Which of the following decruitment methods is accomplished by not filling openings created by normal retirements?

• A. Layoffs
• B. Attrition
• C. Furloughs
• D. Job redesign

Answer: (B)

The method of decruitment that involves not filling openings created by normal retirements is known as attrition. This approach allows an organization to reduce its workforce gradually without the need for layoffs or forced exits. By not replacing employees who retire, the organization can decrease its number of staff in a more natural way, which often helps maintain morale and minimizes the disruptive impacts associated with more abrupt strategies such as layoffs.

Attrition is considered a strategic and often less confrontational way to manage workforce size. It enables companies to achieve staffing reductions while also benefiting from the experience and continued productivity of existing employees until those positions become vacant. This can be especially useful in times of restructuring or economic uncertainty.

In contrast, layoff involves directly terminating employees to quickly reduce the workforce, while furloughs temporarily reduce hours or days worked without severing the employee-employer relationship. Job redesign refers to changing the nature of a job to improve efficiency or job satisfaction, but it does not typically involve reducing the number of employees. Therefore, attrition is the most fitting term for the practice described in the question.