Downsizing: Lessons Learned.

As the economy takes a now predicted downturn, layoffs continue to make the headlines. Yet downsizing, which has eliminated about 10 million jobs since the 1 1980s in an effort to cut costs and improve performance, is no panacea, according to Freda Turner, who researches workplaces trends and best-business practices at the University of Phoenix. In an Xpress News Service report (www.xpresspress.com), Turner cites the following lessons learned:

* Downsizing does not always increase profits, especially if the organization takes a business-as-usual approach.

* An across-the-board layoff is a sign that management has not exercised due diligence in workforce planning.

* Avoid the pitfalls of letting too many people go by first eliminating unnecessary tasks.

* Plan downsizing waves to minimize productivity loss and safeguard employee morale.

* Find out if there are more effective ways of conducting business by asking employees for their suggestions. Downsizing may still be the best strategy, but it's worth the time and effort to first seek better business practices.