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Changing Work Organization in Small Manufacturers: Challenges for Economic Development

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  • Nik Theodore

    (University of Illinois at Chicago)

  • Rachel Weber

    (University of Illinois at Chicago)

Abstract

This review article examines the growing literature on the changing employment practices of small and medium-sized manufacturers. Specifically, the authors examine the literature in three areas: (a) hiring practices, (b) employment security and retention, and (c) career ladders. Observers disagree about the extent to which restructuring has taken place in smaller firms, the nature of workplace change, and the impact of this change on employees and firms. The policy arena is just as contentious; a host of different strategies have been proposed to provide employment opportunities in manufacturing, particularly for low-income populations. By synthesizing the research to date and evaluating the key debates in this area, this literature review will assist economic development researchers and practitioners in making the leap to workforce issues.

Suggested Citation

  • Nik Theodore & Rachel Weber, 2001. "Changing Work Organization in Small Manufacturers: Challenges for Economic Development," Economic Development Quarterly, , vol. 15(4), pages 367-379, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecdequ:v:15:y:2001:i:4:p:367-379
    DOI: 10.1177/089124240101500410
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Maury Gittleman & Michael Horrigan & Mary Joyce, 1998. "“Flexible†Workplace Practices: Evidence from a Nationally Representative Survey," ILR Review, Cornell University, ILR School, vol. 52(1), pages 99-115, October.
    2. Daniel Luria, 1996. "Why Markets Tolerate Mediocre Manufacturing," Challenge, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 39(4), pages 11-16, July.
    3. Lisa M. Lynch & Sandra E. Black, 1998. "Beyond the Incidence of Employer-Provided Training," ILR Review, Cornell University, ILR School, vol. 52(1), pages 64-81, October.
    4. Tricia Lynn Gladden & Christopher R. Taber, 1999. "Wage Progression Among Less Skilled Workers," JCPR Working Papers 72, Northwestern University/University of Chicago Joint Center for Poverty Research.
    5. Harry J. Holzer, 1999. "Will employers hire welfare recipients? Recent survey evidence from Michigan," Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 18(3), pages 449-472.
    6. McGranahan, David A., 1998. "Local Problems Facing Manufacturers: Results of the ERS Rural Manufacturing Survey," Agricultural Information Bulletins 33765, United States Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service.
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