### Text Script of Ben's concerns about new machinery:

Ben has just been told by his boss, Imelda, that the Board have decided to adopt a new process which means new machines will be operating in the pre forming plant within two months. Ben's a bit surprised at this. The lead time is short and he has a number of concerns.

Imelda's message is quick and to the point, but she just doesn't see the wider issues, Ben thinks.

Ben is concerned about what may follow the introduction of new machines in a very short time frame.

Last time new machines were introduced to the pre-forming plant, one of the unions involved went on strike for two weeks and there was a lot of residual trouble between workers and management at the plant. Although that was some time ago, Ben doesn't want it to happen again.

Ben's first thought is to wonder who has been consulted about the proposal. He remembers some discussion a while back when the idea of new machines was mentioned - he can't remember exactly, but it may have been at a board meeting last year. Was that enough consultation? Ben isn't sure, but he doesn't really think so.

Ben sits for a while, thinking about what is likely to happen when the change is announced. People don't always react well to change, and in a business environment the first reaction is often fear - will I lose my job? Introducing new machines will cause such a reaction - Ben knows this.

It's very unlikely that there will be any job losses, but the employees need to know this. Ben needs to find a way to introduce the new machines and also reassure his co-workers that they don't need to fear job losses.

There are positive sides to the new machinery, though - new jobs, promotional opportunities, and more possibilities for apprentice training. Thinking it through, Ben grows happier. Yes, it won't be all bad - people will accept the new machines.

But in just two weeks? Why such a short timeframe? Possibly it won't actually happen within that time - often things don't happen when they are supposed to. But that will also make people wonder.

It's funny, Ben thinks, how even good change can cause a bad reaction.

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