Environments: Austria compared to the United States

ABSTRACT

The objective of the study was to analyze the motivation for computer personnel in Austria compared to the United States. A sample of more than 600 Austrian computer personnel was conducted, with the same diagnostic instruments used to derive a data base on motivation factors for 8,000 U.S. computer personnel. Seventeen Austrian organizations participated in the survey. The two survey populations were found to be quite similar in their rankings of motivation factors and in individual characteristics. Nevertheless, there was a mismatch for Austrian respondents on the two factors most important for motivation--individual need for growth as compared to the job's motivating capacity. A procedure for improving this match is discussed after the survey results are analyzed.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.7 THE COMPUTING PROFESSION

Additional Classification:
  D. Software
  D.m MISCELLANEOUS
      Subjects: Software psychology**

  H. Information Systems
  H.1 MODELS AND PRINCIPLES
      H.1.2 User/Machine Systems
          Subjects: Human factors

  K. Computing Milieux
  K.6 MANAGEMENT OF COMPUTING AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS
      K.6.1 Project and People Management
          Subjects: Staffing

General Terms:
Human Factors, Management, Measurement, Performance