When performance and staff morale are at effect, a small change may help. In the 1920’s, physiologist Elton Mayo conducted experiments at the Hawthorn Electrical Works in the United States. His theory was that better lighting led to increased productivity.

Mayo began by having the lights turned up on the factory floor. As expected, production levels went up too. His theory proved correct. Out of curiosity, Mayo had the lights turned down to see what might happen. Unexpectedly, production went up again.

Whatever he did with the lighting, productivity increased. Mayo discussed his findings with the workers involved to find that the interest Mayo and his researchers had shown in them made them valued. They were used to being ignored. The increase in morale led to an improvement in productivity. This is known as the “Hawthorne Effect”.

Look for areas in the environment, or small behaviours which are easily manipulated for maximum effect.