Are harmonious labor relations simply a matter of size? This paper challenges the conventional wisdom that small firms inherently foster positive industrial relations. Focusing on the Australian information industry, the study explores the factors contributing to industrial relations within small companies. While the findings offer some support for the "small is beautiful" perspective, the authors argue that size alone is insufficient to explain these relations. By examining a specific small firm, the research reveals that the dynamics of industrial relations are more complex than previously assumed. The study questions whether positive working conditions are only attributed to the size of a company and suggests that industrial relations can improve regardless of size. Ultimately, this paper calls for a more nuanced understanding of industrial relations in small firms. It emphasizes the importance of considering industry-specific factors and internal organizational dynamics, rather than relying solely on the size of the company as an explanatory variable. The study advocates for more research into the complexity of industrial relations.
Published in Employee Relations, this paper aligns with the journal's focus on employment management and the dynamics between employers and employees. By investigating industrial relations in small firms within the Australian information industry, the study contributes to the journal's broader exploration of workplace dynamics and organizational behavior. The findings are relevant to both academics and practitioners interested in understanding and improving employee relations.