Motivation Affecting the Performance of Subdistrict Administrative Organization Employees Theparak District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province

Abstract

This research article aimed to: (1) examine the level of motivation affecting the work performance of employees in Subdistrict Administrative Organizations (SAOs); (2) compare motivation affecting work performance based on personal factors; and (3) propose guidelines for enhancing work motivation among SAO employees in Theparak District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. A mixed-methods research design was employed. The quantitative sample consisted of 101 SAO employees working in Theparak District, selected from the target population. Data were collected using a five-point rating scale questionnaire and analyzed through percentage, mean, standard deviation, independent samples t-test, and one-way ANOVA. The qualitative phase involved 20 key informants selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured in-depth interviews and analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that: (1) the overall level of motivation affecting work performance was at a moderate level, with the highest mean scores ranked in the following order: success in life, success in work, responsibility, respect and recognition, security and safety, praise and appreciation, and career advancement; (2) employees with different gender, age, and work experience did not significantly differ in their perceptions of motivation affecting work performance; and (3) the proposed guidelines for enhancing employee motivation included: providing welfare benefits beyond those offered by the government, creating a comfortable and supportive working environment equipped with adequate facilities, developing personnel competencies through skill enhancement and relationship-building activities, strengthening organizational communication systems, and increasing the application of information technology to improve operational efficiency.