A well-functioning public sector is essential for national growth, yet many governments face challenges in improving administrative efficiency. A recent study, Demystifying Knowledge Work Practices and Performance in the Public Sector, published in the Emerging Science Journal, examines how job crafting (JC), continuous learning (CL), and job-related innovation (JRI) impact knowledge worker performance (KWP) among Malaysian public sector officers.
Among the esteemed researchers contributing to this study, Sanmugam Annamalah from the Graduate School of Business, Research and Innovation Management Centre, SEGi University, Malaysia, played a key role in uncovering how these knowledge work practices drive public sector productivity.
Guided by Drucker’s knowledge work productivity theory, the study surveyed 395 administrative and diplomatic officers using Smart PLS 4.0 structural equation modeling. The findings reveal that JC and CL significantly enhance KWP, while JRI does not directly impact performance. Moreover, affective commitment (AC) mediates these relationships, highlighting the importance of fostering engagement and motivation in the public sector.
Implications for Public Sector Reform
The research underscores the need for organizational strategies that encourage job personalization and lifelong learning. Policymakers can improve public sector efficiency by empowering employees to craft their job roles and promoting continuous professional development, ultimately strengthening governance and service delivery.
Alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This study supports SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by advocating for enhanced workforce productivity through job crafting and continuous learning, ensuring sustainable economic growth and improved job performance. Additionally, SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) is reinforced as the study provides valuable insights for strengthening public institutions, promoting transparent, efficient, and accountable governance.
By integrating these insights into public sector policies, governments can foster more resilient and efficient institutions, ensuring a future where public administration operates at its highest potential.
📖 Read the full study in the Emerging Science Journal here: https://www.ijournalse.org/index.php/ESJ/article/view/2409