It is incredible how much flexible technology has made the work environment! Most group tasks that needed face-to-face interactions years ago can now be accomplished over phone/internet. I am a full supporter of work place flexibility, which includes the option to work remotely. I think we need to start moving away from measuring productivity by the number of hours logged and measure it by the number of tasks completed (or something similar). I should also note that employers have a big part to play in making remote work spaces successful. Employees should be provided with all the necessary communication tools (phones, conference lines, web/video conference sites, internal chats, and forums) so that they can stay productive. Employees should also have the opportunity to meet every once in a while (once a quarter or twice a year, depends on the employer) so that they can develop their working relationships beyond the phone and web conversations.
Besides keeping the employees happy, I think work places that offer such flexibility have more loyal workers and are actually more productive and profitable. Obviously, the move towards this flexibility will be varied and dependent on the type of company but I think everyone should at least consider implementing some aspects of flexible working schedules.
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Nathan Kebede P.E., M.ASCE
Pavement Engineer
Evanston IL
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