Virginia Tech
OP-T2-31: Telecommuting

Flexible work options (FWO) are alternatives to the traditional "8-to-5" workday, the standard workweek, or the traditional workplace. FWO can help employees balance work and personal responsibilities while meeting business needs and objectives. Supervisors can also use FWO to promote productivity, improve job satisfaction, and develop management and leadership skills. Flexibility can enhance recruitment and retention of valuable employees. There are two types of FWO available Telework and Alternate Work Schedules. Telework, also called telecommuting, is the execution of all or part of job responsibilities at an alternate work site for a minimum of eight hours per week or 32 hours a month. Occasional telework does not require the completion of a telework agreement. It is also accepted practice for Teaching and Research Faculty to carry out their work at alternate locations, as well as on campus. A formal telework agreement is not required in such situations. Virginia Tech’s Alternate Work Site and Telework Policy, No. 4325, addresses expectations and conditions regarding University and Classified Staff, and Administrative/Professional Faculty, who may, with supervisor approval, work from home or another remote location. Implementation is facilitated by a set of guidelines which speak to related issues such as leave, performance expectations, and characteristics of appropriate positions, family caregiving, and more. An on-line agreement form automatically routes employees’ completed forms to supervisors for approval, then to a central location where all active and pending agreements can be viewed by users and program coordinator. Section E of the guidelines is devoted to security procedures regarding technology and the protection of confidential University data. Announcements and articles regarding the telework option appear in VT News regularly.