There was concern at the start of the scheme that less experienced staff would not be able to check things informally with colleagues. This is also becoming a non-issue. Managers are available on mobile phones. The administration is slick. Team meetings are held once a month.
Staff use mobiles for contactability, but tend to use charge cards where possible for making calls.
A special connection between the mobile operator's network and the council IT network means low tariffs for connecting to the IT network via mobiles, which gives access both to electronic mail and the trading standards databases. Portable faxes are available where people need them for working at home. The main messages from this scheme are that the benefits on both sides are real, and that although initially there are always going to be teething problems, these will be overcome with experience. This scheme is cost neutral, with improvements in customer service, productivity, personal life and administration, and with a reduction in both personal and in-work travel.