One of the cetral figures in Labor unions is the concept of one pay level for all people in that classification. On top of all the other labor rules intended to "protect" the worker, the opposite effect has happened. Because businesses cannot afford the practice of this type of labor model, companies are offshoring manufacturing due to the Labor rules (not union pay).

The big solution which contradicts the union is to allow competitive pay and individual evaluations for pay grade. Each individual member is accountable for thier pay level and performance. The labor rules must change to have competition amoung individuals inside the union. This will increase productivity inside the union as each memeber WANTS to carry his/her own weight or even look to go beyond just the job requirements to be a high performer. Low performers would not be protected and could be weeded out.

Just a small change in this type of work rules could change a progressive labor union to compete in the global market.