High performance work systems and export performance

Abstract

Invoking the resource-based view (RBV), this study argues that a set of human resource practices collectively referred to as high performance work systems (HPWS) will positively impact firms' export performance. We also suggest that this relationship will be moderated by the uncertainty levels in firms' general business environments. We test these relationships using a sample of 145 exporting firms in Spain's food processing sector. Results indicate a direct positive effect for HPWS on export performance, with the effect moderated by perceived environmental uncertainty.