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" Worker consent to lean, flexible production in a depressed regional economy : "
Stephenson, Carol.
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Latin Dissertation
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| Record Number
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1092949
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TLets259811
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| Main Entry
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Stephenson, Carol.
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| Title & Author
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Worker consent to lean, flexible production in a depressed regional economy :\ Stephenson, Carol.
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| College
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University of Sunderland
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| Date
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1994
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| student score
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1994
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| Degree
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Ph.D.
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| Abstract
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This thesis examines how worker consent is achieved in two Japaneseowned Multi National Companies (MNC) based in the North East ofEngland: Nissan Motor Manufacturer UK and its part owned suppliercompany Ikeda Hoover Ltd. These companies have adopted lean, flexiblework practices which proponents claim constitute a reversal of Tayloristwork methods as workers are able to participate in the attainment ofcorporate goals. The adoption of such practices, it is claimed, will lead to afundamental alteration in British industrial relations as worker hostility tomanagement demands will be reduced as workers are able to 'make theirown change'.This research illustrates that while Multi National companies selectenvironments best suited to the attainment of worker consent, it cannot beassumed that the advantages they gain will be shared by componentsuppliers which seek to operate a Just in Time (JIT) production systemthrough close proximity. Secondly, while large manufacturers operating JITchoose supplier companies which adopt practices similar to their own, itcannot be assumed that similarity can be maintained. This researchillustrates that JIT increases pressure on suppliers and that affects workprocess, management style, industrial relations and worker consent withinthe supplier company.I will examine how through an examination of the subjective responses ofworkers to the political and economic environment, to employment security,to self identity, to the labour process and management style. anunderstanding of worker consent or resistance to self subordination can beestablished. Failure to discover the meanings workers attach to actionscan lead to an overestimation of the genuine level of commitment tocorporate goals and a failure to appreciate the heterogeneity of workersperspectives and responses and strategies.Worker consent is dependent on the legitimacy of claims that flexible, leanworking practices can provide employment security.
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| Subject
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Work organisation; Just-in-time
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| Added Entry
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University of Sunderland
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