CHALLENGE
Not many years ago, it took at least 10 people to operate a freight train. Thanks to technology and safety improvements, that number has steadily dropped. But the public’s gain from lower freight costs also means fewer jobs for unionized employees.
Union Pacific sought to involve employees with improving results while increasing satisfaction, but didn’t know how to achieve that goal in a sensitive labor environment.
SOLUTION
- Interview employees and conduct focus groups
- Develop a program strategy and rules structure to reward employees for cost savings ideas
- Create and deliver communications and training materials
- Direct the technology and administrative infrastructure
- Manage the overall program financials for both agency and client
RESULTS
- More than $100 million in savings identified and implemented
- Employees felt more involved with cost-cutting measures
- Program recognized by the Employee Involvement Association