Re "Toyota's Real Secret: Hint, It's Not TPS," February 2007.
Once again the Detroit automakers are sending the wrong messages to their employees. Ford's plant in Atlanta and GM's Oshawa, Canada, plant are noted as two of the industry's most productive plants. Are Ford and GM rewarding their hourly and salaried employees for achieving this milestone? No. The plants are being shut down and idled, respectively.
So why is it again that Ford and GM employees should work to improve productivity and quality?
I have spent 30 years in human resources, mostly with unionized automotive suppliers. The concept is really pretty simple -- reward success, don't punish it!
Bob Miller, president
Miller HR Solutions LLC
Traverse City, Mich.
