A venerable giant sharpens its claws: General Electric´s drive to increase profits and market share means drastic restructuring in product lines, employment, and manpower utilization

An overview of the restructuring that has occurred at General Electric in product lines, employment, and manpower utilization is presented. These changes have been marked by a shift in emphasis from such businesses as power and household appliances to high-tech and service-related areas, for example medical systems and financial services. The effect of the changes on the morale of employees is discussed. Some of GE´s newer ventures are described. Attention is also given to the cost-cutting measures that have been introduced in its less successful businesses and to the investments that have been made in these businesses to increase productivity.