The Swedish auto industry has developed a distinct production design and work organization, exploring alternatives to the assembly line and to the traditional shop-floor hierarchy, with a model of teamwork that increases independent decision making and elicits strong union commitment. Berggren evaluates in detail the reorganization of work within the Swedish auto industry from 1970 to 1990. In his introduction to the new edition, he explores the significance of Volvo's decision to close its two most innovative plants.

"

A fascinating and well-researched book which is also a pleasure to read.... Full of analytical and anecdotal gems, it has an authenticity, realism, and truly cross-national awareness which is so often lacking in analogous studies.