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High performance work systems and corporate performance: the influence of entrepreneurial orientation and organizational learning

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  • Chunling Zhu

    (Renmin University of China)

  • Anqi Liu

    (Renmin University of China)

  • Guoling Chen

    (Shanghai Provident Center)

Abstract

This study investigates the functioning mechanisms of how high performance work systems (HPWS) affect organizational performance. We propose that (HPWS) can positively affect organizational performance through the mediating role of entrepreneurial orientation. An organization with high performance work systems can perform better if it enjoys high level of organizational learning. We design and administer a survey questionnaire to high-level executives or founders of companies from manufacturing and service industries and receive 176 valid responses. The results of the empirical data indicate that the relationship between high performance work systems and corporate performance is more positive when organizational learning is stronger. Entrepreneurial orientation partially mediates the relationship between high performance work systems and organizational performance. This study opens new research avenues by extending and incorporating explanations and predictions of HPWS and entrepreneurial orientation, two areas that largely have been considered independently of each other. Implications for practice and directions for future research are provided.

Suggested Citation

  • Chunling Zhu & Anqi Liu & Guoling Chen, 2018. "High performance work systems and corporate performance: the influence of entrepreneurial orientation and organizational learning," Frontiers of Business Research in China, Springer, vol. 12(1), pages 1-22, December.
  • Handle: RePEc:spr:fobric:v:12:y:2018:i:1:d:10.1186_s11782-018-0025-y
    DOI: 10.1186/s11782-018-0025-y
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    Cited by:

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    2. Ramaisa Aqdas & Nik Ab Halim Nik Abdullah, 2019. "High Performance Work System and Export Performance," Pakistan Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, International Research Alliance for Sustainable Development (iRASD), vol. 7(2), pages :245-256, June.
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    6. Shakeel Sarwar, Jawad Iqbal, 2020. "Framework Development of High Performance Work Systems (HPWSs) and Faculty Productivity: A Qualitative Approach," Journal of Management Sciences, Geist Science, Iqra University, Faculty of Business Administration, vol. 7(1), pages 1-13, March.

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