AN ASSESSMENT ON THE IMPACT OF WORK ENVIRONMENT ON THE PERFORMANCE AND GROWTH OF STAFFS IN  TIKO MUNICIPAL, CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

According to Ganesh (2015), employees are the most significant asset of an organisation and the fundamental basis of every firm. Yusuf (2000) presented an alternative viewpoint of the employee. Employee performance is a multi-dimensional notion that encompasses the degree of task completion that constitutes an employee's job performance. The working environment significantly influences workers' performance. 

The influence of the working environment on workers' performance is a subject of debate, with potential effects ranging from bad to good consequences (Chandrasekar, 2001).On a global scale, there are international organisations that engage in discussions on labour rights. The majority of individuals allocate half of their lifespan in indoor settings, which significantly impact their psychological state, behaviours, capacities, and productivity (Dorgan, 1994). Enhanced results and heightened productivity are expected to be the consequences of an improved working environment. An enhanced physical workplace environment will enhance staff morale and consequently enhance their productivity.  During the 1990s, the work environment underwent changes as a result of several reasons including the social environment, advancements in information technology, and the use of flexible methods for organising work processes (Hasun & Makhbul, 2005). When workers are in good physical and mental health, they will have a strong motivation to work and their performance results will be enhanced. Furthermore, an appropriate work environment contributes to a decrease in absenteeism and therefore enhances employees' performance, resulting in greater productivity in the workplace (Boles et al, 2004).The study conducted by Bushiri (2017) examines the work environment in which a group of individuals collaborate to accomplish a goal. The physical workplace environment refers to the specific location and its surroundings, including tangible assets such as ventilation systems, noise levels, air quality, parking facilities, and tangible amenities like meals, tea, and coffee. It also encompasses the layout and design of the office building and its setup (Mathew, 2015). The progress in technology has also introduced more competitive obstacles in meeting the organisational requirements of the work environment. The workplace environment encompasses both tangible and intangible factors that contribute to the success of an organisation. While incentives and physical set up are important, there are also intangible factors such as policies, rules, work culture, work relationships, supervisor support, and compatibility with colleagues that play a crucial role. These intangible factors may not be visible, but their impact can be measured through the organization's success and results. The correlation between the work environment and staff performance and development has been a topic of significant interest and study in the field of organisational studies. An atmosphere that promotes productivity, job satisfaction, and organisational success is generally acknowledged as a crucial aspect in the workplace (Bowen, 2016; Haque & Aslam, 2019; Khan et al., 2017). 

In order to consistently enhance working circumstances, it is important to prioritise a performance culture that highly regards each individual employee and encourages a sustainable equilibrium between work and personal life (World at work, 2007). Consequently, banks must provide a conducive work environment that fosters employee satisfaction, recognition, and fair compensation, so allowing people to maximise their capabilities. (Gitahi, Njenga, Samson, et al., 2015).  Therefore, the researcher sought to assess  the impact of work environment on the performance and growth of staffs in Tiko municipal, Cameroon.

1.2 Statement of the problem

The performance of workers may be impacted by a variety of factors. Work environment elements may have an impact on workers' performance in organisations. The work environment encompasses all the forces and relevant variables that are now or potentially affecting workers' actions and performance.  Bowen, 2016; Haque & Aslam, 2019; Khan et al.,(2017). identified some crucial aspects in the working environment that might significantly influence motivation and performance. The corporate landscape is increasingly characterised by intense competition, rapid change, and intricate interconnections. According to Bowen (2016), employee performance is negatively impacted by workstations that are poorly designed, furniture that is not acceptable, lack of ventilation, inadequate lighting, and excessive noise. Management must prioritise creating a suitable working climate to enhance employee performance and maintain competitiveness. In addition, Bushiri (2017) said that the quality of the office environment has an influence on workers.  Performance and its consequent impact on the organization's competitiveness. Effective office environment management involves creating an appealing, pleasant, fulfilling, and inspiring work environment for workers, fostering a feeling of pride and purpose in their job. Additionally, he said that good office environment management involves creating an appealing, pleasant, fulfilling, and stimulating work environment for workers, in order to instill a feeling of pride and purpose in their job.Many employees in various organisations are facing challenges connected to the environmental and physical conditions of their workplaces. Genzorová (2017) have said that there is a growing trend of employee disengagement and it is crucial to create work environments that have a beneficial impact on the workforce. Hence, the study  assess  the impact of work environment on the performance and growth of staffs in Tiko municipal, Cameroon.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess  the impact of work environment on the performance and growth of staffs in Tiko municipal, Cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

Investigate the influence of work environment on staff job satisfaction in Tiko municipal, Cameroon.

Evaluate the relationship between work environment and staff performance within Tiko municipal, Cameroon.

Propose strategies aimed at improving work environment conditions in Tiko municipal, Cameroon.

1.4 Research Questions

The following questions have been prepared for the following

What is the influence of work environment on staff job satisfaction in Tiko municipal, Cameroon?

Is there a relationship between work environment and staff performance within Tiko municipal, Cameroon?

What are the strategies aimed at improving work environment conditions in Tiko municipal, Cameroon?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of the study is expected to enable organizations, both public and private to acknowledge the variable that impacts workers' working environment and their performance at the organisation. Such acceptance might be used to enhance the working circumstances of workers. Additionally, the study's results will provide the organisation with insights on how to effectively solve employee-related concerns and optimise the working environment. It will also highlight the significance of office design in enhancing workers' performance. 

Consequently, the findings of the study will function as a source of information for future studies in this field. Furthermore, the data will provide further insight into the elements that influence employee performance in relation to their settings.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on the impact of work environment on the performance and growth of staffs in  Tiko municipal, Cameroon. Empirically, the study will investigate the influence of work environment on staff job satisfaction in Tiko municipal, Cameroon, evaluate the relationship between work environment and staff performance within Tiko municipal, Cameroon and propose strategies aimed at improving work environment conditions in Tiko municipal, Cameroon.

1.7 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced.

1.8 Definition of terms

Work Environment: The work environment refers to the physical, social, and psychological conditions within which employees perform their tasks and interact with colleagues and management. This includes factors such as the layout of the workspace, organizational culture, leadership styles, communication practices, and the availability of resources and support systems.

Staff Performance: Staff performance encompasses the effectiveness and efficiency with which employees carry out their job responsibilities and achieve predetermined objectives and targets. It includes both quantitative measures, such as productivity and output, as well as qualitative aspects, such as quality of work, adherence to organizational values, and contribution to team goals.

Staff Growth: Staff growth refers to the personal and professional development of employees within an organization. It encompasses opportunities for learning, skill development, career advancement, and personal fulfillment. Staff growth may be manifested through increased competence, expanded responsibilities, and progression within the organizational hierarchy.

Organizational Policies: Organizational policies and practices are the formal and informal guidelines, rules, procedures, and strategies implemented by an organization to govern various aspects of its operations, including human resource management, work environment management, decision-making processes, and organizational culture.

Conducive Work Environment: A conducive work environment is one that promotes employee well-being, satisfaction, and productivity. It is characterized by factors such as positive interpersonal relationships, clear communication channels, opportunities for growth and development, fair and transparent management practices, and physical amenities that support employee comfort and safety.