Frames of Reference Hr
Question 1
1.1 Briefly discuss the various frames of reference for the management of employment relations. Identify which frame of reference is adopted by BRS management and give reasons for your answer.
Answer
In developing a theory of industrial relations various perspectives/frames of reference have been identified, Unitarist, Plularist, Radical and Corporatism and Concertation.
Unitarist approach
In unitarism, the organization is perceived as an integrated and harmonious system, viewed as one happy family. A core assumption of unitary approach is that management and staff, and all members of the organization share the same objectives, interests and purposes; thus working together, hand-in-hand, towards the shared mutual goals. Furthermore, unitarism has a paternalistic approach where it demands loyalty of all employees. Trade unions are deemed as unnecessary and conflict is perceived as disruptive.
From the employee point of view, unitary approach means that:
• Working practices should be flexible. Individuals should be business process improvement oriented, multi-skilled and ready to tackle with efficiency whatever tasks are required.
• If a union is recognized, its role is that of a further means of communication between groups of staff and the company.
• The emphasis is on good relationships and sound terms and conditions of employment.
• Employee participation in workplace decisions is enabled. This helps in empowering individuals in their roles and emphasizes team work, innovation, creativity, discretion in problem-solving, quality and improvement groups etc.
• Employees should feel that the skills and expertise of managers supports their endeavors.
From the employer point of view, unitary approach means that:
• Staffing policies should try to unify effort, inspire and motivate employees.
• The organization's wider objectives should be properly communicated and discussed with staff.
• Reward systems should be so designed as to
1.1 Briefly discuss the various frames of reference for the management of employment relations. Identify which frame of reference is adopted by BRS management and give reasons for your answer.
Answer
In developing a theory of industrial relations various perspectives/frames of reference have been identified, Unitarist, Plularist, Radical and Corporatism and Concertation.
Unitarist approach
In unitarism, the organization is perceived as an integrated and harmonious system, viewed as one happy family. A core assumption of unitary approach is that management and staff, and all members of the organization share the same objectives, interests and purposes; thus working together, hand-in-hand, towards the shared mutual goals. Furthermore, unitarism has a paternalistic approach where it demands loyalty of all employees. Trade unions are deemed as unnecessary and conflict is perceived as disruptive.
From the employee point of view, unitary approach means that:
• Working practices should be flexible. Individuals should be business process improvement oriented, multi-skilled and ready to tackle with efficiency whatever tasks are required.
• If a union is recognized, its role is that of a further means of communication between groups of staff and the company.
• The emphasis is on good relationships and sound terms and conditions of employment.
• Employee participation in workplace decisions is enabled. This helps in empowering individuals in their roles and emphasizes team work, innovation, creativity, discretion in problem-solving, quality and improvement groups etc.
• Employees should feel that the skills and expertise of managers supports their endeavors.
From the employer point of view, unitary approach means that:
• Staffing policies should try to unify effort, inspire and motivate employees.
• The organization's wider objectives should be properly communicated and discussed with staff.
• Reward systems should be so designed as to