[smoyer]

This article actually describes both reduction-in-force (lay-offs) and firing. I've had the unfortunate experience to do both during my career and I can tell you that, for me, it's very painful to lay-off someone even if it's just because they're not the strongest performance in the group. On the other hand, firing someone who deserves it actually creates feelings that are closer to relief (not firing someone who deserves it is probably the worst thing I've ever observed for a team's morale.)