Knowledge that Transforms

This study investigates the factors which influence employees' choices among different health insurance options under a flexible benefits plan. Employee-specific selection and demographic data provided by the former National Cash Register (NCR), were used to analyze the effects of employee and plan characteristics on choice of health care plan. Results suggest that employees' health plan choices are influenced by premium, deductible, and coinsurance amounts, and by employees' age, gender, salary, and marital status. The results are considered within an expected utility maximization model. Implications for the design of flex plans as well as future research and theory are discussed. © 1996 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

It is commonly accepted that service excellence can enhance the competitive advantage of a firm. Two critical success factors in this regard are evaluated in this article: First, how best to structure an organization in order to provide flexibility in satisfying customer needs, and second, how certain human resource practices help create and improve customer service. © 1996 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

This article, based on a case study of Digital Equipment Corporation, examines issues raised by efforts to stabilize employment. The specific case is a large program which restructured and reduced employment without resorting to layoffs. The article describes the DEC process, the key choices which underly the procedures, and provides data on the consequences for individuals and the firm. It then explores the implications of the DEC experience for the broad human resource principles and actions which must underlie any effort to stabilize employment.