International approaches to high performance working – Executive Summary
This summary presents the key findings from the International approaches to high performance working research. It discusses how High Performance Working is interpreted in different countries (Australia, Canada, Finland, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand and Sweden); identifies how HPW is supported and encouraged in different sectors and types of business; and draws attention to areas for policy learning, including successful models for supporting the implementation and raising awareness of HPW.
International Approaches to High Performance Working (PDF, 363 Kb) – Evidence report 37 – Executive summary
Published September 2011
This research on international approaches to high performance working (HPW) was undertaken and the report written by Professor Ian Stone of Durham University.
The Commission’s previous work on HPW shows that the prevalence of HPW is both low and static in the UK, and this report aims to identify ways in which HPW might be encouraged in the UK.
The report discusses how HPW is interpreted in different countries (Australia, Canada, Finland, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand and Sweden); identifies how HPW is supported and encouraged in different sectors and types of business; and draws attention to areas for policy learning, including successful models for supporting the implementation and raising awareness of HPW.
The report notes that:
- HPW programmes consist almost entirely of awareness-raising, providing information, developing diagnostic tools and specific interventions at workplace level.
- HPW programme interventions vary but tend to focus on SMEs with growth potential.
- Building an infrastructure of expertise and support takes time, as does building awareness, understanding and stakeholder support for HPW.
- Businesses that take the ‘high road’ approach to production tend to be associated with higher rates of HPW adoption, and more creative use of such practices at workplace level.
- Evaluation evidence suggests that workplace demonstrator projects yield real results.
- Social partners play an important role in promoting HPW
- HPW is a key part of a wider conception of innovation, which include employees as agents of innovation and key actors in adopting new process and product technology
