Submitted by: Submitted by stephens0985
Views: 303
Words: 2895
Pages: 12
Category: Business and Industry
Date Submitted: 08/02/2011 10:47 PM
Abstract
Telecommuting has become a popular alternative to the cubicle or desk for both employers and employees alike. It offers a way for employees a chance to perform their jobs in a variety of places. Telecommuting has many benefits and can be used to attract potential employees, especially in cities where commute time become another day in and of itself. Employees feel valued and maintain a better sense of commitment to an organization that reacts to their needs. Retention of employees reduces cost to the employer and most seasoned employees are able to perform their jobs without being monitored or prodded. Offering these types of employees the benefit of telecommunication can lead to great success in retention when they may have other options of employment. This paper will discuss these topics and reveal why from a Strategic Human Resource Management point of view, it is beneficial for an employer to offer this type of work environment.
Telecommuting
Telecommuting as defined by dictionary.com means, “working at home by using a computer terminal electronically linked to one's place of employment ("Random house dictionary," 2010).” Employees are able to accomplish a day’s work from home and this work style has become popular because it also allows employers to reduce their overhead costs. Telecommuting began to have significant impact in the early 90’s after a case study performed by the state of California looking to rid themselves of the byproducts of congested roads (Fleming, 2003). The term was coined by the US aerospace engineer Jack Nilles in 1973 and popularized by the author Francis Kinsman in his 1987 book 'The Telecommuter’ ’ ("Telecommuting," 2010). Telecommuting is part of a decentralized business model in which companies are no longer tied to a single location. As enterprises grow and the economy becomes more global, this model becomes more effective and desirable; in fact, decentralization may become necessary for a business to survive and...