Introduction of alternating telework in a local government administration - an evaluation

In 1997, the State Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of North Rhine-Westphalia (German acronym LAfA) introduced alternating telework as a pilot project. We evaluated the effects via interviews, questionnaires and an instrument for workplace analysis. We found that alternating telework had a positive effect on job performance,job satisfaction, and work organization. However, the workplace design at home was not always adequate. On the whole, however alternating telework was found to be a suitable way of organizing work at the LAfA. We discuss personal, organizational, and technical prerequisites that have to be observed for a successful permanent introduction of alternating telework.