Why might an organization favor discretionary bonuses over permanent base pay raises when business performance is constrained?

Answer

Bonuses provide a reward without locking in higher payroll expenses for future years.

When financial performance is constrained, offering a performance-based bonus allows the organization to reward staff without incurring the commitment of higher payroll expenses for potentially leaner future years.

Why might an organization favor discretionary bonuses over permanent base pay raises when business performance is constrained?
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