While the risk of a pandemic does not appear inevitable yet, the mounting number of swine flu cases discovered around the world is understandably worrisome. Having lived through the SARS outbreak in 2003, which exacted a heavy toll on the economies of affected countries, I can empathize with some of the anxieties that senior company executives must be facing even now.

While it is highly improbable that the government will mandate the forcible closure of offices, the unavoidable truth is that any form of voluntary or compulsory quarantine will certainly result in fewer workers in the office. Yet, the issue is whether or not businesses are prepared for large numbers of workforce absenteeism. And if yes, what is the percentage that they can take and still remain operational?

Of course, the current availability and sophistication of mobile technology should go a long way toward enabling staff to work without having to come into the office. Staff who are on quarantine but not sick could theoretically perform their duties from the isolation of their homes; as could employees who opt not to brave the mass-transit crowds.

Unfortunately, the availability of mobile technology is not the only factor that is at play here. Certainly, there is a lot more to teleworking than sending workers home with a laptop and VPN connection to the office. Perhaps you can share your expertise with us here. - Paul