Firms consider telework plans as pandemic concerns grow

The current outbreak of swine flu is poised to worsen, and companies are grappling with the possibility that employees might be forced to work offsite or from home. Businesses that are not prepared might find their operations grinding to a standstill--which is not a good idea in these tough economic times.

The truth is, today's workforce is already very mobile, though companies will do well to have contingencies to address workforce absenteeism rates of up to 40 percent or higher. Cindy Auten, the general manager at a public-private partnership focused on promoting telework noted that it's never too late for organizations to get started. She says, "Many organizations already have the infrastructure and capabilities in place, it's just a matter of outlining guidelines for employees and making sure they're ready to work in their environment."

To read more:
- check out this article from Network World

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