CyberUnion : empowering labor through computer technology / Arthur B. Shostak.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Shostak, Arthur B.

Series:

Issues in work and human resources

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Labor unions--Computer networks.

Labor unions.

Labor unions--Computer network resources.

Physical Description:

xxvi, 262 pages ; 24 cm.

Place of Publication:

Armonk, N.Y. : M.E. Sharpe, [1999]

Summary:

Although it is hardly publicized, something remarkable is happening to Organized Labor. Key players in the United States and abroad are busy modernizing their communications and making creative and effective use of computers and other technology. Drawing on infotech devices (computer networks, the Internet, video conferencing, fax machines, wireless communication, and multi-media), Labor struggles to renew its "voice" and "ears, " and, in the process, new hope has been stirred that this just might help to transform its organizational culture, redefine its mission, and re-invent itself.

The author believes the road to Cyber-Union (the combination of four strategic reform aids -- futuristics, innovations, services, and traditions -- knit together with infotech resources) has already begun and those unions already embracing this model are ensuring a position of strength in the 21st century. Cyber-Union is a bold plan for Organized Labor to remain strong for many decades to come, and it examines the components of the model, progress already made, and plans to ensure continued success.

Contents:

I Computer and Labor

1 Using Computers as a Servicing Aid

Reading 1 How a Personal Computer Can Enhance Union Political Action / Charles H. Laskonis

2 Using Computers as an Organizing Aid

Reading 2 Sensing the Speed Picking Up / Carl D. Centrell

II Variations on the Theme

3 Cyber Naught: Paving Over the Cow Path

Reading 3 Social Change Prospects of Unionism / Kim Evon

4 Cyber Drift: Going Nowhere

Reading 4 Searching for the Way / Bobby Brown

5 Cyber Gain: Getting With It

Reading 5 The AFGE Experience / Sharon Pinnock

III Cyber Union: Informatics Plus

6 Cyber Union: Promoting Power

Reading 6 The World of Tomorrow / Carol Rodgers

7 Futuristics: Promoting Alternatives

Reading 7 Teaching Futuristics / Arthur B. Shostak

8 Innovations: Promoting Risk-Taking

Reading 8 What Must You Know to Be Employed in the Year 2025? / Joseph Breedlove

9 Services: Promoting Ties

Reading 9 A Virtual Office for Operating Engineers, IUOE Local 148 / Donald Giljum

10 Traditions: Promoting Roots

Reading 10 Bright Future for Unions? / Jim Dator

IV With a Little Help from Our Friends: Build it and They Will Come

11 Change-Agents: Stateside

Reading 11 Women: We Can Do It! / Arthur B. Shostak

12 Chante-Agents: Overseas

13 Choices We Must Make

Reading 13 Virtual Corporations and American Labor Unions: So Many Unknowns, So Much Potential / Arthur B. Shostak.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 235-244) and index.

ISBN:

0765604620

OCLC:

40848427