When instituting a program to encourage employee suggestions, it is essential to follow a thoughtful process.
Let's evaluate the options:
* Develop a provision for recording participation on the employee's permanent record: While keeping records of employee participation is important, it is not the primary step before implementing the program. This option focuses on administrative details rather than the program's effectiveness.
* Develop a provision for providing a reward that is proportional to the value of the suggestion to the company: Offering rewards can be an effective way to motivate employees to submit valuable suggestions. However, this step should come after obtaining commitment from management (Option C).
* Obtain a commitment from management to implement suggestions that are accepted: This is a critical step. Without management commitment to seriously consider and implement accepted suggestions, the program may lack credibility, and employees may become disillusioned.
* Obtain approval for the plan from employee representatives: While involving employee representatives is important for transparency and communication, it is not the initial step. Management commitment should precede seeking approval from representatives.
Therefore, the most appropriate action before implementing the program is to obtain a commitment from management to implement accepted suggestions1.
References: 5. The ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence Handbook, Fifth Edition.
Sandra L. Furterer and Douglas C. Wood. Published 2021. Link