video record
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Description
The programme examines the work-contracting services offered by Manpower Ltd. The work Manpower does for Bissell Appliances Ltd is examined in detail.
Metadata describing this Open University video programme
Module code and title: T243, Systems organisation: the management of complexity
Item code: T243; 07
First transmission date: 16-07-1980
Published: 1980
Rights Statement:
Restrictions on use:
Duration: 00:22:15
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Producer: Ian Rosenbloom
Contributors: Rob Paton; Lance Secretan
Publisher: BBC Open University
Keyword(s): Contracting methods; Employment; Environmental change; Labour; Manpower Ltd; Systems; Uncertainty (in employment)
Footage description: The programme opens with an interview with Lance Secretan, head of Manpower, in which he indicates the deficiences of traditional employment agencies. Exterior shots of such agencies, over which Rob Paton briefly describes Manpower's operation. Shots of Manpower publicity and advertisements. Film of Manpower staff interviewing a prospective Manpower employee. In voice-over Paton explains the relationship Manpower has with it employees. In interview Secretan summarises the benefits Manpower can offer both clients and employees. Shots of the North London factory of Bissell Appliances Ltd, who are a client of Manpower. In interview the Managing Director, Peter Bolding, briefly outlines the work done at Bissells. Over film of shop floor activities Paton explains the labour problems that Bissells encounter as suppliers to the retail trade, particularly Mothercare. Ron Hallett, Bissell's Production and Personnel Manager, and Peter Bolding explains in interview why they dislike using either continuous overtime systems or subcontractors. Film of Hallett discussing Bissells labour supply problems with Steve Hardern, a Manpower representative. In voice-over Paton describes Manpower's industrial relations policy. Further shots of the discussion, then Hallett briefly explains in interview what would happen if the Manpower employee proved to be unsatisfactory. In interview Secretan describes the different kinds of work Manpower employees perform. Shots of a Manpower employee at work in Bissell's plastic moulding factory. In interview he explains the advantages of working for Manpower. In interview Peter Bolding explains that trades unions at Bissells are happy to accept the services of Manpower. Over shots of the shop-floor at Bissells Paton explains why some unions have objected to contract labour. He predicts a change in TUC policy on this matter. Brief interview in which Hallett outlines the attractions of Manpower's services. Brief interview with Hardern describes how Manpower liaise with clients using their labour. Film of finished Mothercare products in storage at Bissells, over which Paton describes how Mothercare's novel stock control methods affect the use of labour at Bissells. In interview Secretan explains what clients expect from Manpower. Shots of a Manpower office, over which Paton briefly comments on the way such offices are administered. Interview with a Manpower employee who explains why she likes working for them. Brief interview with Hardern about the loayalty employees have towards Manpower. The programme ends with an interview with Secretan in which he discusses the ways in which Manpower maintain close contact with both clients and field employees. Regional specialisation of the kind of work Manpower do is discussed, as are prospects for the future.
Production number: FOUT027J
Videofinder number: 2701
Available to public: no