Telecommuting refers to workers doing their jobs from home for part of each week and communicating with their office using computer technology. Telecommuting is growing in many countries and is expected to be common for most office workers in the coming decades. How do you think society will be affected by the growth of telecommuting?
In contemporary times, many have started working from their homes. This new arrangement has been hailed as a path breaking technology that has brought numerous benefits along for the society. However, one cannot deny that there are some failings associated with this new concept.
The growing prominence of working from home has affected all the stratas of the society positively. Many have benefited by being able to forego the pain of commuting, helping them achieve better work-life balance, consequently, augmenting their efficiency. Moreover, the establishments have also gained immensely in the form of reduced operational costs, in the form of lesser outlay on electricity and transport. Additionally, this setting has proved to be a boon for the environment. A recent research has revealed that since one million people in Delhi are working from home, it has taken approximately five million cars off the roads, thereby reducing the emissions of harmful gases, and tremendously improving the quality of air.
However, it will be too naive to ignore failings of this concept. People have become prone to sedentary lifestyles which is taking a toll on health. A recent study has suggested those working remotely are more likely to develop fatal cardiovascular disorders. Also, man being a social animal, long term confinement to the home can hamper mental wellbeing too. Similarly, this setting has left many feeling despondent and depressed as they are unable to socialise and interact with the outer world which earlier was a source of relaxation for the most.
To conclude, in my view, although telecommuting has certain serious pitfalls, it is highly incumbent for personal and economic development of a society. Therefore, if the associated challenges are addressed effectively, the sky will be the limit for making work and life happier and healthier.
