Companies are using information technology to get closer to their customers and suppliers. Technology is also helping to reduce paper work and purchasing costs by streamlining the acquisition process and allowing companies to more efficiently find the best suppliers. Privacy and security are critical research topics to ensure consumer confidence in electronic commerce. Reliability of the communication networks, computers, and business applications are vital to the success of U.S. companies. The workplace is no longer confined to a specific geographic location, as workers can easily access their tasks and colleagues from alternate locations or while en route.
Workers have access to jobs without regard to physical proximity to major metropolitan areas.
They can choose where they live based on nearness to family or lifestyle preference rather than job market opportunities. A highly flexible workplace is able to accommodate each individual's needs, from working parents to workers with disabilities. By some projections, as many as 15 million U.S. workers will become telecommuters over the next decade, resulting in enhancements in worker productivity and organizational flexibility as well as environmental benefits. Software technologies that allow work teams to collaborate effectively will be needed, and privacy and reliability of the information infrastructure are critical. The social and economic implications of telecommuting need to be studied.