Introduction of alternating telework in a local government administration - an evaluation

In 1997, the State Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of North Rh ine-Westphalia (German acronym LAfA) introduced alternating telework as a p ilot project. We evaluated the effects via interviews, questionnaires and a n instrument for workplace analysis. We found that alternating telework had a positive effect on job performance,job satisfaction, and work organizati on. However, the workplace design at home was not always adequate. On the w hole, however alternating telework was found to be a suitable way of organi zing work at the LAfA. We discuss personal, organizational, and technical p rerequisites that have to be observed for a successful permanent introducti on of alternating telework.