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Subjects › Personnel › Telecommuting
Reviewed 12/2011

Telecommuting

Contents

Introduction

Telecommuting is the practice of working for a government, corporation or business from home using communications devices such as computers, fax machines, networks and modems. Telecommuting is growing at a rate of 15% annually (according to a 1996 source) and, as telecommunications hardware/software develop and the economy becomes increasingly more digital, may even increase at a higher rate. Reasons for telecommuting's popularity include: increased production, more flexibility in the workplace, decreased sick leave, decreased turnover, reduced office space needs, increased organizational skills, and less pollution and traffic congestion from people driving to work. Most telecommuters work at home 1-3 days a week, work on specific projects, and many require very little in expenses. Though telecommuting is not for everyone, many businesses and organizations can create telecommuting programs that increase productivity, flexibility, and improve the bottom line.

Telecommuting programs allow employees to work at home (or at a neighborhood telework office) rather than commuting daily to a more distant work site. These programs can result in significant reductions in rush-hour traffic congestion, vehicle emissions and fuel consumption. One study (cited on the EPA website) estimated that $23 billion could be saved in transportation, environmental, and energy costs if there were a 10 to 20 percent increase in telecommuting.

The Telework Enhancement Act of 2010 was signed into law in December 2010. Federal agencies are the primary focus of the legislation, although the act may be an example for local action. The act requires covered agencies to develop a formal telework policy, and teleworkers must be given equal treatment in performance appraisals, work environments, and other areas. Additional information regarding the act is provided in a memorandum issued by the federal Office of Personnel Management.

To read more on this subject, see these Selected MRSC Library Holdings on Telecommuting.

Documents

Washington Sample Policies

Out-of-State Sample Policies

Telecommuting for Reduced Traffic Congestion and Pollution Emissions

Additional References

The following sites below contain general information, statistics, and policy guides to telecommuting.

Related MRSC Resources