Vom holistischen Bauprinzip zur modernen Montageindustrie? Produktionssysteme im Schiffbau und der «Wandel der Arbeit» bei der Bremer Vulkan AG nach 1945

Abstract

Abstract From the holistic construction principle to the modern assembly industry? Production systems in shipbuilding and the «change in work» at Bremer Vulkan AG after 1945 The article discusses the interrelation between production technology, organisational restructuring and working conditions in shipbuilding after 1945. The Bremer Vulkan – one of the largest shipyards in Germany during the period – functions as a case example. The article tackles three main questions: How and in which entrepreneurial context did production systems change during the second half of the 20th century? Under what circumstances were changes developed, planned, and implemented? What kind of debates can be traced that give insight into the negotiations that accompanied the technological and organisational change within the company? Shipbuilding has undergone a fundamental change during the second half of the 20th century. The immediate post-war era was marked by a long period of production increase and heavy investments in the context of the so-called tanker boom. A clear shift can be traced from the 1970s onwards, which is characterised by a gradual departure from merchant vessel production throughout Western Europe and a focus on higher value ships. Each of these changes necessitated specific production regimes and organisational structures that had the main aim to increase pre-production and reduce the inherently complex single piece production. At the same time, the 1970s show a significant shift in the debates surrounding these changes. The negative consequences of new productions technology and organisational restructuring for working conditions became a virulent topic.