Applying the Hawthorne studies to project management

Abstract

The Hawthorne experiments were executed in the 1920s and early 1930s and understanding the effect of the experiment creates an effective management style . The goal of the experiment was to examine the effect of light on workers' productivity at a telephone parts factory in Hawthorne. The result of the experiment was an increase in the worker's productivity, both when the light improved but also when the light was diminished. The conclusion of the experiment was that their participation in the experiment was the sole driver of productivity - not lighting levels. .

The participants’ behavior will differ from what they usually do. The big question is; how can managers use this to motivate their employees? Maximization of employee productivity is key for a well-executed project and its success . Another output of the study was that people chosen for the experiment felt pride in being “the chosen one” and therefore performed as such. Project managers can utilize this technique by including people in the process and allow workers to give feedback, while simultaneously rewarding people with tasks to keep them motivated. .

This article will examine why the workers' performance increased, and how this ties to theories of natural human behavior, framing themselves as higher beings, compared to their peers. Furthermore, the article will explore how project managers utilize this to their advantage, and how workers' individuality play a part in creating value and motivation. .