Smith is out of town on business. If it is a poorly managed company, you might be told to call back in a week. Chances are, you'll call another company instead. Smith has an Internet e-mail address, though, he will be able to telnet to his account and check his messages from any computer hooked up to the Internet. Telecommuting is a huge conveniece advantage.
Many companies give their employees full access to the company's computer via modem .
Hours worked over the modem are considered the same as hours worked at the office. The best way to see how computers enhance productivity is to take a look back at the application software we have studied this semester. A secretary with a word processor can use the spelling and grammar checkers to make sure her letters are error-free. A salesman can use a database management system to keep track of customers. He can note the date of purchase in a calendar program and set an alarm for a month later.