Alderfer’s ERG Theory

In 1969, Clayton P. Alderfer simplified Maslow’s theory by categorizing hierarchy of needs into three categories:

§ Physiological and Safety needs are merged in Existence Needs,

§ Belonging needs is named as Relatedness Needs,

§ Self-esteem and Self-actualization needs are merged in Growth Needs

Herzberg’s Two Factor Theory

Frederick Herzberg introduced his Two Factor Theory in 1959. He suggested that there are two kinds of factors affect motivation, and they do it in different ways:

1) Hygiene factors: A series of hygiene factors create dissatisfaction if individuals perceive them as inadequate or inequitable, yet individuals will not be significantly motivated if these factors are viewed as adequate or good. Hygiene factors are extrinsic and include factors such as salary or remuneration, job security and working conditions.

2) Motivators: They are intrinsic factors such as sense of achievement, recognition, responsibility, and personal growth.

The hygiene factors determine dissatisfaction, and motivators determine satisfaction. Herzberg theory conforms with satisfaction theories which assert that “a satisfied employee tends to work in the same organization but this satisfaction does not always result in better performance”. In other words, satisfaction does not correlate with productivity.