Does individual locus of control matter in a JIT environment?

Abstract

Higher empowerment and task involvement are accepted features of a JIT environment. However, the well studied locus of control (LOC) congruency hypothesis suggests that the level of involvement should align with the LOC orientation of the individual for greater job satisfaction and performance. This study examines this potential conflict. Results show that involvement for both internal and external LOC managers in a JIT environment is crucial in improving perceived performance but that involvement is more efficient for internal LOC managers as these managers’ performance improves at a greater rate. However, for job satisfaction the LOC congruency hypothesis holds in a JIT setting for both internal and external LOC managers.