Fairness in management : A vignette study on how presentation of information affects employees' perceptions of fairness

Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to examine how employees perceive fairness in organizational distribution decisions characterized by uncertainty, varying return potentials, and differing allocation principles. The thesis also aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of how such perceptions may relate to motivational processes, trust in management, and perceived organizational legitimacy. Method: Quantitative vignette-study Conclusion: The study shows that perceptions of fairness are shaped by both the distribution of outcomes and how information is presented. Even equal initial conditions can be perceived as unfair if the results are highly unequal. The findings highlight the importance of clear communication and an understanding of how individuals interpret economic systems within organizational contexts.