Indicators for the ROI of Employee Wellness Programmes in South African Water Utility Organisations

Abstract

Orientation: Our research emphasises the importance of conducting a thorough assessment of employee wellness programmes (EWPs). By analysing indicators of return on investment (ROI), we can gain a deeper understanding of the impact of such programmes, which are part of a participatory process.

Research purpose: This study aimed to address a significant gap in the evaluation of EWPs in water utility organisations. We involved a panel of experts familiar with the organisation’s dynamics and internal processes in creating a unique framework of variables and indicators for evaluating ROI.

Motivation for the study: There is little evidence of such programmes being evaluated at the local level, including within water utility organisations. Few studies focus on developing universally applicable ROI tools to measure the cost-effectiveness and social contribution of these programmes.

Research approach/design and method: The study used a qualitative approach and employed the rigorous and widely respected Delphi technique to obtain consensus from a panel of experts.

Main findings: The panel of experts reached a consensus on the qualitative and quantitative variables to include in a framework for evaluating the ROI of EWPs.

Practical/managerial implications: The study found that determining the ROI of EWPs can be challenging as programmes often focus on the human aspects of organisations and less on cost factors. However, the study demonstrated the essential need for organisations to use a combination of subjective and objective indicators to evaluate the effects of EWPs, thereby enhancing their overall effectiveness.

Contribution/value added: The study provides insights on subjective indicators reflecting non-monetary benefits and objective indicators reflecting cost factors.