Evaluate whether PS should use the same payment method and employee development in both factories.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2023). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. A01 Knowledge and understanding: knowledge of one of the key terms (max 2), including: Payment methods; Development opportunities; Depends on finances; Financial/non-financial motivators.
2. AO2 Application: applies knowledge of payment method/employee development of PS once. applies knowledge of payment method/employee development of PS twice. Currently pay and opportunities different in countries; Payments different, time based v piece rates; Fewer opportunities in some countries; Use of non-financial motivators vary; Employees demanding equal treatment.
3. AO3 Analysis: Limited analysis: candidate shows one link in the chain of analysis. Developed analysis: candidate shows two or more links in the chain of analysis. Could be expensive; Management of change can be difficult; Could lead to discontent with those workers who have an advantage; Might be difficult to get arrangements that suit laws in several countries; May not recognise local conditions; May give firm good reputation as fair employer; Could enable employees to move from country to country easily; Would act as a motivator in some countries; Whether or not trades unions are involved and the extent to which they cooperate.
4. AO4 Evaluation: Limited evaluation: unsupported judgement and/or a weak attempt at evaluative comment. Developed evaluation: supported judgement and/or reasonable evaluative comment. Developed evaluation in context: supported judgement in context and/or reasonable evaluative comment in context. A justified recommendation; Identifying that the decision will ultimately depend on a number of unknowns (e.g. extent of differences between the regulations, financial state of firm, strength of views of workforce); Discussion of costs v benefits. Accept all valid responses.