As technological advances have occurred in today’s work environment, the emergence of email, cell phones, and Skype have allowed businesses and individuals to communicate at the touch of a button. Not limited to face-to-face interaction, individuals can communicate at a moment’s notice. This new phenomenon has even led many companies to allow some workers to work from the comfort of their home.
Although working from home has often been seen as an employee benefit, technology has allowed for improved communication and less stressful environments for some individuals. Computer science and Internet based companies have witnessed more successful operations by allowing their workers to work in more comfortable environments. The amount of interaction amongst coworkers is minimal and can often be taken care of through email.
Despite the technological advances that allow individuals to work from home, there are major concerns with the freedom that comes from not being in a office setting. A 2012 Citrix survey found that productivity levels are much lower amongst those that work from home, as 43 percent of workers said they’ve watched television while teleworking, 35 percent have done household chores, and 28 percent have cooked dinner while “working.” The lack of structure in an in-home environment is not always conducive to production, as temptations are vast and coworkers and bosses are not present. Although technology has enabled companies to communicate nationwide, there is significant concern that working from home could reduce productivity levels.