Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of HRM practices on job satisfaction and organizational performance in a public social services agency. Specifically, the study examined HRM practices that are under the control and responsibility of line supervisors and managers. The study (a) examined the difference between the perceptions of supervisor and managers and those of line employees, (b) identified and described HRM practices performed by line supervisors and managers, and (c) provided a greater understanding of line supervisors' and managers' role in addressing the HRM needs of public social services agency employees. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework of this study was based on research foundations of theories of motivation, job satisfaction theory, and organizational culture theory. Methodology: A mixed methods design was used to incorporate responses to a self-administered survey completed by 3 levels of participants and included interviews with line supervisors and managers. The survey instrument was developed to capture questions specific to HRM practices directly in control of supervisors and line managers. An additional interview instrument was used solicited responses to open-ended questions to enrich the validity of the study. Findings: The research findings and data analysis presented in this study indicate that there is a positive relationship between HRM practices, job satisfaction, and organizational performance in the Los Angeles County DPSS. Conclusions and Recommendations: The data clearly show motivation and organizational culture theoretical constructs drive the beliefs and practices of members of the organization. Additionally, job satisfaction theories aptly influence the perceptions of the 3 levels of employees who participated in the study. One recommendation is that the study is expanded to include line staff from all DPSS bureaus to enhance data collection and ensure the possibility of more truthful and genuine responses. Another recommendation is to conduct the study in other local government agencies to make a comparison between similar agencies in different California counties.