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A mining company that operates 24 hours a day has decided to restructure its workforce by changing working conditions - HSC - SSCE Business Studies - Question 23 - 2001 - Paper 1
Question 23
A mining company that operates 24 hours a day has decided to restructure its workforce by changing working conditions. Management has increased the length of work sh... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A mining company that operates 24 hours a day has decided to restructure its workforce by changing working conditions - HSC - SSCE Business Studies - Question 23 - 2001 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the informational role of management in this situation.
Answer
The informational role of management is crucial in this restructuring scenario. Management must ensure that communication is clear and effective across all levels. This includes disseminating information about the change in shift length and its implications for workers. Managers need to keep employees informed about the reasons behind these changes, addressing any concerns that may arise. Additionally, they should provide data on operational efficiency and expected outcomes to build trust and transparency within the team. Finally, management should also gather feedback from employees regarding their experiences during this transition, ensuring a two-way flow of information.
Step 2
Discuss an ethical or legal aspect that management should have considered when making this change to working conditions.
Answer
One significant ethical aspect management should consider is the impact of extended work shifts on employee well-being. Longer shifts can lead to fatigue, reduced morale, and increased risks of accidents, which raises ethical concerns about worker safety and health. Legally, management must comply with labor laws that govern working hours. They should ensure that the change does not violate regulations regarding maximum working hours, rest periods, or overtime compensation. Failure to respect these laws can lead to legal repercussions and damage the company’s reputation.
Step 3
Analyse TWO methods of measuring the effectiveness of employment relations, and recommend ONE that would be appropriate for the mining company.
Answer
Two methods for measuring the effectiveness of employment relations are employee turnover rates and employee satisfaction surveys.
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Employee Turnover Rates: This method tracks the percentage of employees leaving the company within a specific time frame. High turnover may indicate dissatisfaction with working conditions or management practices, signaling that changes are needed to improve employment relations.
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Employee Satisfaction Surveys: Surveys can provide insights into employee perceptions and levels of engagement. These surveys typically cover aspects such as job satisfaction, workplace environment, and communication effectiveness.
Recommendation: For the mining company, implementing Employee Satisfaction Surveys would be most beneficial. This method not only gauges current employee sentiments but also allows management to identify specific areas of concern that need addressing, thus fostering a more engaged and satisfied workforce.