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Telecommuting initiatives deliver many benefits for businesses.

Cost savings:

The main savings are in premises costs, office overhead including the costs of heating, air-conditioning, car parks, lighting and labor. Companies adopting telework methods achieve significant reductions in total office occupancy. Work can be carried out wherever the appropriate skills are available at the best cost.

Increased productivity:

Productivity increases of 40% have been reported although the company may not realize all the benefits of this productivity. Many telecommuters get their work done in less time which is good for them and the company, but from a company perspective they may actually work fewer hours..

Improved morale:

Employees respond well to the sign of trust indicated by the employer's adoption of more independent work styles encouraged by teleworking. People who telecommute see it as an employee perk and it is a vote of confidence from their employer.

Decreases absenteeism:

Several studies have shown that employees who telework have fewer sick days each year than other employees. Part of this is that they are always at the workplace and the other is the thought that “I am here anyway”

Workforce continuity:

Organizations with effective telework programs are more resilient in the face of external disruption such as severe weather or natural disasters. Their work plan is the same as their day to day plan.

Better customer service:

With the increased demand for “Personal” touch, customer services hours can be extended beyond the working day or the working week without the costs of overtime payments or the need for staff to work, and travel, at unusual hours based on a flexible work schedule.

Part time staffing:

In jobs that generate peaks and troughs of workload, telecommuting can enable staff to work shift hours to match peak workload, without the staff concerned having to travel
In some cases staff can be “on call" at retainer rates and then paid hourly when needed for active work.

Wider employment/work opportunities:

Flexible work programs can enable companies in rural areas to draw upon individuals with skills that are in high demand but are not available in the regional marketplace.

Access to work for people with specific difficulties:

Telework can also enable access to work, training and social interaction for people who have specific problems - for example those with disabilities, single parents who need to be at home for the children or even individuals with responsibility for an elderly or sick relative.