Ever since they invented the briefcase, workers have been telecommuting. Taking work home is not a new idea. These are people that generally have no place other than home to base their professional efforts. These are occupations that may not have existed 20 years ago when tracking of telecommuting began. So maybe the growth is not such a new workplace phenomenon.
Telecommuting is a by-product of technology too.
Homes equipped with computers, fax machines, Internet access and other electronic tools of trade has made conducting business anywhere other than an office a reality. That is a huge number. Perhaps a little forethought on the issue would be advisable before jumping into that telecommuting pool. True telecommuting jobs are not the norm. Most telecommuting jobs are hybrid positions that require contact with the workplace in a variety of locations.