The consequences of flexibility

Abstract

Processes such as globalization, the spread of information technology and the intensification of competition caused significant and meaningful changes in the labour market. On one hand there are some companies that invest in innovation and quality, allowing and encouraging the growth of workers skills, and on the other hand a large number of companies bring the deterioration of employment and working conditions, through the reduction of labour costs and a deregulated market. The flexible company presents itself as the most effective way to ensure competitiveness in an environment of instability and global competition. There are several strategies of readjustment that companies have at their disposal in restructuring the organization of work, from the adjustment of hours of work (part-time, flexible hours, shifts, ect.) to the outsourcing of one or more activities. The flexible market is a reality in European countries and the European Commission seeks to regulate it through the implementation of the Flexicurity model. Combining flexibility with security, this controversial concept combines a flexible labour market with a security system strong and effective. There are several consequences of this flexible management on individuals lives, there seems to be an improvement in living and working conditions for some individuals, who benefit from the reduction of working hours maintaining a stable position with good working conditions, and a deterioration to others, who are subject to a pace of work more intense, with irregular and unpredictable schedules.Flexibility; flexicurity; working conditions; labour market