Qualidade de vida no trabalho na percepção dos colaboradores: estudo de caso em uma instituição pública reconhecida por suas práticas

Abstract

This study investigated the Quality of Work Life (QWL) from the perspective of employees at the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (Cade), using Walton’s Model as the theoretical framework. The topic of QWL has been widely discussed by various authors, such as Limongi-França (1998), who defines QWL as a set of actions aimed at well-being in the organizational environment, and Ferreira (2016), who highlights the need to balance institutional demands with workers’ expectations. Walton (1973), one of the main scholars on the subject, proposed a model that evaluates QWL based on eight dimensions, including fair and adequate compensation, workplace safety and health conditions, and opportunities for growth. Cade was chosen as the research locus due to its recognition as one of the "Amazing Places to Work" and its strategic relevance in defending competition in Brazil. The general objective of the study was to understand employees' perceptions of QWL based on Walton’s Model criteria. To achieve this, three specific objectives were established: to investigate Cade employees'perception of QWL criteria, to identify the application of Walton’s Model within the organization, and to highlight the practices adopted by Cade to promote QWL in the workplace. The study followed a mixed-methods approach and was structured as a single case study, involving a selected sample of employees working directly within the institution. Data collection was carried out through an online questionnaire with a descriptive analysis method. The results revealed that while QWL at Cade is generally well evaluated, some areas require greater attention, such as perceptions of salary equity and career progression. Additionally, practices such as professional development programs and incentives for continuous training were identified as positive aspects of the organization’s people management strategies. Based on these findings, this study provides insights for the formulation of policies and practices that foster a healthier and more productive work environment, both at Cade and in other public institutions seeking to improve QWL for their employees.