1. State Telecommuting Program July 27,2009

2. 2 History of the Program State Pilot Program began in 1990 Expanded to allow all agencies to participate in 1994 Originally started as an employee driven program used mainly for the benefit of the employee Elements of House Bill 7135 show a push to become part of normal operations

3. 3 Statutory Authority Section 110.171, Florida Statutes Requires all agencies to identify positions suitable for telecommuting Agencies which allow employees to telecommute must establish an agency policy

4. 4 A few of the policy parameters in s.110.171, F.S. Policies must: –Require a written agreement between agency and employee –Prohibit employees under a performance improvement plan from telecommuting –Establish reasonable conditions for the use of equipment –Establish security controls the agency considers appropriate –Specify that employees are covered by workers compensation at the home office –Prohibit employees from conducting face-to-face business at the home site

5. 5 Initiating a Program Most agencies’ programs are administered through the personnel office Identify a telecommuting coordinator Incorporate various stakeholders into the policy development process (Personnel, IT, Budgeting Office)

6. 6 Keys to Success Sound policy development must include HR and IT leadership Clearly defined expectations must be established up front (include in the written agreement) Maintain interpersonal communications Plan for technical equipment and support Establish contingency plans Training – Training - Training

7. 7 Integration with COOP(Pandemic) Planning Simply declaring that telecommuting will be a component of your plan is not a plan Position identification is critical Practice what you plan Expanding the program improves adaptability

8. 8 Telecommuting Challenges Communication barriers Shifts in management style Implementation costs Sensitive information Workers’ compensation issues Office supplies

9. 9 Creating a Win-Win Employee Benefits Increased job satisfaction Time savings Cost savings on commute Personal savings Employer Benefits Increased productivity Reduced Absenteeism Improved retention rates Compliance with ADA Reduced office space requirements Positive environmental changes Continuity of Operations

10. 10 Resources DMS - Division of Human Resource ManagementDMS - Division of Human Resource Management Federal Telework Program Commuter Services of North Florida The Telework Exchange