What's your big picture?

Abstract

PurposeThe paper aims to provide the reader with a perspective for keeping the critical aspects of their job in focus, despite an endless sea of details.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes the research on “high performance work practices” and highlights the importance of establishing effective work systems.FindingsThe paper shows that the system of work you design dictates how successful you will be. Department of Labor notes many innovative work practices are not systematically applied.Practical implicationsThe paper provides information about how to create effective work systems. This includes clarifying “who you are” and “where you are going”. Explains the difference between having a purpose and having constraints.Originality/valueThis paper specifically shows show each individual can clarify their “big picture” by using descriptive statements and use of relevant feedback. American Express is used as an example of how to incorporate some of the features.