Non‐union employee representation: exploring the efficacy of the voice process
Abstract
Purpose
Recent years have witnessed a growing academic preoccupation with the theme of employee voice. This article seeks to examine the efficacy of non‐union forms of employee representation (NERs).
Design/methodology/approach
Further to an exploration of the above theme, case study research was carried out in an organisation possessing a relatively mature representative structure.
Findings
The findings broadly support the extant literature in exposing key deficiencies with respect to this mode of voice. The body under review is seen to represent a largely unavailing vehicle for the furtherance of employee interests – particularly within the arena of pay determination.
Research limitations/implications
In the light of the above findings the policy implications are briefly explored. Reservations are expressed regarding the ability of the Information and Consultation Directive to extend voice into the non‐union sector.
Originality/value
In contrast with the earlier, predominantly descriptive studies of NERs, the theme of “voice” is ensconced within a theoretically informed analysis. This allows the paper to reach a more textured set of conclusions. The shortcomings in voice are systematically tracked to deficiencies in two principal areas – power and autonomy.
Keywords
Citation
Butler, P. (2005), "Non‐union employee representation: exploring the efficacy of the voice process", Employee Relations, Vol. 27 No. 3, pp. 272-288. https://doi.org/10.1108/01425450510591602
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limited