validity of the theories of job satisfaction in the light of the
Pakistani manufacturing industry sector of Lahore.
For the profound knowledge of job satisfaction, this study examines some essential factors
that contribute towards employee satisfaction. To conduct this study, the researcher focuses
on different manufacturing companies from the public and private sectors. Nevertheless, a
profound review of literature based on employee job satisfaction is quite related because it
has provided a strong base to assess, and interpret various variables of job satisfaction. This
study, therefore, presents the facets that were analysed to understand the job satisfaction
levels in leading public and private manufacturing companies of Lahore-Pakistan.
Job satisfaction is considered as the fundamental source of employees’ working lifestyles.
Various researches have been conducted on the satisfaction of employees that belong to
different professions in different organisations. The main purpose of their studies is to create
alertness about problems related to workers and the determinants which have strong impacts
on job satisfaction of employees within the organisation. Thus, with a proper understanding
39
of key factors of job satisfaction, the management can assist to enhance the performance of
the workforce which will ultimately lead to increased productivity.
Various factors contribute towards job satisfaction. Ayub (2010) with the help of survey
technique investigated the impact of pay, promotion, supervision, fringe benefit, contingent
rewards, operating condition, co-workers, nature of work and communication. His findings
revealed that private university teachers are more satisfied with their job as compared to
public university teachers.
To analyse the impact of task significance, job clarity, working conditions, esprite de corps,
job training, procedural justice, neuroticism, self esteem, locus of control and self efficiency
Halepota (2011) carried study on 310 public medical institution employees from 20 districts
of Pakistan. Survey questionnaire was adopted to find the perception of employees towards
job satisfaction. Results showed that all factors are significantly linked to job satisfaction
except for three factors (task significance, job security and locus of control) showed no affect
on job satisfaction.
Rast and Tourani (2012) assessed the influence of independent factors (nature of work,
present pay, opportunities for promotion, supervision and relationship with co-workers) on
the job satisfaction. Employees working in Iranian airline industry were distributed survey
form to examine the job satisfaction. Rast and Tourani’s findings revealed that all factors
significantly predict job satisfaction. However, gender did not show any relationship with the
job satisfaction.
Yang and Wang (2013) conducted study on civil servants of Beijing in China to determine
their satisfaction level. For this purpose sample size of 800 employees was used. Various sub-
factors of job characteristics, organisational-environmental factors and personal
characteristics were used to examine the job satisfaction level. Their findings revealed that
factors which have significant influence on job satisfaction include task variety, salary, work
environment safety, relations with co-workers and gender. Similarly, different authors state
that job satisfaction is a function of different facets (Lehman, 2014; Ali & Wajidi, 2013).
Okpara (2002) suggested that the main factors of employee job satisfaction include salary,
good co-workers relationships, supervision, the work, promotion and career opportunities
40
present in the organisation. Latif et al. (2011) argued that there were six basic components
such as educational qualification, pay, promotion, nature of work, work-life balance and
security in job satisfaction.
To find the difference between the public and private sector university teachers of Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan Aziz (2013) adopted Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire. A
sample size of 420 was conducted using T-Test. Results showed no difference among public
and private university teachers. Taking into consideration major contributors of job
satisfaction Ravichandran et al. (2015) conducted study on 150 employees working in
manufacturing industry of Puducherry in India. Analysis of variance was used to find the
impact of working condition, promotion and work environment. All three factors were found
to be statistically associated with the job satisfaction. Whereas, findings of Rukh et al. (2015)
revealed that demographic, financial and non-financial factors play a significant role in
predicting job satisfaction among public manufacturing employees of Pakistan.
Mihajlov and Mihajlov (2016) analysed the impact of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on job
satisfaction and how turnover intention is influenced by job satisfaction phenomenon. A
sample size of 234 employees working in public and private enterprises were send survey
questionnaire. Two difference techniques were used to assess the collected data. Results
revealed that public sector employees are highly satisfied as compared to private sector
employees. Moreover, their findings contradicted the idea of Herzberg’s two-factor theory by
stating that extrinsic factors lead to satisfaction. This shows that factors which are sources of
satisfaction and dissatisfaction is affected by various factors mainly country, nature of study
and sample size. To further confirm Herzberg’s two-factor theory Rahman et al. (2017)
conducted study in three big cities of Pakistan (Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi).The
population consisted of both family Takāful and life insurance agents. Results showed that
Herzberg’s two-factor theory successfully predicts the job satisfaction of employees. To
check the influence of moderator (Shari’ah perception) multiple regression analysis was used.
Findings revealed Shari’ah perception acts as a significant moderator for family Takāful sale
agents as compared to and life insurance agents.
Table 2.3 given below shows the summary of different determinants of job satisfaction
constructed from literature review to find the gap in knowledge.
41
Table 2.3: Extension of a Literature Review on Determinants of Job Satisfaction
Authors & Location
Key Factors Items or Questionnaire
Sample Size
Methods Used
Key Outcome
Ayub (2010)
Karachi, Pakistan
Pay, promotion, supervision, fringe benefit, contingent rewards, operating condition, co-workers, nature of work and communication
Job Satisfaction Survey (Spector, 1997).
160 T-Test
A significant difference was found between the Public and Private University teachers except for three variables (supervision, co-workers and communication). The results indicated that Private University teachers are more satisfied as compared to public University teachers.
Halepota (2011)
20 Districts of Pakistan
Task significance, job clarity, working conditions, esprite de corps, job training, procedural justice, neuroticism, self esteem, locus of control and self efficiency
Survey Questionnaire
310 Confirmatory factor
analysis (CFA) and
Structural equation modelling
(SEM)
All factors exert statistically significant influence on job satisfaction in public medical institutions of Pakistan except for task significance, job clarity and locus of control.
Rast & Tourani (2012)
Iran
Nature of work, present pay, opportunities for
promotion, supervision, relationship with co-workers and gender
Survey Questionnaire adopted from
(Rodeghier, 1996).
315
Descriptive analysis and T-Test
Findings revealed that present pay; opportunities for promotion, supervision and relationship with co-workers are important factors of job satisfaction in the airline industry of Iran. Moreover, no significant difference was found between job satisfaction and gender.
This study was conducted on Civil servants of Beijing in China. Results showed that job characteristics such as task variety and salary have significant impact on job satisfaction; Organizational-environmental factors (work environment safety and relations with co-workers) also possess significant relationship with dependent variable whereas, personal characteristics mainly gender has insignificant influence on job satisfaction.
Ali & Wajidi
(2013)
Islamabad and
Rawalpindi,
Pakistan
Working environment, Professional opportunity, time pressure, promotions and compensation
close end questionnaire
200
Multiple regression analyses
Professional opportunity, time pressure, promotions, compensation have significant relationship with job satisfaction of employees working in public health care sector of two big cities of Pakistan. The working environment was found to have insignificant relationship with job satisfaction. Findings further revealed that 63.4% of the variance was contributed by the above mentioned factors.
Lehman (2014)
Texas, USA
Promotional opportunities, compensation, work environment, adequate training & training opportunity, positive relationship with supervisor, work group, nature of the work & perceive fair treatment
Survey questionnaire adopted from literature
47 Multiple regression analyses
The R square value indicated that 58.2% of the variance was contributed by the independent variables towards overall job satisfaction. Results showed that Master of Public Administration students of Texas State University working in public agencies were less satisfied with promotional opportunities.
42
Authors & Location
Key Factors
Items or Questionnaire
Sample
Size
Methods Used
Key Outcome
Okpara (2002)
Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria
Pay, gender, supervision, promotion, co-workers, work and demographic factors
Job Descriptive Index (Smith et al. 1969, 1985)
340 T-Test and multiple regression analysis
Results showed that a significant difference occurs between male and female bank manager’s salary with respect to demographic factors having R square values as .52 for gender, .48 for education and .51 for experience. Findings also indicated that female respondents were less satisfied with their pay as compared to males. However, female employees were more satisfied with their work, co-workers and supervision.
Latif et al. (2011)
Faisalabad, Pakistan
Nature of Work, promotional opportunities, educational qualifications, job security, family & work life balance and pay
Survey Questionnaire
160 Descriptive analysis and correlations
Public College teachers of district Faisalabad in Pakistan were more satisfied with all components of job satisfaction as compared to Private College teachers.
Aziz (2013)
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,
Pakistan
20 Dimensions of job satisfaction
Minnesota Survey Questionnaire long form
420 T-Test No significant difference was found between the public and private sector university teachers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan.
Ravichandran et al. (2015)
Puducherry, India
Working condition, promotion and work environment
Well-structured Questionnaire
150 Exploratory factor analysis, frequency distribution and analysis of variance (ANOVA)
Employees working in manufacturing industry of Puduchery in India showed satisfaction towards job. Findings indicated that all three factors played a significant role in job satisfaction. However, promotion was recorded as the most influential factor of job satisfaction.
Rukh et al. (2015)
Pakistan
Demographic, financial and non-financial factors
Self-administered Questionnaire
250 non-parametric Spearman correlation and Kruskal-Wallis tests
Results showed that demographic, financial and non-financial factors were significantly associated with the job satisfaction among large public engineering goods manufacturing organisations of Pakistan.
Mihajlov & Mihajlov (2016)
Serbia
Intrinsic and extrinsic along with turnover intension of employees
Previous survey questionnaire
234
T-Test and Hierarchical regression analysis
Results revealed that employees working in public enterprise are more satisfied and showed low turnover rate as compared to private employees. Findings indicated that extrinsic factors lead to satisfaction. Their results contradict Herzberg’s theory which states that extrinsic factors are resource of dissatisfaction.
Rahman et al. (2017)
Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi, Pakistan
Motivators, Hygiene factors and Shari’ah perception (moderating variable)
Survey Questionnaire
318 Descriptive analysis , multiple regression and hierarchical regression analysis
Findings indicated that Herzberg’s two-factor theory plays a significant role in motivating both family Takāful and life insurance agents. However, the moderating effect of Shari’ah perception has a significant influence on family Takāful sales agents as compared to life insurance agents.
Source: Author’s Own Table Based on Literature Review
43
From Table 2.3 above, it is observed that most of the researchers agreed to the issues
regarding facets that measure the job satisfaction. Among them, the most important factors
are pay, attitude of supervisors, job security and co-workers. However, the main limitation
associated with their work is that the sample size used by the researchers varies concerning
the research project and other factors. This shows that the sample size has a direct influence
on the results of the study. Along with that it is seen from the above mentioned literature that
most of the researchers have applied Herzberg two-factor to find the job satisfaction level of
employees.
One study by D’Addio, Eriksson and Frijters (2003) has concluded that job satisfaction is
directly related to various mental factors. Evidence (reliability test) has revealed that job
satisfaction is a combination of various factors which help to analyse the job satisfaction
levels of employees within the organisation. Taking this into consideration, the researcher
considers the important factors that enhance the job satisfaction of employees as Kumari and
Pandey (2011) stated that the relationship of job satisfaction is not necessarily straightforward
and can be influenced by a number of other work-related constructs. To gain more insight
into this view, the main factors which influence job satisfaction levels among employees are
discussed in detail (see Chapter 3).
2.6 Rationale for the Selection of Mixed Theories
This study is based on combination of Hertzberg’s two-factor theory and Hackman and
Oldham theory as the crucial motive of study is to investigate the specific factors which have
a positive impact on the employee job satisfaction. As discussed in section 2.5 various
researchers have applied Herzberg two-factor theory to determine the perception of
employees towards job satisfaction. However, few studies have considered the combination
of theories as a result of which this study will use a combination of theories to evaluate the
perception of employees working in public and private manufacturing companies of Lahore-
Pakistan.
According to Alshitri (2013), the absence of extrinsic factors among employees in the
organisation results in job dissatisfaction. As a result, it is important to identify the perception
of employees towards hygienic factors which include: salaries, co-workers, job security,
supervision, working conditions, task significance and work environment. On the other hand,
44
the elements which constitute intrinsic factors are recognition, achievement, responsibility,
promotion and the work itself. The presence of intrinsic factors also plays an important role in
enhancing the job satisfaction of employees (Danish & Usman, 2010). Both extrinsic and
intrinsic factors contribute towards job satisfaction of employees. This shows that it is equally
essential to consider both types of factors.
Since the current performance of the manufacturing industry is in decline in Pakistan, it
would be useful to analyse the influences of both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, since intrinsic
factors reduce job dissatisfaction and extrinsic factors enhance job satisfaction. Therefore, by
evaluating the perception of employees towards these factors would help to know the attitude
and behaviour of the employees towards certain predictors of job satisfaction and if any of
these are not statistically associated with job satisfaction, then recommendations could be
made to human resource practitioners of the manufacturing industry of Pakistan.
It is observed from the literature that previous studies have been conducted in the developed
Western countries, and few have been conducted in the developing countries. Moreover, these
studies were limited to specific industries only. By taking into consideration, the
organisational features one can identify the job satisfaction of employees as it has direct
impact on the success of an organisation. Hence, it was appropriate to use combination of
theories.
2.7 Public versus Private Sectors
The public sector is comprised of organisations which are run by government whereas the
private sector composed of entities privately run by private owners. Mohammed & Kolachi
(2013) explained that the public sector is the main hub for the prosperity of any economy and
nation. In such situation, it should be the primary intention of the public sector practitioners to
manage the things in an appropriate way, and this could be achievable when the managers of
an organisation are themselves satisfied. This could be seen in the form of performance of an
organisation. Most of the studies based on the behaviour of people have reported that job
satisfaction of the workers is very important for the enhancement of the productivity of an
organisation. Since job satisfaction has beneficial outcomes, almost every organisation
focuses on the development of the HR because the performance of the public sector
45
organisations is considered to be poor by corruption and poverty rate, financial calamity,
instability in the government policies (Memon, 2007).
Recent researches prevail that the job satisfaction of employees varies across different sectors
of the economy (Durst & DeSantis 1997; Jung et al. 2007). This shows that there are certain
factors associated with job satisfaction which influence employees differently in both public
and private sectors. According to Kumari and Pandey (2011 the topic of public sector versus
private sector is more like a debate which does not have any end and the reason behind this is
that both these sectors provide scopes in different ways. With the help of literature, the
researcher now discusses the findings of various researchers about the differences in the
public and private sectors. For example Ashraf et al. (2013) stated that the public sector of
Pakistan is more attractive and provide services to the community. This means that the
employees working in government companies work under the public eye and have to serve
the public. A study conducted by Nasir (2001) on the earnings of public and private sector
workers revealed that public sector employees earn more compared to the private sector
workers in Pakistan. As a result, there are much higher satisfaction levels of job satisfaction
for the public sector employees of Pakistan than the private sector. Similarly, results of Tai
and Chuang (2014) also concluded that public sector employees show higher job satisfaction
levels at work as compared to private sector employees.
Different researcher’s results showed that the pay level of employees is an important factor in
both the public and private sectors (Ayub, 2010). A study conducted by Kumari and Pandey
(2011) revealed that during the recession period, the government sector expanded the pay
scheme and added 110,000 jobs while the private sector reduced the jobs by 6.9 million; but
still the satisfaction phenomenon is considered in both sectors.
The main issue occurs when it comes to comparison of job satisfaction in both the public and
private sectors. Various studies have depicted different results, and so it is hard to conclude
which sector has a higher level of job satisfaction. Moreover, there are researches which show
that the public sector employees have low levels of job satisfaction, while others even
revealed that there is no difference in the job satisfaction levels among the public and private
sector employees as suggested by Hussain (2012). Other researchers have stated that the
satisfaction levels depend on the factors which help the employees to show positive attitudes
46
towards their jobs which varies from sector to sector (Yang & Wang, 2013; Rast & Tourani,
2012).
For example Hussain, (2012) explained the satisfaction in publicly owned banks and stated
that the employees in the public sector feel more job secured than the private sector which
leads to increased job satisfaction among the public sector. The same view has been explained
by Khalid and Irshad (2010). The uncertainty in the results is mainly due to the application of
the intrinsic and extrinsic factors in an organisation as cited by Błoński and Jefmański (2013).
This shows that the variance in the job satisfaction levels is more likely influenced by internal
and external factors. The research conducted by Rainey and Bozeman (2000) revealed that
public sector employees are affected by internal factors as compared to external factors
whereas the opposite is observed in the private sector. The main reason of these influential
factors is due to the bureaucratic nature of operations in the sector.
2.8 Manufacturing Industry and Job Satisfaction
The manufacturing industry has played a paramount role in the 21st century and is considered
to be an important source of income for any country. The primary target-location of this
project is the city of Lahore situated in Pakistan. This city is selected due to the ease of
access, sub cultural mix, larger population size which are all comparatively higher than
Islamabad which is the capital of Pakistan and its representativeness. Lahore is the capital of
the Punjab province and is well known around the world. The unique features of Lahore
include its leading role in different industries (banking, education, steel, commerce, iron and
agricultural products). The hub of transportation is in Lahore, which links it to other main
cities of Pakistan (Kron, 2016).
Further, it is revealed that most of the studies have been conducted in the Western context as
stated by Yang and Wang (2013). As a developing country with unstable economic
industrialisation, different sectors of Pakistan have faced considerable losses in recent years
suffering from economic loss. Lack of resources and non-satisfactory performances of the
workforce are the two leading provocateurs of such losses. Hence, the existing literature
review analyses the factors which can decrease the job dissatisfaction.
47
Taking into consideration the study related example of Pakistan, it is observed that it is one of
the major contributors towards the economic growth of a country (Shah, 2011). According to
Pakistan Survey Report (2014-2015) the manufacturing industry of Pakistan is said to
comprise of 65.4% share in the total industrial sector. And it comprises of three sub sectors
i.e. large scale manufacturing (LSM), small scale manufacturing (SSM) and slaughtering
where LSM shares are 80%, SSM shares 13% and slaughtering shares 7%.
Due to globalisation and international competitiveness, the manufacturing industry declined
last year in the growth of all sub sectors. Large scale manufacturing declined from 3.99 to
2.38; small scale manufacturing declined from 8.29 to 8.24 and slaughtering declined from
3.40 to 3.32. According to Memon and Tahir (2012) the investment in public and private
sectors are held responsible for enhancing the productivity in the country of Pakistan. The
previous report of (2009-2010) showed that the growth rate of the manufacturing industry had
declined from 22 per cent to 16.2 per cent. This shows that every year the performance of the
manufacturing industry is declining.
According to Raza et al. (2015) it is suggested that organisations performing at international
levels need to focus on their employees. This shows that when employees are satisfied with
their jobs, they perform well which in return has a direct impact on the performance of an
organisation and its growth rate. The research conducted by Rukh et al. (2015) mentioned that
few of the studies have been carried out in large industries as most of the research areas are
based on education, banks and medical institutions. From the above statistics it is observed
that much of the attention is required in the manufacturing industry of Pakistan so that it can
retain its performance and gain the competitive advantage. This research, therefore, analyses
the factors which can boost the job satisfaction levels of employees so that they can perform
well as it proportional to the revenue generation of the country. According to Commonwealth
Network (2016) the manufacturing industry of Pakistan has been severely affected since
2008. The main issues associated with the performance of the manufacturing industry are due
to less demand of the products as the international market is suffering from economic crisis.
Moreover, the investment in the manufacturing industry has decreased by 11% in 2011
(Memon and Tahir, 2012) as compared to the United Kingdom whose growth has risen to
15% in 2014 (Rhodes, 2015). The manufacturing industry is composed of various sub sectors
48
which are given in Table 2.4 below along with the point contributions in the form of
percentages.
Table 2. 4: Percentage Point Contribution of the Sub-sectors of Pakistan’s Manufacturing Industry
Sub-sector 2013-14 2014-15
Food, Beverages & Tobacco 1.02 -0.13
Automobiles 0.02 0.79
Pharmaceuticals -0.01 0.79
Textiles 0.30 0.11
Leather products 0.11 0.08
Wood and paper -0.05 -0.46
Chemicals 0.12 0.10
Non-metallic products 0.01 0.14
Engineering products -0.08 -0.04
Others 4.4 4.7
Source: Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (2015)
Table 2.4 above indicates that the contribution of the majority of the sub-sectors of the
manufacturing industry in Pakistan has sharply declined in recent years. Considerable
attention is required to combat this issue as this would lead to high unemployment rates and
staff turnovers because the employees always look for job security. The Human Resource
managers play vital functions to retain the stability of any industry. The main reason behind
this is that without proper management and planning, various redundant and unplanned
consequences occur which leads to disappointment among customers. The perception of
dissatisfaction harms the surroundings. Hence, it is essential that employees should perform
well, and this could only be achieved when they are satisfied with their jobs.
According to Narayan (2004), the developed countries have achieved much attention due to a
rapid increase of modern technologies and innovation in the manufacturing industry keeping
out of reach the developing countries. This means that a considerable amount of study is
required to test the models developed in Western context. For the achievement of goals and
development of a country’s economy, it is essential that the workforce of the manufacturing
companies and in other organisations should be satisfied as they act as the main sources of
development.
49
The productivity of the manufacturing industry does not only depend on the accomplishment
of the objectives but also on inputs and outputs. Gajic et al. (2014) reviewed employee job
satisfaction as an essential tool for the progress of an organisation and human resource
management. The majority of the industrial sectors evaluate the satisfaction levels of their
employees with the help of the survey technique as dissatisfaction leads to high rates of
absenteeism from the workplace which could be either high staff turnover, sickness or other
factors.
The study of Ravichandran et al. (2015) was conducted on the manufacturing industry of
India in which they declared there are three major factors (working conditions, promotion and
work environment) that has a direct impact on the job satisfaction of employees. Among
them, promotion was recorded to influence more than the other two factors. For this purpose,
they used simple random sampling techniques and survey questionnaire forms to analyse the
perception of manufacturing industry employees.
From the above literature, it has been seen that Pakistan is so much dependent on the
manufacturing industry due to its high shares as compared to other industries. However, due
to less resources and negligence of the management system, this industry always faces losses.
The main cause is that the industry suffers from high staff turnovers. To overcome this issue
the management should function properly i.e. it should satisfy their employees to yield better
output and many researchers have verified that there are various factors which the human
resource practitioners should consider to enhance the performance of their employees and to
retain their positions in the business. In this thesis, the researcher takes into consideration the
comparison between the public and private manufacturing companies and to evaluate the
impact of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on job satisfaction of employees within the
organisation.
2.9 Research Gap
Previous studies revealed that in both the sectors of public or private enterprises, the job
satisfaction phenomenon is quite common, and there are various factors which induce
employees to show positive attitudes and behaviour patterns towards their jobs. However, the
topic of job satisfaction in both the public and private sectors is more likely to be subject to
50
debate as suggested by Kumari and Pandey (2011). This is due to the variances in the findings
of different authors which contradict with each other and have argued that there was a need
for further investigation of factors which could enhance the job satisfaction levels in the
organisation (Yang & Wang, 2013; Ayub, 2010; Bright, 2008).
With the help of literature review on determinants of job satisfaction (see section 2.5), the
researcher is able to find out the gap in knowledge in the subject area and is motivated to
explore further the factors which play major roles in the job satisfaction of employees within
the organisation like the manufacturing industries of Lahore-Pakistan and to find out the
differences in the job satisfaction levels among the public and private sector employees in the
country.
Considering the gap in the literature, this thesis investigates the influence of intrinsic and
extrinsic factors on job satisfaction levels in different sectors of manufacturing companies in
Lahore-Pakistan. Furthermore, this study checks if there exists a significant difference among
public and private sector employees with respect motivational factors and job satisfaction.
This project will be unique in nature as previous studies were carried out in the developed
Western World context, and have been done in particular industries (banks, universities,
information technology and medical institutions) ignoring the representative phenomenon of
the manufacturing industries of Pakistan as posited in the literature (Rukh et al., 2015).
The large organisations like the manufacturing industry of Pakistan which shares most of its
shares declined since 2008 due to high competition in the international markets as a result of
which the industry is facing high staff turnovers. Memon and Tahir (2012) stated that the
manufacturing industry faced various issues like poor quality of products, low growth of
investments along with output and exports. This shows much of the attention is required to
sustain the effective running of this industry and this can only be achieved when the
employees are satisfied with their jobs, because happy employees help to achieve the
organisational goals on time. Keeping into consideration the current position of the
manufacturing industry of Pakistan, it is revealed that its employees are not satisfied as a
result of which they do not perform well. This has a direct impact on the output of these
industries. Previous studies have prevailed that numerous factors are associated to enhance
the satisfaction level of employees.
51
Hence, with the help of the random technique method, the researcher identifies and selects
various public and private manufacturing companies in Pakistan and analyses their various
and respective job satisfaction levels. In addition to this, very little evidence has been
provided in the context of Pakistan’s public and privates manufacturing sectors in Lahore,
which is the heart of Pakistan and no key research is conducted in this way. Considering all of
the above-mentioned shreds of evidences, this research investigates and provides more
authentic findings which will constitute an addition of new knowledge to this subject area of
studies and provide a gateway for future studies.
2.10 Conclusion
Literature depicts that public versus private sector comparison is a debate topic (Kumari &
Pandey, 2011). Various studies depicts that numerous factors have been studied which helps
in enhancing the job satisfaction level. However, the results of these studies often contradict
to each other (Yang & Wang, 2013).
In this study, the researcher compares and contrasts the influence of intrinsic and extrinsic
factors of job satisfaction among public and private sector employees of manufacturing
companies. For this purpose, the researcher selects random manufacturing companies for
further discussion (see chapter 4). Moreover, the above-mentioned literature reveals that job
satisfaction is the most researched topic in the area of management in which “about 3,350 and
articles and dissertations had been written” as cited by Hussain (2012, p. 1916). Furthermore,
the researcher has identified the importance of job satisfaction within the organisation. In the
light of the literature, different approaches and theories are considered. From the two major
approaches of job satisfaction (classical management approach and neoclassic approach), it is
revealed that neoclassic approach of job satisfaction is the most useful one, for it considers
the needs of the workers as cited by Celik (2011). Different theories of job satisfaction are
critically evaluated and among them, content theories were selected as it is based on the
investigations of job satisfaction factors.
This study is motivated by the study conducted by Khalid et al. (2012) among public and
private sector universities. However, their study was based on the education sector only. In
any organisation, extrinsic factors play an important role as they have a direct impact on the
52
job satisfaction levels of employees and could lead to job dissatisfaction if absent as stated by
Alshitri (2013). Similarly, intrinsic factors are held responsible to motivate the employees
thereby, increasing their job satisfaction levels.
It is vitally important, therefore, for the researcher to check the job satisfaction levels of
employees within the organisation by evaluating the perception of employees towards certain
factors of job satisfaction. It is observed that numerous studies have suggested either the
positive or negative relationships of job satisfaction with certain determinants as mentioned in
(section 2.5). However, the main theme of this research is to find out the job satisfaction
levels of public and private sector employees of manufacturing companies.
From the findings of the job satisfaction theories and the empirical evidence, it is revealed
that tremendous suggestions are recommended as to how much and when the satisfaction
arises by using the different factors of job satisfaction as discussed earlier in section 2.3. It is
revealed from the above-mentioned literature that various techniques have been implemented
to analyse the perception of employees towards their jobs and the most appropriate technique
adopted by the researchers is the questionnaire. Different public and private companies were
selected for this purpose based on the ownership of the companies; the researcher was able to
explore the relationship between job satisfaction and certain independent factors.
53
Chapter Three: Conceptual Framework and Research Hypotheses
3.1 Introduction
This research aims to analyse the predictors of job attitudes of workers in order to develop the
job satisfaction levels of the employees in the manufacturing industrial sector of Pakistan. For
the development of conceptual framework, the researcher has taken into consideration
different theories on job satisfaction and evidences from previous empirical research as
mentioned in the review of the literature in chapter two of this thesis. In addition, this chapter
also aims at developing the hypotheses guiding the thesis by evaluating various theories on
job satisfaction and come up with a conclusion. This conclusion is based on these theories
which play major roles in predicting job satisfaction within the organisation. Also, the
researcher will present a job satisfaction model using a theoretical framework which critically
analyses the major indicators of job satisfaction in the public and private sectors of the
manufacturing industry in Lahore-Pakistan.
3.2 Research Framework
Job satisfaction is regarded as a tool of an employee satisfaction (Saeed & Farooqi, 2013).
This shows that the overall perception one holds about his or her work examines the level of
job satisfaction as mentioned by (Halepota, 2011).
In the view of Oshagbemi (2003), organisations mainly focus on the job satisfaction of their
employees as employee satisfaction is directly related to the productivity of an organisation
(Böckerman & Ilmakunnas, 2012). Moreover, by keeping the record of inputs (working
hours, task effort and education) and outputs (salary, promotion and career opportunities, co-
workers relation, work environment and task significance) helps to measure employee job
satisfaction. The balance between these leads to higher levels of job satisfaction (Sousa-Poza
& Sousa-Poza, 2000).
Job satisfaction plays a major role in the organisational commitment, which means that when
workers are satisfied with their jobs they will be more satisfied with their lifestyles, and then
they will be more committed to their work patterns with the seriousness that it deserves. This
will engender fewer chances of employees leaving the job.
54
As mentioned by Tella et al. (2007, p.5) “Lack of job satisfaction is a predictor of quitting a
job”. This shows that decrease in employee job satisfaction will force workers to shift from
the private sector to the public sector. There are various reasons for quitting a job and moving
to another workplace. In the developing countries, this process is very common. The main
reason is that when management does not meet the expectations or needs and wants of the
workers, they will always look for better facilities. Different theories of job satisfaction as
mentioned in chapter two help management of public and private organisations to consider
various factors which can lead to employee satisfaction. The most common theory of job
satisfaction is Maslow’s theory of hierarchical needs. Although, the negative point of this
theory is that it represents unclear concepts and do not examine the individual’s attitude to
work, it is also more culturally based (Buchanan & Huczynski, 2004).
On the other hand, the Hackman and Oldham theory of job satisfaction also has a critique that
it does not consider organisational factors Brass (1981). Similarly, other approaches also
show controversies by different researchers. This research is based on content theories to
evaluate the job satisfaction of the public and private sectors of the manufacturing industry in
Pakistan.
Extrinsic factors (salaries, co-workers, job security, supervision, task significance and work
environment) all have a direct influences on the job satisfaction levels of the employees,
which means that when hygiene factors are unpleasant or missing in the organisation, then
this would lead to job dissatisfaction (Adenike, 2011). On the other hand, intrinsic factors
(promotion, achievement, work itself, recognition and responsibility) also play important
roles in job satisfaction. Thus, this research analyses the relationship between both intrinsic
and extrinsic factors and job satisfaction. Further, it examines the influence of the working
conditions as well for the development of organisational factors at the workplace in
developing countries. The central perspective of evaluating the relationship between the
intrinsic and extrinsic factors and job satisfaction was conducted on the public and private
manufacturing companies of Lahore-Pakistan. Figure 3.1 given below represents the
relationship between intrinsic and extrinsic factors and job satisfaction where the public and
private sectors are controlled variables of this study.
55
Figure 3.1: The Conceptual Framework of the Research
Independent Variables (Dimensions of Job Satisfaction)
Dependent Variable
3.3 Salaries
Various studies have different opinions regarding the impact of salaries on job satisfaction.
Khalid et al. (2012) suggested that salary is the essential tool of job satisfaction in nearly all
types of sectors whether public or private, small or medium sized entities or big businesses.
Whereas, on the other hand, the study conducted by Young et al. (2014) empirically proved
that salaries has an inverse relationship with the job satisfaction with = -.49.
This view was supported by the findings of Brainard (2005) in which he argued that a weak
bond exists between salaries and job satisfaction. However, a majority of the studies have
Promotion
Salaries
Co-workers
Job security
Supervision
Working conditions
Extrinsic factors
Intrinsic factors
Task significance
Work environment
Work itself
Achievement
Recognition
Responsibility
Job Satisfaction
56
proved that a positive relationship exists between salaries and job satisfaction among
employees in the work places as mentioned by and Tourani (2012). Moreover, Grace and
Khalsa (2003) stated that salary is considered to be an important indicator of job satisfaction.
This shows that when there is an increase in salary, the level job satisfaction also arises.
Therefore, the researcher will use this factor to check the overall job satisfaction level in the
public and private sectors of the manufacturing industry in Pakistan.
Theories mentioned above have been progressed much into the world of job satisfaction.
Macdonald and McIntyre (1997) suggested that job satisfaction is more likely to be
influenced by employees’ salaries and financial benefits. This demonstrates that job
satisfaction has a significant impact in both theoretical and practical realities of the
employment world. Where there is less job satisfaction companies tend to experience very
high staff turnovers and this leads to low productivity within the organisation. Usually, the
marketing companies have high turnovers and their employees become less satisfied if they
do not get the desired wages and commissions. Organisations should, therefore, pay
competitive salaries so that employees work harder and be rewarded with high salaries
because of their good performances.
Banjoko (2006) stated that competitive salaries have a direct link with an employee job
satisfaction. This shows that organisations which do not offer competitive salaries to their
employees face high staff turnovers and absenteeism. A report of by the United Kingdom
Retail Store ASDA (2007) reveals that salaries influence job satisfaction of employees.
According to this report ASDA (2007), 60.33 per cent of the employees who work for ASDA
are highly satisfied with their salaries, 25.62 per cent are satisfied, 6.61 62 per cent are neither
satisfied nor dissatisfied with the amount of pay, and the least percentage recorded for
dissatisfaction was 5.79 62 per cent. Only 1.65 62 per cent are recorded for a highly
dissatisfied employees with their salaries. Employees with high salaries showed higher
satisfaction levels and employees with less salaries showed less job satisfaction rates.
The concept of job satisfaction was explored by ASDA in 2007 when there were increases in
the salaries of their employees. The company induced the feedback rotation policy so that
they could find out job attitudes of their employees. The above-mentioned literature,
therefore, depicts that employee job satisfaction levels go higher when salaries increase.
Hence, the proposed hypothesis (Hypothesis 1) is as follows:
57
H1: “Employees with higher salaries have greater job satisfaction levels within an
organisation”.
3.4 Co-workers
Different researchers conducted various researches on job satisfaction and found out that
various factors are associated with job satisfaction which could reduce the high staff turnover
rates and help and encourage high productivity of an organisation. Among organisational
features, one of the most visible examples that promote job satisfaction is the relationship
between the co-workers within the organisation. It is essential for the workers to cooperate
with each other at the workplace as a friendly relationship with the colleagues assists to create
an encouraging atmosphere which results in an increase in job satisfaction (Durst & DeSantis,
1996; Ting, 1997; Volkwein & Zhou, 2003). This also shows that when workers cooperate
with one another, the outcome is usually a healthy environment where employees possess
better attitudes towards the job. In Pakistan, for example, co-workers tend to work close to
each other to make the job more satisfying for them. This may go the other way round as
well. Moreover, when employees work as a team, there are more chances of enhancement in
work performances due to job satisfaction as stated by Abugre (2012); that good interactions
between managers and workers result in positive outcomes. This shows that co-workers’
relationships, which increases job satisfaction at the workplace, is important as it has a direct
impact on the organisation’s output and performances.
On the other hand, Harmer and Findlay (2005) argued that only 6.7 per cent of the variances
in job satisfaction are due to co-workers cooperation and effective supervision, and the
significance level was recorded to be greater than 0.05. This shows that co-workers
cooperation and effective supervision do not possess a significant relationship with the job
satisfaction. However, a majority of the studies contradict with these findings as a study
conducted by Eder and Eisenberg (2008) revealed that co-workers are more likely to leave the
job if they found that their relationships are violated. It is crucial, therefore, for the
management to understand the ways by which they could make their staff to be loyal to them
and to find out ways by which they could stop their workers from quitting their jobs. Hence,
the proposed hypothesis (Hypothesis 2) is as follows:
58
H2: “Employees having good relationships with their co-workers possess greater job
satisfaction levels within an organisation”.
3.5 Job Security
Organisational commitment among workers in the organisation can be achieved through job
security. This means that employees with secure and permanent jobs should be more satisfied
than temporary or contractual job holders in light of the relationship between job security and
job satisfaction in different sectors that is the public and private sectors. The study of Khalid
and Irshad (2010) revealed the differences between the perceptions of different sector workers
and suggested that public sector workers are more satisfied with job security as compared to
their counterparts in the private sector organisations. So does that mean job satisfaction can
only be achieved in the public sector? The answer is not that as simple as it looks like as the
job security has widened its arms towards the satisfaction of workers in the organisation.
Iverson (1996) claimed that job security has an influential impact on organisational
commitment within the organisation. This means that with a change in job security, the
organisational commitment would also change. Similar results have been showed by Morris
et al. (1993) where he goes out in favour of the view mentioned above along with the positive
relationship of job security with job satisfaction.
From the literature, it is clearly shown that job satisfaction increases with the increase in job
security. Now the point is if that, must employees working with permanent contracts always
be highly satisfied? However, when it comes to the public and private sectors, the results are
observed differently. For example, a study conducted by Hassan et al. (2011) revealed that
job security is one of the major dimensions of job satisfaction in the private sector. Hence,
this study examines the influences of job security on job satisfaction in both the public and
private manufacturing companies of Lahore in Pakistan. Furthermore, job security is
accounted to have a direct relationship with job satisfaction which means, if the job is secured
then satisfaction can be seen by the employees, and more amount of sound output can be
achieved if they are psychologically settled. Similar is the case where security and guarantee
are paramount for salaries and promotions. This ultimately suggests that any employee either
in the public or private sector, if given the confirmation of job security could help him in his
own satisfaction of his current employment. If the employees are satisfied, then the employer
could also make the most use of them because ‘Protect and make the most out of the training
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budget–focus resources on key areas such as improving line management capability and
customer service’ (ACAS, 2010, p.4). From the above literature, it is revealed that revenues
can be generated in both sectors by giving the jobs on a permanent basis. Taking into
consideration the impact of job security on job satisfaction the proposed hypothesis
(Hypothesis 3) is proposed as follows:
H3: “Employees with high job security at the workplace enjoy higher job satisfaction levels
within an organisation”.
3.6 Supervision
Adebayo and Ogansina (2011) stated that a significant relationship exists between
supervisory behaviour and job satisfaction. This shows that supervision is directly
proportional to employee job satisfaction. Similarly, Adebayo and Ogansina (2011)
mentioned in their study that, supervision is not only based on human relations, but it also
deals with different skills and how the workers coordinate with each other on various work
tasks and the involvement of technical knowledge.
In the view of Eseka (2009) states that the supervisor’s primary duty is to adopt the
supervisory techniques as this would lead to the success of an organisation. It has been
revealed from the previous literature that supervision behaviour acts as a catalyst for the
productivity and the success of an organisation. This supervisory action also helps to
recognise the leadership skills of a supervisor which helps the firm to evaluate the skills of a
supervisor (Osibanjo et al. 2015). Focusing on the role of supervisors, Chen et al. (2002)
mentioned that some scientists consider the supervisors’ characters as same as managers. This
shows that supervisory behaviour plays a significant role in the organisational success of the
organisation. Moreover, it has been seen in the literature that the performances of the workers
are directly linked to the ways they are supervised (Mohammad & Akhter, 2010; Adebayo &
Ogansina, 2011).
Alshitri (2013) stated that there some characteristic features of supervisors that play
significant roles in the job satisfaction levels of their workers. Alshitri (2013) further stated
that the supervisors should have friendly relationships with the workforce and appreciate the
work of their employees. Thirdly, supervisors should give equal opportunities to their staff to
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participate in the decision-making processes and should show interest by listening to their
opinion as this has a direct influence on the increase in employee job satisfaction levels
within the organisation (Alshitri, 2013).
McCroskey (2006) argued that job satisfaction does not only depend on the employees’
performances; but it also depends on the employees’ attitudes towards their supervisors
meaning that there should be a balance between employees and supervisors’ understanding;
because if they do not respect the opinions of each other, then this would lead to failure of the
organisation as both of them would be dissatisfied. It is essential, therefore, that the
workforce should be job satisfied as their perceptions are directly linked to the productivity of
the organisation.
The literature discussed above shows that the relationship between supervisors is positively
associated with an employee job satisfaction. This means that job satisfaction is dependent
upon the supervisor’s attitude towards employees and they should have better understanding
between each other as they are responsible for the success of an organisation. The proposed
hypothesis, therefore (Hypothesis 4) is as follows:
H4: “Employees with higher supervision within an organisation enjoy greater job satisfaction
levels with their work”.
3.7 Working Conditions
The concept of working conditions is crucial in any organisation. This is due to the fact that
working conditions are regarded as one of the essential tools of increasing job satisfaction of
their employees (Jain & Kaur, 2014). The working conditions of employees could be either
comfortable or hazardous for the workers. It is essential, therefore, for organisations to
provide best conditions to their employees as it is directly proportional to the satisfaction
levels of employees.
A study conducted by Bakotić and Babić (2013) stated that, their working conditions were
influenced by various factors namely: external factors, subjective factors and organisational
factors, where external factors mainly dealt with temperature, radiation, smoke, dust, gases,
humidity and other injurious variables. On the other hand, the subjective factors dealt with
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demographic features (age, gender, education and representativeness). And the variables
related to the organisation include working hours, salaries and so on. This shows that working
conditions are constituents of the numerous factors which the management should take into
consideration.
Raziq and Maulabakhsh (2015) explained that organisations are now-a- days facing financial
pressures because of competition in the business as a result of which every single company
works hard to gain competitive advantage. It is crucial, therefore, for the business leaders to
satisfy their employees by giving them better working conditions as this would enhance the
businesses and low staff turnovers could be achieved within the organisation. Previous studies
revealed that supervision is positively related to job satisfaction (Gawel, 1997; Javed et al.
2014). Organisations should focus on the enhancement of the working conditions to increase
the performances of the workforce as this result in high productivity levels of the organisation
(Atambo et al. 2012). Taking this statement into consideration, it can be seen that the working
environment has an influential impact on the overall job satisfaction levels of employees. The
managers should understand the needs and wants of their employees as every employee has a
different satisfaction level based on working conditions they are being provided. In that case,
all three working environmental factors as mentioned above should be considered. For
example, organisations where multi-cultured people are employed possess different features
of job satisfaction levels depending on the environment in which they work.
However, the most characteristic feature of working conditions within the organisation
depends on how well the environment around them is provided; that is whether it is healthy or
poor. This view was supported by Markey et al. (2012) in which they focussed on the quality
of the workplace and explained that it is identified by less pressure of work, promotional
opportunities and appreciation by the managers on a good performance that is achieving goals
on time. Moreover, results of empirical studies have also revealed that working conditions are
one of the main indicators of job satisfaction (Siu, 2002). The results of most studies as
mentioned in the above literature indicated that working conditions are positively related to
job satisfaction. Hence, the formulated hypothesis (Hypothesis 5) is given below:
H5: “Employees provided with higher standards of working conditions have greater job
satisfaction levels within an organisation”.
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3.8 Task Significance and Work Environment
In the present era, different organisations face pressure from foreign businesses due to rapid
increases in competition globally. To maintain effective running of organisations,
management needs to make sure that employees are satisfied with their jobs. Morgeson and
Humphrey (2006) stated that by cultivating the idea of task significance, employees can
perform their tasks better at work. This shows that task significance has a direct influence on
the perception of the employees as they show more concern with the outcome of their work
which could benefit both the organisation as well as society. Research conducted by
Halepota’s (2011) findings revealed that task significance does not have a direct influence on
employee’s job satisfaction mainly in health care institutions.
In the view of Grant (2008), little research has been conducted on the relationship between
task significance and job performance. Hence, by analysing the relationship between task
significance and job satisfaction, the human resource management can analyse the
performances of the employees as satisfied employees perform well as suggested by Sousa-
Poza and Sousa-Poza (2000). Previous studies have shown positive impacts of task
significance on job satisfaction.
Another important predictor of job satisfaction is work environment. Raziq and Maulabakhsh
(2015) state that Human Resource practitioners need to introduce healthy work environment
as this is helps to maximize the job satisfaction levels of employees. Taking into
consideration the needs and wants of the customer, managers need to focus on the satisfaction
levels of their employees because satisfied employees help to achieve the goals of the
organisation on time. Similarly, Jain and Kaur (2014) mentioned that when workers are happy
with their working environments they perform well leading to the growth and development of
their respective firms.
The proposed hypothesis (Hypothesis 6), therefore, is as follows:
H6: “Employees provided with significant tasks and good work environment have greater job
satisfaction levels within an organisation”.
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3.9 Intrinsic Factors and Job Satisfaction
Based on Hertzberg’s two factor theory, there are certain factors which act internally to an
organisation mainly promotion, achievement, recognition, work itself and responsibility.
Ayub (2010) stated that promotion and career opportunities increase the job satisfaction
levels of employees within the organisation. This means that most of the employees perceive
promotion as a motivator and is often regarded as one of the most influential and powerful
tools for job satisfaction (Hackman & Oldham, 1975). Shaikh et al. (2012) concluded that job
satisfaction and promotion have strong correlations between them. This shows that when
employees are granted with promotional opportunities, they will ultimately be satisfied with
their work whereas an absence of this would lead to dissatisfaction. This view was supported
by various authors (Durst & DeSantis, 1996; Park & Kim, 2009; Sell & Cleal, 2011) in which
they stated that a positive relationship exists between promotional opportunities and job
satisfaction. Moreover, promotion gives an opportunity to the worker to be responsible and to
enhance the status in the society (Robbins, 1998; Heery & Noon, 2001).
On the other hand, Malik et al’s. (2012) findings contradict with the above mentioned
theories. They argued that promotion had less impact on the job satisfaction levels of
employees in comparison to pay, and failed to show significant relationships between
promotion and job satisfaction. This shows that promotion does effect the job satisfaction of
employees more than the increased pay scale. However, most of the studies as mentioned in
the above literature have revealed that significant positive relationships occur between
promotion and job satisfaction, irrespective of the most influential indicator. Other important
intrinsic factors such as recognition, work itself and achievement also positively impact on
job satisfaction levels within the organisation (Benrazavi and Silong, 2013).
This study was further supported by Hoque et al. (2016) in which they stated that a major
motivator of job satisfaction is recognition. Another key motivator of job satisfaction is the
sense of responsibility. According to Aliakbari and Kafshgar (2013) job satisfaction and
responsibility possess a significant relationship. Hence, it can be said that intrinsic factors
mainly promotion; work itself, recognition, achievement and responsibility have positive
impacts on job satisfaction levels within the organisation. The proposed hypothesis, therefore,
(Hypothesis 7) is as follows:
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H7: “Employees with higher intrinsic rewards (promotion, work itself, achievement,
recognition and responsibility) have greater job satisfaction levels within an organisation”.
3.10 Comparison of Job Satisfaction in Public and Private Sectors
Some past research suggests that job satisfaction directly depends on upon the health of the
working environment (Rossberg et al. 2004). Bhutto et al. (2012) conducted a study to
compare the employee perceptions of the organisational climate and job satisfaction at public,
private, and foreign banks operating in Pakistan. The relationship between these measures
was also analysed. Fourteen sub-factors of organisational culture were studied for
investigating the relationship between the two variables under study. Twelve branches of
banks in Karachi were included in this study. To collect the data, 90 executives were
surveyed in 4 branches each for the public sector (National Bank of Pakistan {NBP}), private
(Muslim Commercial Bank {MCB}), and foreign bank (Standard Chartered Bank {SCB}).
The data was collected through structured questionnaires, consisting of 42 questions. Multiple
regression analysis is used in reaching the findings of the study. Results of the survey show
that the employee perceptions of the organisational climate and job satisfaction are more
positive for the foreign bank as compared to the private and public banks of Karachi. The
employee perceptions for both the organisational climate and job satisfaction were found to
be least favourable for the public banks. Furthermore, three sub-factors of organisational
climate were found to positively impact the job satisfaction levels of employees at the banks
including organisational structure, identity and human relations; the two factors, equity and
empowerment were negatively related. A study conducted by Hussain (2012) in the public
and private banking sectors revealed that there does not exist a significant relationship
between the public and private bank employees. Previous studies have shown that a
significant difference exists between the public and private sectors (Bas et al. 2002; Khalid &
Irshad, 2010; Ayub, 2010; Khalid et al. 2012). Hence, it is demonstrated that job satisfaction
levels differ both in the public and private sectors of organisations in Pakistan. The following
hypothesis (Hypothesis 8), therefore, is proposed:
H8: “A significant difference exists between the public and private-sector employees with
respect to job satisfaction and extrinsic as well as intrinsic factors within an organisation”.
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Chapter Four: Research Methodology
4.1 Introduction
This chapter discusses in detail the methodology adopted for this study. Firstly, it analyses the
relationship between job satisfaction and salaries, co-workers, job security, supervision,
working conditions, task significance, work environment, promotion, work itself,
achievement, recognition and responsibility in the public and private sectors of manufacturing
companies in Lahore-Pakistan. The research design for the thesis was encouraged by the
same research from Khalid et al. (2012). However, the nature of this study is dissimilar to the
previous work as a combination of manufacturing companies was taken into consideration
which makes it unique from other studies. Moreover, this type of research has not been
conducted in Lahore before. Hence, it will be useful to carry out research on multiple public
and private manufacturing companies to inspect the relationship between the dependent
variable (job satisfaction) and independent variables (salaries, co-workers, job security,
supervision, working conditions, task significance, work environment, promotion, work itself,
achievement, recognition and responsibility).
Additionally, this chapter is composed of different sections. The first section, considers the
significance of paradigms and the reason for the adoption of this research philosophy.
Secondly, the section provides the justification for the selected approach for the research. In
the other sections of this chapter, the study discusses the research strategy, research design,
sampling technique, the application of various instruments and the measurement scale. Before
conduction of final analysis, a pilot test was used. Further, this chapter will report on the
successful attempt of data collection along with ethical issues and the technique for
conducting the data and its analyses. And lastly, it will discuss the adoption of appropriate
methods used for the analysis of survey questionnaires.
4.2 Research Paradigms
Creswell (2009) suggested that there is a significant influence of research philosophy and
research paradigm on the research design and hence should be considered while
implementing the research methodology. The social scientists quite often use the paradigm
terminology in their subject besides the fact that it contains a lot of meanings (Saunders et al.
2009). Keeping in view the importance of paradigm, McGregor and Murnane (2010) reveal
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paradigm as a vital tool in research because it provides the guidance for the researchers to
shape their works. This argument was supported by the authors Weaver and Olson (2006) in
which they revealed that “paradigms are a set of certain beliefs that are practised that help to
achieve an investigations procedure within the boundary” (Weaver and Olson 2006, p. 460).
Holden and Lynch (2004) also suggested that research paradigms are the philosophical
stances which help the researchers can carry out their studies. In the view of Johnson and
Christensen (2010), these philosophies possess some characteristic features mainly: values,
assumptions, practices and certain concepts and are hence different for each paradigm
(ontology and epistemology). It is vital, therefore, to consider the research paradigm as every
researcher has a different view and knowledge of the world. This results in a difference in the
findings and opinions of the researchers during the investigations procedure showing
variances in the nature of paradigms even if the same paradigm is applied for the same study
as suggested by Hatch and Cunliffe (2006).
This is useful as it gives researchers an equal opportunity to share their perceptions on
research paradigms as it will lead to the reduction in research biases as the researcher will be
able to represent and discuss it in detail (Flowers, 2009). As previously discussed in chapter
two of this thesis, it is observed that despite a lot of supporting literature on the job
satisfaction in different industries, various authors still argue that there is still the need to find
out the factors that play important roles in the satisfaction of employees.
Summarising the purpose of this study, one will find out that most of the study is conducted
on job satisfaction in the education and banking fields in Lahore-Pakistan. Less emphasis is
put on the performance of the manufacturing industry which has declined in Gross Domestic
Product in recent years and a lot of research is required to help the management of this sector.
Hence, this study opens the gate providing the evidence of job satisfaction of employees
taking into consideration various public and private sector manufacturing companies which
make the nature of the current study different from other studies.
However, keeping in mind the constraints of time it has not been possible to consider all the
determinants of job satisfaction. Nevertheless, it has been possible to study the impact of
certain hygiene and motivation factors on job satisfaction. This study, therefore, enhances the
understanding of the factors which could boost the job satisfaction of employees in different
(public and private) sectors of the manufacturing companies in Lahore, Pakistan. Hence,
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studying the influential factors of job satisfaction will assist the management to evaluate the
job satisfaction factors in both the public and private sectors and will help fill in the
knowledge gap. Also, it will help the managers to identify the perception of the employees
towards the hygiene and motivation factors as it has focused on the ownership of the sectors.
Furthermore, future researchers could benefit from their respective studies and could
implement this study in big organisations.
In view of the above-mentioned literature, the researcher now applies an appropriate
paradigm based on the assumptions of each element of paradigm as previously discussed.
There are two main types of research paradigms; i.e. Ontology and Epistemology which will
be discussed as follows:
4.2.1 Ontology
Yin (2009) stated that an ontological paradigm deals with the study of the existing nature.
Similarly, other researchers defined ontology as “the branch of philosophy dealing with the
nature of reality and the truth” (Johnson & Christensen, 2010, p.32). This means that
researchers should consider the “way the world operates” and to what extent he or she should
embrace or hold them (Saunders et al. 2007, p. 108).
Kuhn (1970) stated in the book entitled “The Scientific Revolution” that there are two main
types of paradigms i.e. the ontological and epistemological paradigm that suggests the
researchers to visualise the universe and to understand the perception of the scientists about it.
Moreover, the ontological paradigm is composed of two main segments which are:
objectivism and subjectivism where the objectivism aspect of ontology positions itself in such
a way that it does not show its connection with the social actors and hence possess an
independent nature (Saunders et al. 2009). Contrary to this, subjective ontology concentrates
on the understanding of the insight of actors towards the phenomenon that is socially attached
with it (Yin, 2009).
In this study, the researcher has applied an objective ontology as objectivism deals with the
present situation and is not influenced by social actors as mentioned by Saunders et al.
(2007). This shows that objectivism acts independently and is not affected by certain
components like beliefs, views, feelings and perception of social actors. There are a certain
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set of rules and regulations which the workers have to follow in the workplace. The first and
foremost rule is that of the human resource management (HRM) by which they have to
provide the details of a job that is being advertised for the recruitment. The job description is
given to the individuals so that they are prepared well ahead for the respective post and to
carry out their task under the rules of their organisation from the first day of their jobs. Also,
workers become much familiar with the work required from them with the passage of time.
The details of the work that are not provided to the workers at the initial stages include
strategy followed by the respective organisation, the anticipation of the producers, suppliers
and the consumers; in other words, the stakeholders and the recognition of the brand about its
rivals. For productive work, the employees should meet up with the expectations of
shareholders to attain competitive advantage and to apply that strategy which could result in
the success of an organisation. This shows that the procedure of businesses possess unique
and objective nature and are hence free. For example, they are not affected by the employee
and are right compared to ones who are with the firm and are already practicing the rules
along with the reviews that are considered important to describe the performance of an
employee. To evaluate the performance of an employee, the organisation in which the
employee works, uses benchmarking keeping in view their goals and objectives which were
examined during the review process. Focussing on the consequences of the negative reviews
Caspi et al. (1998) stated that during the review phase if the firm evaluates the performance of
an employee as negative then they are subject to face work stress, and tries to avoid losing the
job and the benefits associated with the better performance reward. To refrain from the
jobless phase, workers should know the uses of availing the opportunity in a firm and the
outcome of their performance. Therefore, it is vital that the management should take every
step to avoid stuff turn over during the assessment process of the performance of their
employees. As a result of which this study will presume that the matter under consideration
will be free from actors.
4.2.2 Epistemology
Epistemology is that type of paradigm which focuses on the procedure that can be carried out
to make the knowledge acceptable (Burrell & Morgan, 1982; Saunders et al. 2007).
Moreover, it examines the individual engagement or involvement along with analysing the
connection between the researcher and the matter during the research project as cited by
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Holden and Lynch (2004). There are various branches or types of philosophies, the important
ones are associated with. Epistemology is associated with positivism, interpretivism and
realism. Since the primary concern of this research is to look at the major contributors of job
satisfaction, therefore, the study adopts positivist epistemology. See section (4.3) for further
discussion on research philosophies.
McGregor and Murnane (2010) revealed that the positivism aspect of epistemology deals
with that philosophical stance which is real in nature and are measurable and does not depend
on the suggestions of humans. It only depends on the development of the hypothesis obtained
from the previous literature to conclude the acceptance or rejection of the hypothesis
(Saunders et al. 2009). The stage of positivism initiates from the theoretical aspect and
finishes at the deductive stage. This means that this study will first sustain that approach
which acts independently and is objective in nature and will hence end up testing the
hypothesis. He further argued that the researchers should give more attention towards the
deliverance of the adopted philosophies instead of providing general information on the
philosophies and should possess the ability to defend the applied philosophy. The structure of
the research paradigm is illustrated in the Figure 4.1 below:
Figure 4.1: The Research Paradigm Structure
Source: Author’s Own Diagram Based on Saunders et al. (2007)
The research philosophy that has been derived with the help of the paradigms as mentioned
above will then lead to design the strategy for the research. The primary focus of the research
philosophy is to organise certain beliefs, perceptions, the context and the assumptions.
According to Neuman (2003), research philosophy plays a vital role in the conduction of the
research and developing the framework of a study (Saunders et al. 2009). Based on the
previous discussion on ontology and epistemology, four essential research philosophies that
are linked with them are discussed one by one. Saunders et al. (2009) suggested that there are
four main constituents of research philosophy which include Positivism, Realism,
Interpretivism and Pragmatism.
4.3.1 Positivism
The first type of research philosophy is positivism under which the researcher formulates the
hypothesis to test the objectives of the research (Saunders et al. 2012). The technique used for
collecting the data in the positivism philosophy is usually quantitative in nature and is highly
structured.
4.3.2 Realism
Another type of research philosophy is realism which focuses on enquiring the social factors
scientifically and in real life (Saunders et al. 2007). This strengthens the idea of the
philosophers that objects are not controlled by the humans and are naturally independent. The
fundamental aspect of realism is totally based on the senses meaning that what we see in real
life is the fact of reality. Realism is the subdivision of epistemology which shows similarity to
each other concerning the assumption that scientific approach is related to the development of
knowledge (Bryman, 2006). The researcher will not adopt this philosophy as it does not show
a parallel connection with the research objectives.
4.3.3 Interpretivism
The third segment of research philosophy is the interpretivism which aims to understand the
differences between humans as social actors (Saunders et al. 2009). This means that the
researchers should concentrate more on the humans study rather than the resources that are
made by the humans.
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The interpretivism philosophy is a function of human perceptions about the world in which
they live and give their contribution with salient features to this world (Saunders et al. 2007).
Crucially it is interpreted that with the interpretivism philosophy, “the researcher has to focus
on the empathetic stance” (Saunders et al. 2009, p.116). This seems challenging as the
researchers have to consider their views in a particular context. The procedure for assembling
the data via this philosophy is appropriate for smaller samples. The researcher utilises an in-
depth interview technique which is highly qualitative in nature.
4.3.4 Pragmatism
The fourth element of the research philosophy is the pragmatism which asserts that the
researchers view and interpret the affairs of the world in multiple ways in order to conduct
their research work. Saunders et al. (2009) explained that pragmatism reveals the importance
of research questions which are considered as the main constituent of the research strategy.
The pragmatists in favour of this philosophy argue that if the research question does not give
a vivid image of the adoption of the interpretivism or positivism philosophy, then this gives
the confirmation of the pragmatism view (Saunders et al. 2012). In this philosophy, mixed a
method approach is used i.e. both qualitative and quantitative data. This view goes contrary to
the view of Kelemen and Rumens (2008) asserting that the methods used in the pragmatism
context vary in accordance to answering the research question.
4.3.5 Justification of Selected Research Philosophy
It has been concluded from the research as mentioned above philosophies after critical
evaluation of them and taking into the account the research objectives and questions that have
been devised to assist the respective study that, the adoption of positivism seems suitable for
the conduction of this study. The main motive for considering this philosophy is to make use
of an existing theory to assert the assumptions for the evaluation of job satisfaction among
public and private sectors employees. Moreover, the rationale behind the adoption of the
positivism philosophy is that it leads to further development of the theory. This shows that it
would help in contribution to the body of knowledge with more analytical thoughts and will
ultimately fill in the gap in the literature by opening the way for further research (Saunders et
al. 2009). Hence, this study will test the generalizability of theories in the country of Pakistan
that were practised in different industries by various authors. The nature of this study will be
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unique as it has considered different manufacturing companies of public and private sectors
of the province the Punjab-Lahore in Pakistan.
4.4 Research Approaches
To explain the nature of the study Saunders et al. (2009) stated that there are two key
approaches to defining the research mainly: the deductive approach by which the researcher
formulates the hypothesis and design the research strategy to assess the hypothesis. Secondly,
is the inductive approach in which the researcher assembles the information for the
conduction of the data analysis and formulate the theory based on the conclusion. However,
in this project the researcher will adopt the deductive approach; the rationale for the selection
of deductive approach can be seen in section 4.4.4.
4.4.1 Deductive Approach
The central aspect of the deductive approach is based on what humans perceive about the
scientific research. According to Saunders et al. (2012) deduction leads the way to the
development of a theory subjected to a rigorous test. It is most dominantly used in natural
sciences, where laws present the basis for explanation, allowing the anticipation of
phenomena and predict their occurrences and therefore allowing them to be controlled (Collis
& Hussey, 2003).
This approach is termed as the one which moves from whole to part (Creswell, 2009). A
general event is used to make deductions about a specific event. Arguments based on laws
and rules are examples of deductive research (Soiferman, 2010). For example, if all the dogs
bite and “A” is a dog hence he must bite (Trochim, 2006). Soiferman (2010, p.3) further
defines deduction as that kind of approach that “begins with the general and ends with the
specific”. In this approach, the aim of the researcher is to test concepts and patterns
theoretically known with the aid of newly observed data. It reaches the hypothesis first
relying on the existing theories and then tests it using the new observations such as surveys
from the employees or customers. Similarly, Beiske (2007) describes that the deductive
approach as used to explore whether a proven theory or concept would apply to a given
scenario or not. Thus, the deductive researcher works following the top to down approach to
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test the hypothesis, findings of which result in either adding to or contradicting the existing
researchers’ knowledge (Bhattacherjee 2012).
The steps involve in the deductive research approach includes deduction of hypothesis from
theory, formulating the hypothesis, deciding the appropriate variables and proposing the
relationship between them, deciding an appropriate methodology for testing the theory,
making observations, examining the observations and finally accepting or rejecting the
hypothesis.
4.4.2 Abduction Approach
The term abduction refers to a flourishing concept of researching for theories, and social
researchers have taken great interest in this approach. The abduction approach of logical
reasoning was coined by Charles Sanders Peirce, who defined the term as “abduction”, and
used it to denote the only truly knowledge-extending means of inference (Reichertz, 2009).
Peirce struggled for more than 50 years to discover the logic of the derivation of new ideas.
He considered abduction to be the first stage of inquiries, and that it was a necessary part of
one’s perception and memory. Abduction is a distinctive type of approach to of reasoning,
namely inference or argument. It is not to be confused with traditional approaches of
induction and deduction (Fann, 2012).
Today the term "abduction" is widely used in qualitative social research. In reference to
Peirce’s work, many educationists, linguists, psychologists, sociologists, psychoanalysts,
theatre-scientists, theologians, criminologists, and researchers in the artificial intelligence
have made use of the abduction approach, as it reaches to the sphere of deep insight and
discovers new knowledge. Abduction assists in social research to formulate new discoveries
in a logically and methodologically ordered way (Charniak & McDermott, 1985). Unlike the
inductive approach, the only abduction is capable of bringing new ideas to life application, by
creating hypotheses and conjectures from the interpretations of perceptions and ideas
(Reichertz, 2014).
According to Peirce’s logics, efforts of the abduction approach seek a new order, specifically,
the discovery of an order which complements certain facts; or, more precisely, which solves
the practical problems that arise from such situations (Moore & Richard, 1964). Abduction is
the process of epistemic change which begins when surprise takes the human actor, and the
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starting point for any abduction is empirical data. Thus, it ends when the surprise is replaced
by the understanding of and the ability to make predictions (Aliseda, 2007).
Charmaz (2006) stated that abductive approach starts with the data which ultimately ends in
the formation of a theory. Following Harman, abduction can also be characterised as an
inference to the best explanation (Harman, 1965). In the modern world, abduction “is a rule-
governed way of knowledge” (Reichertz, 2007, p.216).
4.4.3 Inductive Approach
Induction reasoning starts from the basic observation and ends up the formation of a theory
(Charmaz, 2006). For a long time, induction was considered to be the central form of
interference of discovering new ideas. Induction is one of the types of logical reasoning,
which could either be quantitative or qualitative.
Quantitative induction makes inferences of a whole from the quantitative properties of a
sample; it is not a valid approach but is only a probable form of reasoning. In contrast,
Qualitative induction supplements the observed features of a sample and is considered as the
base of all scientific procedures (Reichertz, 2007). Thus we can conclude that the existence
of certain qualitative features in sample implies the presence of other features. For example, I
can hear a clatter that in many ways sounds like the clatter of hooves. Conclusion: clatter of
hooves are a feature of horses, thus horses may be around (Reichertz, 2014).
In the historical times, the inductive approach was rejected by researchers. Many researchers
relied on empirical evidence, based on the traditional logic of intuitive discovery. However,
the inductive approach is questionable, since it does not convey the truth, but only forms its
reasoning by a more or less probable situation. In “The Problems of Philosophy”, Russell
believes that the theory of induction is flawed because one can never prove the existence of
things from the hypothesis that the world consists of. The principle of induction applies only
to the verification of a single instance, based on past instances. Therefore, it cannot be
generalised over all cases, and the evidence for the truth only lies if the inductive principle is
assumed (Russell, 2001).
Based on the above reasoning, Induction observes individual parts of the unique diversity of
the world and attempts to determine its rules and laws to order its infinite manifestations. The
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inductive approach hopes that the rules ascertained in one limited situation also apply in other
contexts. Moreover, the inductive approach follows the procedure of subsumption (i.e.
deductive reasoning in which a conclusion is derived from two premises). Subsumption
proceeds from an already known context of features that follow a familiar rule and look for
the general background in the data in order to obtain knowledge about an individual case.
Unlike the abduction approach, the inductive approach does not create or discover new
knowledge as suggested by Reichertz (2014).
4.4.4 Justification of Selected Research Approach
In this study, the researcher has chosen the deductive approach. The key feature of deduction
is to explain the relationships between the variables (Saunders et al. 2009). The research
questions in this research are based on the analysis of the relationship between the job
satisfaction (dependent variable) and the independent variables (promotion, salary, co-
workers, job security, supervision and working conditions) and to check if a significant
difference exists between the public and private sector employees of Pakistan. This study
will, therefore, adopt the deductive approach. The research questions associated with this
study could be seen as follows:
1. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and salaries?
2. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and co-workers?
3. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and job security?
4. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and supervision?
5. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and working conditions?
6. What is the relationship of task significance and work environment with job satisfaction?
7. What is the relationship between job satisfaction and promotion, work itself, achievement,
recognition and responsibility?
8. Does a significant difference exist between the public and private sector employees of the
manufacturing industry of Lahore-Pakistan with respect to job satisfaction and extrinsic
factors (salaries, co-workers, job security, supervision, working conditions, task significance,
work environment) as well as intrinsic factors (promotion, work itself, achievement,
recognition, responsibility)?
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Here, the deductive approach seems more suitable in answering the above questions.
McGregor and Murnane (2010) suggested that the most common words which are used in the
deductive research such as: to determine, test, measure, variables and identify whereas the
inductive research employs words like to understand, discover, explore, aspects and uncover.
This research generates its tentative hypothesis with the help of research objectives to
determine the relationship of job satisfaction with the independent variables. The formulated
hypothesis is then utilised to help in measuring the factors. The research uses an ordinary
least square regression method and a t-test to verify the hypotheses guiding the study. And the
tools applied in this study could be seen as shown in figure given below:
Figure 4.2: The Operationalization Concept
Source: Adoption from framework
Research aim Generated hypothesis Operationalised variables to test
the hypothesis via
To examine the relationship between job satisfaction and salaries, co-workers, job security, supervision, working conditions, task significance, work environment, promotion, work itself, achievement, recognition and responsibility. The research also analyses the differences in the job satisfaction levels among public and private-sector employees of the manufacturing industry in Lahore, Pakistan.
H1: Employees with higher salaries have greater job satisfaction levels within an organisation.
H2: Employees having good relationships with their co-workers possess greater job satisfaction levels within an organisation.
H3: Employees with high job security at the workplace enjoy higher job satisfaction levels within an organisation.
H4: Employees with higher supervision within an organisation enjoy greater job satisfaction levels with their work.
H5: Employees provided with higher standards of working conditions have greater job satisfaction levels within an organisation.
H6: Employees provided with significant tasks and good work environment have greater job satisfaction levels within an organisation.
H7: Employees with higher intrinsic rewards (promotion, work itself, achievement, recognition and responsibility) have greater job satisfaction levels within an organisation.
H8: A significant difference exists between the public and private-sector employees with respect to job satisfaction and extrinsic as well as intrinsic factors within an organisation.
Planned
actions
Quantitative
skills
Postal
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Figure 4.2 above shows that the hypotheses applied in the deductive approach could be
progressed via operationalization which helps the researcher to measure the variables being
tested, and tested statistically. The main aim of using this statistical method is to understand
the phenomena and to modify theory in accordance with the research findings.
4.5 Research Design
Research design is regarded as the “blueprint for conducting a study with maximum control
over factors that may interfere with the validity of the findings” (Burns & Grove, 2003, p.
195).
There are three main types of research designs which are descriptive, exploratory and
explanatory. The research design is formulated by considering the aims and objectives of the
research along with the research questions and the title of the research (Creswell, 2014).
According to Saunders et al. (2009) the way in which the research question is being asked
would lead to either exploratory, descriptive or explanatory answers. Before the formulation
of the research question, it is essential that the researcher considers the purpose of the
research which is quite often associated with either of the above-mentioned designs.
Moreover, given Saunders et al. (2007) stated that the validity and reliability of the research
findings depend on the type of research design that is used in the research.
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4.5.1 Descriptive Design
The aim of this research design is to provide an accurate picture of observations, ideologies
and occurrences. In such form of studies, scholars have no control over the variables (factors)
or current predicament. Descriptive research may be characterised as merely an attempt to
determine, describe or identify what is (Ethridge, 2004). A comprehensive set of data on the
profile of customers or clients could be a very self-explanatory example of this research
design. Through this data, we can decode the likes and dislikes of the customers and act
accordingly. For example, product management team will be able to make better decisions on
new product development. Similarly, sales and advertising teams will take into account the
research and make relatable ads for better customer satisfaction. Descriptive research vaguely
fits into both qualitative and quantitative approaches to study. Often, within the same case-
study, descriptive research could apply the key elements of both approaches. It may comprise
of quantitative information as well that can be organised in numerical forms, such as scores or
figures, or it can describe categories of information such as gender or blood group.
Descriptive research is composed of data that describes events and then organises, tabulates,
depicts, and describes the data collection (Glass & Hopkins, 1984). Such research patterns
often use pictorial methods such as graphs and charts to aid the observer in understanding the
data variation. With the help of descriptive designs, raw data can be trimmed down and can
be converted into a manageable form. Questions in this type of studies usually start with
‘What’.
4.5.2 Justification of Selected Research Design
In light of the research question asserted in this study, the researcher adopts the descriptive
design to answer the research questions guiding the study. The key element of this research
design is that it is an effective method for researching specific problems or questions and as a
foundation for more numerical studies (Bryman & Bell, 2003). Hence, the researcher
considers this design to be appropriate to find out the relationship between job satisfaction
and independent variables in the public and private sectors of the manufacturing companies in
Lahore-Pakistan and how their job satisfaction levels could be increased at an optimum level.
The rationale for selecting this design by this study is based on the view revealed by Saunders
et al. (2009) in which they stated that descriptive design works better in a situation where the
researcher wants to know the correlation between two variables.
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4.6 Components of Research Design
There are three main components of research design that are associated with the research. The
first component of research design is the strategy adopted for the collecting data. Secondly,
the research choice made by the researcher and the third element is the time horizon of the
research project (Saunders et al. 2007). These elements are further associated with other
features which the researcher focused on while conducting the project as that needs
considerable attention. This means that the researcher kept in mind the main aim of the
research, the rules and regulations of the research design and last but not the least the
reliability of the results.
4.6.1 Research Strategy (Survey)
Different researchers have recognised various types of strategies that could be used to collect
the data from the respondents during the research project. The main types of research
strategies include experiment, case study, action research, survey, ethnography, grounded
theory and archival research.
In the view of Saunders et al. (2009), the selection of an appropriate strategy depends on
whether it will answer the research questions and objectives adequately. McGregor and
Murnane (2010) stated that a research strategy could be defined as a methodological
connection between the adopted philosophies and the subsequent choice of methods to collect
and analyse data. In this study, the researcher adopts the survey strategy to investigate the job
satisfaction levels among employees working in the public and private sectors of the
manufacturing companies in Lahore-Pakistan. The rationale for adopting the survey strategy
is to collect quantitative data from the public and private sector employees in Pakistan as the
collected data will then be used to suggest possible reasons for the particular relationship
between the independent variables used in the study, and to produce models of these
relationships (Saunders et al. 2009).
For data collection, the researcher makes use of survey questionnaires which were sent out to
respondents by post. This strategy was considered more suitable, since it enables the
researcher to collect data in large quantities, and is a less costly method of data collection.
More so, we know that firms are very reserved and secretive when they are questioned;
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manufacturing companies are frequently not transparent with respect to their adopted
strategies. As the process of sharing how their financial goods work will not legally make it
tough for its competitors to imitate but will make its clients suffer from this privacy of
knowing the goods they purchase. In regards to this and focusing on customer’s perception of
depicting the firm as immoral, the adoption of interviews was eliminated as there was a
concern of the data validity collected from the prospective interview of the managers who
would like to secure the industry.
The main risk associated with this strategy is that it has a lot of chances of biased data as the
respondents would give positive feedback about their firms. Despite the assurance of
anonymity to the mangers of public and private sectors, the decision of not conducting
interviews was put down mainly because of the alarm of whistle-blower in this industry as the
information travels quickly which could affect the position of the whole sector.
4.6.2 Research Choice
The main purpose of research choice is to identify the application of an appropriate research
method when using either qualitative or quantitative research as suggested by Saunders et al.
(2007). There are three main approaches namely: mono method, multi-method and mixed
method. The researcher has adopted mono method approach for this study. The rationale for
selecting this approach is based on the paradigm (positivism) as discussed previously. This
choice is, therefore, limited to apply mono method or mixed method. In a mixed method, the
researcher makes use of both qualitative and quantitative techniques to collect the data for
further analysis (Saunders et al. 2007). Based on this discussion the nature of this study
should be mixed method approach; however, the researcher applies the mono method
approach due to time limitation and implements the mono method in this thesis in a detailed
way which could be seen in the summary table of survey questionnaires.
4.6.3 Time Horizon
Like other components of the research design, time horizon also holds an equally important
position in the research. More often the application of an appropriate time horizon depends on
upon the nature of the research work i.e. the researcher has to keep in mind the time limitation
allowed to conduct the research with the given period. Taking into consideration the
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perspective as mentioned above, the researcher is allotted two types of time horizons
depending on the nature of the study namely: Cross-sectional study and longitudinal study. In
a cross-sectional study, the researcher is given a particular time to finish the research project
whereas in the longitudinal study the researcher does not have to depend on the period of the
study (Saunders et al. 2009). In the light of the time span available to this research, the
researcher opted to choose the cross-sectional study. The main drawback of this study,
however, is that the attitude of the participants may differ from time to time whether
conducted at a particular time or over a lengthy period. However, the strength of using cross-
sectional study is that it gives an opportunity to the researcher to evaluate the attitude of the
participants from different backgrounds, and conclude differences in the opinions of the
respondents as suggested by Remenyi et al. (1998). As a result, this study uses the method to
examine the relationships between the dependent and independent variables used in the
hypotheses testing in the study.
4.7 Population
Creswell (2014) suggested that sampling is the procedure with the help of which participants
are selected from the population to conduct data for the analysis process. It was essential,
therefore, to choose the sample from the target population. Hence, it can be said that it is a
process for representing the population as a whole providing useful sources of information
composed of diminutive parts (Sekaran & Bougie, 2010). The total population of this study is
400 as per guidelines provided by selected companies’ managers.
The sample must possess the adequate size to warrant statistical analysis. Sampling is
frequently performed because it is almost impractical to test every single individual within the
population. It has also been performed to save time, effort, and money while conducting the
research. Performing population sampling should be conducted in a proper and accurate
manner since; any error can lead to misleading and inaccurate data (Levy& Lemeshow,
2013). Results obtained from the population sampling can be generalised in order to represent
the whole of the population from where the aforementioned sample was retrieved.
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4.8 Sampling
Sampling is regarded as the procedure of selecting the units, i.e. organisations, people, from a
population of interest. Therefore, by studying the sample, one can generalise the results back
towards the population from which it had been selected (Dong et al. 2014). Some of the key
terms regarding the sampling include sampling frame and population. The benefits of
sampling involve the smaller quantities of subjects that, in turn, cut the investment in money
and time. Sampling can be more precise in contrast with studying the overall population, the
reason being; it facilitates researchers a great control upon the subjects (Levy& Lemeshow,
2013). On the other hand, large studies can conceal interesting correlations amongst the
noises. Also, statistical populations are more feasible with that of the smaller sets of data and
are also easy to evade human errors while inputting and analysing the data.
The sample for this study constitutes of respondents (male and female) employees working in
the public and private sector companies in Lahore, Pakistan where both public and private
sector employees represent the entire population. However, it was difficult to gather
information from the whole population; consequently, the sampling technique is adopted for
this study. The sampling process is conducted in different phases. The initial step is the
representativeness of the population which means the sample that is being taken for the
respective study should signify the entire population. To fulfil this requirement stratified
simple random sampling technique is applied to select the sample for this study.
For the next phase, researcher selected public and private sector companies with the help of
random number generator (random.org, 2016). There are altogether 101 well known public
and private sector manufacturing companies in Lahore which were verified from the
organisation’s websites and published directories out of which a total of 10 companies (five
public and five private) were selected randomly to represent the sample for this study. Table
4.1 below shows the list of the public and private manufacturing companies used in Lahore-
Pakistan.
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Table 4. 1: Public and Private Manufacturing Companies Used
No. Public manufacturing companies Private manufacturing companies
1 Fauji Fertilizer Zahoor Cotton Mills Ltd
2 Millat Tractors Arooj Garments Accessories Ltd
3 Bata Pakistan Ansari Sugar Mills Ltd
4 Crescent Steel Ittehad Chemicals
5 Colgate-Palmolive Ghani Automobiles Company Ltd
Next is the final stage of the sampling technique that is the selection of sample size; for this
purpose, the researcher uses the sample size calculator (Creative Research Systems, 2016)
and the sample size table provided by Krejcie and Morgan (1970). According to their sample
size table, 196 sample sizes are required to represent the population of 400, having a
confidence level of 95% with the confidence interval of five per cent. Hence, the sample size
(10%) was applied following the Rule of Thumb of John Curry as cited by Aziz (2013, p.60)
as is given in Table 4.2 below:
Table 4. 2: Sample Size (Rule of Thumb)
10-100 100%
101-1000 10%
1001-5000 5%
5001-10000 3%
10000+ 1%
Source: Aziz (2013)
The demographic features of respondents include gender, age, education, experiences in
particular fields, sectors in which they work and positions in the respective companies.
4.8.1. Gender and Age
Table 5.1 below shows that most of the participants are male (82.35%). This shows that the
majority of the participants are males with highest response rate of 140, whereas, the females
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accounted for approximately 17.65%, showing a comparatively lesser response rate as
compared to the males. The number of female respondents is 30. The results of the
participants based on the gender as given below:
Figure 4.3: Gender Distribution of all Participants
Table 5.2 given below shows the results of the age distribution of the respondents. The
highest percentage i.e. 45.9% of the participants’ ages is in the range of 25-34 with the
frequency distribution of 78. The second highest percentage (33.53%) is shown by the 57
respondents with ages between 35 and 44. Whereas, 11.76% (20 respondents) are less than 25
years and the least percentage (8.82%) of the age distribution is shown by 15 respondents
having ages of more 45 years.
Table 4.3: Gender of all Participants
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent
Valid
Male 140 82.35 82.35 82.35
Female 30 17.65 17.65 100.0
Total 170 100.0 100.0
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Table 4.4: Age of all Participants
Figure 4.4: Age Distribution of all Participants
The ages of all the respondents are further scrutinised based on gender to have a more clear
view of the profile of the respondents. Firstly, the ages of females are analysed and followed
by the ages of the male respondents. The number of female respondents’ ages range is given
in Table 5.3 given below. It shows from the number of participants that the most dominant
ages for the female respondents (46.67%) fall in the range of 25-34 years which is similar to
the frequency distribution of the ages of all the participants in which the highest numbers of
all respondents’ ages vary from twenty-five to thirty-four. A second largest score of response
(33.33%) is given by females with the ages of 35-44, whereas, 13.33% of the female (4
respondents) were more than 45 years. And the lowest response rate (6.67%) was recorded
for the females aged less than 25 years old.
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent
Valid
<25 20 11.76 11.76 11.8
25-34 78 45.88 45.88 57.6
35-44 57 33.53 33.53 91.2
45+ 15 8.82 8.82 100.0
Total 170 100.0 100.0
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Table 4.5: Age of Female Participants
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent
Valid
<25 2 6.67 6.67 6.7
25-34 14 46.67 46.67 53.3
35-44 10 33.33 33.33 86.7
45+ 4 13.33 13.33 100.0
Total 30 100.0 100.0
Figure 4.5: Age of Female Participants
Observing the number of the age frequency of male is imperative as they are the most
prominent presenters in this research known for their participation. Table 5.4 shows that
similar to the females’ ages; the male who responded highest is 45.71% with the ages ranging
from 25-34 years. The second highest group of male distribution of age varies from 35-44
that is 33.57%. The male respondents aged less than 25 years are only 12.86% and the lowest
age ranges 7.86% is shown by the male participants aged more than 45 years. From this
descriptive study, it is verified that the most represented group of participants’ age ranges are
from 25-34 for both the female and male respondents.
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Table 4.6: Age of Male Participants
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent
Valid
<25 18 12.86 12.86 12.9
25-34 64 45.71 45.71 58.6
35-44 47 33.57 33.57 92.1
45+ 11 7.86 7.86 100.0
Total 140 100.0 100.0
Figure 4.6: Age of Male Participants
4.8.2 Experience
The frequency distribution table of the participants shows their experiences distributed over
four groups. Group one includes the experiences of 1-5 years showing the highest percentage
of the respondents (44.71%). The second highest percentage of the respondents (31.76%) was
represented by the group having an experience of more than five years. While the third
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category of participants’ experiences accounted for approximately 19.41% and the last group
of the (7 respondents with 4.12%), experience working in companies more than 16 years.
Table 4.7: Experience of all Participants
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent
Valid
1-5 76 44.71 44.71 44.7
6-10 54 31.76 31.76 76.5
11-15 33 19.41 19.41 95.9
16+ 7 4.12 4.12 100.0
Total 170 100.0 100.0
Figure 4.7: Experience of all Participants
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4.8.3 Education
Table 4.8: Education of all Participants
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative
Percent
Valid
Matric 7 4.12 4.12 4.1
Intermediate 31 18.24 18.24 22.4
Bachelors 85 50.00 50.00 72.4
Masters 47 27.65 27.65 100.0
Total 170 100.0 100.0
The education of the respondents is also considered an important factor in this research to
comprehend the background of the respondents. Table 5.6 given above demonstrates the
education levels of the participants. Education is divided into four different groups mainly:
Matric, Intermediate, Bachelors and Masters. The highest percentage of the 85 respondents
accounted for approximately 50.00% who have Bachelor’s degrees. The high level of degrees
in education (Masters) was recorded for 47 respondents showing the distribution of education
by 27.65%. 31 respondents have done Intermediate which shows less percentage of
Intermediate certificate holders. And the least percentage i.e. 4.12% of the seven respondents
has Matric qualification. This shows that most of the participants are highly educated. The
frequency distribution of the respondent’s education levels is shown in Figure 5.6 as follows:
Figure 4.8: Education level of all Participants
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4.8.4 Sector
In this research, sector is considerably important in the analysis of the job satisfaction levels
in different sectors. However, in this section, the researcher considers the number of
observations for both the public and private sector entities. Table 5.7 below shows the results
of the respondents working in the public and private sectors. The contribution of the
participants by the public sector employee’s accounts for approximately 50.6% which is
similar to the number of participants working in private sector companies i.e. 50.6%. The
distribution of the respondents based on the type of sector is shown graphically in Figure 5.7
below.
Table 4.9: Types of Sector
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative
Percent
Valid
public 85 50.6 50.6 50.0
private 85 50.6 50.6 100.0
Total 170 100.0 100.0
Figure 4.9: Distribution of Respondents Based on Sectors
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4.8.5 Position
The positions of the participants are also the chief concerning factor in this study. Two
different groups are generated which includes managers and non-managers. Table 5.8 shows
the number of response rate. The highest response rate 143 out of 170 respondents accounted
for the non-managers working in different sectors with approximately 83.82%, and 27
respondents are managers showing the less percentage of response rates i.e. 16.18%.
Table 4.10: Positions of Participants
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative
Percent
Valid
manager 27 16.18 16.18 15.9
non-manager 143 83.82 83.82 100.0
Total 170 100.0 100.0
Figure 4.10: Position of Participants
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4.9 Sampling Frame
A sampling frame is the set of information that is being deployed to identify the sample
population designed for statistical treatment (Thompson, 2004). This is the subset of a well-
defined target population, from which, one can realistically choose the sample for the
research. A sampling frame comprises a numerical identifier for every individual. In addition
to it, it includes other identifying information regarding the characteristics of the individuals,
to assist in analysis and also allow the division into advance frames so as to perform more in-
depth analysis (Dong et al. 2014). Consequently, a sample is usually a practical listing of the
population, or could also be termed as the definition of areas or elements that can be deployed
for sampling practices.
In this study, the researcher selected the sample with the method outlined by Miller et al.
(2008). To have a suitable sample, the researcher used the databases to generate the list of 101
public and private manufacturing companies located in Lahore due to ease of access. The
reason for selecting this method is the non-availability of some of the private limited
companies’ names on websites, but can be found in directories. For this reason, the researcher
selected public and private sector companies through a cross-referencing system by using
secondary sources (company’s websites and published directories) to ensure accuracy (See
Appendix D).
4.10 Rationale for Adopting Probability Method
A sampling design is comprised of two elements; sampling method and estimator. The
sampling methods are referred to the rules and processes through which, some of the items
regarding the population are included in the sample (Rea& Parker, 2014). There are two
types of sampling techniques: probability and non-probability sampling. In a probability
sampling, each item of the population has a known, non-zero probability of being included in
the sample (Henry, 1990). In contrast to this, in non-probability sampling, the sample is
chosen on the basis of a subjective judgement of the researcher (Uprichard, 2013). It is used
when the researcher is faced with a limited population size (Gingery, 2009).
Some common sampling methods include; simple random sampling, cluster sampling, and
stratified sampling. On the other hand, the estimation process involves the calculation of the
sample statistics that is known as an estimator. A variety of sampling methods may deploy
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different estimators. For instance, the formula for the standard error can differ from one
sampling method to that of the next. For this research, the stratified simple random sampling
technique is used. In this approach, a sample, which is representative of the population, is
chosen (Smith et al. 2013). Chosen entirely by chance, every unit of the population has an
equal probability of being included in the sample (Levy &Lemeshow, 2013). This technique
is selected to have unbiased results about the job satisfaction levels of employees surveyed
and the impact of studied variables on the same without bias. Selecting the stratified simple
random sampling also assisted in generalising the results for all the employees who are
working in the public and private manufacturing companies in Lahore-Pakistan.
4.11 Research Instruments
In this study, the instrument that is used to gather the proposed data from the public and
private sector employees of the manufacturing companies is the survey questionnaire.
Various studies have adopted the survey tool to examine the perception of employees towards
job satisfaction levels. Waqas et al. (2014) analysed job satisfaction by measuring its
determinants and its influence on the job loyalty. Naveed et al. (2011) examined the job
attitudes of employees by measuring promotion with the help of the survey questionnaire
technique. In the same way, Kumari and Pandey (2011) used a survey to evaluate the public
and private sector employees. From the above literature, it is depicted that most of the
researchers have relied on using survey questionnaires to measure job satisfaction. Most of
the researchers rely on this technique as it is considered one of the most appropriate methods
to analyse the attitudes and behaviour patterns of employees towards job satisfaction
(Halepota, 2011). Moreover, this technique has a connection with the deduction approach and
could be used to describe data in the quantitative form (Saunders et al. 2007).
The main purpose of this thesis is to find the relationship between the dependent variable (job
satisfaction) and independent variables (salary, co-workers, job security, supervision, working
conditions, task significance, work environment, promotion, work itself, achievement,
recognition and responsibility). As a result of which survey questionnaire was regarded as the
most appropriate method of collecting the data (Sekaran, 2005). Focusing on its importance
Verschuren and Doorewaard (1999) stated that the key element of a survey is to examine and
evaluate the thinking of the respective participants. See section 4.9.2 for a more specific
discussion.
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4.12 Measurement Scale
Both the dependent and independent variables “are taken up by the positivist research
paradigm” (Halepota, 2011, p.103) to determine the behaviour and sentiment of workforce
regarding the perception of a job. In this study both hygiene and motivation factors are used
to analyse the job satisfaction levels of the public and private sector employees in the
manufacturing industries of Pakistan. Also, age, gender, work experience, education, type of
sector and employees holding different positions are used to represent the background of the
respondents. The measurement scale that is used to measure employee job satisfaction levels
and independent variables is adopted from the literature used by previous researchers. A pilot
testing was used to check their validity and reliability of the respective scale.
The main purpose for using pilot study is to examine the time used to fill the survey
questionnaire and to make sure the survey strategy is free from poor wording or ambiguity
before the final survey can be distributed for the data collection. After the conduction of the
pilot study, the survey questionnaire forms were sent to the public and private sector
employees of manufacturing companies operating in Lahore-Pakistan. The survey
questionnaire comprised of two parts including a demographic profile of the participants
represented as part (I) and part (II) consisting of survey questionnaires measuring the
dependent variable (job satisfaction) and the independent variables (salaries, co-workers, job
security, supervision, working conditions, task significance, work environment, promotion,
work itself, achievement, recognition and responsibility). Sections 4.12.1, 4.12.2 and 4.12.3
further explain the demographic variables representing the background of the participants,
independent variables, dependent variable and dummy variables taken into consideration for
this study.
4.12.1 Demographic Variables
To ascertain the background of the respondents used in the survey, the researcher used
demographic features namely: age and gender, work experience, education, type of sector to
which the participants belong and their positions in their respective companies, whether
managerial or non-managerial. In this section, the participants are provided with the
guidelines that are to tick the appropriate answers that describe their demographic
characteristics.
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4.12.2 Independent Variables
To determine the job satisfaction levels of employees, the organisational characteristics that
are used are salaries, co-workers, job security, supervision, working conditions, task
significance, work environment, promotion, work itself, achievement, recognition and
responsibilities. The first independent variable of this study is salaries and the items that are
used to examine salaries are adopted form Aziz (2013), Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire
measured on a five-point Likert scale starting from highly dissatisfied to highly satisfied.
Similarly, other dimensions of job satisfaction (promotion, co-workers, job security,
supervision, achievement, recognition, responsibility and working conditions) were also
adopted from Aziz (2013), Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire using five-point Likert
scale. Five items for each variable were used to measure the perception of employees towards
promotion, salary, co-workers, job security, supervision and working conditions. Also, three
items for work environment are adopted from Ravichandran et al. (2015). For task
significance three items are adopted from Halepota (2011) and two items of work itself are
adopted from Steger et al. (2012). All the items are measured on the five point Likert scale.
4.12.3 Dependent Variable
In this study, the researcher uses five items to measure the job satisfaction levels among the
public and private sector employees. These five items are: 1) Overall, I am pleased with my
work. 2) My job in this organisation has met my expectations. 3) Overall, I am satisfied in my
current practice. 4) My current work situation is not a major source of frustration in my life.
5) In general, I like my job.
The items were taken from the existing literature applied by Saeed et al. (2014) and Chaudhry
et al. (2011) to evaluate the job satisfaction levels of the employees. In the survey,
questionnaire participants were given options to select the answers to the best of their
knowledge with the help of the five-point Likert scale where 1=highly dissatisfied,
2=dissatisfied, 3= neutral, 4=satisfied and 5=highly satisfied.
4.12.4 Dummy Variables
The dummy variables are the categorical variables which are used to distinguish one variable
from another variable. They are represented as zero and one. In this study, the researcher uses
the dummy variables in the regression equation to see if the r square value improves (Field,
96
2009). Here the public and private sector are considered as dummy variables where the public
sector is coded as ‘1’ and private sector is coded as ‘0’. The evaluation of the results of the
hypothesis testing is based on the output of the multiple regression using dummy variables
(See chapter 5). The table given below shows the questions used to measure the respective
variables along with the source information.
Table 4. 11: Summary Table of Survey Questionnaires for Dependent Variable and Independent Variables
Factor Name Items Source 1. Salaries (IV) 1) The amount of pay for the work I do.
2) The chance to make as much money as my friends. 3) How my pay compares with that for similar jobs in other companies. 4) My pay and the amount of work I do. 5) How my pay compares with that of other workers.
(Aziz, 2013, pp.176-179)
2. Co-workers (IV) 6) The spirit of co-operation among my co-workers. 7) The chance to develop close friendship with my co-workers. 8) The friendliness of my co-workers 9) The way my co-workers are easy to make friends with. 10) The way my co-workers get along with each other.
(Aziz, 2013, pp.176-179)
3. Job security (IV) 11) My job security. 12) The way my job provides for a secure future. 13) The way my job provides for steady employment. 14) How steady my job is. 15) The way layoffs and transfers are avoided in my job.
(Aziz, 2013, pp.176-179)
4. Supervision (IV) 16) The technical “know-how” of my supervisor. 17) The competence of my supervisor in making decisions. 18) The way my boss delegates work to others. 19) The way my boss provides help on hard problems. 20) The way my boss trains his/her employees.
(Aziz, 2013, pp.176-179)
5. Working Conditions (IV)
21) The working conditions (lighting, ventilation, heating, etc. on this job. 22) The physical surroundings where I work. 23) The pleasantness of the working conditions. 24) The physical conditions of the job. 25) The working conditions.
(Aziz, 2013, pp.176-179)
6. Task significance (IV)
26) Your job has great impact on the people outside the organisation. 27) The results of your work are likely to affect the lives of other people. 28) Your job is very important and significant in the broader scheme of things.
(Halepota, 2011, p. 244)
7. Work environment (IV)
29) I enjoy the ‘social’ aspect of my work. 30) I am satisfied with my surrounding environment. 31) I enjoy interacting with my colleagues.
(Ravichandran et al. 2015, p.346)
8. Promotion (IV) 32) The variety in my work. 33) The opportunity to do different things from time to time. 34) The routine in my work. 35) The chance to do something different every day. 36) The chance to do many things on the job.
(Aziz, 2013, pp.176-179)
9. Work itself (IV) 37) I have a good sense of work what makes my job meaningful. 38) I have discovered work that has a satisfying purpose.
(Steger et al.2012, p.9)
10. Achievement (IV) 39) Being able to see the results of the work I do. 40) Being able to take pride in a job done. 41) Being able to do something worthwhile.
(Aziz, 2013, pp.176-179)
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11. Recognition (IV) 42) The way I am noticed when I do a good job. 43) The way I get full credit from the work I do. 44) The recognition I get for the work I do.
(Aziz, 2013, pp.176-179)
12. Responsibility (IV)
45) The chance to be responsible for planning my work. 46) The chance to make decisions on my work.
(Aziz, 2013, pp.176-179)
Job satisfaction (DV)
47) Overall, I am pleased with my work. 48) My job in this organisation has met my expectations. 49) Overall, I am satisfied in my current practice. 50) My current work situation is not a major source of frustration in my life. 51) In general, I like my job.
(Saeed et al. 2014, p.249) (Saeed et al. 2014, p.249) (Saeed et al. 2014, p.249) (Saeed et al. 2014, p. 249)
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