Motivation theories
Theories of motivation refer to the various explanations and models that attempt to understand why people behave in certain ways and what drives them to achieve certain goals or outcomes. Some of the most well-known theories of motivation include:
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: This theory proposes that people have a hierarchy of needs, starting with basic physiological needs (such as food and shelter) and moving up to higher-level needs such as self-actualisation and self-esteem.
Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory: This theory suggests that there are two sets of factors that motivate people: hygiene factors (such as salary and working conditions) that prevent dissatisfaction and motivation factors (such as recognition and personal growth) that lead to satisfaction.
Expectancy Theory: This theory proposes that people are motivated to act based on their expectations of the outcomes that will result from their actions. This includes their belief in their ability to perform the task and the value they place on the outcome.
Equity Theory: This theory suggests that people are motivated by a desire for fairness and equity. This means that individuals compare their inputs (such as effort and time) and outputs (such as rewards and recognition) to those of others in the organisation.
Goal-Setting Theory: This theory proposes that people are motivated by setting specific, challenging goals and receiving feedback on their progress toward those goals.
Self-Determination Theory: This theory suggests that people are motivated when they have a sense of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Autonomy refers to the ability to make choices and control one's own destiny, competence refers to the ability to perform tasks successfully, and relatedness refers to the sense of connection with others.
These are just a few of the many theories of motivation that exist. Each theory has its own strengths and weaknesses and can be applied in different situations depending on the context and the individuals involved.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Adaptability.
- Adaptation.
- Collaborative practices for building design and construction.
- Construction organisations and strategy.
- Emotional Intelligence in Construction.
- Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
- Leadership styles.
- Relationship management.
- Team behavioural roles.
- Team building.
[edit] External links
Featured articles and news
The BPF urges Chancellor for additional BSR resources
To remove barriers and bottlenecks which delay projects.
Flexibility over requirements to boost apprentice numbers
English, maths and minimumun duration requirements reduced for a 10,000 gain.
A long term view on European heating markets
BSRIA HVAC 2032 Study.
Humidity resilience strategies for home design
Frequency of extreme humidity events is increasing.
National Apprenticeship Week 2025
Skills for life : 10-16 February
Update on the future of Grenfell Tower
Deputy Prime Minister decides for it be carefully taken down to the ground.
Ending decades of frustration, misinformation and distrust.
Essential tools in managing historically significant landscapes.
Classroom electrician courses a 'waste of money'
Say experts from the Electrical Contractors’ Association.
Wellbeing in Buildings TG 10/2025
BSRIA topic guide updates.
With brief background and WELL v2™.
From studies, to books to a new project, with founder Emma Walshaw.
Types of drawings for building design
Still one of the most popular articles the A-Z of drawings.
Who, or What Does the Building Safety Act Apply To?
From compliance to competence in brief.
The remarkable story of a Highland architect.
Commissioning Responsibilities Framework BG 88/2025
BSRIA guidance on establishing clear roles and responsibilities for commissioning tasks.
An architectural movement to love or hate.