Quality magazine recently experienced a phenomenon to which many can relate. During March we faced handling an extraordinary amount of editorial copy. Beside this large, 128-page issue, the editors were busy putting together material for the Quality Expo International 2001 (April 24-26, Rosemont, IL) show program. In addition, we were readying material for the May issue and planning for June. Our dilemma was how to handle the increased demand. The solution: use temporary workers skilled in handling magazine production. It proved successful.
Manufacturers often find themselves in need of temporary workers to meet short-term goals. Many such "temps" often find themselves offered full-time positions. However, some who are classified as "temps" closer resemble full-time staff because their hours and length of stay is extended beyond what is reasonable. Yet, the temp gets paid and the manufacturer meets his goals. So, what's the problem in such an arrangement?