The Effects of Work Scheduling on Employee Performance in Manufacturing Industries in Tanzania

Abstract

The general objective of this study was to assess the impact of work scheduling on employee performance using TANELEC Limited Company in Arusha city as a case study. Specifically, the study intended to examine types of work schedules practiced at TANELEC Limited Company in Arusha city, determine the influence of work schedule flexibility on employee performance at TANELEC Limited Company in Arusha city and to determine the influence of shift system on employee performance at TANELEC Limited Company in Arusha city. A descriptive and explanatory research design were used where stratified sampling technique was used to sample 140 respondents. A survey questionnaire and interview guide were used to collect data from respondents which were analysed through descriptive statistics and ordinal logistic regression techniques. The study found that, the organization employs a variety of work schedule types to accommodate the needs of its employees and operational requirements. The dominance of rotating shift work, full-time work schedules, and flexible work schedules indicates a diverse workforce with differing needs and preferences. Moreover, the study found that certain work schedule flexibility variables have varying impacts on employee performance. Specifically, flextime, compressed work week, and leave flexibility appear to be positively associated with higher employee performance ratings. However, the variables of telework and job sharing do not show a statistically significant influence on employee performance. Furthermore, the study found that, shift rotation, placement of days off, and the length of shifts are statistically significant factors positively impacting employee performance. These factors contribute to improved engagement, reduced monotony, strategic rest periods, and potentially enhanced task focus. The study concluded that, employee scheduling had significant impact on employee work performance. The study recommends that, there are should be number of consecutive shifts and shift rotation direction and speed suggests that their effects on employee performance.