Additional Case 11.2 Richland Manufacturing Uses an Individual-Based Pay-For-Performance Plan for Employees

question 82

Multiple Choice

Additional Case 11.2
Richland Manufacturing uses an individual-based pay-for-performance plan for employees.
Manager input in the form of performance evaluations primarily determines individual employee rewards. Performance appraisals at Richland are used for multiple purposes including compensation, training, and work planning. Since implementing the plan, many managers have noticed that employees tend to play it safe by setting modest rather than challenging goals for themselves. Employees have also been avoiding important tasks, such as satisfying the needs of customers and keeping work areas neat. In addition, most employees express disbelief that pay and performance are actually linked. As a result, Richland is considering making modifications to the system.
The HR Director wants a system that will reward all employees based on the entire company's performance because he wants to increase employee commitment. The VP of Operations wants to reward specific productivity and quality improvements with a simply structured system that considers labor costs as well as other production expenses. The VP of Operations also believes that labor and management should work together to allocate the rewards.
-Refer to Additional Case 11.2.Which of the following would most likely improve the success of Richland's current incentive plan?

• A) Limiting the use of performance appraisals to compensation purposes
• B) Offering team-based pay in addition to individual bonuses
• C) Providing Scanlon plans to all employees
• D) Encouraging employee competition

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Definitions:

Depreciation

The accounting process of allocating the cost of a tangible asset over its useful life, reflecting wear and tear, age, or obsolescence.

Net Working Capital

The difference between a company's current assets and its current liabilities, indicating the short-term liquidity position.

Tax Rate

The rate designated by the state to collect taxes from the profits or income of individuals or firms.