Mobile technologies
Improved communications technologies mean that job location is less important. People can work almost anywhere and companies can employ workers from other countries.

Laptops allow people to work at home or while commuting. Sometimes on trains or planes there are power connections for plugging in laptops. 

Mobile phones can be used anywhere to get in touch with the people you work with or with clients. 

Some offices can transfer incoming calls to your mobile.

Teleworking is where people work from home and communicate with their work place using email or the Internet.

Documents and files can be emailed or transmitted between work and home and meetings can be arranged using videoconferencing.

 

Advantages of teleworking:
  • flexible hours - people can choose the hours they work.
  • no commuting - saving travelling expenses and time.
  • more relaxed atmosphere - it may be easier to work in the quiet home environment than in a busy office.
  • there is no need for a business to provide office space and facilities such as canteen.
  • the business may save on costs such as heating and lighting.
Disadvantages of teleworking:
  • loss of social contact may lead to loss of social skills.
  • the home environment may have distractions such as pets or small children.
  • it may be difficult to motivate yourself to work at home.