Tasks which may be done away from the office are called telecommutable tasks. The amount of telecommuting an employee may do, depends on how many telecommutable tasks they have each week and whether the equipment required to accomplish those tasks is available. Keep in mind, it is not necessary to have a computer to telecommute. Many tasks, such as reading, thinking, planning or making phone calls, do not require computers and may be saved for a telecommuting day. If the telecommuter is needed, he or she may be asked to come in to the office or join an emergency staff meeting by conference call.
Many agencies have computers that people can take home.
Again, we are not saying a computer is required to telecommute. You may only require a telephone. One of the extra benefits of flexible work options is that it forces management by task and objective. Many managers have found that the increase in quality communication with employees has reduced their overall workload over time. Reduced interaction with coworkers also forces communications to be more direct and business-like.