Options and Limits of the Matching Approach – An Application to Workers Participation
Birgit Schultz
IWH Discussion Papers,
No. 15,
2006
Abstract
The evaluation of economic effects of workers participation is not simple from the methodical point of view because of specific characteristics of establishments with works councils. Especially recent studies show contradictory results. In this study problems are pointed out, discussed, and options for solution are presented on the example of workers participation in East German establishments of industry and construction by the IABEstablishment Panel. An optimal matching-algorithm which supplies good matching-results for small samples to assign ‘statistical establishment-twins’ is applied. But by reason of very short primarily spells it can only calculate short time effects. Therefore, the matching method is additionally used to construct longer observation periods. By this new application establishments with recently founded works councils are matched with so called ‘proxy establishments’ with existing works councils. As a result short observation periods are prolonged and information about long-term effects can be given. The effects on productivity, profitability and qualification level of employees show neither in short-term nor in long-term a significant impact on workers’ participation.
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Is co-determination economically reasonable? East German manufacturing and construction as examples
Birgit Schultz
Wirtschaft im Wandel,
No. 9,
2005
Abstract
In the public discussion there are controversial argumentations how works worker’s participation in form of work council in questions of office politics and economic interests. Theoretical publications of this topic show mainly positive effects for staff and management. Therefore we analyse the effects of work council for chances in employment. In establishments with a positive result situation at the status quo and a work council we found a positive trend on employment and the future result. Compared to primarily prosperous establishments without staff association downgrade their result situation. In case of negative result situation establishments with a work council have no greater problems to reduce the employment than establishments without a work council.
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