Problem
Suppose you work for a company that has never had a worksite wellness program. Management has asked you to design and implement a new education program for employees on medical self-care. Your research efforts show that the most effective intervention is voluntary. It should consist of self-care books, financial incentives, and quarterly on-site seminars. You learn that this program can yield a monetary benefit as great as $4 for every $1 spent. However, research suggests that a participation rate of 50% for at least a year is necessary to achieve a positive benefit-cost ratio.
Your worksite is currently downsizing, and management expects you to show a positive return within six months.
What should you do to achieve management's goal within the shorter time frame? Should you propose a mandatory program to ensure 100% participation? If not, should you recommend higher financial incentives to motivate a high rate of voluntary participation? Should you offer a higher number of on-site seminars? What would you do?