Despite these methodological questi

Despite these methodological questions and concerns, the weight of evidence and the consistency of the general direction of results - even if not the final detail - presents a strong and persuasive case that HR practices do make a difference to business performance. The critical value of the research in high performance work practices is in highlighting the importance of considering investment in the workforce in the context of the broader company structure, practices and company strategy. It is likely that practices act to improve skills and increase motivation within the context of a philosophy of work that emphasises employee engagement and promotes work systems, allowing involvement and the freedom to make decisions. Under such conditions people can make a decisive difference to organisational performance.