ABSTRACT
The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of the findings from the third case study organization from this second phase of the field-work – Universal. Universal presents an example of a large voluntary organization facing a rapidly changing environment. Up until in recent years it had operated from a relatively strong position in the area of children’s services. However, increased competition and an erosion of influence with key stakeholders among its funders has led to increasing concerns among management regarding the organization’s ability to maintain its leading role in the market. In employment relations terms, Universal also faces a changing environment with the recent recognition of a trade union. Moreover, the growing competitive and financial pressures from the market clearly offer a challenge to the future sustaining of the high degree of goodwill and commitment present amongst its workforce.
