Impact of relational coordination on job satisfaction and quality outcomes: a study of nursing homes

This article develops a relational perspective on the coordination of work. Existing theory suggests that relational forms of coordination should improve performance in settings that are highly interdependent, uncertain and time-constrained. Going beyond previous work, we argue that relational coordination should also improve job satisfaction by helping employees to accomplish their work more effectively and by serving as a source of positive connection at work. Using a cross-sectional sample of nursing aides and residents in 15 nursing homes, we investigate the impact of relational coordination on quality outcomes and job satisfaction. Contact: Jody Hoffer Gittell, The Heller School for Social Policy and Management, Brandeis University, 415 South Street, Watham, MA 02454, USA, Email: [email protected]