Organization’s consideration for downsizing

Assume an organization is facing a labor surplus. What would be the organization’s consideration for downsizing? Identify why it would be in their best interest to use an alternative method other than downsizing to reduce this surplus? Explain how this alternative method may affect employee behaviors.

Full Answer Section

   
  • Employee morale: Downsizing can have a negative impact on employee morale. Employees who are laid off may feel betrayed and angry, and this can lead to decreased productivity and increased turnover.
  • Customer service: Downsizing can also have a negative impact on customer service. If the organization lays off too many employees, it may not be able to provide the same level of service to its customers.

There are a number of alternative methods to downsizing that organizations can use to reduce a labor surplus. Some of these methods include:

  • Retraining: The organization can retrain employees for new positions within the organization. This can help to retain valuable employees and avoid the costs associated with layoffs.
  • Job sharing: The organization can allow two or more employees to share one job. This can help to reduce the number of hours that each employee works and can save the organization money on salaries and benefits.
  • Voluntary separation programs: The organization can offer employees financial incentives to voluntarily leave the organization. This can be a more humane way to reduce the workforce than layoffs, and it can also save the organization money on severance packages.
  • Early retirement programs: The organization can offer employees early retirement incentives. This can help to reduce the workforce in a way that is fair to employees who are nearing retirement age.

The best alternative method for an organization will vary depending on the specific circumstances. However, it is generally in the organization's best interest to use an alternative method other than downsizing. This is because downsizing can have a number of negative consequences, such as financial losses, legal problems, and decreased employee morale.

The alternative methods listed above can have a positive impact on employee behaviors. Retraining can help employees to develop new skills and knowledge, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and productivity. Job sharing can give employees more flexibility and control over their work, which can lead to increased satisfaction and reduced stress. Voluntary separation programs and early retirement programs can give employees the opportunity to leave the organization on their own terms, which can help to reduce stress and improve morale.

It is important to note that the alternative methods listed above are not a guarantee that the organization will be able to avoid layoffs altogether. However, they can help to reduce the number of layoffs and the negative consequences of downsizing.

Sample Answer

   
  • Financial considerations: Downsizing can save the organization money in the short term, but it can also have long-term financial implications. For example, the organization may have to pay severance packages to laid-off employees, and it may have difficulty recruiting and retaining new employees in the future.
  • Legal considerations: Downsizing can be a legal minefield. The organization needs to make sure that it complies with all applicable laws, such as employment discrimination laws.