A Unique Approach to Improving Organizational Performance: The Cube One Framework offers an empirical approach toward explaining, predicting, diagnosing, and improving organizational performance. The emphasis on the frequency of enacted managerial practices distinguishes this model from traditional approaches that focus on espoused policies or key principles. The Cube One Framework identifies three critical stakeholder groups: funding sources, customers, and employees, each requiring specific practices to thrive.
In Part One, the practices adopted by several highly successful organizations are examined via case studies. Google, an organization that clearly can be classified in Cube One, is compared with AltaVista, the first provider of internet search capability. Other successful organizations studied include Four Seasons, Zappos, Nordstrom and the Mayo Clinic.
Part One provides two types of validity evidence: survey data and financial metrics. Using survey data, it was found that organizations classified in Cube One (i.e., those scoring High on all three sets of practices) demonstrate substantially superior performance compared to those in Cube 27 (which score Low on these three sets of practices). Validity evidence is also provided by examining financial metrics
Part Two provides a structured approach to achieving improved Organizational Performance. Essential components include a felt need for change, visible top-management support, and the formation of a guiding team.
A comprehensive guide is provided for organizations seeking to enhance their performance. By addressing the objectives of all three key participants (the Enterprise, Employees, and Customers), The Cube One Framework can make the world a more need-satisfying place.
Kopelman, Richard E.: - Richard E. Kopelman served as a professor of management at the Zicklin School of Business, Baruch College, from 1973 to 2023. His research centered on motivation, productivity, and organizational performance, resulting in over 150 publications, many in first-tier journals. His book, Improving Organizational Performance: The Cube One Framework, emphasizes enacted practices over espoused policies, principles, or philosophies. Kopelman holds graduate degrees from Wharton and Harvard; has been President of the Metropolitan New York Association for Applied Psychology; and received multiple awards, including Baruch College's Presidential Awards for Outstanding Teaching and Research.
Weber, H. Chase: - H. Chase Weber is a graduate student at the Zicklin School of Business, Baruch College focusing on statistics and data science. With professional experience in data science and analysis at various financial firms in New York City, his research emphasizes statistical methods and predictive modeling from survey results, along with cost-benefit analysis in regulatory contexts. Chase earned his Bachelor of Science in Statistics, graduating magna cum laude from Utah State University. He has received the Frederic Bastiat Fellowship (2024) and the Ronald Coase Fellowship (2025) from the Mercatus Center and mentors students at Minds Matter in New York City.
