Learn About Downsizing "Irrespective of the reason for downsizing, there is little doubt that the concept itself embodies many negative connotations … Firms must therefore determine whether the benefits outweigh the disadvantages in the long haul (Appelbaum and Donia, 2000)."

Downsizing

Concept Overview

Downsizing Definition

Downsizing is a strategy designed to reduce the number of employees in the workforce, often with the aim of improving organisational performance and selectively decreasing costs (Sheaffer et al., 2009).

Downsizing Description *

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Business Evidence

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Examples of Downsizing *

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Business Application

Downsizing Implementation *

Success Factors of Downsizing *

Measures of Downsizing *

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Professional Tools

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Further Reading

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Downsizing References (4 of up to 20) *

  • Ahmadjian, C.L. and Robinson, P. (2001) Safety in Numbers: Downsizing and the Deinstitutionalization of Permanent Employment in Japan. Administrative Science Quarterly, Vol. 46(4), pp. 622-54.
  • Appelbaum, S.H. and Donia, M. (2000) The Realistic Downsizing Preview: A Management Intervention in the Prevention of Survivor Syndrome (Part I). Career Development International, Vol. 5(7), pp. 333-50.
  • Cartwright, S. (2005) Mergers and Acquisitions: An Update and Appraisal. International Review of Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Vol. 20, pp. 1-38.
  • Daft, R.L., Murphy, J. and Willmott, H. (2010) Organization Theory and Design. Cengage Learning, Mason, OH.

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