[ahelwer]

Corporations are run so they suck as many profits out of the company as possible during the boom times, then "cut costs" (aka dump overboard the workers who created those profits) at the slightest change of the economic winds. Unions change that equation; corporations won't be able to run that strategy, and will maintain a cushion to get through the inevitable downturn.

[malvosenior]

I have never in 20+ years of experience seen a company dump high performing engineers just to lower costs. It's those very engineers that engendered the success the company enjoys. I have seen good teams cut but that's only when macro issues have made it necessary.

[Apocryphon]

You must have worked at places with exceedingly good management, or not at startups.

[FrozenTuna]

If a company has experienced both boom times and recessive economic times, I think its "startup" status is arguable, depending on a few other factors.

[Apocryphon]

A startup can easily experience its own financial downturns and be forced to downsize, and make questionable personnel cuts during those times.

[Animats]

IBM since 2000. HP since Fiorina.