GreatWork Blog

Building better workplaces through compliance, culture, connection

Recently I received a message using the subject line: “Do subject lines really matter?” Immediately opening it, I wanted to read more. 

This year, November 6 will mark the return to standard time, when clocks will be moved back one hour at 2:00 a.m.

In your workplace, have you heard the word “Lean”? I am sure many of you have. The word “Lean” was first described in 1988 by John Krafcik, who was a quality engineer at GM-Toyota joint venture “NUMMI” plant in Fremont, CA. Krafcik has continued to research the Lean method jointly with MIT researchers, such as Jim Womack, who is a major active advocator for “Lean”. The concept of “Lean” was majorly adopted from Toyota Production System (TPS) and developed through the 1990’s.

Last week, the Seattle City Council voted to require employers to provide paid “sick and safe” time to employees working in Seattle beginning in September 2012.  The new ordinance applies to all employers in the city of Seattle with five or more employees.  It also applies to employees who perform more than 240 hours of work per year in Seattle, even if their employer is not located in Seattle.

Cascade is delighted to introduce Bill Swift to our Members. A trainer and counselor since 1981, Bill has a passion for promoting life-long workplace learning. He is an expert at facilitating organization development, exemplifying forward-looking leadership by practicing principles of honesty, direct communication, and resilience. 

The Washington Department of Labor & Industries has announced that the state’s minimum wage will increase by 37 cents to $9.04 per hour starting January 1, 2012.