IMPLEMENTATION PROCESSES OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES — MANAGERIAL OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS

Abstract

This paper deals with the importance of implementation processes of new technologies for the design of work and quality of working life. Subject is the introduction of a flexible manufacturing system in a machine building company. It is shown, that management considers mainly technical and economical criteria in the implementation process. Work organization and manoower utilization play a subordinate role. Effect is the stabilization and deepening of given structures of division of labour. This policy can to a large extend be traced back to different interests within the company's management. In the long run the situation may lead to a further narrowing of the previous task scope of blue collar jobs and erosion of skilled work. Finally criteria for implementation processes are developed to secure both efficiency and skilled work on the shop floor. The case study is part of a project entitled “Computer integrated manufacturing and job structures in metal-cutting production processes” carried out from 1984 to 1988 by the ISF Munich.