Valerie Martin, the organization's telecommuting program manager, says that the telecommuting program was started at the end of 1994 to allow attorneys and permit writers who needed uninterrupted quiet time to efficiently complete their work. The select group who initiated the pilot program were carefully monitored using work logs and surveys. The success of the pilot encouraged EPA to increase the program to 60 telecommuters.
Telecommuting is currently available to any employee who can effectively manage it.
The program has been very well received, with increased morale and personal satisfaction on the job. EPA has made a concerted effort to commit to the IT needs of its telecommuters and this has also contributed to the program's effectiveness. Because the program is such an exceptional success, EPA anticipates it will continue indefinitely.