Telecommuting
Telecommuting is a flexible work arrangement which allows
employees to work from outside the central workplace. This is
usually at home or at a satellite office, and can be for all or a
portion of a work week, done occasionally or regularly. If done
regularly, it generally involves the worker using technology such
as a computer with access to the organisation’s network or a
smart phone that can access work email, however this is not
essential. It is possible to telecommute on an occasional basis to
undertake particular tasks which may not require network access,
such as research, report writing, preparing correspondence,
submissions, advice work, and planning.
Telecommuting is particularly well-suited to staff who can work
autonomously, and do not require close supervision or interaction
with other team members.
It is understood that setting up the equipment and technology
that may be required to work from home may not match the timelines
required for this project. However, wherever possible staff who
want to telecommute during this study may be able to undertake
assignments that do not require network access.
Organisations should comply with any existing working from home
policies and be aware that the issues they need to consider
include:
- security of information whilst outside of the mainstream
workplace
- health and safety — a workplace health and safety
assessment is generally required to ensure an ergonomic set up of
home computer equipment and other office furniture
- management and supervision of employees should be performance-,
rather than attendance-based. Performance-based management looks at
quality, timeliness and quantity of work rather than time spent in
the office.
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