One way of improving productivity in the public service is through?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for one way of improving productivity (output and efficiency) among workers in the public service (civil service).

Step 2: Explain the concept Productivity in any organisation depends largely on worker motivation. Workers who are well paid and well taken care of tend to be more committed, less likely to engage in corruption or absenteeism, and more willing to perform. Motivation in the public service typically comes from:

• Good pay and allowances
• Prompt payment of salaries
• Promotion based on merit
• Training and staff development
• Good working conditions

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Promotion without examination: This ignores merit and can lower standards. It encourages mediocrity, so it does not improve productivity. Promotion should be based on performance, qualifications, and seniority.
• B. Higher salaries and allowances: This motivates workers, reduces the urge for bribery, and increases commitment and output. This is a recognised way of raising productivity.
• C. Increase in working hours: Longer hours do not necessarily mean more output. They can cause fatigue and lower morale, so they do not reliably improve productivity.
• D. Open door policy: This is about foreign trade and investment, or in administration, about accessibility of management. It is not a direct means of improving worker productivity in the public service.

Step 4: Answer The best answer is B. higher salaries and allowances.

Tip: For "improving productivity" questions in Government, think "motivation": good pay, training, merit-based promotion, and good working conditions. Be wary of options that sound like shortcuts, such as promotion without examination or simply longer hours.