Broker Check

Advantages and Disadvantages of Remote Work

May 21, 2020

As listed in a post by CGA Management this is British but applies to American companies).

Advantages:

  • Reduced travel time and cost.
  • Easier to locate and retain talent. Remote workers have a lower attrition rate and fewer sick days.
  • More diverse teams improve performance.
  • Increased productivity - flexible hours, less breaks and time off. 
  • Reduced discrimination - employees with disabilities can work better from home; since productivity is the goal there is more equality.
  • Reduced environmental impact.     

Disadvantages:

  • Social and professional isolation.
  • Different generational attitudes to technology.
  • Organizations may not use best technology.
  • Some industries (manufacturing, hospitality) cannot operate well remotely.
  • Not all individuals are suitable.
  • Increased data and security breaches.                                                                                                                                                                                                  

Organizations that maximize the advantages and minimize the disadvantages will be more successful in the new normal.