High Performance Work Systems
Some of the systems integrated with HRM practices are called high performance work systems
(HPWS *). Such system is made up of different HRM practices in the fields such as: assessment,
training, development and improvement of communication and involvement of employees and it
targets to obtain a positive answer on their behalf. HPWS literature pleads for the efficient use
of a consistent internal HRM practices assembly – which completes each other as the HPWS
becomes bigger than the sum of its parties. Many studies dedicated to HRM’s impact upon the
organisation performances assume that there are synergies and contingences. HPWS contribute
to the increase of the skills, to the people’s company fidelity and motivation which in their turn
contribute to the sensitive increase of the company’s performances.
It is not always clear what “high performance” signifies. And it is no wonder that the term was
used in such different circumstances that the concept is in danger of loosing its signification
because it was so much abused. What company would eventually admit that it administers a low
performance system?