Organizations are increasingly using telecommuting as a way to increase productivity and decrease costs. Employees also see positive results from telecommuting. Research shows however that there are negative sides as well. Governmental intervention beginning in the early 1990s almost put an end to telecommuting, but after debate, telecommuting has proven stronger than expected.
             Telecommuting: The Good, The Bad, and The Government
             Parents today face increased burdens as the cost of living continues to rise. Many single parent homes are troubled with the problem of caring for their children and working at the same time. Many rely on babysitters and family members to help, but others look to the government for assistance. In any case, meeting the bills is hard enough without the cost of a babysitter. However, today there is another choice: Telecommuting has become a new way for business organizations to employ people to work out of their homes that will keep up with the more fast paced society than the earlier modes communications. There are issues to issues to be overcome with telecommuting as well, but those issues are not as costly to those involved, usually.
             ITAC (International Telework Association & Council) defines telecommuting as a work arrangement in which employees work at any time or place that allows them to accomplish their work in an effective and efficient manner (On-Line). Most reports on telecommuting suggest that this alternative has been positively received by both employees and managers (McNerney, 1995). However, by definition, telecommuting holds positive and negative factors for both the employer and employee. The organization and the employee must review these factors to determine if this organizational workforce design is right for them.
             According to McQuarrie, for the employee, positive factors include: reduced commuting time, reduced personal costs (travel, clothing, food), flexible worki...