Explaining variation in workplace restructuring: The role of local union capabilities

Using data collected from two matched pairs of integrated steelmaking sites, the author describes variation that occurred in the process and outcomes of workplace restructuring. Four union capabilities-the ability to access information, to educate and mobilize the membership, to communicate with management at multiple levels, and to access decision-making at multiple points-appear to have been critical to two locals' success in negotiating with management over workplace restructuring in ways that benefited themselves, their members, and their firms. The author argues for including union locals' capabilities as a key variable in research aimed at understanding differences in outcomes across otherwise similar settings.