Presenter Kirby Smith 10/16/07

Telecommuting is the use of computers and communication technology to work from a remote location, instead of commuting to a central office. This article examines telecommuting from the prospective of a manager and in this case an editor of a school paper.

 When deciding to implement a telecommuting policy it is necessary to weigh the pros and cons of how it will affect you business.  There are also several things that need to be consider be for allowing employees to telecommute.

 Allows you to save on office space and computer equipment.  Reduces the amount of time spent hiring and training. Since employees you can offer your employees a more flexible telecommuting arrangement.

 People that telecommute can become “unplugged” from the group.  They will miss out on all of the daily casual communication.  People forget to fill them in on things.

 Start with a part-time arrangement and/or a trial period ◦ Have the person work in the office a certain number of days and telecommute two or three days a week. ◦ A trial period where the person’s performance is carefully monitored.

 Select people based on their strengths and work habits. ◦ concentration, time management, organization, productivity ◦ “The best teleworker is a self-starter who has demonstrated dependability, good judgment, and the ability to work independently.”

 Establish productivity standards  Communication plan for everyone in the office. ◦ Make sure that everyone is aware of the telecommuting arrangement and they know how to contact the person.  Put the agreement in writing. ◦ Include what equipment is required and who will provide it. ◦ How work time will be documented. ◦ Clear communication plan.

 Telecommuting can be an affective tool to reduce overhead cost, such as office space and computer equipment. It also can allow more flexibility for your employees.  Although you have to be careful to avoid the pitfalls, like inadvertently exclude employees from the group.  In order to make sure your employees have a successful and productive telecommuting arrangement, consider the different implementations and carefully monitor results.