MN7234ES - PEOPLE AND ORGANIZATIONS/ Muthukuda

  Introduction   Ceylon Tea is one of the main pillars of the Sri Lankan economy. However, the industry currently faces several serious challenges, such as labor shortages, maintaining the quality of tea picking, lack of expansion of new tea plantations, and high production costs.  The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and new technologies has become essential to overcome these challenges. However, for this technological revolution to be successful, it must not be a job-killer for tea industry workers but rather an upliftment of their role.  Below are practical strategies that can be used to motivate tea industry workers in Sri Lanka using AI and new technologies.    I. AI and new technological applications in the tea industry.   There are several key technological applications that are changing the role of workers in the tea industry:  Technical    Application Role      Impact on the emp...

Introduction  In today's rapidly changing and highly competitive business world, the long-term success and sustainability of any organization depend heavily on the knowledge, skills, and adaptability of its employees. As industries evolve due to technological advancements, globalization, and shifting customer expectations, organizations must ensure that their workforce is equipped with the capabilities required to meet new challenges.  Employee Training and Development (T&D) therefore plays a critical strategic role by enhancing employee performance, supporting organizational goals, and preparing the company for future transformations. Rather than being considered a cost or operational burden, training must be viewed as a strategic investment that contributes directly to organizational growth, innovation, and competitive advantage.  Strategic training involves a systematic and forward-looking approach to planning, designing, implementing, and evaluating training init...

Introduction Procurement is the systematic process by which a government uses public funds to procure goods, services, and works from external suppliers. This process is considered a fundamental decision for the country’s economic development, infrastructure development, and efficient delivery of public services. Unlike private sector procurement, public procurement should be based on the principles of transparency, accountability, and competition.                                                           and achieving the best value for money (VFM).  In parallel, procurement is a systematic process used to obtain goods, services, or works from a regional or national institution or business under the best conditions. The aim is to save costs, use time and resources efficiently, and achieve the desired results in an easy and transpare...

Introduction Communication is the process of exchanging information, ideas, feelings, and concepts from one party to another. It is the foundation of success in human life and organizations, and its impact extends from the individual level to the entire organizational level.   Impact of Communication on Individuals Here are some ways in which effective communication shapes a person's personal and professional life: Sector of Influence  Explanation Building & Maintaining Relationships Strong communication builds trust, understanding, and emotional support. No relationship—personal or professional—can thrive without clear and honest communication.  Conflict Resolution Open, respectful communication helps identify the root of issues, encourages mutual understanding, and restores relationships. Poor communication often escalates conflicts.  Self-expression & Confidence Expressing thoughts and emotions clearly boosts self-esteem and leadership potential. Go...

Introduction In today’s highly competitive business world, employee well-being and psychological health are no longer just HR topics—they are strategic priorities that directly influence organizational success, productivity, and turnover. Research from the American Psychological Association (APA) shows that ignoring mental health issues can cost organizations billions . For example, workplace stress in the U.S. may cost up to $187 billion , with 70–90% stemming from lost productivity . To support employee well-being, organizations must implement strong, research-based strategies that create a psychologically healthy workplace . Below are five key strategies supported by research and best practice. .   Training Managers to Promote Health and Well-Being   Leadership commitment is essential in creating a mentally healthy culture . Managers and supervisors, who work directly with employees, are the key to implementing these policies, and without their support, organizatio...

  Introduction Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a foundational psychological theory introduced by Abraham Maslow in 1943 through his famous article “A Theory of Human Motivation,” published in the Psychological Review . Maslow later expanded the idea, drawing on observations of human curiosity and personal growth. His theory aligns with many developmental models in psychology and offers a clear structure for understanding the universal needs that drive human behavior. According to Maslow, people move through different “levels” of needs—starting with basic survival and progressing toward psychological fulfillment and self-actualization. Today, this model is widely used in psychology, education, counseling, management, and motivational studies.                                                       Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs 1. Physiological Needs ...