Labor-management cooperation: Operation MOST

Unionized contractors and construction unions are in difficulty today because of their apparent increasing lack of competitiveness with the nonunion sector of the industry. Problems contributing to this are examined, as are efforts by labor, management, and others to remedy the problems. In Columbus, Ohio, labor and management established Operation MOST as a cooperative program to regain the share of the construction market lost to nonunion firms. This program encompasses a variety of activities and has been very successful. It is now being copied in various locations throughout the country. Several recommendations are made as to activities that should be undertaken by the parties to continue their cooperative spirit and to allow the unionized contractors to improve their cost competitiveness.