over than those that restructure by divesting under-performing parts of

their business, according to new research from the Australian School of

Business. Firing staff does not always turn up cost savings or

efficiency improvements, and it dents the morale of those left behind

and the opinions of shareholders. With lay-offs becoming increasingly

popular in Australia – mainly due to the changing nature of the

workforce – a rethink may be in order for corporate chiefs as they

confront potentially make-or-break decisions.