Key drivers and critical success factors for telecommuting in South Africa and the United Kingdom

Abstract

This purpose of this study was to explore collaborative technologies and working methods which might improve and change the way organisations operate. In addition, the research set out to determine the key drivers and critical success factors for the implementation of telecommuting within a South African and a United Kingdom organisation. The methodology used in order to address the propositions within this dissertation was qualitative research and data were collected through personal in-depth interviews. The key finding of the research was that telecommuting can assist in the reduction of overhead costs, such as real estate, office space and travel. It also suggested that an increase in productivity was also achievable. Another area that illustrated an attractive key driver was the recruitment and retention of skilled staff. Added to this was the real factor of an improvement in work-life balance. The final key drivers that are likely to continue to have a lot of focus in the years ahead are the environmental factors. The research suggested that telecommuting programmes have been successful in reducing air pollution and carbon emissions, as well as lowering the usage of fuel. Telecommuting has the potential to offer organisations the opportunity to change the way they work and in so doing, improve on some of the factors as described above.