Union renewal, union strategy and technology

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the relationship between union renewal strategies and the adoption and implementation of information and communication technologies by trade unions.Design/methodology/approachThe research centres on a case study of an Australian trade union, exploring the fit between recent changes to the industrial strategy and information technology strategy. It involved interviews with union officials and a review of union documentation.FindingsInformation and communication technologies have the potential to promote union renewal by enabling new forms of participation and activism. However, to achieve these outcomes the technologies must be part of an integrated union renewal strategy. The internal political processes of the union will shape both the union renewal strategies and the role and use of technology in implementing these strategies.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is based on a single trade union, thus limiting the generality of the conclusions drawn.Originality/valueThe paper concerns a relatively new research area on trade unions and offers a critical perspective on the use of information and communication technologies by trade unions.