Successful companies have seen the value of creating a work environment (or climate) that is enjoyable, and motivates staff to be committed and effective performers. There are key aspects of an organization's work climate that, if positive, can help retain staff, increase profits, and enhance job satisfaction. A Climate Survey examines staff opinions about the quality of their work climate and can be used to make workplace improvements.

The following is a brief description of the work climate aspects measured by this type of survey.

• Role-Clarity: Staff clearly understand their duties and their role within the organization.
• Staff/Management Relations: Staff relationships with management are based on trust,cooperation, open communication, and staff believe management is effective.
• Respect: Staff value and feel values by their co-workers and the organization.
• Communication: Important information is communicated effectively, and staff believe they have a voice in the organization.
• Performance/Reward Systems: Staff performance is fairly evaluated, and they are adequately rewarded for their contributions.
• Career Development: Staff are provided with adequate training/development opportunities to improve their professional skills.
• Decision-Making/Coordination: Decision-making, delegation, and coordination are effective

INNOVATION

Work methods are innovative and staff are encouraged to be creative and express new ideas.

• Relationships: Staff and customer needs are valued by the organization.
• Teamwork/Support: Staff are encouraged to be team players and are provided the support needed to perform effectively.
• Quality of Service: Staff are proud of the quality of service provided by their work team and the organization
• Conflict Management: Conflicts are handled openly and fairly and innovative ways of preventing conflicts are used throughout the organization.
• Morale: Staff are motivated to perform well and morale is high
• Direction/Strategy: Staff understand the direction the organization is headed and the organization's vision and goals