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Computer-Mediated Communication as Employee Voice: A Case Study

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  • Libby Bishop
  • David I. Levine

Abstract

Interviews with employees of a large, high-technology company reveal that computer-mediated communication (CMC) enhanced voice, defined as employees' ability to express their views and to participate in decision-making. The authors explore how two unique features of CMC enhanced voice. First, computer-mediated discussions were broadcast company-wide. Second, CMC facilitated employees' efforts to form interest groups. The authors analyze several examples of the expression of voice, including employees' response to distributive issues (a profit-sharing plan, for instance) and non-distributive policies (such as changing pay periods). They extend previous analyses by focusing on cases in which employees were trying to change management policies and by documenting the mechanisms by which computer-mediated voice operated and how it affected company policy.

Suggested Citation

  • Libby Bishop & David I. Levine, 1999. "Computer-Mediated Communication as Employee Voice: A Case Study," ILR Review, Cornell University, ILR School, vol. 52(2), pages 213-233, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ilrrev:v:52:y:1999:i:2:p:213-233
    DOI: 10.1177/001979399905200204
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    1. Richard B. Freeman & Edward P. Lazear, 1995. "An Economic Analysis of Works Councils," NBER Chapters, in: Works Councils: Consultation, Representation, and Cooperation in Industrial Relations, pages 27-52, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    2. Jensen, Michael C & Meckling, William H, 1979. "Rights and Production Functions: An Application to Labor-managed Firms and Codetermination," The Journal of Business, University of Chicago Press, vol. 52(4), pages 469-506, October.
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    Cited by:

    1. Bell, Myrtle P. & Özbilgin, Mustafa F. & Beauregard, T. Alexandra & Sürgevil, Olca, 2011. "Voice, silence, and diversity in 21st century organizations: strategies for inclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender employees," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 32094, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    2. Fan, Di & Lo, Chris K.Y. & Yeung, Andy C.L. & Cheng, T.C.E., 2018. "The impact of corporate label change on long-term labor productivity," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 86(C), pages 96-108.
    3. Dandi, Roberto, 2002. "E-mail and Direct Participation in Decision Making: A Literature Review," MPRA Paper 14397, University Library of Munich, Germany.

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