ABSTRACT
One of the first attempts to concentrate the administration of a number of personnel activities in a single full-time person was the creation of the position of Social Secretary. The precise functions of the social secretary varied from company to company. The International Harvester Company directed the personnel activities introduced in its various branch plants from a central department in Chicago. The Westinghouse Air Brake Company and the Patton Paint Company also attempted to centralize their personnel functions. Railroad companies and some industrial firms turned over the organization and administration of personnel activities for their employees to the Young Men's Christian Association. The Edison Electric Illuminating Company of New York provided for employee participation through its Labor Council. One of the primary functions of this group was to review suggestions and make recommendations with respect to the safety, comfort, and convenience of the employees.
