As the name implies, job enlargement refers to expanding the number of tasks associated with a particular role. Therefore, it means that one’s responsibilities and duties have been increased. Its nature is quantitative rather than qualitative and at the same level.
An enlargement of jobs is a method of horizontal restructuring which increases the flexibility of the workforce while simultaneously reducing monotony that may develop over time. The responsibilities increase at the same level as the workload, so it is also known as horizontal loading.
There is often a misconception that training is not necessary since the enlargement is horizontal in nature. In contrast, job enlargement requires appropriate training, particularly in time management and people management. The task-related training is not necessary since the employee is already familiar with it or has been doing it for some time.
The Benefits of Job Enlargement
Mentioned below are the major benefits of Job enlargement:
An enlargement of jobs is a method of horizontal restructuring which increases the flexibility of the workforce while simultaneously reducing monotony that may develop over time. The responsibilities increase at the same level as the workload, so it is also known as horizontal loading.
There is often a misconception that training is not necessary since the enlargement is horizontal in nature. In contrast, job enlargement requires appropriate training, particularly in time management and people management. The task-related training is not necessary since the employee is already familiar with it or has been doing it for some time.
The Benefits of Job Enlargement
Mentioned below are the major benefits of Job enlargement:
- Reduced Monotony: It doesn’t matter how interesting a job appears at first, sooner or later people experience boredom and monotony. Job enlargement can help reduce boredom and increase employee satisfaction
- Increased
Work Flexibility : As individuals perform more tasks, their scope of task performance increases. This increases the possibility of performing tasks that are versatile and yet very similar in aspects - No Skills Training Required: The individual already possesses the required skills so imparting new ones will not be necessary. However, time management and people management interventions may be required. As a result, the task becomes more motivating
How does Job Enlargement differ from Job Enrichment?
- Enrichment and enlargement differ essentially based on quantity and quality. Adding more tasks to a job is the definition of job enlargement, whereas job enrichment implies improving the quality of the job in such a way that employees are more satisfied and fulfilled
- The enrichment of a job leads to the employee’s satisfaction and contentment, whereas the enlargement of a job makes the employee feel more responsible and effective within the company
- The primary function of job enrichment is planning and organising, while the primary function of job enlargement is executing. Both complement each other, in the sense that job enrichment empowers and enlargement executes
- To succeed, job enrichment is dependent upon job enlargement, and not the other way around
- The term “job enrichment” refers to extending duties and responsibilities vertically, while the term “job enlargement” refers to extending duties and responsibilities horizontally
In comparison to job enlargement, job enrichment has a greater impact on motivation. Enrichment gives employees greater insight into management functioning and a more positive work profile, making it an indicator of personal development and growth. This is not the case with job enlargement, which is seen as an employer’s tactic to increase the workload. It also helps in peoples professional life and helps them enhance their performance.
