By Becky Wright, Executive Director, Unions 21 | 2 min
I have already blogged about my experience of strategic corporate research (SCR) and why I think it’s important for unions.
As we continue to grapple with changing labour markets and new employers who have no experience with or are hostile to unions, SCR gives us the tools and knowledge to turn this disruption into opportunity.
What is Strategic Corporate Research?
SCR is the process of systematically gathering and analysing information to build a comprehensive picture of an employer and/or industry. A well-constructed SCR map provides union leaders with the insights needed to make informed strategic and tactical decisions. By identifying key details such as company size, financial health, leadership structure, and labour relations history, unions can prioritise their efforts and allocate resources effectively.
Conducting Effective SCR
To ensure that SCR efforts are productive and efficient, it is essential to follow a systematic approach to information gathering. Haphazard research can lead to wasted time and incomplete insights. One helpful starting point is the framework developed by labour scholar Tom Juravich, which outlines key areas of investigation for both public/non-profit and private sector employers.
Remember, the goal of SCR is not simply to compile information, but to create a shared resource that can inform collaborative planning and action.
Want more help?
We are launching a new Strategic Corporate Research ‘how to’ training course, which you can sign up for now.
