ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the nature and rationale for the empirical investigation, briefly outlining the research questions addressed, the characteristics of the Nottinghamshire clothing industry, and explanations for choosing it as the focus of the empirical inquiry. Details of the sample of companies utilised and the research methods deployed are also outlined. Types of Post-Fordism which lead to job enlargement and utilise technology in a way which deskills may therefore be prevalent when the workforce is female and those which lead to job enrichment and utilise technology in a way which upskills may exist when the workforce is male. The clothing industry, along with the textiles sector, is a key employer in Nottinghamshire. Two categories of firms were included in the sample, those operating the production line and those utilising team working. The production line companies have a number of common characteristics, which are based on a rigid demarkation of operative functions.
