Definition
The corporate euphemism for reducing headcount, consolidating operations, or eliminating redundancies—basically any restructuring that makes people unemployed but sounds thoughtful and data-driven.
Example Usage
Following the merger, we're rationalizing our real estate footprint by closing 12 regional offices.
Origin
Business restructuring terminology from mid-20th century corporate management theory.
Fun Fact
The word 'rationalization' appears in 89% of corporate layoff announcements but only 3% of hiring announcements, suggesting rational thinking only applies when eliminating jobs.
Source: Corporate restructuring and HR terminology
Related Terms
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