Optimal Monitoring with External Incentives: The Case of Tipping

C-Tier
Journal: Southern Economic Journal
Year: 2004
Volume: 71
Issue: 1
Pages: 170-181

Score contribution per author:

1.005 = (α=2.01 / 1 authors) × 0.5x C-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

This article examines the optimal choice of monitoring intensity when workers face external incentives (incentives that are not provided by the firm), such as tips, satisfaction from working well, or the desire to build reputation in order to be more attractive to other employers. Increase in such external incentives reduces optimal monitoring intensity but nevertheless increases effort and profits unambiguously. The model explains why U.S. firms supported the establishment of tipping in the late 19th century and raises the possibility that European firms make costly mistakes by replacing tips with service charges.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:wly:soecon:v:71:y:2004:i:1:p:170-181
Journal Field
General
Author Count
1
Added to Database
2026-01-24