The Bottom Line of Empowerment

Abstract

During the 1970’s, the major focus of organizations was on quality. In the 80’s, the focus on cost was added. The 90’s require not only quality and cost, but also speed of response. Now the concept of employee empowerment is being looked at as a primary vehicle for increasing organizational effectiveness and improving quality, cost and responsiveness. Operationally, we have defined empowerment as the outcome of a congruent organizational culture and structure that supports individual and group self-initiating actions.