Organisational Change

5.8.7 Telecommuting

Propelling the change in work arrangements are new technologies that have helped to redefine office boundaries. In the beginning of the 1980s, the introduction of new technologies was limited to a few specific business sectors. But by the end of the decade, there was a significant increase in the penetration of computers and computer-based technologies on a vast array of business functions. The advent of fax machines, email, voice mail, and the growth and popularity of the Internet has created a global work environment that is fast-paced and aggressive, and which is changing where, when, and how people work. Statistics gathered by the International Telework Association and Council show that there was a 60 per cent increase ...