Productivity, the American Advantage: How 50 U.S. Companies Are Regaining the Competitive Edge

Some of the companies profiled in this guide for managers adopted job security programs which led to decreased absenteeism and higher productivity. Employee stock-ownership plans, problem-solving teams and pooling of technological resources in limited partnerships were among the measures utilized by other firms. Seidman, chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and Skancke, vice-president of G. William Miller merchant bankers, urge managers to encourage innovation, to reward producers, to make employees part of the team, to spread accountability through the ranks and to reduce layers of management. Much of their advice has a familiar ring, but the mini-case histories of 51 companies give substance to their proposals. Each case history lists the address and phone number of a contact person for readers seeking more specifics. (July)