Much of this streamlining, as I understand it, is going to be established by merging Backstage operations that exist at both DLR and WDW.
For example, DLR and WDW currently each maintain their own Departments in charge of developing Merchandise for sale in the Parks. Under this plan, both of those Departments will be merged together and managed by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, rather than the individual resorts.
Walt Disney Parks & Resorts has actually been doing this for quite some time. It started right after the 50th Anniversary of
Disneyland Park, and most Guests have noticed it (if covertly) when we established the
Disney Parks brand to advertise the division nationally. The recession has caused it to be sped up, but these changes probably would have occured over time anyway.
As to the Front-Line, Guest-facing experience, you shouldn't experience too much of a change. Lines may be a little longer here and there.
That being said, we Front-Line Park CMs here at the DLR (Attractions, Stores, Ticket Sellers/Takers, Custodial, etc.) start voting on a proposed new contract today. And if it's as bad as has been rumoured, I just can't see it passing. That might have a small effect, particularly if it's rejected and the situation deterioates to the point where we go on strike (not likely to happen, lol).
And just to sorta calm a few nerves, this isn't affecting the entire Disney Organization. It's only affecting Walt Disney Parks & Resorts (DLR, WDW,
DCL, DVC, WDI, and a few other things). Things like Disney Consumer Products (
Disney Store), ABC/ESPN, Corporate and the Studios aren't affected by this particular change, though they might introduce their own layoff plans in the future.
I just wonder where they will start first. Retail stores? Park employees? No matter how you look at it it's sad. I wonder if this could affect park hours too.
A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes.....and hopefully yours will come true!!! 
