Surveillance: tool or trap?

Article Abstract:

Discussions about the enactment of the 'Privacy for Consumers and Workers Act' (HR 1218) in Capitol Hill have resulted in renewed debate over the issue of the electronic surveillance of employee performance. The Communications Workers of America, for instance, believes that electronic monitoring will be stressful and hazardous to the general health of employees. Likewise, the Department of Labor does not favor the passage of HR 1218, partly because it considers this bill to contain too many unclear terms and overly broad definitions that pertain to management practices in which personal employee data do not have relevance. However, there are those who argue that electronic monitoring can benefit companies when used properly. The implementation of such a practice at Toyota Motor Sales, Duke Power Co, Avis Car Rentals Inc, and Charles Schwab and Company Inc is discussed to demonstrate this point.

Author: Laabs, Jennifer J.
Methods, Public opinion, Electronic employee monitoring, Supervision of employees, Employee supervision

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Schools at work

Article Abstract:

American corporations are placing a renewed focus on education and family life by providing on-site schools for the children of employees. Honeywell Inc, an aerospace firm, is in partnership with the Pinellas County school board officials for an on-site school that offers classes on the kindergarten to second-grade levels. A main feature of these schools are their proximity to company buildings, allowing employees (the children's mothers) the opportunity to spend time with their kids. G.T. Water Products Inc uses innovative and less-conventional teaching techniques in a school that the plumbing fixtures company has created. A key feature of the school is its teaching policy that encourages children to learn at their own pace.

Author: Laabs, Jennifer J.
Guided missiles and space vehicles, Aircraft, Communications equipment, not elsewhere classified, Fabricated rubber products, not elsewhere classified, Plumbing fixture fittings and trim, Environmental controls, Social aspects, Human resource management, Curricula, Aerospace industry, Educational innovations, Plumbing industry, Honeywell Inc., Nursery schools, G.T. Water Products Inc.

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Unmarried ... with benefits

Article Abstract:

An increasing number of companies are starting to implement benefits policies that allow coverage of employees' nonmarital domestic partners. Supporters laud this move for its support for the gay population and heterosexual couples living together. Critics cite the rising benefits costs and the psychological impact of validating relationships through benefits coverage as just some of the reasons to oppose this new trend. Companies that are not already implementing this type of benefits policy may want to consider it as a new way of attracting and retaining high-quality employees.

Author: Laabs, Jennifer J.
Innovations, Compensation and benefits, Business enterprises, Employee benefits, Unmarried couples

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Subjects list: Cover Story
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