Technology forced changes in Steel Making
The introduction of technology in the workplace where I was previously employed has seen remarkable changes in many ways. Immediately after I finished my undergrad (1998), I was employed by a major steel company to be the manager of their metallurgical and testing lab. This steel company had been in operation since 1889 and the culture there was always about 20-30 years behind the actual decade. Since the steel manufacturer had made a significant profit and seen remarkable growth in the first half of the 20th century, very little in terms of change had been allowed or even desired.
When I began there in 1998, computers were still used sparingly and all controls of the steel making process were mechanical and physical. In 1999, this company saw its profits dwindle to a loss and productivity was the benchmark to keep the company profitable. Major investments were made in the melt shop (where they make the steel) and most other areas of the company. The melt shop became somewhat automated with computer driven controls, sensors and timers. Now, the company could make twice the amount of steel as before with less energy and cost. Due to the culture, the new technology was mocked and often disregarded, when possible. Vandalism took place to “make things go back to the way it was”. Due to the reluctance to change, costs associated with the upgrade and employee vandalism, this company was thrust into bankruptcy and would be sold to a much larger steel manufacturer. This manufacturer had embraced the technological changes and enforced the use of the new technology in the acquired steel manufacturer. Many employees were terminated for their resistance to change and continued vandalism. Those who stayed found that the technology made their lives better and more efficient. I am sure this is a similar story to a number of corporations in the world. Technology changed this company in a multitude of ways. Many lives were changes as a result of this technology, too.