Most federal information technology professionals are very satisfied with their agencies’ ability to enable telework and support a mobile workforce, according to a survey released last week by Telework Exchange.
The organization, a public private partnership that promotes telework, surveyed 152 Defense and civilian IT professionals about their current telework programs, shortfalls and projections for the future mobile workforce.
Of those surveyed, 65 percent said their agencies offer above average IT programs to support telework, compared with 14 percent of professionals who rated their IT programs below average. Agencies with a “B” rating or below should provide more cloud-based services, expand videoconferencing and establish formal telework plans with employees.
Overall, agencies need to address security challenges to provide employees with a reliable telework program.
Other findings include:
– Improved workforce productivity, employee work-life balance and business continuity are among the top telework drivers.
– 59 percent expect an increase in the number of employees who telework at least two days a week.
– Most employees who telework have to cover all or some of their Internet, phone and printing supply costs.
– 54 percent said their agency is working to reduce mobile device costs, in response to a November executive order.
