Abstract
It has been argued that the command and control approach underlying McGregor's Theory X perspective of others must of necessity be replaced by a more optimistic and empowering Theory Y approach to managing and motivating employees in contemporary workplaces. However, a general review of workplace surveys in the US and Australia and average hours worked by their employees, combined with research evaluating the relationship between Maslowian needs and work satisfaction in an Australian sample suggests that there is some doubt that there has been any actual systematic or widespread change in the way that managers motivate their employees. Indeed, it is proposed that future research specifically seek to consider the intrinsic drivers of part-time workers and the design of work itself, and also generally address the perceived failure of at least some contemporary organisations and managers to better understand and subsequently address the work related needs and associated motivational dynamics of their employees.