Innovation projects typically integrate several distinct components which can be completed either iteratively or sequentially. In our experimental study we examine the behavioral underpinnings of iterative vs. sequential workflow in two innovation tasks. Our results show that the iterative workflow significantly outperforms the sequential workflow in a design task, and vice versa in a search task. This cautions against the uniform adoption of iterative workflow methods such as Lean and Agile.

The high patient volumes and acuity levels placed extraordinary stress on the nursing workforce. Increased nursing workload is linked to nurse burnout and patient safety concerns. In this work, we take an empirical approach to understanding the effect of historical workload on nurses’ perceived workload. Quantifying this temporal effect of nursing workload allows us to design patient-to-nurse assignment policies that achieve a more balanced workload and create a fairer and safer working environment.

Can past helping behaviors improve shift scheduling? We study organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) and its impact on shift performance. Past helping predicts patient length of stay better than team familiarity. Small shift composition changes reduce length of stay significantly. Scheduling based on past helping holds promise beyond ICU nursing.