Final answer:
Among the options provided, training requirements for new immigrants is a force for change in an organization's workforce. This is due to the need for training to meet local standards and company policies. Economic conditions can also indirectly impact the workforce, but direct organizational needs, such as training, are concrete drivers of change.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering forces for change in an organization's workforce, it's essential to differentiate between environmental and economic factors and internal organizational needs. Among the options listed, training requirements for new immigrants are a direct force for change. This is because when an organization hires immigrants, they must often invest in training programs to bring these employees up to standard with the local market requirements and company policies. Training might include language skills, cultural acclimatization, and specific job-related skills. On the other hand, factors like high personal debt levels, the rise of discount retailers, and low-interest rates are more general economic and market conditions that may impact an organization indirectly. While mergers and consolidations can result in workforce changes, they are more a force for structural and strategic alteration within the organization rather than specific to workforce changes precipitated by external factors. In summary, workforce training requirements are often a direct response to new immigrants joining an organization, making it a clear force for change within the workforce.