There are two sides of the coin of technology. One is the shining benefits we get from good tech, the other side is the sacrifices we make to have it. Telecommuting is a new form of work only made available in the last fifteen years. With advances in telecommunications, the internet, and cell phone technology, telecommuting is not only a feasible choice; it's sometimes the best choice.
There is a problem with telecommuting however. When an employee telecommutes, they are in their home office all day alone. There aren't any of the frustrations or annoyances that come with going to work, but nor are there any of the benefits. There aren't any impromptu break room conversations or bouncing of ideas off your neighbor. It's easy for a teleworker to feel cut off or out of the loop.
There are things you can do to keep a cohesive, team atmosphere for your remote employees. In Jody Gilbert's article in TechRepublic.com, we have 10 tips for remote workers that help to bring them in to the office in spirit instead of physically.
The tips to make the remote worker still feel a part of the company include three that bring the employee's work to the company. Conferencing technology is the way to do this. In conference calls, you get their ideas through their voice. Video conferencing shows their face and yours, giving the impression that they are in the room, or at least down the hall. Web conferencing shares their work in a collaborative way that includes you and the worker, no matter how far away they are.
