Most of their talk is about trivial matters

Most of their talk is about trivial matters. They talk primarily to entertain and to while

away the time. There is joke or two, some comments about politics, a few words about a

coming cricket game, and some raves about the new receptionist. Such talk, of course,

is of little direct concern to Typical except perhaps as the talk affects the general

happiness and welfare of the company’s workers.

In time, the conversation drifts to subjects more pertinent to Typical and its operations.

Someone mentions a r.umour about a proposed change in promotion policy. Then Ram

and the others being in their own collection of rumours, facts, and opinions on the

subject. And in the process they form opinions and work up emotions concerning the

Company and its policies. This communication activity has little to do with manufacturing

garments, nor is it related to Ram’s duties at Typical. But it has affected Ram’s outlook,

and he just might not put out very much work for Typical today or any other day. He might

not trust Typical quite so much the next time the union conUllct problem comes up.

Wh,en the four reach the plant, the gate guard receives the message communicated by

the sticker on the windshield of the bus and waves the bus through. As Ram enters his

work area, he files past the time clock punches his card thereby communicates to the

payroll department a record of his attendance.

As Ram enters his work area, he engages in more social communication. He

exchanges “good mornings” with each of his colleagues, and he makes small talk with

two of them as they wait for the Company siren to communicate the message that it is

time for work to commence. Although this small talk with associates has

little to do with manufacturing garments, it helps to create a ‘happy and friendly attitude

among Ram and his co¬workers. And such an attitude can be conducive to

, productivity.

When the 9 o’clock siren blows, Ram begins his work s order clerk. The mor:ning mail,

ah’eady delivered t,o his desk, produces first an order from one of Typical’ salespeople

in the field. Using the computer telminal at his work station, Ram enters the pertinent

information: quantities, types, salesperson credited, sales district, purchaser

identification, and such.