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WAY TO GO Skye Daily Press – 22 September 2007 Recent figures show that Meehan Electric Company is leading in productivity and quality compared with all other electricity providers - VCE - SSCE Business Management - Question 2 - 2007 - Paper 1
Question 2
WAY TO GO Skye Daily Press – 22 September 2007 Recent figures show that Meehan Electric Company is leading in productivity and quality compared with all other electr... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:WAY TO GO Skye Daily Press – 22 September 2007 Recent figures show that Meehan Electric Company is leading in productivity and quality compared with all other electricity providers - VCE - SSCE Business Management - Question 2 - 2007 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify and explain one driving force for change relevant to Meehan Electric Company’s introduction of enterprise bargaining - driving
Answer
A driving force for change is management's recognition of low productivity levels. Meehan Electric Company identified the need to become more productive and as a result changed their management style to improve the relationship between staff and management. This approach aimed to harness the workforce's potential and encourage collaboration, thus creating a more effective and productive environment.
Step 2
Identify and explain one restraining force for change relevant to Meehan Electric Company’s introduction of enterprise bargaining - restraining
Answer
A restraining force for change could be the existing levels of mistrust between management and staff. This distrust might cause resistance to new practices like enterprise bargaining, as employees could feel skeptical about management's motives. The fear that their interests will not be adequately considered can prevent them from engaging with the new system.
Step 3
Identify and explain two external pressures for change and discuss how they may cause Meehan Electric Company to change its management practices
Answer
Two external pressures for change could be:
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Economic Pressures: Changes in the economic landscape, such as rising operational costs or fluctuations in demand, may compel Meehan Electric Company to adopt more effective management practices to maintain competitive pricing and profitability.
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Legislative Changes: New laws regarding workplace relations can impact how Meehan Electric Company operates. This might compel a review and adjustment of current management strategies to ensure compliance, which may include the implementation of enterprise bargaining agreements.
Step 4
Identify and explain one management role that James Meehan may use when developing policies to improve productivity
Answer
James Meehan may take on the role of a 'leader'. As a leader, he would be responsible for inspiring and motivating employees towards achieving higher productivity levels. This could involve setting clear goals, communicating effectively, and encouraging team collaboration to enhance performance.
Step 5
Distinguish between individual Australian Workplace Agreements (AWAs) and Collective/Certified Agreements
Answer
Australian Workplace Agreements (AWAs) are tailored agreements negotiated between an individual employee and their employer, focusing on the specific needs and obligations of the single employee. In contrast, Collective/Certified Agreements apply to a group of employees and involve negotiations between employers and employee representatives, ensuring broader terms and conditions that apply to all employees covered by the agreement.
Step 6
Discuss the differing opinions that two stakeholders may have had about James Meehan’s decision to introduce enterprise bargaining
Answer
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Management's Perspective: Management might have viewed the introduction of enterprise bargaining positively, believing it would enhance productivity and foster better employee relations. They may have seen it as a step towards a more collaborative working environment.
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Employee's Perspective: Conversely, employees could have seen this decision with skepticism. They might have feared that enterprise bargaining would lead to a reduction in their rights or benefits, leading to concerns about how it could affect their job security and workplace conditions.