Question

In a midsummer strategy session, a company determines that it will close its West Coast manufacturing unit and move the entire manufacturing effort to the East Coast head office. To bring the East Coast office fully online, 100 new positions will have to be filled. The work is going to migrate to the East Coast over a 90-day period that will begin September 1. HR has been asked for advice and support.

In the planning and implementation processes, what is the most important ethical concern for HR?

A. Having an attractive relocation policy in place to support the initiative
B. Avoiding all communications with employees affected by the changes in order to avoid any legal issues
C. Understanding the business case for the initiative and minimizing impact on affected employees
D. Reviewing job descriptions and updating them to reflect the new location

Answer 1

The key ethical concern for HR is understanding the business case while minimizing impact on affected employees, ensuring transparent communication, and providing adequate support during the transition.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important ethical concern for HR in the planning and implementation processes of moving a manufacturing unit is C. Understanding the business case for the initiative and minimizing impact on affected employees. This includes taking into account the ripple effect of job losses and relocations, the resultant frictional unemployment, and ensuring that ethical and transparent communication with affected employees takes place. Additionally, HR should be involved in supporting and advising on relocation efforts and updating job descriptions, but these actions need to be underpinned by a strong ethical commitment to the well-being of the company's employees.