Is it time for us all to go home?
16 September
New research has highlighted the cost savings of businesses allowing employees to be based at home.
Figures show that a full-time remote worker saves his employers around £6,500 a year compared to one who works from their office.
The international research agency Global Workplace Analytics advises companies on working strategies. Their latest research shows some businesses are saving huge sums by introducing remote working arrangements.
Thanks to the digital communications revolution, around 60% of UK companies already have some remote-working arrangements. But how does the trend towards working from home impact on business transport and company fleets?
We looked at the latest research to find the advantages and disadvantages.
PLUS POINTS
- The obvious saving is on office space: this means less rental or property costs and reductions in bills like lighting, heating, furniture, security, cleaning, toilets, water coolers, coffee machines and stationery. US-based Global Workplace Analytics has found that the average ‘real estate’ savings per full-time remote worker is $10,000 (£6,500).
- Home-working removes the need for commuting. This helps reduce jams and pollution, and fuel costs. There are hundreds of accidents and breakdowns each year involving people driving to work.
- Around two thirds of employees want to work from home. Your business can attract better quality applicants if this is part of the package and staff will stay longer. More than a third of professionals say they would take a pay cut in return for home-working.
- Happy, less stressed staff are more committed, enthusiastic and effective. Home-working allows parents to work around childcare rather than having to leave their job. Flexible hours means people can work when they are most motivated and effective.