1.4 - Managing People

Question 1

How are staff an asset to a business?

Answer 1

Staff can be an asset as they bring knowledge, skills, and expertise to the business.
* Staff can increase productivity, drive innovation and enhance customer service.
* Staff can also help build a positive reputation for the business through their interactions with customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders.

Question 2

How are staff a cost to a business?

Answer 2

• Cost of hiring and training workers
• Cost of managing workers as managers have to be hired
• Cost of paying the salaries and wages of staff
• Cost of offering staff benefits, such as company cars, pensions, healthcare, etc.
• Cost associated with letting workers go.

Question 3

What is flexible working?

Answer 3

It is the development of a culture where workers are equipped to do different roles or where they work in a range of employment patterns.

Question 4

What is multi-skilling?

Answer 4

It is the process of training workers to fulfil multiple job roles within a business.

Question 5

What are the advantages of multi-skilling?

Answer 5

• Businesses utilise their workforce more efficiently which reduces labour costs and increases productivity.
• It can help to improve patient outcomes in healthcare industries as workers with a broader range of skills can provide more comprehensive care.

Question 6

What are the disadvantages of multi-skilling?

Answer 6

• May require significant investment in training and development.
• May not be appropriate for all job roles, especially those that require a high level of expertise.

Question 7

What is part-time and temporary working?

Answer 7

• Part-time work involves only working around two or three days a week.
• Temporary work involves a contract for a certain period of time.

Question 8

What are the advantages of Part-time and Temporary working?

Answer 8

• Flexible working arrangements can help businesses to attract and retain talent, especially staff who value work-life balance.
• This may improve productivity as staff can work during their most productive hours and avoid distractions.

Question 9

What are the disadvantages of Part-time and Temporary working?

Answer 9

• Flexible working arrangements can create challenges in terms of communication and collaboration (esp. if staff are remote).
• Monitoring and managing flexible workers can be more difficult.

Question 10

What is outsourcing?