As the Director of HR at a Unionized Midwestern Precision

question 96

Essay

As the Director of HR at a unionized Midwestern precision auto parts manufacturing plant, you have been asked by the new CEO to examine the current mass production process and make suggestions for improving efficiency and accuracy of the products. The CEO is open to any an all suggestions that you might have for doing this and has indicated that she is a strong believer in employee participation. You have determined that there is a great deal of untapped potential in the knowledge, skills, and abilities of your current workforce and would like to generate greater employee participation and involvement in the company as a way to utilize this talent. Discuss the various types of employee involvement programs and make a decision as to which you will recommend to the CEO.

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Definitions:

Scientific-Management Approach

A theory of management that analyzes and synthesizes workflows with the objective of improving labor productivity and economic efficiency.

Human-Relations Approach

A management theory emphasizing the importance of understanding human behavior, social needs, and group dynamics within the workplace.

Theory X

A management style that assumes employees are inherently lazy and require strict supervision and control.

Work Place

The physical location where someone is employed or where work is done.