changes in working practices

• What has changed in working practices over the last 30 years?

  Employment practices have changed significantly
• What are some factors contributing to changes in working practices?

  Decline in trade union power and more women working
• What does the end of demarcation refer to?

  Separation of different types of work by unions
• How has the loss of employment in heavy industry affected working practices?

  It has contributed to more flexible employment arrangements
• What is a flexible workforce designed to do?

  Provide labor as needed by businesses
• What are flexible hours in a working context?

  Agreed working hours with core and flexible times
• How can flexible hours benefit parents?

  They allow time to collect children from school
• What types of jobs can include home working?

  Professional jobs like design and IT
• What are the benefits of home working for employees?

  Time saved and reduced commuting stress
• Why is part-time employment becoming more common?

  It suits parents and students' needs
• How do businesses benefit from part-time workers?

  They provide flexibility during busy periods
• What is temporary employment?

  Employment for a specific period of time
• Why do trade unions criticize temporary contracts?

  They offer little security or career development
• What does job-sharing involve?

  Two people sharing the same job
• How does job-sharing benefit new mothers?

  It allows them to balance work and childcare
• What is multi-skilling in the workforce?

  Training workers to perform various tasks
• How does multi-skilling benefit businesses?

  It increases flexibility and problem-solving
• What are zero-hours contracts?

  Contracts with no guaranteed work hours
• What is a major criticism of zero-hours contracts?

  They provide little income security for workers
• What does hot-desking mean?

  No fixed workspace in an office
• How does hot-desking benefit businesses?

  Reduces need for office space
• What are the possible benefits of flexible working practices for businesses?

  • Quick expansion and contraction of workforce
  • Cheaper temporary staff without benefits
  • Increased efficiency and competitiveness
• What are the possible drawbacks of flexible working practices for businesses?

  • Lower commitment from temporary workers
  • Communication issues with remote workers
  • Potential loss of innovation and teamwork
• What is meant by the flexible workforce?

  • A workforce that adapts to changing demands
  • Includes various employment types like part-time, temporary, and job-sharing
  • Aims to provide labor when needed
• Discuss the implications of zero-hours contracts.

  • Employers use them for flexibility
  • Workers face income insecurity
  • Criticized for potential exploitation
• How do flexible working practices affect employee satisfaction?

  • Can improve work-life balance
  • May lead to feelings of isolation
  • Varies based on individual circumstances
• Flexible Hours


  Employees have control over start and end times for better work-life balance
• Home Working


  Employees work from home instead of a traditional office
• Part-time


  Employees work fewer hours than full-time workers