Technological change and trade unions

Abstract

Trade union policy with regard to technical and technological change is subject to a number of constraints and dilemmas. From an analysis of a series of case studies, in which a shop stewards' committee of a large chemical company engaged in issues which seemed to be instances of technical innovation, it is concluded that in reality complicated fusions of science, technology and management strategy were at stake. The union was more successful in issues of less far-reaching technological content. Its lack of information and access to higher level managerial strategic decision-making greatly limited its effectiveness. In order for a union to have influence on the direction of technological change, it is necessary for it to advance strategic demands, transcending practical contingencies. If trade unions and other interest groups are to achieve such influence, institutional mechanisms of public control on technological change, in which they can play a part, will have to be established.