Initially many saw it as a Council attempt to save money and increase productivity without giving them anything. Indeed, one member of the staff simply couldn't accept it, and left to join a council that still works traditionally, despite a greatly increased commute. Everyone else realises the benefits they gain personally, such as reduced time and money on commuting and increased flexibility with personal time. Managers had problems with the flexibility, but once they were allowed to use it and saw they could benefit in the same way, it made a heck of a difference. Backup and administration are more effective, partly because of the move to a single office.
Staff tend to do more for themselves, but bring things in for admin in batches.
This makes the admin workload much more variable. Using the concept of a 'typist of the week', this has eased, and the admin staff can also work at home if they wish. Typically the typist of the week will spend a day at home with a portable PC if the typing load is sufficient. Good service Staff certainly do less unnecessary admin in the office and are more focussed on valuable face to face time. There are now fewer staff doing the same number of visits.