Editor's message: As the economic downturn continues, organisations may need to make changes to working patterns, on both a temporary and permanent basis.
While some businesses will find they need to make staff redundant in order to survive, others will be considering alternatives, such as removing overtime, introducing short-time working and lay-offs, or reducing the number of days/hours that staff work.
Where there is a need for short-term cover or where a specific task or project requires completion, you may consider hiring staff on fixed-term contracts or via an agency.
Stephen Simpson, principal HR strategy and practice editor
HR and legal information and guidance relating to work organisation.