Abstract
The present emergence of computer-integrated small batch automation calls into question existing work specialisms and the attendant division of labour, skills and knowledge. A major obstacle to previous organisations of such work has been the inability to articulate an indispensable “tacit knowledge” of machining operations with either sub-divided workroles or with various media of recording and communicating engineering expertise - including media such as computerised programmes and controls. The irreconcilability of tacit knowledge with such formalised systems of representation is illustrated by selected cases of divided labour. It is then argued that ‘flexible’ automation can allow a less divisive form of work with a craft basis, if non-specialised work-teams are established by acknowledging the continuing relevance of the tacit character of craft expertise for the effective use of the new automation processes.
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