The Role of Motivation, Ability, and Opportunity in Achieving Effective Knowledge-Work: Knowledge Work and MAO

Abstract

This study aims to empirically test the impact of the Motivation-Ability-Opportunity- (MAO) model on<br><br>knowledge work. We propose that knowledge work is a function of employees’ motivation, ability and<br><br>opportunity. In this regard, the aim is to provide empirical support to explain the effects of motivation,<br><br>ability and opportunity on knowledge-work, which we defined as a knowledge-centered behavior.<br><br>Data was collected through a self-report questionnaire. A sample size of 350 employees of Ferdowsi<br><br>University of Mashhad answered the questionnaire. Structural equation modeling techniques and<br><br>hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted on hypothesis testing. The findings confirm<br><br>that motivation, ability and opportunity independently influence knowledge-work behavior. Also,<br><br>results revealed that both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation has significant influence on knowledge<br><br>work; however intrinsic motivation has a higher effect than extrinsic motivation.