Progressive discipline imposes increasingly severe penalties against employees who commit repeated offenses against employer work rules. For several decades, union contracts obligated employers to discipline workers by climbing a ladder whose first rung was oral discussion of issues or problems, followed by oral caution or warning if the employee didn’t correct the unacceptable behavior, then a written caution that could lead to a suspension, and ultimately written warnings that could lead to termination. New regulations passed during that period have made progressive discipline rules more complicated over time.

An integrated, well-thought-out progressive discipline policy allows human resource professionals to control conflict; assure compliance with myriad federal and state regulations; establish a lawful, orderly workplace; and promote a workforce culture in harmony with employers' best interests. Work rules should be business-related, up-to-date, and clearly communicated to employees. Employees must understand what is expected of them, what is considered inappropriate behavior, and what consequences result from rule violations.

This Workforce Strategies report analyzes the complicated present-day workplace environment, expanded disciplinary roles employees must play, best practices, and the impact such policies can have on your employees and the workplace.