British Workers Yearn To Telecommute

A recent survey shows white collar workers in Britain are dreaming of a more flexible future

by Natasha Lomas

Bored at work? Feeling uninspired as you stare at the same old beige, tea-stained corner wall?

Well, you're not alone -- many UK office workers, it seems, are yearning for a more flexible future.

A survey of more than 1,000 white collar workers, commissioned by mobile phone operator T-Mobile, has found many believe they would be more productive-- and creative -- if they could work in different locations.

Nearly half (48 per cent) of workers surveyed said a change of scene would increase their productivity levels, while almost one-third said switching location would make them more inspired.

The research also found an appetite for working from home: 23 per cent of office workers would like to be able to sign on remotely in future.

But despite suffering office-based ennui, UK workers still have hope that things will change for the better: more than half (65 per cent) believe flexible working is set to rise -- as mobile technology improves and the likes of virtual meetings become increasingly popular.

The office of the future may be a very different place indeed if the next generation of UK workers have their say. A recent survey of the attitudes of 13 to 17 year olds found they place great store on work/life balance - and many expect to be able to use web 2.0 and consumer technologies at work.

Provided by silicon.com—Driving Business Through Technology