A Case Meta-Analysis of Gainsharing Plans as Organization Development Interventions

Abstract

A model of the effects of structural, implementation, and situational factors on the success of gainsharing plans as organization development interventions was tested using a case meta-analysis. Data were derived from 33 case studies of gainsharing plans implemented over 50 years. The authors found that several structural features and implementation practices significantly predicted gainsharing success: employee involvement in plan design, use of outside practitioners, formal involvement structures, and employee favorability toward the plan. With the exception of participative management style, situational conditions did not correlate with gainsharing's success. Success was robust across organizational size, union status, technology, and environment. The authors conclude that case meta-analysis allows researchers to discern patterns of relationships in OD cases and to test specific hypotheses by capitalizing on naturally occurring covariation in OD practice