The Emergence of the Internet Has Allowed Greater Flexibility in Where Work Gets Done

Telecommuting

The emergence of the Internet has allowed greater flexibility in where work gets done. While the majority of people still work in a location outside of their home, the number of people who telecommute in at least some capacity is growing steadily. Working from home can save time and resources, providing benefits to both employers and employees. The shift toward the virtual office, staffed by employees across the country (or the world) raises the question as to how much longer there will be a need for most people to go to a location outside of their home for work. Given the changing environment of when and how work is conducted, it is worthwhile to explore what impact this change will have on the workforce of the future.

Read and carefully consider these perspectives. Each suggests a particular way of thinking about telecommuting.

Perspective One - Modern technologies enable many workers to work just as effectively from home as they do from an office. Webcams, smartphones, instant messaging programs, and email make it possible for employees to be completely connected to coworkers no matter how much physical distance is between them.

Perspective Two - While technology today makes it possible for people to connect in many ways even when not physically close, it is important to spend at least some time together in a physical office to build morale, loyalty, and team cohesion.

Perspective Three - Telecommuting is something that works perfectly for some professions but not in others. Because some jobs, like construction, are impossible to perform from home, telecommuting is not a universal option for all workers.

Essay Task

Write a cohesive, logical essay in which you evaluate multiple perspectives on the future of telecommuting. In your essay, be sure to:

• examine and assess the perspectives given • declare and explain your own perspective on the issue • discuss the relationship between your perspective and those given

Your perspective may be in full or partial agreement, or in total disagreement, with any of the others. Whatever the case, support your ideas with logical reasoning and detailed, persuasive examples.

Plan and Write Your Essay

Consider the following as you compose your essay:

What are the strengths and weaknesses of the three perspectives provided?

• Identify the insights they present and what they fail to consider. • Ascertain why a given perspective might persuade or fail to persuade.

How can you apply your own experience, knowledge, and values?

• Express your perspective on the issue, identifying the perspective's strengths and weaknesses. • Formulate a plan to support your perspective in your essay.