Task interdependence: The link between task design and job design

Chi-Sum Wong, Purdue University

Abstract

A model specifying the link between task design and job design is proposed based on a variety of literatures which describe the relationship between the parts and the whole (e.g., dual-task, intra-group, inter-departmental, and inter-organizational). The model predicts job design based on task design, task interdependence, and task similarity. Task design is the amount of motivational features (e.g., variety, feedback) of a task when it is evaluated independently of other tasks of the job. Task interdependence is the extent to which tasks within the same job affect or depend on each other in terms of inputs, processes, or outputs. Task similarity is the extent to which the tasks within a job use the same inputs, processes, or outputs. The model proposes that each construct will account for unique variance in the motivational value of jobs, with task design and task interdependence relating positively and task similarity relating negatively to job design. This link has been ignored in past research despite its conceptual importance for explaining why jobs have motivational features. It also has practical importance for providing advice as to how to develop or combine tasks to design jobs with motivational features. The model was tested in a sample of 188 incumbents in a board range of 67 jobs in a university. Job tasks were determined using functional job analysis, job and task design measures were based on previous job design research (e.g., Campion, 1988, Journal of Applied Psychology), and measures of task interdependence and similarity were developed specially for this study. Incumbents provided job measures, while independent analysts provided task measures. In general, results indicated only task design was consistently and independently related to job design in a linear fashion. Task interdependence had an inverted-U relationship with job design, such that jobs with moderate task interdependence had the highest motivational values. Task similarity showed scattered negative relationships with job design. Other findings include the following. Task similarity was positively related to task interdependence, especially when interdependence was high. Job design mediated the relationship between task design and job satisfaction. Finally, task design and task interdependence were positively and independently related to the mental ability requirements of jobs.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Campion, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Management

COinS