The downside of Downsizing: using research action as consulting process

Most downsizing processes prove to be dysfunctional, resulting in high hidden costs. This article aims at identifying how a specific methodology of research action (socio-economic approach to management) can help to overcome those dysfunctions using consultation. It presents the qualitative results identifying major pitfalls following a downsizing process. It then quantifies the impacts of such a process and identifies solutions that can be given using SEAM.