General Motors (GM)'s attempt to adapt the renowned Toyota production system for its own automotive manufacturing plants had historically produced disappointing results. Why was it not sufficiently successful? This book aims to shed insights into GM's failed attempt through the analysis of work organization reforms and labor-management relations on production-system efficiency.
The book examines collective bargaining agreements between automakers and the United Auto Workers union and the arbitration rulings in retrospect to illuminate the critical role continuous improvement activities initiated by production workers would play in enhancing performance management. It also looks at the impact of the meritocratic system in Japanese auto plants on performance success. As GM begins operations at its new electric vehicle assembly plant, Factory Zero, the book analyses the challenges of such production for both employment relations and workforce deployment.
The book will be a useful reference for those interested in a comparative study of management styles and a better understanding of Japanese manufacturing practices.
| ISBN: | 9781032252728 |
| Publication date: | 29th January 2024 |
| Author: | Kenichi Shinohara |
| Publisher: | Routledge an imprint of Taylor & Francis |
| Format: | Paperback |
| Pagination: | 96 pages |
| Series: | Routledge Focus on Business and Management |
| Genres: |
Regional / International studies Production and quality control management Manufacturing industries Engineering: general Other manufacturing technologies Environmental science, engineering and technology Economics |