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Teamwork and Internal Labour Markets: A Study of a Canadian Aluminium Smelter

Author

Listed:
  • Jacques Belanger
  • Martin Dumas

    (Universite Laval, Quebec)

Abstract

This article seeks to explain the difficulties of introducing and benefiting from teamwork in North American unionized settings. Detailed observation and interviews in an aluminium smelter reveal that the potential of more flexible and collective work arrangements was limited by institutional constraints. Some recurring tensions relate to the interplay between the system of rules already in place, which govern the internal labour market, and the new pattern of work which management seeks to implement.

Suggested Citation

  • Jacques Belanger & Martin Dumas, 1998. "Teamwork and Internal Labour Markets: A Study of a Canadian Aluminium Smelter," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 19(3), pages 417-442, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:19:y:1998:i:3:p:417-442
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X98193003
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Martyn Wright & Paul Edwards, 1998. "Does Teamworking Work, and if so, Why? A Case Study in the Aluminium Industry," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 19(1), pages 59-90, February.
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