What is the principal difference between job enlargement and job enrichment in terms of motivational impact on employees?

The principal difference between job enlargement and job enrichment in terms of motivational impact on employees lies in the types of needs each seeks to address: job enlargement aims to reduce boredom and monotony by increasing the variety of tasks performed, while job enrichment focuses on increasing intrinsic motivation by providing employees with greater autonomy, responsibility, and control over their work. Job enlargement involves expanding the scope of a job by adding more tasks that are similar in skill level and responsibility. It aims to alleviate boredom by breaking up repetitive routines. However, it does not necessarily make the job more challenging or meaningful; it primarily adds horizontal complexity. For example, a data entry clerk who previously only entered customer names might be given the additional task of entering customer addresses. While this increases the variety of tasks, it doesn't necessarily make the job more engaging or fulfilling. Job enrichment, on the other hand, involves redesigning a job to increase its motivational potential by providing employees with more control over planning, executing, and evaluating their work. It aims to satisfy higher-level needs, such as achievement, recognition, and personal growth. This is achieved by granting employees more autonomy, decision-making authority, and feedback on their performance. For example, instead of simply processing insurance claims, a claims adjuster might be given the authority to negotiate settlements directly with clients, approve payments up to a certain amount, and analyze claims data to identify trends and improve processes. This provides the adjuster with a greater sense of ownership, accomplishment, and opportunity for learning and development, resulting in increased intrinsic motivation. Therefore, while job enlargement mainly combats boredom, job enrichment aims to deeply engage employees and enhance their job satisfaction by addressing their needs for autonomy, mastery, and purpose.