Perspectives & Strategy

The cost reductions associated with telecommuting can be attractive to corporations when facing a recession. The benefits of expanding access beyond the corporate office are compelling as:
• Reduction in office space and operating expenses
• Better work-life balance for employees
• Increased employee productivity
• Increased quality contact with customers
• Contributes to ‘Green Computing’

Cloud Computing Opportunity?

The introduction of ‘Cloud computing’ creates the ability to access corporate services from outside of the enterprise which should aid the ability to telecommute. This technology is a long way from being considered mainstream. However the IT department must at this stage understand how this technology will change the corporation and plan for the future. In some sectors it is already seen as important ‘Cloud computing’ e.g. for the sales-force.

Moves by larger software vendors into the cloud computing arena does add confidence in this application space, but this is still perhaps 3 (or more) years from maturing.

The Human Dimension

There is the human dimension to consider here as well. Some people may do well telecommuting, but others may not have the personality or the discipline to be productive unless they are based in a traditional work setting. Telecommuters face a consistent danger that “out of sight is out of mind” which may affect the manager and co-worker perceptions of the worker and their performance. Will the tele-worker be first on the chopping block when redundancies are announced?

Tele-workers need to make a deliberate effort to demonstrate their work accomplishments, on-time delivery and productivity. Overall it is important to be responsive management demands.

Video Conferencing

The introduction of video phones in the telecom market adds an interesting dimension to this discussion. Video has been tried in the UK mobile telecom market before. The concept is good in principle. I can see the use of it for business teleconferencing. Will it make video-conferencing as a part of telecommuting a normal way to carry out business? I doubt it.

I see video telecom currently as an experimental technology, bandwidth can be a big issue. If it is to break ground then it is in the area of home usage – we all want to see the grand-children without having to travel. The home market may in the long run move the business marketplace.

Video conferencing can also be managed effectively through the PC as there are many tools that will allow a person to become more visible.

Projects Requiring Collaboration

Additionally telecommuting will complicate business processes. IT projects do require collaboration in order for successful delivery and personal contact is an important part of this process.

Working at home there are time when it is possible to get more done with fewer interruptions. The downside can be the lack of contact with colleagues.

I don’t think telecommuting is the best model for the future workplace, but I do believe it to be a viable model.