Our scientifically proven approach concurs with the work of leading motivational experts and is based on a common premise: lower level needs must be satisfied before higher level needs can be addressed. This assumption is the foundation of our action planning prioritization model and translates into three tiers of needs:

• Level 1 (Basic) includes items that address basic job requirements such as sufficient training, adequate tools and equipment, a safe work environment, competent supervisors and feelings of value and respect.
• Level 2 (Intermediate) addresses employees’ growth and development needs including opportunities for advancement and skill development, recognition for doing good work and sufficient involvement in organizational decisions.
• Level 3 (Advanced) includes advanced items that address employees’ organizational commitment needs such as their understanding of the company’s goals and competitive strategies as well as their level of confidence in senior leadership.

Research shows that managers who do a good job of meeting basic needs (70% favorable or higher on items within Level 1) have higher work group productivity, lower turnover and more highly engaged employees. Top scoring managers also tend to do a better job of fulfilling Level 2 and Level 3 items.

TNS Employee Insight'sLevel and Item Reports reclassify survey results into these three tiers so managers can effectively evaluate employee engagement and prioritize their action plans for maximum organizational effectiveness.