In the literature on industrial sociology and psychology, workgroups are discussed in terms of informal relations that unite cohesive groups. In job redesign they tend to be overlooked, possibly because there is a minimum of formal design in natural work settings or because informal relations at work are often viewed within a conflict framework.…

This article draws on work carried out in a British brewery, refutes the claim that the recession has made trade unions irrelevant to managerial concerns, and argues that cohesive, factor-based shop steward organization can resist a management onslaught. (Author/CT)

In this article an account is given of work undertaken by an internal organization development (OD) unit within the United Kingdom's National Health Service, in the area of joint consultation within a health authority. Some thoughts are also presented on the relationship between OD practice and the field of industrial relations. (SSH)

Describes the effects of new technology on industrial relations in the United Kingdom. Includes a diversity of approaches and a complex picture of successes and failures. Concludes that new technology and industrial relations have rarely been dealt with strategically by UK managements. (JOW)

The author suggests that the quality of working life may have more than a practical and symbolic impact on the American workplace; it is also likely to have an impact on the academic world. (CT)

Discusses the rise of unemployment in Britain, the changes in the character of the labor force, the increases in part-time employment, and the implications for those involved in employee relations. Includes information about working conditions, labor legislation, and trade union involvement. (JOW)

There has been a steady growth in courses for shop stewards in the United Kingdom in the last decade, much of which is a direct consequence of the increased involvement of the trade union. The authors look at the potential market for shop steward courses by drawing on replies from a national survey. (SSH)

This interview is the latest in a series designed to give an airing to contemporary industrial relations issues. Training of shop stewards and other activists has been a major growth area for about 10 years. The Union of Shop, Distributive, and Allied Workers has been at the forefront in developing new courses and training methods. (SSH)