AWWA JTMGT57486:2022

AWWA JTMGT57486:2022

Aligning Interests: The Key to STRONG Union-Management Relations

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Details

This paper examines the process and procedure for bridging the gap between management and labor unions through a process of alignment around common interests. In other words, what's good for the union is also good for management and vice versa, management shows the union how they can benefit from adjustments to their contract. The resulting process, called a "side letter agreement," which is a written agreement of new work practices that the union is willing to pilot, greatly benefits both sides. The union is happy because of job security and clearly defined new work practices, with more opportunity to learn and grow. Also, the union members are compensated for additional skills and performance. Management is happy because of a more reliable and productive workforce and reduced overall costs. The long-term competitive outlook looks bright when interests are aligned, everyone's on the same team and pushing in the same direction for the same goals. A multi-skilled workforce results in total productive combined operations and maintenance, putting an end to the "wait to be told what to do" or "wait for the electrician to come to disconnect the wires." Workforce flexibility and cross-functional teams use program driven maintenance as their strategy for success. Several case studies are discussed that used this process. The purpose of this paper is to show how moving to a new mode of labor/management relations will produce benefits to employees, the union and the leadership of the organization. Includes figures.

Additional Info

Author American Water Works Association (AWWA)
Published by AWWA
Document type Proceeding
Theme /subgroups/2174
Number of pages 5
Keyword AWWA JTMGT57486