This is the Bottomline statement taken from the white paper (regarding E.O. 13522): Engaging Federal Employees Through Their Union Representatives To Improve Agency Performance.

How does engagement, practically speaking, contribute to better results? First, it opens lines of communication [on both the management and labor sides] previously closed to those with the most knowledge about both operational and personnel matters vital to performance, such as the introduction of new technologies and the provision of needed training. Second, through broadened lines of communication, the parties have a greater chance of preventing conflicts and grievances, thereby avoiding and reducing costs and delays. Third, the parties can build confidence and trust which reinforces their commitment to accomplish the mission and solve ever greater problems. Fourth, it involves a much broader array of participants on both sides, permitting more informed decisions and higher levels of buy-in when it comes to the tricky tasks of implementation. Finally, it encourages a set of attitudes and behaviors that benefit organizations in dealing with outside parties: customers, suppliers, or organizational partners- even Congress.

Click here to download the paper.