Plant Closing

Abstract

This assignment will introduce why there is a need to promote productivity, what role can trade union play in promoting productivity and the benefits the union members can get from participating in those activities.

Introduction

In order for a company to remain competitive, it is important that they measure productivity growth. A high productivity means that the company is efficient in managing its resources as they are able to lower costs and generate higher profits. According to sources from Ministry of Manpower, Singapore's economy grew by an average of five per cent per annum but productivity grew only about one per cent per annum over the past decade.

Role of Trade Union In Relation to Productivity

Other than improving the working conditions of the workers and promoting good industrial relations between workers and employers, trade unions are also concerned about raising the productivity for the mutual benefits of workers, employers and the country. The role of trade unions has shifted from industrial relations to social, cultural and recreational as well as the promotion of producitvity. Unions support the formation of quality control circles to increase productivity at the company level and they also play an important role in encouraging their members to participate in productivity programmes (Tan, 2007).

Training and Skills Upgrading Programme

Unions introduced training and other programmes that are customized to the needs of workers and companies. To raise productivity, companies can introduce new technologies to improve work processes, come out with innovated products and services and train their workers to be more efficient and effective instead of focusing on cost reduction by cutting wages of workers. Workers who are trained can help the company to increase productivity as the same amount of work can be produced faster.

Union Training Assistance Programme. Union Training Assistance Programme is a training...