![](media/image1.png){width="4.139583333333333in"
height="1.292361111111111in"}

**Telework Center**

**Survey**

**March 2006**

![](media/image1.png){width="2.625in" height="0.81875in"}

**WHY DO YOU PREFER USING A**

**TELEWORK CENTER?**

**SUMMARY:**

The Washington Metropolitan Telework Center directors performed two
simple surveys of their federal telework clients. The first survey was
performed in April 2004 at the Manassas, Herndon, and Fairfax Telework
Centers, and consisted of the following question:

***"Please take a few minutes to give me your thoughts and feelings
about why you've chosen to work from a telework center instead of
teleworking from home..."***

Comments most frequently received from the federal teleworkers in the
2004 survey were:

-   **Better equipment at a center versus at home**

-   **Higher productivity due to less distractions, quieter environment,
    ability to focus**

-   **Availability of onsite technical staff, friendly and helpful**

-   **Work better in a structured environment versus at home**

-   **High speed internet access, which is not available at home**

-   **Employer supports telework center as the primary telework
    location**

-   **Prefer to keep work life and home life separate**

-   **Like interacting with other workers**

The second survey was conducted in October 2005. Eight of the fourteen
GSA-funded Telework Centers participated in this survey, including the
Winchester, Fredericksburg, Stafford, Woodbridge, Frederick, Laurel,
Waldorf, and Prince Frederick Telework Centers. The survey consisted of
the following question:

***"Why do you prefer using a telework center over home-based
telework?"***

Most respondents listed more than one reason for choosing a telework
center over home-based telework. The reasons cited were consistent with
the 2004 survey responses.

-   **Home distractions, spouse, children, housework: 44%**

-   **High end office equipment not available at home: 43%**

-   **Prefer a professional office environment: 29%**

-   **Broadband not available at home: 21%**

-   **Supervisor prefers a telework center: 21%**

-   **Onsite technical support: 16%**

-   **Want to keep home life and work life separate: 11%**

-   **Isolation of home telework: 11%**

From the group of survey respondents who DO have the option of working
at home because their agency policy permits it and/or they do have
broadband at home, **42% clearly stated that they PREFER to work from a
telework center**.

***Following are some of the comments that were received from the
federal teleworkers in the course of the two surveys.***

"Here are the things off the top-of-my-head.   Quieter and more
professional-like atmosphere; Printers, connectivity, etc. better;
Conference calling, phone services/options better; My wife works
exclusively at home and would be difficult to connect online at same
time without tying up both phone lines"

Ken Konzen, GSA

"I prefer using the telework center for the following reasons:\
-broadband is not yet available at my home\
-2 young children at home\
-professional, comfortable office environment\
-only 1 mile from my home (walking distance)"

Gia Grady, FAA

![](media/image2.jpeg){width="1.3333333333333333in"
height="1.0416666666666667in"}"I enjoy being around people -- would feel
isolated at home all the time.

-   Access to more of the advanced technological equipment.

-   A chance to run errands at lunch time, bank, mall, etc

-   Closer to doctor's office for lunch time appointments.

-   Having a systems person on site.

-   Less distractions at telework site."

Alice Palumbo, GSA

"Dressing professional and going out to the Waldorf Telecommuting Center
does\
more for my self esteem and my work productivity than sitting at home in
my\
flannel pajamas on the couch with my laptop for eight to nine hours.
Besides, the center has everything that I need to do my job that my home
just does not have, and the odds are overwhelming that I will never have
most of those things. For starters, the center has onsite technical
support roaming through the center all day available to answer any of my
technical questions and to fix any malfunctions with the respect to the
computers. This is one of the advantages that I appreciate the most
simply because, I have no tolerance for over the phone technical
support, and that is what I would get at home. The center has every
piece of computer equipment that I could think of, a conference room if
I need it, as well as the latest computer programs that I need to get my
job done, a nice private cubicle and more! Lastly, I have honestly never
met a friendlier staff than the individuals that oversee the Waldorf
Telecommuting Center; the staff goes above and beyond the call of duty
to ensure that the work environment is professional and conducive to
getting my work done effectively and efficiently."

Iris Bowman, NIH

"I think it\'s a good question.  I do have the option of teleworking
from home.  For me, the primary reason for using the telework center is
that it has fewer potential distractions than I would have at home."

Larry Stauffer, Treasury

"I prefer working at a telework center as it offers me more options that
I\
need to complete my job, e.g., computer, printer, xerox, fax, phone,
privacy,\
\'the feel of an office\' all of which I do not have at home.  But most\
importantly, the center provides onsite technical help which is of
utmost\
importance to completing my job.  Many times I utilize these services
(via\
Paula & Tracy) and it has been very helpful.  At home, I would not have
that\
option.  I prefer a work setting as opposed to a home setting and don\'t
need\
the disruptions of my children running in and out of the house at
various\
times during my work day.  I fully enjoy using the telework center as it
works\
100% for me."

Jody Nyers, USDA

"I like the convenience of not having to clutter my home area with work
from my job.  I choose not to have office equipment at home and can
appreciate the technical support I get at the center, mainly from Tracy
Mason.  Thanks Tracy.   Also I like the professional office environment,
the opportunity to still work away from home but not the distance, yet
still feel a sense of a true office environment.  If I home-teleworked,
I don\'t feel I could really separate \"Home\" work versus \"office \"
work.  Working from the telework center keeps me more focus on the work
I need to accomplish for my job."

  Dot Dorsey, Education

![](media/image3.jpeg){width="1.375in" height="1.0138888888888888in"}"I
would easily be distracted at home with chores and phones and laundry.
The IT support we receive at the center is worth its weight in gold. I
wouldn't know what to do at home if there were a problem with the
computer. I am not the most organized person in the world and feel that
I can work better in a structured environment than at home. I also enjoy
the interaction with fellow teleworkers. The center is across from the
Freedom Center (exercise facility), and it is convenient to go over at
lunch and after work hours. I also enjoy the cafeteria."

April Cadorette, DOD

"My answer to your questions would be: professional office environment"

Jennifer Hatton, Education

"Broadband, equipment, etc. not provided by my agency for home telework,
professional office environment"

Traci Least, Census

"There are a few reasons why I prefer the telework center. (1) More
distractions at home (thinking and seeing projects that need doing, (2)
Highway traffic (3) Broadband/Office equipment also, not available."

Vincent Keys, FDA

"Conducive work atmosphere."

Leon Litow, Health and Human Services

"My supervisor is opposed to allowing employees to work from home; and I
would not have access to all the necessary office equipment at home."

  Sandra Harris, Education

"Office equipment is not available at my home-point of fact."

Al Noerling, DOD/Navy

"I do not have the broadband capabilities at home and I do like the more
professional environment."

Gloria Mounts, Education

-   ![](media/image4.jpeg){width="1.625in"
    height="1.2083333333333333in"} "My agency supports GSA Telework site
    as primary telework location.

-   Too many distractions at home (i.e., wife and two children at home)

-   Working from home would require another telephone line to facilitate
    telework, as spouse uses primary home phone for business.

-   Home office would not have benefit of shared office equipment that
    is available at telework center (i.e., B/W printer, color printer,
    fax machine and reproduction machine)."

John Murray, DOD/Navy

"Certainly the availability of office equipment and an office
environment is\
important as well as fewer interruptions (like the phone ringing at
home\
every 15 minutes with a telemarketer). Also I only have dial up at home
so\
if I\'m on the computer, it takes forever to access many things (Agency
will\
not pay for faster service). I do like having immediate technical
expertise\
right here in the office as well."

Marilyn Jackson, NIH

"For me, the main ones would be the availability of technical\
support and broad band.    One thing I think could be added is that\
management officials (including myself in some situations or with some\
employees) remain skeptical about work at home..."

Sarah Tuck, USDA

"Professional office environment is good for work ethic.  No broadband
at home"

Brad, GSA

"Work life kept separate from home life"

Judy, DOD/Army

"No Interruptions"

Terri, DOT/FHWA

"No Interruptions"

Sherri, DOT/FHWA

"No Interruptions"

Antoinette, Homeland Security

![](media/image5.jpeg){width="1.75in" height="1.3055555555555556in"}
"Although I have not been able to utilize the facilities due to job
demands lately, the advantage of having the center over working at home
is that there are no personal interruptions. With a retired husband and
a teenager in the house there are too many distractions at home. There
is also the issue of using my personal telephone line for computer
access or having to go to the personal expense of putting in a second
line. There are limited office capabilities from home and it is not my
intent to fund those resources out of my own pocket. Yes, there is a
trade off, but it is not feasible in my case. I have little space at
home and do not plan to forfeit a portion of it to create a second
office."

Bonnie Smith, DOD

"Boss will only allow telework from a center"\
Kim, DOD/Army

"Center has more office equipment and support"

Bill, DOD/NAVSEA

"No broadband at home"

Sally, DOD/Army

"The reality is that conditions are safer (better ergonomically) and
more comfortable for long work sessions, there are fewer distractions
(things I might want to get done at home, incoming phone calls to the
home phone, family members, etc.), and I tend to be in a more
business-like frame of mind while sitting at a fairly sparse desk."

John, National Geospatial Agency

"Reasons for working at a telework center rather than teleworking from\
home:

-   Use center\'s equipment (PC, Printer, Fax) and supplies (paper,\
    printer cartridge) versus personal equipment and supplies.

-   Center offers a better telephone system for business activities
    with\
    capability to hold calls, utilize multiple lines and voice mail.

-   Telework center office atmosphere preferable to home setting.

-   Telework offers more workspace than is available at home.

-   Do not have to disrupt or rearrange personal (home) workspace to\
    accommodate working from home.

-   Avoids insurance and workman\'s comp issues if hurt while
    performing\
    duties.

-   Offers opportunities for interaction with individuals from other\
    government agencies/departments and the private sector."

Gary, DOD

"We\'re not allowed to work from home, so that\'s our only option other\
than working at the office."

"I am not authorized to work at home."

![](media/image6.jpeg){width="1.5in" height="1.125in"}"I only have
dial-up access from home, 52 K maximum. At the Telework Center I get 100
mbps at my desktop. Much stronger network connections. Having my own
space at the Telework Center is less disruptive and more conducive to
getting work accomplished than trying to do it from home. I prefer to
keep work in a separate place and away from home if possible. The
Telework Center gives me that flexibility."

Daniel Marsh, Veterans Affairs

"Have you ever tried to get anything done with my kids running around?"

"Access to a fax, copier, another PC, and a nice quiet office setting -\
much more so than my other office. Thank-you for everything!"

"I telework in a center because my wife already works at home\
and there is not enough room for both of us to work out of the home."

"The reason why I choose to work at the telecenter rather than at home\
are as follows:

-   No IT support in case of a problem.

-   I do not have a fast broadband connection at this writing.

-   I would have to use my own cartridges for my printer, my telephone,\
    my copy papers.

If I could solve the above problems, I would have no problem working at\
home."

"I choose to work at the telework center for a several different
reasons:

-   I like to keep my home and work life separate.  When I am at home I\
    try not to think about work. That allows me to reduce the stress
    caused\
    by work and keep my home stress free and relaxing.

-   I find it difficult to concentrate on work while I am at home\
    because I would rather be doing something else:  hobbies, chores,\
    exercise, etc.

-   I don\'t have high speed internet connection at home nor a separate\
    telephone line for my computer.  My cell phone doesn\'t get very
    good\
    reception at home so communications would be a problem."

"Due to my supervisor\'s policy..."

"The telework center is my only option; my agency does not allow work\
from home, except on sporadic and very limited occasions."

"Fewer distractions, faster IT communication with office, professional\
environment, maintain work/personal boundaries."

"I choose the telecenter because the environment is more conducive to\
business/work.  Distractions at home are more prevalent.  Also, IT and\
business equipment is usually more reliable at the telecenter."

"We have not been given the choice of working at the center or at home.\
We are only authorized to work from the center..."

"I like going into an office rather than staying at home."

"At this time, I do not have the capability to telework from home.  My
PC\
at home is not set up for it nor do I have a fax or copy machine.  In\
the near future, our PCs will be set up with the capability and I will\
probably telecommute from home on days that the weather is bad or there\
are family illnesses.  However I do not plan to change from working
here\
to working at home because there are too many distractions at home and
I\
am much more productive here."

"My office will not permit work at home unless very extenuating
reasons."

-   "It is already paid for through work.

-   Security\....plus I do not want recipients having my home phone\
    number."

"It feels more like being at the workplace and to have an atmosphere
like\
work outside the home but close to home.  Working at home is only good\
when the weather is really bad.  THANKS!!"

"I choose the telework center because it feels like going to work.  Not
that I wouldn\'t work at home, but I can concentrate on work more if
I\'m not at home."

Vickie, DOD/NAVY

"I prefer working from the telework center because of equipment
advantages.  (fax machine, copier, printers, phone system, etc).  plus I
think (unfortunately) teleworking is better received by my management if
I\'m at a telework center rather than at home."

Julalee, DOD/USACE

"In my case, as a Schedule C appointee, while I could work from home,
I have extra incentive to avoid any perception of impropriety..."

Brent, EDUCATION

"I choose to work from a telework center because I find it difficult to
concentrate on work when I am at home. When I am in the telework center;
it's just like being in the office, and I have no problem focusing on
work related tasks. I\'ve also found that I am quite productive; not
only am I not worn down from the commute, but I also have less
distractions from co-workers, supervisors, etc."

Michael, DOD/USMC

"It is my command's policy that telework be accomplished from a telework
center except for special circumstances such as medical reasons."

Dan, DOD/NAVY

![](media/image7.jpeg){width="1.4583333333333333in"
height="1.0833333333333333in"}

"The telework center is better for me personally because I have access
to copier, fax, and a separate telephone. These items I do not have at
home. If I had to work from home I could get by but I would not be as
productive. I have only one phone line into my home which would have to
be used for the computer and would require the shutdown of the computr
each time I would have to place a work related call. With my phone being
used for the computer I could not receive personal phone message on my
answering machine, thus missing messages I need. Also I work better
outside the home, as there is less distraction, such as our dog, which
if someone is home is very under foot. And my attention span is greater
and more focused at the telework center as the quiet environment help
this. I also like the personal harbors that allow me to shutout the rest
of the office when I need to concentrate on a task, but also allows for
the door to be opened when needed. The reservation system that allows
you to know where you will be sitting and having your own phone number
to give to contact regardless of where you sit is a great convenience."

Andrew Gray, DOD/USACE

"My boss won\'t let me work from home...the Telework Center still
provides a professional environment.  Even though it is a casual
atmosphere, everyone is here to do there job.  I appreciate the fact
there is an alternative location to work from versus commuting to work
or home. 

-   The center provides update-to-date equipment that adapts to
    everyone\'s needs. 

-   The center also provides a conference room for meetings/conference
    calls/privacy/interviews, etc.

-   Your work site can consist of a cubicle, portal, or a private
    office.  Each one provides privacy for any type of work required.

I find this to be a wonderful alternative."

Mary, VETERANS AFFAIRS

"In response to your question on telework centers verses teleworking
from home, I would suspect that management preferred a telework center
over telework from home is that the telework center provides the
necessary equipment (computers, phone lines, printers, office space, fax
machine, maintenance, etc.) that the individual home office would
require.  Also, it might be the case where some people are more
productive outside the home due to distractions at home and possible
liability the government might have if someone was injured in the home
while conducting government business."

Robert, DOD/ACA

"I choose the Center because the atmosphere is conducive to business,
and all of the equipment I need to conduct business is available there."

Anne, EDUCATION

-   "Fewer distractions (when children are home)

-   Equipment and technical support"

Mark, USDA

"For me, it is because I am more productive in an office setting than I
would be if I worked at home.  My bosses would have allowed me to work
at home, but I would be too easily distracted."

Kevin, STATE

"I work from the telework center for two reasons:  first of all, I
choose to live in a small condo and do not have the space or equipment
for a comfortable, efficient home office.  Secondly, I need some social
contact since I live alone.  And thirdly...getting dressed and
leaving home helps me get into a more focused, professional frame of
mind..."

Ruth Ann, USDA

"I chose to work at a telework center, rather than teleworking from home
because I need more structure in my day.  If I were home, I\'m sure that
I would be interrupted by numerous things and would not be able to
concentrate as well as I am able to concentrate at the telework center. 
I like what the telework center has to offer and being close to home
without being at home.  I believe that the computer systems at the
telework center are much better and are much more consistent than what I
have at home. The Woodbridge Telework Center is ideal for me.  I believe
that I can get more work accomplished there than I ever can in my
regular office or more than I would get done at home.  The center is
quiet, and I appreciate it so much.  There have also been times when I
can stop into the center in the evening to get some work done without
having to go all the way back to my office.  I had to leave my regular
office one day early to pick up my daughter, but I was able to drop my
daughter off at home (she\'s old enough to stay home by herself - she
just can\'t drive, yet) and go to the center to finish up some things
that I wasn\'t able to at the office because of having to leave early."

Joan, DOD/ARMY

"I prefer to work from the telework center because it is a more
\"work-like\" environment.  I have the telephone available while I\'m
on-line.  I don\'t have to give out my home phone to everyone.  Other
people have a different perception of telework when I say I\'m working
at a center or at home \-- telework center = good; home = less
professional\..."

Mary, DOD/NAVY

-   "Too many potential distractions at home.

-   Technical issues like hardware or software failures - at a center we
    expect these to be quickly fixed.

-   Hardware and software are available at a telework center and not
    necessarily at home."

David, COMMERCE/CENSUS

![](media/image8.jpeg){width="1.5277777777777777in"
height="1.1666666666666667in"}

"I prefer to work from a Telework center because I am free from the
distractions (both pleasant and not-so-pleasant) of home. I do some of
my best work in the quiet environment of the Telework Center."

Julie Binder, USGS

"...my boss won't let me work from home."

Kemper, DOT/FHWA

"The telework center is quieter and away from home distractions,
besides, there is an assortment of equipment and supplies at my
disposal."

Curt, DOD/USACE

"I work at the center because we have young children at home and I\'d
never get anything done if I worked from home."

Stephen, USDA

"The reason why I choose to work at a center rather than at home is
because I work better in a work environment. I would be too easily
distracted at home."

Clayton, USDA

"I choose to work at the (telework center) instead of home because it is
a more structured environment and eliminates the possible distractions
that can occur at home. It also gives me access to all the office
supplies and automation equipment I may need. To me, the (telework
center) is the best of both worlds; it cuts out the long commute and
still allows me to function in an office environment. I also like the
opportunity it presents for interaction with people from other
agencies."

Leslyn, OPM

"I work at a telework center instead of home because I have 4 children
who are home schooled (i.e., they are at home during the day) and
therefore, I get more done by working from the center instead of from
home.  Also, working from a telework center has a high speed internet
where I have dial-up at home."

Wynn, DOD/NAVY

"There is a common perception that working at home does not end up as an
8 hour day.   To insure that I maintain a good perception, I use the
(telework center).  In addition, I do not have a (copier) or FAX machine
at home."

Bob, DOD/USACE

"I\'ve preferred to work at a Telework center because I like the office
environment and also to minimize interruptions..."

Al, HHS/FDA

"Several reasons:

-   Technical

    -   telework center has the fast connection for the computer,

    -   telework center has a phone line that can be used at the same
        time as the computer.

-   Telework center allows me to keep work and home more separate while
    also eliminating the commute.

-   Telework center allows for some direct connection to other
    professionals from my home office (several other USACE teleworkers)

> Tomiann, DOD/USACE"
>
> ![](media/image9.jpeg){width="1.75in" height="1.3284722222222223in"}

\"I elected to work at a telecommute center because my home is not
conducive to working without interruption. Also, I enjoy getting up and
out of the house when the weather is mild. Going to a telecommute site
affords me the opportunity to interact with others. The only time I
would prefer to work at home is during the winter months and if I had an
area in my home where I could work uninterrupted.\"

Annie Bell Parker, GSA

"I enjoy working at the Telework center for several reasons:

-   Technical Support available - Most important reason for me.

-   Equipment  available (fax and copier)

-   I prefer getting out the house, and being around people, however,
    really appreciate not having the long commute, and expense with the
    gas prices.  The center provides that, and I am grateful.

-   Temptation to waste time does not exist at the center..."

Karen, DOD/ARMY

"I choose to work from the telework center because

-   (I'm) too easily distracted at home

-   Range of equipment available, fax, printers, etc.

-   By allowing my phone to roll to the telework site on days I\'m
    teleworking, I avoid having to give out my home number to many
    people.  Additionally and more importantly, it makes my teleworking
    seamless to those I work with over the phone and through email."

John, DOD/USACE

"...Teleworking gives me a very quiet professional office from which to
conduct my business. I cannot work from my house - too many
distractions."

Gregory, DOD/USACE

"In my division working at home is frowned upon. Generally, you need to
have a medical condition in order for working at home to be granted."

Bridgette, GSA

"I chose to work at a (telework center) because the... location is
convenient (to) my house.  I'm able to utilize higher quality copiers
and printers and other office equipment along with any technical
support.  In addition, the possibility to network and interact with
other professionals was an incentive..."

Vince, OPM

"One word: Motivation. If I worked at home there are too many
distractions such as TV, stereo, and house projects I would want to do. 
By working at the (telework center) I have a routine where I get up, get
ready and get out the door.  My supervisor has offered to let me work at
home but I find the (telework center) to have everything I need and a
pleasant working environment."

Scott, OPM

![](media/image10.jpeg){width="0.8333333333333334in" height="1.125in"}"I
utilize the telework center for two main reasons, discipline and
resources. First, although I can work at home, when I am in my home
office, I am tempted and sometimes succumb to business other than that
of my employer. The telework center provides a dedicated physical
location to conduct the exclusive work of my employer. On occasions I
meet with associates and customers at the telework center. This I am not
comfortable to do in my home. Second, the telework center has all
required business office resources. I do not have to maintain them at my
home. This includes, telephone, fax, copier, paper, computer, conference
room, and desk."

Randall Gibson, DOD/Navy

"Management won\'t let me work from home."

Laura, DOD/NAVY

"I find that if I come into the telework center I am more motivated and
inclined to get up in the morning at a time to get here to start my
normal work hours as if I am going to the office and still get to sleep
2 hours longer.  Also I am more inclined to get the work done because of
less distraction, no cob webs or laundry screaming at me."

Terri, USDA

-   "I like \'going\' to work

-   I like keeping my \'home\' life and \'work\' life separate

-   I deal with offices around the world \-- I don\'t want to be
    answering work questions at 11:00 p.m. when Hawaii calls

-   I like the advantage of having all the office equipment I need

-   I like the peace and quiet of the center

-   I like the transparency of the center \-- my phone calls are
    automatically forwarded, I can customize my voice mail when I\'m
    out, etc.

-   I like the administrator and her assistant."

Maryann, USACE

"I choose to work at the telework center because it still has an office
feel.  It\'s convenient because it\'s located 15 minutes from my house. 
My agency does not supply all the required equipment (fax, copier) I
need when teleworking and the telework center does."

Loria, DOD/IG

"I do not have internet service or a fax machine at home.  I also like
the convenience in coming to a (telework center) versus staying at
home."

Theresa, EDUCATION

"(The) center provides everything we need in official setting.  Use as
needed depend(ing) on flexible schedule and work requirements.

Helps provide time for raising children and community involvement.

Supervisors like the resources at telework sites.  Mine totally
approves."

Dave, DOD/USACE

"I prefer to work from the telework center verses my home office because
the telework office atmosphere provides greater concentration for
accomplishing my work.  The center also is exceptional for the great
support staff, equipment, and features that allow efficient execution of
my required functions.  The telework center provides a comprehensive
office environment which is not available from my home.  I highly
recommend the Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania center\..."

Steve, DOD/USACE

"There (are) too many distractions at home with stay-at-home spouse and
5 yr

old to interfere with getting work done. The temptation is too great to
slack off when at home."

Thomas, DOT/FAA

"I prefer to work from the Telwork Center because it gives
me![](media/image11.jpeg){width="1.4305555555555556in"
height="1.0555555555555556in"} more structure and discipline to focus on
my work. There are no disturbances at the center and that way I can
concentrate on my work."

Mohinder Saini, DOD/USACE

"The infrastructure is already in place, i.e., high speed printers, fax
machines, copiers, etc.  Additionally, working at a telework center
provides an opportunity to interact with other federal workers in an
office setting."

Romme, DOD/TRICARE

"My boss won't let me work from home. Given the option, though, I would
probably still go to the Telework center because:

-   I see fellow workers there that I don't normally see in the office,
    so I get a better perspective of what is happening in my
    organization.  The buzz word for that is "Situational Awareness" in
    our office, and staying situationally aware is encouraged.

-   The equipment at the telework center is easier to use than our home
    versions (e.g. fax, copier), although, our home computer is faster.

-   I can keep work and home separate better.  As it is, I sometimes get
    calls after hours at home.  My husband, who works in for a private
    company, has been working from home for about 20 years.  It works
    great for him, but he is on-call practically 24 hours.  He doesn't
    mind, though."

Janet, DOD/USACE

"Originally, the answer would have been because the boss would not let
me work from home. Currently, the answer is because I don't have the
distractions at the telework center that I face at home."

Dwain, DOD/USACE

"Only one phone line (at home) which ties up telephone
communications..."

Belinda, GSA

"I have young kids that wouldn\'t let me do any work."

Lawrence, DOD/DLA

"...my internet connection at home is satellite which does not support
VPN and that is the only way we are allowed to connect."

David, DOI/NBC

"I enjoy working at the telecenter because I can concentrate better and
there are no distractions. I like having the opportunity to work with
other people and have the proper equipment in doing my job. The staff at
the telecenter is very professional and they are always there in case I
have a problem with my computer. Furthermore, I get more work done at
the telecenter than at home."

Sari Janbozorgi, OPM

"![](media/image12.jpeg){width="1.5416666666666667in"
height="1.1527777777777777in"}...I would point out the professional
environment, support personnel, and office tools. The individuals which
make up the professional environment clearly focus on the required work
task while maintaining an air of comradery that is non-intrusive. The
support personnel are well informed and will make the extra effort to
provide solutions to the difficulties that arise, whether is computer
related, security requirements, or assistance with office schedules. The
office tools of modern computers, video conference, faxes, and
telephones with voice mail provided are more than adequate and may not
necessarily be found in the home based unit. In conclusion, I would
greatly recommend the Center-based telecommuting over home-based since
the personal interruptions (door to door vendors, telemarketers, etc.)
to ones time are kept to an absolute minimum and one is able to focus on
the work task."

Pedro Bracero, DOT/FAA

"I have been Teleworking from the Manassas Telework Center for almost 2
years. My decision to use the Center vs. home was based on
self-discipline, convenience, and location. I felt there would be too
many distractions at home to honestly put in a full days work. I don\'t
feel I have the self-discipline to not answer the home phone or the
front door for visiting guests, to not do housework (laundry, vacuuming,
dusting, etc) while at home, etc. The Center has all the office
equipment need to do my job. I\'m provided with a dedicated phone number
(with voice mail), a fax machine, workspace, and a professional work
environment. The Center is located just 10 minutes from my house, which
is a major difference in the hour + commute I would have otherwise."

Sandy Sisk, DOD

"One of the reasons I like to work at the telecommuting center is the
technical support that your center provides. They have always been
prompt and knowledgeable."

Todd Pennington, DOT/FAA

![](media/image13.jpeg){width="1.5in" height="1.1388888888888888in"}
"Working from the telework center:

-   provides a working environment that has fewer or no distractions
    from family or relatives/friends who visit;

-   keeps me from the temptation of doing house chores, watching
    television, running errands, etc., during business hours;

-   provides more office space and equipment that I would not have at
    home;

-   motivates me to work and helps me to stay focused; and

-   brings more satisfaction to the supervisors, knowing that I'm in a
    work environment verses at home."

> Celeste Robinson, Justice

"I (personally) do not have access to a home computer to telecommute
from my residence. The telecommute site located in Fairfax City provides
me the flexibility to telecommute a few times a month, on an as-needed
basis, providing fewer interruptions. The Telecommute site also provides
access to a fax machine, a copy machine, and has a teleconference
capability. It has been very accommodating for me. Thanks for the
opportunity to respond to this survey."

Darlene Curtin, DOT/NHTSA

-   "Fewer distractions

-   Fax available

-   Professional, office-like atmosphere

-   A sense of professional purpose regarding work, meaning that it
    isn't just "another thing" of interest that you do at home such as a
    hobby

-   High speed internet connection

-   Another set of friendly coworkers"

DOD/NAVSEA

# "I have a young infant and home-based child care arrangements. I thought it would be less distracting to work from a telecommute center than from home. The key factor in my decision to use the telecommute center was that it is quite close to my house. I doubt that I would be using the telecommute center if it had been more than 15 minutes away." 

Julie Gilmer, SEC

-   "A Telework Center maintains a professional workplace environment,
    which a home cannot do

-   This helps establish in the worker a \"work mode\" instead of a
    \"home mode.\"

> Clayman Myers, DOD/NAVAIR

-   "I.T. support -- low likelihood that "computer-glitch" will
    ![](media/image14.jpeg){width="1.0138888888888888in"
    height="1.375in"}knock me "out of commission" on my telework day

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-   Availability of a full suite of office technology (including latest
    computer technology); esp. having the option for teleconferencing if
    I need to "be there" or "be seen" at a meeting downtown

-   Fosters a focused, professional, efficient approach to the work day,
    free from distractions

-   Work-station and professional work environment at the Center are
    more comfortable, ergonomically correct, and conducive to efficient,
    highly-productive work as compared to a work-station at home

-   Helps keep clear delineation of \"work-time\" and \"home-time,\"
    such

> that a person is not tempted to keep working all night at the home
> office (nor be distracted by home duties)

-   Easier to sell to management (i.e., to get a flexiplace agreement)"

> Nolan Hyatt, EPA

\"With the mix of Telework and traditional office work, I have the best
of both worlds. Working 2 days per week at the Telework Center provides
me with a "no distraction" work environment that allows me to focus in
on critical, time sensitive tasks. The remainder of my workweek is at a
traditional office and this allows me to maintain key relationships and
particpate in team meetings. On the personal side, the Telework Center
is a short distance from my home and I very much appreciate
and value the extra time I have with my family.\"

William Irwin, DOD/USACE

"I work at a Telework Center because it has all of the office equipment
I need (computer, phone, fax machine) I need to access my job and it
gets me away from the distractions of home."

Michael Torbert, Energy 

**"**The telework center has all the conveniences of being at the office
(i.e. fax machine, copy machine and scanner). Working at home also
requires more than one phone line."

Wanda Hanshaw, DOD/NAVSEA

"I have chosen to work from a telework center because I do not yet have
a computer at home. I do enjoy the telework center very much: it
provides a professional environment with expert technical help, plus all
the equipment and software that we need to do our jobs. Also, compared
to the government office in which I normally work, the telework center
provides an excellent change of pace, a quiet atmosphere to concentrate,
and an all around great venue for my productivity. I work at the George
Mason University telecommuting center in Fairfax, VA."

Kathy Friedman, Census

"On some days, I am required to take my son to school, dropping him off
at 8:10 AM. At that time of the morning, beltway traffic would require a
90+ minute drive to the office. The telework center is a few blocks from
my son's school, so I can drop him off and be teleworking shortly
thereafter. If I still need to be at the office that day, driving time
is greatly reduced if I leave the telework center later in the morning.
On days when work consists of reading reports and checking e-mail, I can
spend the whole day at the telework center and avoid traffic, tolls, and
parking fees. "

Wayne Weeks, NOAA

-   "I don't have to pay for my own high-speed connection, printer, and
    FAX machine; all are included in the telework fees paid by the
    employer.

-   Fewer distractions at the telework center. I don't know if I would
    get as much work done at home with the TV and the refrigerator right
    there.

-   I think management is more favorable when you are working from a
    center rather than from home. I often hear people put the "working"
    part of working from home in quotes, implying that the person is not
    really working very hard if at all. I've never heard this in
    reference to the telework center."

> David Boboltz, DOD/NAVY

![](media/image15.jpeg){width="1.5in" height="1.0416666666666667in"}"My
office had already established a telecommuting program for its employees
at the time I was hired in 1999.  The program offered a combination of
work from home days and telecenter days - I was not allowed to choose
all work from home days or all telecenter days.  My only choices were to
decide which days of the week I wanted to work from home and which days
I would work at the telecenter, as well as which telecenter to use. The
program came to an abrupt halt in the summer of 2002 when a senior
manager decided to terminate it.  After a full year of grievance,
informal dispute resolution and binding arbitration, the program was
restored by an arbitrator last summer.  Let me know if you need more
details."

Claude Denton, Education

"I chose to work from a telework center rather than teleworking from
home for the following reasons: (1) the telework center is comparably
equipped as my regular office (e.g., desk, filing cabinet, telephone,
copier, fax machine, computer, printer, etc.), (2) the telework center
has high-speed internet access versus dial-up at home, (3) the telework
center is quieter than my home and there are no disruptions, (4) I avoid
mixing work with my life at home, and (5) I am more productive working
from a telework center than home."

Andrew Zajac, HHS/FDA

"I first wanted to try at a telework center to synchronize with DC
office staff. If this works, then I could request for work from home. I
know in my Division it takes time to work out a smooth transition from
the DC office to work away from the DC office. I have excellent home
based office space, furniture, Computer and Dish high speed connections.
I do not need printer nor Fax machines for my work. If needed that work
can be done at DC office 7 days in a pay period!!! If I can work more
days from " away from DC office", I am sure I will have better quality
life."

Talari Jude, USDA/FSA

"The only reason I work at the telework center instead of home is
because that was the only way my supervisor would allow any kind of
teleworking. And even now, it's almost impossible for me to get there."

Sherry Tawfrawe, DODIG/OSD

-   "Fewer distractions than at home---especially when other family
    members are in the house.

-   Don't need to make home or cell phone number available to business
    associates.

-   Office environment is more conducive to productivity.

-   I don't have a laser printer at home.

-   Supervisor is more receptive to telecenter than home-based telework.

-   If I work at home, I tend to snack all day. At the telecenter I eat
    only at lunch time.

-   I get my cars serviced across the street from the telecenter, so
    it's convenient to drop off in the morning and pick up in the
    afternoon."

> Mike Carpenter, Education

"I am not on the internet at home; I do not have a fax machine at home.
My wife belongs to a bridge club and has to have this group in our home
every few weeks. She also takes care of a grandchild every so often. So
I was concerned about non-work distractions at home. The Telework Center
is only eight minutes from my home. It has all the advantages of an
office setting, including excellent technical support. For me, it is as
convenient as working from home, if not more so."

Joseph Wyatt, Census

"The main reason I've chosen to work from a telework center instead of
from home is because we have small children at home. Now the oldest is
in first grade and is away at school from 8:00 till 3:00. The younger
two are in pre-school and are only away from 8:45 to 12:30. If I were
home it would be very difficult to get work done due to the distractions
of the kids. Distractions would include the whole process of getting
them up in the morning and ready for school. Undoubtedly, if I were
there, my wife might call on me to help. In the afternoon, if I were
home, the kids would come in and ask me questions/want to be with me. I
enjoy the telework center since I can be close to home (10 minutes away
instead of over an hour commute to DC) and enjoy a very quiet and
productive environment. In addition, if I worked from home, other
distractions would be present: home paperwork/clutter, things that need
to be done around the house, etc."

David Sprague, EPA

"I like the structure of an office setting. I am less distracted by my
surroundings. If I was working from home, I would receive phone calls
from solicitors, and might be more inclined to work around the house,
eat. All of which would be distracting. At the telecenter, I have access
to a fax machine and copier---both items that I don't have at home. In
addition, my work space at the telecenter is much larger, allowing me to
spread papers out and work more effectively. My desk at home is quite
small which would make it more difficult to work in the manner that I
like."

Laurie Lindsay, USDA/FSIS