Health and performance: science or advocacy?

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the literature assessing the return-on-investment (ROI) of healthy workplace programs. Design/methodology/approach – Used a narrative review to summarize and evaluate findings. Findings – Although substantial ROI data now exist, methodological and logical weaknesses limit the conclusions that can be drawn. Practical implications – A strategy for monetizing the benefits of healthy workplaces that draws on both human resource accounting and strategic human resource management is described. Social implications – The promotion of healthy workplaces is an important goal in its own right. To the extent that ROI estimates are important in advancing this goal, these estimates should be based on clear logic and strong methodology. Originality/value – The paper suggests the need for stronger research designs but also note the difficulties in monetizing outcomes of the healthy workplace.