Telecommuting Heavens By Rich Karlgaard (Forbes.com, Aug. 20, 2004) is adapted from his recently published book, Life 2.0: How People Across America Are Transforming Their Lives by Finding the Where of Their Happiness.

Economic development groups interested in attracting teleworkers & telework jobs to their region should take heed. The short list of qualifications, according to my own prioritization scheme, is (1) the right kind and amount of entertainment/recreation, (2) reliable broadband, (3) nice weather, and (4) a nearby airport.  Ignore item 3 for now, since you can't do much about it. Which of the remaining three is missing in your community?

2:40:14 PM    
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Laura Petrecca of the New York Post offers 6 tips to New York businesses to weather the coming Republican convention in her piece, Convention Wisdom (August 22, 2004):

'5. Be a tough boss.

'Some employees view convention week as an easy excuse to skip work, citing terrorism worries and commuter concerns. BHI estimates a $19 million loss in productivity due to train delays and street closings, but work place experts say commuters shouldn't be given the day off.

'Instead, they suggest, arm them with a laptop and have them work from home. "Work doesn't have to screech to a halt because of something like this," said Philip Montero, a telecommuting exert, who advised businesses in Boston. "Smart businesses allow for flexibility so productivity can continue." '

2:11:40 PM    
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Minnesota's Department of Employment and Economic Development recently completed a nine-county, 391-business survey of medical coverage in the area. Among their results they found that the 'least common benefit -- although it costs the least -- is telecommuting. Only 3 percent of firms offer their full-time workers telecommuting. According to the survey, this may be due to employer discomfort with a new, alternative working arrangement.' - Survey highlights insurance statistics By Lee Smith (Fairmont Sentinel, Aug. 21, 2004) 

9:57:26 AM    
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