The term motivation can be described in many different formats and views, but according to Dr Stephen P. Robbins, this is the process that account for an individuals intensity, direction and persistence of effort toward attaining a goal (S. P. Robbins, Organizational Behaviour 9ed, p.155). However, I will describe motivation as any factor which will cause an increase in my normal input into doing something, and with the knowledge and hope that a reward will be gained afterwards.

Below are a description of what a process and a content theory of motivation are, their features and how each applies to the workplace. A process theory define motivation as a rational cognitive process occurring within the individual e.g. Adams’ Equity
what was a human’s primary wish? (Alderfer, 1972)

The main concept of the ERG theory is based on “Hierarchy of Needs” by Dr A. Maslow, but the significant difference between the two theories is that according to Maslow, all individuals follow a similar motivational pattern as mentioned on page 1, further more, Maslow believed that in order for a higher level need to be satisfied, the lower level needs will have to be satisfied first (Robbins, 2001)

I for one disagree with this statement as I believed that being homeless for example; will not deprive an individual of their social needs, and will in actual fact be of important to them because having some one you can call a friend, greatly increases your moral, enable you to spend time together, share thoughts and enjoy each others company.

According to Alderfer, Existence Need depends on the person getting enough of the various material substances that he or she wants. However due to scarcity, a person with high needs will be able to obtain a lower proportion of his desires than with lower needs and so being easily satisfied (Alderfer, 1972) Adding to the above, relatedness need is an