Job design refers to the process of defining the way work will be performed and the tasks that will be required in a given job. Managers may be required to design jobs from scratch within a work unit. There are many approaches to job design, each with its own purpose, advantages, and disadvantages. When an organization is trying to improve quality or efficiency, a review of work units and processes may require a fresh look at how jobs are designed. To design jobs effectively, a person must thoroughly understand the job itself and its place in the larger work unit's work flow process. This activity is important because a manager has many alternative ways to design a job when he or she has detailed knowledge of the tasks performed in the work unit and in the job. The goal of this activity is to understand the various approaches to designing a job. Read each scenario, then select the appropriate approach to job design that should be used.(Industrial Engineering, Motivation, Ergonomics, Cognitive Ergonomics)1. The main priority for workers at a manufacturing facility is to maximize efficiency. (Click to select)Industrial Engineering, Motivation, Ergonomic, Cognitive Ergonomics2. A trucking firm is adding an air-suspension seat to its new line of trucks to help prevent drivers from experiencing chronic back pain. (Click to select)Industrial Engineering, Motivation, Ergonomic, Cognitive Ergonomics3. A construction company is improving absenteeism and worker satisfaction by decreasing the amount of heavy lifting and overhead work expected of employees. (Click to select)Industrial Engineering, Motivation, Ergonomic, Cognitive Ergonomics4. A smoke alarm manufacturer increases employee task significance by showing workers how their work contributes to the final product, which can ultimately save lives.
(Click to select)Industrial Ergonomics
5. A clothing manufacturer is expanding to developing countries where employees will receive training on the single best way to produce each item of clothing. (Click to select)Industrial Engineering, Motivation, Ergonomic, Cognitive Ergonomics6. A local coffeehouse is designing its jobs to ensure that employees do not feel pressure to process information beyond their capabilities. (Click to select)Industrial Engineering, Motivation, Ergonomic, Cognitive Ergonomics7. Librarians at the local library are being trained and motivated to be more involved with their job and decision making. (Click to select)Industrial Engineering, Motivation, Ergonomic, Cognitive Ergonomics8. A medical services company is considering employee cognitive capabilities and limitations while in the process of redesigning jobs.