Article Abstract:
The integrated health data management systems (IHDMS) is an efficient tool in designing health-care benefit programs for employees. The system is composed of several data bases containing health-related information which are interconnected by analytical software capable of selecting relevant data and establishing significant correlations and relationships. The IHDMS enables companies to measure health-care costs extensively, as opposed to the traditional individual management method. The system's ability to identify utilization patterns and evaluate the most effective health-care method allows companies to refocus planning strategies in answering employees' individual needs. Companies such as First Chicago Corp and Pacific Bell have incorporated IHDMS into its health-benefits planning strategy. However, since several logistical problems are encountered in developing the system, the implementation of IHDMS will better serve self-insured companies.
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Article Abstract:
Employers are realizing the potential of telecommuting in increasing employee productivity and in improving the capabilities of managers. In 1992, a total of 6.6 million employees worked away from the office, marking a 20% increase from 1991 figures. Aside from reducing traffic congestion, pollution and long travels, telecommuting also decreases office expenses and energy consumption and allows employers to properly address the changing lifestyle needs of their employees. After initial hesitation from managers, telecommuting gained widespread acceptance as a result of a shift to the management-by-results approach, a process that involves evaluation of end products instead of the production habits; and to the management-by-objective approach, a strategy that entails evaluation of achievement of set objectives. Implementation of telecommuting programs requires selection of qualified employees and proper training sessions.
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Article Abstract:
The Apr. 1996 plane crash in Croatia that killed US Commerce Sec. Ron Brown and a delegation of American of business executives underscores the importance of succession planning. Thirteen US corporations lost high-ranking executives, including AT&T, Asea Brown & Boveri, Bechtel and Parsons Corp. The tragedy left these companies scrambling to reassure their shareholders that the organization would continue to run smoothly and that its finances would not be adversely affected. Aside from death and disaster, numerous other events make it imperative for companies to have a clear plan on filling senior-executive positions. These events include downsizing, organizational restructuring, acquisitions and management turnover. The continued survival and success of business organizations will depend on how well they manage leadership issues.
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