Codestone

Category: Workforce mobility

Adopting flexible working practices can benefit companies in numerous ways, it has been suggested.

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has highlighted the advantages employing a mobile workforce can bring to a firm after finding some enterprises are still reluctant to embrace the strategy.

According to the body, home working can encourage better staff recruitment and retention, improve motivation and productivity and bolster the quality and reputation of the service provided, as remote access software - such as Citrix Access Gateway - can extend the hours staff are in contact with customers.

Moreover, the process can reduce sickness absence and travel costs for staff, as well as promoting infrastructure cost savings - such as parking spaces and office-running - for businesses.

General secretary of the TUC Brendan Barber said: "Too many workers are wasting their time making journeys they don't need to."

In a recent article for Helium, Michelle Wilkinson observed flexible working is a particularly attractive option for members of staff with young children to care for.

Posted by Victoria Browne