Changes in work organisation : a comparison of North America, Latin America and Australia

While manufacturing has fluctuated in relative importance during much of the 20th century, it continues to play a key role in the development of most economies. In the past decade there have been a large number of significant changes in the organisation of work in manufacturing, which have resulted in more flexible and cost efficient methods and higher quality products. This study examines some of the differences in work organisation practices and training between Australian firms and firms in the Americas and examines outcomes across the differing regions. The analysis utilises data from the second International Manufacturing Strategy Survey (IMSS).