PERSPECTIVES OF EMPLOYEES IN THE MEDIUM-SCALE APPAREL INDUSTRY ON BEST PRACTICES INSTITUTED TO OVERCOME SLOW PERFORMANCE WITHIN THE ECONOMIC CRISIS: A SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ABC COMPANY

Abstract

Sri Lanka's apparel industry is one of the strongest performers in Sri Lanka's economy, generating significant foreign exchange earnings and creating employment opportunities. The ongoing economic crisis in the country has significantly impacted the industry, with increased production costs, restricted foreign exchange availability, and low external demand. This study examines workers' perceptions of best practices implemented to improve organisational performance during an economic recession and the challenges employers faced in implementing them. The mixed-method cross-sectional study consisted of combining a structured questionnaire survey of 164 workers with qualitative interviews of nine senior managers. Descriptive statistics and thematic meaning of qualitative data were performed using SPSS. Empirical evidence suggests that staff tend to have a positive attitude towards process improvement best practices, technology incorporation, and improvements in working conditions; however, they are limited by economic uncertainty, weak governance, and constrained resources. This study contributes to the body of crisis management research by examining the relationship between labour attitude and organisational resilience strategies in the context of emerging economies. Recommendations include improved communication, cost-cutting strategies, and policy intervention as a vehicle for realising sustainable performance during economic crises.