Photo AI
Assess the likely value of having a flexible workforce for a business, such as Nestlé. - Edexcel - A-Level Business - Question 1 - 2018 - Paper 3
Question 1
Assess the likely value of having a flexible workforce for a business, such as Nestlé.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Assess the likely value of having a flexible workforce for a business, such as Nestlé. - Edexcel - A-Level Business - Question 1 - 2018 - Paper 3
Step 1
Value of having flexible working:
Answer
Flexible working allows Nestlé to manage staff effectively by providing greater adaptability in how they deploy their workforce. This flexibility can help with staff retention, as employees appreciate the ability to adjust their work schedules to fit personal needs.
For example, finance staff who can work from home may find it easier to manage their time and reduce travel costs, leading to increased productivity. Furthermore, allowing staff from different departments to work from various locations can help Nestlé adapt to changes in the chocolate market, ensuring they maintain competitiveness.
Step 2
Motivation and productivity:
Answer
Employees who are allowed to bring their dogs to work, especially in marketing roles, may feel more motivated and thus more productive. The relaxed atmosphere created by such policies could result in a more engaged workforce, amplifying the overall performance of the company.
Step 3
Possible counter-balance:
Answer
However, not all staff can transition to flexible working. For instance, production staff need to be present at the facility to operate machinery, making remote work infeasible. Additionally, staff without dogs may feel excluded or resentful towards their colleagues who can bring pets, potentially leading to conflicts or decreased morale.
Step 4
Judgment on effectiveness:
Answer
Ultimately, while flexible working has numerous benefits for employees and can enhance productivity overall, its effectiveness is contingent on the nature of individual jobs within the company. Roles that require physical presence are less likely to benefit from these practices, suggesting a nuanced approach is essential for effective implementation.