Structural Relationships Among High-Performance Work System Dimensions In Higher Education Institutions: Evidence From Delhi

Abstract

This study investigates the structural relationships among seven High-Performance Work System (HPWS) dimensions—Selective Staffing & Security, Developmental Appraisal, Faculty Development, Incentive Pay & Career Progression, Participative Governance, Information Sharing, and Sustainability & Well-Being—within higher education institutions (HEIs) in Delhi. Addressing a notable gap in Indian higher education research, the study employs a quantitative, cross-sectional survey of 190 HEIs, targeting senior academic administrators and faculty. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) via AMOS v26, following a two-step approach: confirmatory factor analysis to validate the measurement model, and path analysis to examine interrelationships. The HPWS scale demonstrated exceptional internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.959). Results reveal high adoption levels across all dimensions, with Incentive Pay & Career Progression and Sustainability & Well-Being marginally more prominent. SEM analysis confirms a robust input–process–outcome pathway, wherein Selective Staffing & Security (β = 0.466) and Developmental Appraisal (β = 0.388) significantly influence Participative Governance, which in turn strongly predicts Sustainability & Well-Being (β = 0.818). The model explains 65–67% of variance in governance and sustainability outcomes, with excellent fit indices (CFI = 0.971, RMSEA = 0.072). The findings advance HPWS theory by integrating governance as a central mediating process and offer practical guidance for HEI leaders to align recruitment, appraisal, and participatory governance to enhance institutional resilience. The study supports NEP 2020 objectives and provides a validated framework adaptable to similar higher education contexts in emerging economies.