From the union perspective, the bureaucratic system of collective bargaining contracts may achieve stability at the expense of rank and file involvement and activism.

Union leaders negotiate collective bargaining contracts with management, which can provide stability and predictability in labor-management relations. However, this system may also lead to a depoliticization of union members, as they may become less engaged and active in day-to-day union affairs when they feel their leaders are taking care of negotiations and other issues. This can lead to a lack of democracy in the union and a decreased sense of ownership over the collective bargaining process.