The perceived merits of management by wandering around : a research intervention at Albert Haykel Hospital

Abstract

Purpose –the purpose of this thesis is to study the perceptions of the nurses and administrative employees at Albert Haykel Hospital concerning a “Management by Walking Around” program applied at that hospital and check whether the elements of management by walking around vary with the demographics of the respondents. Design/methodology/approach –Deductive in nature, this thesis uses descriptive and inferential statistical methods. A survey questionnaire was distributed to the employees of the nursing and administrative departments at Albert Haykel Hospital to study their perceptions regarding the management by walking around program applied at their departments. Findings –This research proved that the elements of management by walking around vary with the demographical characteristics of the respondents with respect to the age, total experience, experience in current position, and education level, however, no variation was detected with respect to gender of the respondents. Research limitations/implications–The findings of this research will be limited and applied only at Albert Haykel Hospital. However, the theoretical implications were presented through spreading the awareness about management by walking around to increase the chances of applying this management style either in other hospitals or in other departments at the same hospital. Practical implications –This study will be helpful for policy makers because they will apply management by walking around in their organizations. In addition, it will have good effects on the industry because if this management style is widely spread in organizations and hospitals, employees’ performance will be positively affected. Originality/value –This study will contribute to the literature because there is a lack in theories related to management by walking around and its effectiveness. This study will be testing a new concept not widely adopted in organizations especially in Lebanon.