Determinants Of High-Performance Work Systems In Small And Medium-Sized Private Enterprises In China

TitleDeterminants Of High-Performance Work Systems In Small And Medium-Sized Private Enterprises In China
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2015
AuthorsQiao, Kun, Wang, Xiaoyun, and Wei, Li-Qun
JournalAsia Pacific Journal of Human Resources
Volume53
Issue2
Pagination185 - 203
Date Published2015///
KeywordsChina, high-performance work systems, HPWS, human resource management, transitional economy
Abstract

This study investigates the determinants of high-performance work systems (HPWS) in small and medium-sized private enterprises (SMPEs) in China. Fifteen SMPE owners in a medium-sized city of China were interviewed, the data were analysed and a grid model was developed. The results show that stakeholder relationships and the commitment of owners to human resource management (HRM) are the two main aspects determining the adoption of HPWS in China's SMPEs. Most of the HRM practices used by these SMPEs were developed by the owners according to the specific needs of the firm and the need for flexibility. This research contributes to the HPWS literature by providing evidence on its development in SMPEs in a transitional economy.