Neuroscience based human resource management at Midas IT Co._A case study

Abstract

Over the past 20 years, brain science has developed rapidly thanks to new technologies such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), leading to more accurate knowledge of human nature and behavioral changes. This knowledge is also actively applied in the field of management. This research aimed to gain insights into how neuroscience can be incorporated into management through the case of Midas IT Co. This construction software company has a separate organization with the purpose of studying brain science, and it makes and implements human resource management policies based on brain science. The founder Lee Hyung-woo has a humanist management philosophy, and the company's brain science research supports that philosophy. The case study method was adopted as the research method, and procedures such as interviews and direct observation, participation observation, and document information were carried out. The company's human resource management system can be explained by a brain science model called "SCARF", which combines various neuroscience discoveries. As this model suggests, the company has improved the trust and satisfaction of its members by reducing threat of status and by increasing certainty, autonomy, relationship, and fairness in the workplace, resulting in the creation of a platform for creativity, integrity, and high performance.