Environmental Scanning

Objective: How to help employees have a better understanding on the flow of a process in a manufacturing plant.

Identify conditions for training needs

1. Economy- An efficient production plant is essential so that there is maximum worker output, higher productivity will lead to higher profits. An organization’s financial condition will reflect healthily if profits are being brought in. An efficient production plant should also operate effectively so that minimal mistakes are made; with lesser mistakes made, more time is saved.
2. Government & Legal- It is important for management to be aware of labor laws and compensation rates so that it will not be involved with any unnecessary legal disputes. Management should also understand environmental, safety, or pollution concerns within the area of operation so that it does not jeopardize the environment or worker’s health. Laws that favor business investment/expansion should be known to management so that there is a chance for the organization to expand its business.

http://www.osha.gov/

3. Technology- Workers should be trained to operate machinery and conduct maintenance procedures. They must know the potential safety hazards and safety precautions to enforce so that they are well-protected. Additionally, it is important that this knowledge is shared among all workers so that it does not pose as a problem if someone is absent from work that particular day. The company should provide workers with the necessary and suitable equipments to work with in order for them to operate effectively and efficiently. On-the-job-training could be implemented to update workers with new information or any necessary product/ operating knowledge that they should be aware of.
4. Socio-cultural- Age could be a rough gauge as to how effectively an operator can perform. For example, a small-built person might not be able to carry boxes that are over a certain weight. The organization should strive to employ the correct person for the job; educational level could be used to employ effectively.
5. Ecology- Working conditions must be made such that workers can operate efficiently and effectively without any dangerous conditions. Worker’s safety should be emphasized so that no injuries or accidents are sustained while on the job.
6. Labor supply: The quantity and quality of the labor supply should be understood so that management can plan effectively. To cope with periods when there are more orders, management can consider employing part-time workers who are compensated on an hourly basis.