HISTORY
Bargaining history is important. It is not a good idea to propose a piece of language and then withdraw it immediately without trying to bargain.
It is not always a good idea to clarify language when there is a positive past practice. The primary reason is to preserve the history. For example, the contract is silent about step relationships in the bereavement leave article, but the association has always believed step relationships were fully included. Proposing the step relationship in an initial proposal, may confirm you believe the language was not clear and that step relationships were not included. Not only does this have implications fro bargaining; it can be very damaging to a grievance case.
RESEARCH
Good research is the lifeblood of good negotiating. Incomplete, superficial or inaccurate research can lead to disastrous results at the bargaining table. Not only does poor quality research undermine the confidence of the negotiating team, it can also lead to the defeat of the negotiating team, it can also lead to the defeat of major proposals or bargaining issues. For example, if the Association has submitted a proposal on class size, and if the research upon which the proposal is based is faulty or inaccurate, acceptance of the proposal might mean that several employees will have their jobs eliminated. The acute embarrassment which this would cause the negotiating team would probably impair the functional effectiveness of the team throughout the negotiations.
Ready, Set, Grow!
SDEA VESI Online Course Offerings
Three Online Graduate Courses. Up to nine credits for $275 TOTAL!
South Dakota Education Association (SDEA) has partnered with Augustana University and VESi to offer members a yearly subscription to online graduate courses for $275 per year. You can enroll in one course per term or two courses during the summer (if you skip fall or spring), for a total of 3 courses per year.
