Photo AI
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
In this restructuring scenario, the informational role of management is vital. Management must effectively communicate both the reasons for the change in working conditions and the expected outcomes. This involves disseminating information to employees regarding the increased shift length from 8 to 12 hours, ensuring they understand how this impacts their work schedule, expectations, and any potential adjustments to their compensation.
Additionally, management should provide updates on the organization’s performance metrics and how the restructuring fits into broader operational goals. Creating a feedback loop where employees can express concerns or ask questions will help maintain transparency and trust.
Moreover, gathering and analyzing employee feedback will allow management to make informed decisions moving forward.
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 longer work shifts on employee health and well-being. Prolonged hours can lead to burnout, reduced productivity, and safety concerns in a mining environment. Legally, management must adhere to employment laws governing work hours, rest periods, and occupational health and safety standards.
Failure to comply with these laws can result in penalties and damage to the company’s reputation. Management should ensure that the changes align with legal guidelines while also considering the ethical implications of employee welfare.
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 effective methods for measuring employment relations include:
-
Employee Feedback Surveys: Collecting insights directly from employees regarding their satisfaction and perceptions of management practices and working conditions. Surveys can gauge morale, engagement levels, and any areas of concern following changes in working conditions.
-
Turnover Rates Analysis: Monitoring staff turnover will provide quantifiable data on employee retention and satisfaction. High turnover may indicate problems in employment relations, while stable or decreasing rates suggest effective management.
Recommendation: For the mining company, Employee Feedback Surveys would be the most appropriate method. This approach allows management to gather timely insights about the impact of longer shifts directly from affected employees and take necessary actions to support their workforce effectively.