Addressing and Unravelling the Emerging HPWS Research Problems

Abstract

High-performance work system’s (HPWS) configuration is fraught with inconsistencies, and there are vague processes (black box) in-between the inputs (HPWS) and the output (performance). In addressing these issues, this research proposed that configuration of HPWS is many-sided, and it can be context-specific. Also, this study proposed a conceptual model which indicates that HPWS and performance are related via mediating mechanism(s) which will unpack the so-called “black box” in HRM research field. Using far-reaching literature survey, this paper presented a logic-based and empirically-based conceptual discussion to address and disentangle the identified HPWS research problems. The findings of this research stressed that configurations of HPWS are many-sided involving universalist approach, contingency approach, configuration approach, theory building process, etc. There are different ways of bundling up the HPWPs to achieve organizational outcomes. Using a blend of some approaches, this paper proposed a synergistic configuration of HPWS architectures for SMEs. It is hoped that the study will help in showing the stakeholders the process of enhancing SMEs’ performance via employee-oriented high-performance work system. However, the proposed model can be empirically solidified further via collection and analysis of relevant data.