The developing technological world is inevitably having an impact on working lifestyles and facilitating an ever more mobile world. There are obvious advantages for employees, be it personnel with a lengthy commute working from home a number of days per week, a female employee returning from maternity leave or a consultant with a broad geographical client base.
There are also the benefits to the environment. Less travel = lower emissions. However, there is a balance to be struck here. A key component to an effective workplace is the social aspect, with regular meetings and informal discussions having a positive influence on knowledge sharing and a sense of collectivism.
It is clear that working from home can be beneficial in many ways and can also provide a break from a hectic office environment. Depending on personality, it is more suitable to some than others. However, it will important in future for companies to ensure first-person interaction on a regular basis remains a key component of a productive and healthy working life, both for the company as well as the individual.