As ever, the results require careful interpretation. The concept of collective voice
was put forward earlier to suggest how unionised workplaces could in principle
achieve gains for both employers and employees. The finding that such mutual
gains are present, however, does not necessarily imply that collective voice is the
only or even the main underlying mechanism. Other interpretations, for instance in
terms of bargaining processes and employers’ reactions to the costs imposed by
unions (see the introductory discussion), are also possible. Collective voice is offered
as a plausible interpretation of the main findings, especially in an environment of
widespread and rapid organisational change, but the findings do not depend on this
interpretation.