High Performance Work Systems in Professional Service Firms: A Practices-Resources-Uses-Performance Approach

This study uses a practices-resources-uses-performance linkage approach to examine the impact of High Performance Work Systems (HPWS) on firm performance in Professional Service Firms (PSFs). Based on data collected from 120 Irish accounting firms, findings suggest that firms with more HPWS have higher level of resources, i.e. human, social and organisational capital. These resources, in turn, create value for the firms when they are effectively utilised. Therefore, this study provides a comprehensive picture of how HPWS work in professional service firms by providing the conceptual and empirical support for the practices-resources-uses-performance value creation chain. These findings will help firms find mechanisms to improve their performance.

Na received her PhD from Dublin City University in 2011. Na was the 2010 recipient of the Bentley College & HEC School Management Outstanding Graduate Paper Award at Academy of Management Conference. Her thesis was the Highly Commended Award Winner in 2011 Emerald/EFMD Outstanding Doctoral Research Awards in HRM Group.