meaning of homeworking

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Meaning of homeworking in English

• We want to encourage flexibility in working patterns , including part-time and flexitime work , job-sharing , and homeworking.
• Of those companies already operating homeworking, 60% expect that the proportion of staff doing it will increase .
• Women are still much more likely than men to be engaged in part-time work or homeworking.
• She claims that homeworking has increased productivity as well as reducing overheads and improving staff retention .
• office politics
• office spouse
• self-starter

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What Is Work From Home? The 2024 WFH Guide

In 2024, work from home (WFH) is the new reality for many businesses and individuals.

Even before the pandemic, the concept was increasing in popularity, and COVID-19 helped to establish it further. Organizations adapted their operations to accommodate flexible working and created new working norms to support it long-term.

This is excellent news for those looking to make a career change into the tech sector while remaining in the comfort of their own homes. McKinsey’s recent American Opportunity Survey —based on interviews with 25,062 adults from the continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii—shows:

• 58% of respondents report having the opportunity to work from home at least one day a week.
• 35% say they have the option to work from home five days a week.
• 87% report taking up flexible working when given the opportunity.

This drastic shift in work patterns, shown across demographics, job roles, and geographical locations, validates work from home as a mainstream workstyle of the modern working world. 

But what is work from home exactly?

In this article, we’ll provide an in-depth look into the WFH concept, exploring the benefits it brings to employers and employees, as well as the skills and technologies needed to work from home effectively. 

Just use the clickable menu to jump to a section of interest.

What does work from home (WFH) mean?

Key benefits of working from home, how to work from home: 7 practical tips, 15 tech jobs where you can work from home, key takeaways.

Working from home is a remote working arrangement where an individual works primarily from home, using information and communications technology to access resources and perform assigned tasks from a remote location that’s often their primary residence. This includes, but is not limited to, working from home full-time.

WFH distinguishes itself from the broader concept of remote work —where individuals may work from anywhere outside of the office—and hybrid work environments, which refer to a combination of onsite and remote working. 

In short: unlike digital nomads, WFH workers tend to remain in their homes for most of the workday, which allows them to save on travel costs and time.

Working from home has many advantages . To give you a quick overview, we’ll look at the three most prominent ones: 

Better work-life balance

WFH offers the chance for a better work-life balance, allowing greater control over when and how tasks are completed. This benefits both employers and employees, as it leads to improved job satisfaction, employee productivity, and work performance.

Cost savings

Working from home eliminates daily commute costs such as gas, parking, and car maintenance. For employers, it also reduces overhead costs associated with office rental and staffing, which can be considerable.

Flexible working hours

WFH often allows employees to set their own schedules—as long as the work gets done. This gives workers the freedom to manage their time in a way that suits them, enabling them to juggle family and personal commitments and their professional responsibilities.

Looking for even greater flexibility? Many work from home companies are also experimenting with four day work weeks— read our full guide .

If you’re looking to switch from office-based to home-based work, you’ll need to consider the practicalities of setting up your work environment and managing tasks remotely. Here are seven tips to help you work effectively as a WFH newbie:

1. Create a dedicated workspace

Having a workspace in your home that is conducive to productivity and focus is key to working from home successfully. This includes setting up a designated office space with necessary supplies such as a laptop, printer, fast internet connection, and comfortable seating. It will make all the difference in helping you stay productive and motivated. 

2. Set up your personal schedule

Creating a personalized schedule helps you stay organized while working from home. Start by planning out your daily tasks ahead of time with appropriate breaks, and stick to them. For example, you may decide to work in the morning, take a break for lunch and exercise, and then finish off any remaining tasks in the evening.

3. Reduce distractions

Working in the comfort of your own house can introduce distractions that affect productivity, so it’s essential to keep them to a minimum. Identify common distractions such as pets, television, or noise levels, then take steps to minimize them when possible. Turning off social media notifications and avoiding multitasking might also be a good idea. 

4. Make rules with co-inhabitants

If you live with roommates or family members, establish ground rules to ensure your workplace remains professional and respectful of everyone’s needs. 

For instance, you might inform them about your working hours and the need for privacy when taking calls or participating in video conferences.

5. Use project management tools

With multiple people working together remotely on different tasks, it’s helpful to utilize project management tools that keep everyone on task, increase communication efficiency between team members, and ultimately increase productivity. Here, tools like Asana, Trello, and Slack come in handy.

6. Plan virtual coffee breaks with co-workers

Working from home can cause feelings of isolation, so don’t forget about social support. Schedule virtual coffee breaks throughout the day with co-workers where you can chat about anything other than work topics or simply catch up with each other’s lives outside of the office. This boosts morale and encourages a sense of community.

7. Track progress and celebrate milestones

And finally, tracking progress will keep motivation levels high even when working from remote locations like home offices or coffee shops. It allows you to visualize your progress and celebrate small milestones that mark your development. One way to do this is by using productivity tools that track how long it takes to complete tasks and visualize your progress in easy-to-read graphs.

The technology sector is brimming with WFH opportunities, making it an excellent choice for career changers looking to break into the industry without needing to travel or relocate. Here are some of the most popular tech jobs that allow you to work remotely:

• Digital Marketer —Create campaigns and strategies to reach target audiences through digital media channels.
• Product Manager —Develop product plans and roadmaps while collaborating with engineering, design, marketing, finance, and other teams.
• Graphic/UX/UI Designer —Use digital tools such as Adobe Photoshop to design webpages, logos, and other graphics for clients.
• Cloud Architect —Design cloud architecture based on customer specifications while optimizing the infrastructure setup cost.
• Web Developer —Design websites for clients using coding languages such as HTML/CSS/JavaScript.
• Content Writer —Research topics thoroughly and create original content, such as blog posts and articles that meet SEO requirements.
• Video Editor —Edit videos for clients according to their specifications utilizing video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro.
• Data Analyst —Analyze large data sets to identify trends and correlations, and develop forecasts or reports for business decision-making processes.
• Virtual Assistant —Provide administrative support such as scheduling appointments, managing emails, organizing files, etc.
• Software Engineer —Design software applications by writing code in Java, Python, etc. 
• Systems Administrator —Install software applications; configure local networks; maintain system security; provide technical support. 
• Security Architect —Design secure IT systems leveraging cloud computing technologies.
• DevOps Engineer —Manage development processes while coordinating with developers and operations teams internally.
• Network Engineer —Analyze network performance; monitor security and troubleshoot issues within enterprise networks.
• Database Administrator —Implement database systems; ensure database integrity and availability; monitor performance.

For the full lowdown on the best work from home jobs, be sure to read our comprehensive article .

Working from home can be a great way to improve work-life balance, take advantage of flexible working hours, and save on commuting costs. But it requires careful planning, self-discipline, and the right tech tools to make it work.

Some professional sectors are more suited for WFH than others, with the tech industry offering a wide variety of job opportunities that can be done remotely. This article has provided practical tips to help you stay productive while working from home and a list of 15 tech jobs that can be done from home. If you find the concept appealing (and who wouldn’t), why not look at the options available and start planning your work-from-home career today?

Get the full lowdown on work from home jobs with this article

If you’re interested in pursuing a WFH career in tech but don’t quite know where to start, check out these articles:

• A Guide to Entry-Level Tech Jobs
• The Remote Work Guide: Everything You Need to Know
• How to Become a Remote UX Designer
• 17 Key Benefits of Remote Work for Employers and Employees

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Definition of homeworking noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

homeworking

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The Benefits of Working From Home: Breaking Boundaries

Shifting workspaces from bustling office environments to the tranquility of home has become more than a trend—it’s a movement reshaping the workforce landscape. This transformation, fueled by technological advancements and a global reevaluation of work norms, allows a growing number of professionals to redefine their daily routines. The transition to home-based work isn’t just about changing where we work; it’s about revolutionizing how we work, offering a myriad of benefits that touch on every aspect of life. From boosting productivity and fostering a healthier work-life balance to achieving financial savings and making a positive environmental impact, the advantages of working from home are compelling.

• Enhanced Productivity and Performance

The transition to working from home has unveiled a new perspective on what it means to be productive. Far from the structured environment of office spaces, home settings offer a unique blend of comfort and functionality. This shift is not merely about changing locations; it’s about enhancing the way we work by tapping into levels of productivity that were previously hard to achieve in traditional settings.

Reduction of Distractions

Working from a home office significantly cuts down on the interruptions and noise common in open-plan office layouts. Without the frequent office chatter, impromptu meetings, and other distractions, professionals find it easier to focus on their tasks. This focused environment allows for deeper concentration, leading to higher quality work and faster completion rates.

Studies on Productivity

Research conducted on remote work productivity consistently shows positive outcomes. For instance, studies highlight that remote workers often surpass their office-based counterparts in terms of tasks completed. This boost in productivity is attributed to fewer interruptions, a personalized work environment, and the elimination of commuting stress. Such findings reinforce the argument for the effectiveness of remote work models.

Flexible Work Schedules

One of the most celebrated aspects of working from home is the ability to tailor work hours to individual productivity peaks. Recognizing that not everyone operates best from nine to five, remote work allows for a schedule that aligns with an individual’s most productive times. Whether you’re an early bird who thrives in the quiet hours of the morning or a night owl who hits their stride when the sun goes down, working from home accommodates these personal rhythms, ultimately boosting output and job satisfaction.

• Work-Life Balance

Embracing remote work opens the door to a more harmonious blend between professional responsibilities and personal life. This mode of employment breaks away from the traditional 9-to-5 grind, offering a flexibility that was once thought to be unattainable. As individuals strive to find a balance that suits their lifestyle, working from home serves as a bridge, connecting the dots between career ambitions and life’s other passions.

Enhanced Management of Personal Commitments

The flexibility inherent in remote work allows individuals to design a schedule that accommodates family time, hobbies, and personal projects alongside work obligations. This could mean starting work earlier to make time for afternoon school runs or scheduling work blocks around a fitness class. Such adaptability ensures that personal commitments receive as much priority as work tasks, contributing to a more rounded and fulfilling daily life.

Effective Juggling of Family and Work

Remote work has significantly eased the juggling act between family responsibilities and professional duties, especially for parents and caregivers. The ability to work from home means being present for important family moments and responsibilities, from attending school events to caring for an unwell family member. This proximity to personal life does not detract from professional responsibilities but enhances the ability to manage both with greater ease and less guilt.

Stress Reduction from Commuting and Fixed Hours

One of the most immediate benefits of remote work is the elimination of daily commutes, freeing up time and reducing stress associated with traffic jams and public transportation. Additionally, the rigidity of fixed office hours often clashes with personal productivity rhythms and life’s unpredictabilities. Remote work dispenses with these constraints, offering a more relaxed approach to the workday that accommodates personal preferences and reduces overall stress levels. This shift not only benefits physical and mental health but also leads to a more engaged and satisfied workforce.

• Financial Savings

The shift to remote work has highlighted an often-overlooked advantage: significant financial savings for both employees and employers. This benefit extends beyond the immediate reduction in commuting expenses, touching various aspects of daily work life. As professionals and companies alike navigate this transition, the economic advantages become increasingly apparent, fostering a more sustainable and cost-effective work model.

Reduction in Commuting Costs and Daily Expenses

For many, the daily commute to work is not just time-consuming but also expensive. Working from home eliminates the need for gas, public transport fares, parking fees, and the wear and tear on personal vehicles. Beyond transportation, remote workers often spend less on daily lunches out, coffee runs, and professional wardrobes, leading to considerable savings over time. This reduction in necessary work-related expenses directly impacts disposable income, allowing for a more flexible budget and increased savings.

Increased Disposable Income and Quality of Life

With the decrease in compulsory spending on commuting and work-related expenses, employees often find themselves with more disposable income. This financial breathing room can significantly enhance quality of life, providing opportunities for investment, leisure activities, and savings. Moreover, the financial stress reduction associated with lower monthly expenditures contributes to greater overall happiness and job satisfaction, further proving the value of remote work beyond mere convenience.

Cost Savings for Companies

The financial benefits of remote work extend to employers as well. Companies can experience considerable savings by reducing or eliminating the need for physical office spaces, which involves rent, utilities, office supplies, and maintenance costs. Additionally, a remote workforce can lead to lower turnover rates and reduced recruitment costs, as employee satisfaction often increases with the flexibility of working from home. These savings can then be redirected towards growth initiatives, employee development programs, or enhancing product and service offerings, ultimately contributing to the company’s bottom line.

• Environmental Impact

The shift towards remote work not only revolutionizes our professional lives but also offers a promising path for environmental sustainability. By reducing the need for daily commuting and decreasing the operational demands of office buildings, working from home can significantly lower our carbon footprint.

Reduction in Carbon Footprint

One of the most impactful benefits of remote work is the dramatic decrease in the number of daily commuters. With millions of people working from home, the demand for transportation, especially during peak hours, diminishes. This reduction in commuting not only saves time but also leads to a substantial decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. Vehicles, one of the largest contributors to urban air pollution, see reduced usage, thus contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.

Decrease in Office Energy Consumption and Waste

Office buildings are significant consumers of energy, from heating and cooling systems to lighting and electronic equipment. Remote work diminishes the need for large office spaces, leading to a decrease in energy consumption and waste production. With fewer offices operating at full capacity, there’s a notable reduction in the demand for electricity and heating, contributing to lower carbon emissions. Additionally, with employees working from home, the generation of office waste, such as paper and plastic, is significantly reduced, further lessening the environmental impact.

Contribution to Corporate Sustainability Goals

Many companies are now incorporating sustainability into their core business strategies, aiming to reduce their environmental footprint. Remote work aligns perfectly with these goals by lowering energy consumption, reducing waste, and cutting down on business travel. By adopting and encouraging remote work, companies not only advance their sustainability objectives but also position themselves as responsible leaders in the fight against climate change. This commitment to environmental stewardship not only benefits the planet but can also enhance a company’s reputation among consumers and potential employees who value sustainability.

• Health and Wellness

The rise of remote work has not only transformed our work environments but also brought significant benefits to our physical and mental well-being. Beyond the convenience of avoiding the daily commute, working from home has introduced a new level of health and wellness advantages. From improved mental health to the opportunity for healthier lifestyle choices and a more personalized work setting, the shift to remote work is contributing positively to both our professional and personal lives.

Mental Health Benefits

Working from home has been shown to reduce stress levels and contribute to higher job satisfaction. The elimination of commute-related stress and the ability to create a more flexible work schedule allow individuals to manage their work and personal life more effectively, leading to a better overall mood and reduced feelings of burnout. Furthermore, the autonomy over one’s work environment and schedule fosters a sense of control and satisfaction, which are crucial components for mental well-being.

Healthier Lifestyle Choices

The flexibility afforded by remote work opens the door to more time for physical activity, healthier eating habits, and overall well-being. Without the constraints of office hours and commuting, individuals have more freedom to incorporate exercise into their daily routine, whether it’s a morning jog, a midday yoga session, or an evening walk. Additionally, access to one’s kitchen throughout the day encourages the preparation of home-cooked meals, leading to healthier eating choices compared to the often limited and less healthy options available near workplaces.

Customized Work Environment

Remote work allows individuals to design their workspaces in ways that best suit their physical needs, potentially reducing the physical ailments associated with traditional office work. Ergonomic setups tailored to individual preferences can decrease the risk of back pain, eye strain, and repetitive strain injuries. A personalized work environment, equipped with comfortable furniture and natural lighting, not only enhances physical comfort but also positively affects mental health, making the workday both more productive and more enjoyable.

• Access to a Global Talent Pool

The rise of remote work has dramatically expanded the horizons of talent acquisition. Companies are no longer constrained by geographic limitations when searching for the best candidates. This paradigm shift opens up a world of possibilities, enabling organizations to tap into a diverse pool of talent across the globe. By leveraging remote work, businesses can find the ideal candidate for any position, regardless of where they are located, fostering a more inclusive and innovative workforce.

Breaking Geographic Barriers

Remote work eradicates the traditional barriers of distance, making it possible for companies to scout for talent on a global scale. This means that an organization based in one country can easily hire a specialist residing in another, without the need for relocation. Such flexibility not only broadens the scope of potential hires but also allows companies to operate around the clock by leveraging different time zones, thereby increasing productivity and operational efficiency.

Diversity and Innovation

A workforce comprising individuals from various cultural backgrounds brings a wealth of perspectives and ideas to the table. Diversity is a proven catalyst for innovation, as it encourages the exchange of diverse thoughts, leading to more creative solutions and breakthroughs. Companies that embrace a global talent pool benefit from this dynamic, as it naturally fosters an environment where innovation thrives. Moreover, diversity strengthens a company’s ability to understand and serve a global customer base, enhancing competitiveness and market reach.

Inclusivity for All

Remote work also plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity, particularly for individuals with disabilities or those living in remote areas. By removing the necessity for physical presence in an office, remote work makes employment accessible to those who may face challenges in traditional work settings. This inclusivity extends opportunities to talented individuals who might otherwise be overlooked, ensuring that companies benefit from the widest range of skills and perspectives. It demonstrates a commitment to building a workforce that truly reflects the diversity of society, contributing to a more equitable and fair employment landscape.

Embracing remote work opens up a realm of benefits that go beyond the convenience of skipping the daily commute. Financial savings for both employees and employers, the positive environmental impact by reducing carbon emissions, and the promotion of health and wellness by allowing for a more flexible lifestyle stand out as crucial reasons to support the shift towards home-based work. Moreover, the ability to access a global talent pool emphasizes the boundless opportunities for diversity and innovation that remote work facilitates.

Looking ahead, the future of work seems to be intricately linked with remote working arrangements. This shift not only reflects a changing professional landscape but also indicates a broader evolution in societal norms and values, especially concerning how we define productivity and success. The capacity for remote work to shape a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable professional world is immense.

Employers and employees alike are encouraged to embrace the flexibility and opportunities that remote work provides. Doing so not only caters to individual preferences and lifestyle needs but also positions organizations to thrive in a globally connected, rapidly changing marketplace. By fostering a culture that values autonomy, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility, we pave the way for a future where work is not just a place you go but a dynamic and fulfilling part of life.

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What is WFH (Work from home)?

What is wfh, coronavirus and wfh, the rise of wfh, distinguishing wfh and remote work, the benefits of wfh, challenges of wfh, how to wfh successfully, five methods for becoming wfh ready.

WFH is an acronym for “work from home”, which describes a modern working arrangement where employees perform job responsibilities remotely, typically from their own homes instead of an office. It offers flexibility, improved work-life balance, and cost savings for employers. 

The work-from-home model is made possible through readily available digital capabilities such as video conferencing, instant messaging, and cloud-based collaboration tools.

According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, 35% of workers with jobs that can be done remotely are now working from home full-time .

As technology-driven innovation continues to advance and work cultures evolve into the Next Normal, an increasing number of companies are recognizing the advantages of remote work . Embracing this shift allows organizations to tap into the benefits offered by a flexible and location-independent workforce.

WFH empowers employees to work in a manner that suits them best while enabling organizations to adapt, attract, and retain talent by promoting a dynamic and productive work environment.

Effective communication and support are vital for successfully implementing WFH arrangements and should be emphasized in a rapidly changing work landscape where remote work has become the new norm.

The following synonyms can be used interchangeably with WFH: 

• Work from home
• Working from home
• Telecommuting 
• Remote work
• Working remotely 
• Virtual work

This glossary explores WFH, examining why working from home has gained such prominence, and provides a comprehensive overview of its various aspects.

For many, Coronavirus (COVID-19) put work on hold. For example, employees or business owners of laundromats and education facilities could not transition to a WFH model. 

For many service providers, however, Coronavirus has pushed them to further utilize technology and address how they can efficiently and effectively continue to work and function digitally. Digital adoption is key in determining how quickly and efficiently a company operates virtually.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that telework accounted for about 50% of paid work hours between April and December 2020, compared to just 5% before the pandemic .

Whether due to the economic turmoil caused by COVID-19, the prevalence of tech capabilities, or simply shifting attitudes towards work culture, the undeniable value realized in work-from-home (WFH) arrangements has firmly established it as a mainstay working model.

As our understanding of what it means to “work” evolves, the concept of WFH has transcended from being a mere trend to becoming a lifestyle and a necessity for many individuals. Fulfilling workplace obligations productively from the comfort of personal settings has revolutionized the traditional work paradigm.

As per a recent McKinsey survey, 58% of employed individuals, equivalent to 92 million people from various job sectors, now have the opportunity to work remotely for all or part of the week . This finding comes after more than two years of observing remote work and predicting that flexible working would continue even beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.

The terms “Working from Home” (WFH) and “Remote Work” are often used interchangeably. However, it is essential to observe both their similarities and differences. Though both involve working outside a traditional office setting, they possess distinct characteristics that set them apart.

• Definition and Scope : WFH typically pertains to employees who can work from the comfort of their homes rather than commuting to a physical office. It represents a flexible arrangement within an established work structure. On the contrary, remote work is a broader concept that liberates individuals, enabling them to work from anywhere they choose. Remote workers can opt for co-working spaces and coffee shops or even embark on their work journeys while traversing the globe.
• Flexibility and Freedom : WFH predominantly implies a localized approach, where employees primarily operate from their homes while occasionally stepping foot in the office. In contrast, remote work embodies a greater degree of flexibility and liberation from geographic constraints. Remote workers revel in the freedom to toil away from anywhere, unburdened by the shackles of a specific physical locale. This newfound independence fosters diverse work environments, enriching travel opportunities, and a superior work-life balance.
• Employment Status : While WFH predominantly caters to employees who maintain a conventional employment relationship with a company, remote work encompasses a broader spectrum of work arrangements. Remote workers can encompass freelancers, contractors, and individuals engaged concurrently with multiple clients or companies. Remote work bestows more flexibility concerning working hours, project-based engagements, and entrepreneurial pursuits.
• Collaboration and Communication : WFH and remote work rely heavily on digital communication tools to establish and nurture connections with colleagues and employers. However, remote work strongly emphasizes asynchronous communication and virtual collaboration. Remote teams are adept at harnessing technology to collaborate effectively across different time zones, collectively working on projects despite physical distances.

As technology and outlooks on contemporary employment evolve, the work-from-home (WFH) paradigm challenges the traditional expectation of heading into an office from 9 to 5. 

This seismic shift in the work landscape brings with it a multitude of possibilities and benefits. Below we explore WFH’s untapped potential and its transformative impact on employees and organizations.

WFH For Employees :

• Work-Life Integration : Remote work empowers employees to seamlessly blend their personal and professional lives, promoting a sense of control and fulfillment.
• Increased Happiness and Job Satisfaction : With no commute and a comfortable work environment, remote workers experience greater happiness and job satisfaction.
• Heightened Focus and Productivity : Fewer distractions and personalized workspaces translate to increased focus and productivity for remote employees.
• Time and Cost Savings: Remote workers save time and money by eliminating the need for commuting, leading to better work-life balance and financial well-being.
• Improved Well-being: Remote work allows employees to prioritize self-care, improving physical and mental health.
• Positive Environmental Impact: Reduced commuting contributes to a greener planet by lowering carbon emissions and traffic congestion.

WFH For Employers:

• Access to Global Talent : Embracing remote work opens opportunities to recruit top talent from diverse locations, fostering a skilled and varied workforce.
• Cultivating Innovation : Remote work encourages creativity and fresh perspectives, driving digital innovation .
• Enhanced Employee Retention : Offering remote work options demonstrates a commitment to work-life balance, leading to higher job satisfaction and employee retention.
• Increased Productivity : Remote work minimizes office distractions, enabling employees to focus better and achieve higher productivity levels.
• Cost Savings and Resource Allocation : Remote work reduces overhead costs such as office space and utilities, allocating resources to growth initiatives.
• Business Continuity : Remote work ensures business operations can continue during unforeseen events, maintaining productivity and customer satisfaction.

While offering numerous benefits, working from home also presents several challenges that individuals and organizations may face. 

According to Forbes, 40% of employees do not have a dedicated workspace, 20% work from their living rooms, and 30% encounter various challenges while working remotely .

Here’s an overview of some common challenges to remote work:

Challenges for employees:

Work Balance: Achieving a work-life balance can be tough when working in a home setting. Blurred lines between professional and personal life can result in longer work hours and difficulty disconnecting. According to Statista, in 2022, 21% of respondents reported that their biggest struggle with remote work was staying at home too often because they felt a lack of reasons to leave .

Communication and Collaboration: Working from home relies on effective communication tools. Lack of face-to-face interaction can lead to miscommunication and hinder teamwork and project outcomes.

Feeling Isolated: WFH can cause feelings of isolation due to the absence of social office interactions. Limited human contact can impact motivation, morale, and well-being.

Distractions and Productivity: Home workers face various distractions like household chores or noisy environments. Maintaining focus and productivity becomes challenging.

Technology Issues: Technical glitches, connectivity problems, and software compatibility issues can hinder workflow and productivity in work-from-home environments.

Lack of Structure: Without a structured office environment, establishing routine and discipline becomes difficult. This affects time management and productivity.

Work-Personal Boundaries: Setting boundaries between work and personal life is challenging when working from home. Overworking and difficulty disconnecting can arise.

Challenges for Organizations:

Communication and Team Collaboration : Ensuring seamless communication and collaboration among remote teams is vital.

Employee Engagement and Connection : Keeping remote employees engaged and connected requires innovative approaches like virtual team-building activities.

Performance Monitoring and Evaluation : Evaluating remote employee performance needs clear metrics and evaluation processes tailored to the remote work environment.

Technology and Infrastructure : Providing employees with reliable technology and addressing connectivity issues are essential for remote work success.

Culture and Team Dynamics : Maintaining team dynamics and organizational culture in a remote setting requires proactive efforts.

Addressing these challenges involves clear guidelines, training opportunities, and fostering an inclusive remote work culture for employers. To overcome these hurdles, employees should focus on self-care, effective communication, and proactive engagement.

In the scramble to maintain business continuity during the COVID-19 crisis, some companies were more prepared than others. 

A digital transformation -led approach to WFH encapsulates this. As software capabilities become more complex and business processes come to rely on them more, companies realize that leveraging contemporary digital solutions that facilitate working from home can be just as efficient as on-premises work.

Research shows that 12.7% of full-time employees have embraced remote work as of 2023, while around 28.2% have adopted a hybrid work arrangement that combines remote and in-person work . 

Looking ahead to 2025, a staggering 32.6 million individuals are projected to be part of the remote workforce.

Expectations must be clearly defined before a WFH team can be effective and a unified communications (UC) solution determined. This is a large task in itself and involves auditing the company, finding a vendor that fits your needs, implementing UC systems, training staff, and possibly even upgrading the internet.

Beyond a UC solution, CIOs can help their companies prepare for a remote workforce by taking these steps: 

• 1 . Create a WFH action plan – The plan should include what type of remote work will be allowed, when and where WFH will occur, how to effectively manage remote staff, and which tools need to be deployed.
• Reassess infrastructure – Does your organization’s network have the bandwidth to handle remote working? Is the current cloud infrastructure right for this situation? As the digital workplace expands, investment in infrastructure is paramount.
• Deploy the right tools – Essential tools that are readily available and can handle increased demand are crucial. For effective workflow, collaborative and productivity software must be in place. Ensure you have videoconferencing technology, project management systems, and other apps for communication like Teams, Slack, Zoom, etc.
• Assist with employee readiness – How aware are you of your employees’ current WFH setup and equipment needs? Put together a WFH checklist for remote workers: webcam, headset, fast internet, software, etc. The software implementation will require training and IT support – to ensure a plan is in place.
• Secure your systems – Security is a top priority. With employees remotely accessing computers and company files, be especially vigilant on the security front. Enforce multi-factor authentication, update virus protection, and ensure employees understand security protocols.

Frequently asked questions

• What tools are commonly used for WFH? Commonly used tools for WFH include video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams for virtual meetings, project management software like Asana or Trello for task organization, communication tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams for team collaboration, and cloud storage platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox for file sharing and storage.
• How can I maintain productivity while working from home? To maintain productivity while working from home, establish a designated workspace, set clear goals and deadlines, create a daily routine, minimize distractions, take regular breaks, communicate effectively with colleagues, and prioritize self-care and work-life balance.
• How can I stay connected with my team while working remotely? To stay connected with your team while working remotely, utilize video conferencing for meetings and virtual check-ins, use real-time instant messaging tools for effective communication and collaboration, establish open communication channels, and participate in virtual team-building initiatives.
• How can employers ensure the successful implementation of WFH policies? Employers can ensure the successful implementation of WFH policies by providing clear guidelines and expectations, offering necessary technology and resources, promoting collective collaboration, encouraging regular check-ins, fostering a supportive virtual work culture, and regularly evaluating and addressing any challenges that arise.
• Is WFH a temporary trend or here to stay? While the COVID-19 pandemic initially accelerated the widespread adoption of WFH, it has proven successful for many organizations and individuals. As a result, it is expected that a hybrid work model combining remote and in-office work will become more common in the future, indicating that WFH is likely here to stay as a flexible work option.
• Are there any legal considerations for employers implementing WFH policies? Legal considerations for employers implementing WFH policies may vary by jurisdiction. Employers must consult with legal professionals to ensure compliance with applicable labor laws, data protection regulations, and employee rights pertaining to remote work arrangements.

Updated: November 09, 2023

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Working from home and hybrid working

Hybrid working is a type of flexible working where an employee splits their time between:

• the workplace
• remote working

Working from home is the most common way of working remotely.

An employee might work from home all the time, or as part of a hybrid working arrangement.

Home and hybrid working requests

How to ask for a change, respond to requests, and deal with disagreements.

Wellbeing when working from home

Including risk assessments, mental and physical health, and dealing with problems.

Home and hybrid working policies

Why employers need a policy, what goes in it, and what to consider.

Managing staff who work from home

How managers can support staff, manage and monitor performance, and keep in touch.

Find Acas training on flexible working (including working from home and hybrid working)

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Definition of homework

Examples of homework in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'homework.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1662, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Dictionary Entries Near homework

Cite this entry.

“Homework.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/homework. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of homework, more from merriam-webster on homework.

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for homework

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about homework

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homeworking noun

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What does the noun homeworking mean?

There is one meaning in OED's entry for the noun homeworking . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.

How common is the noun homeworking ?

How is the noun homeworking pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun homeworking come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the noun homeworking is in the 1840s.

OED's earliest evidence for homeworking is from 1844, in Northern Star .

homeworking is formed within English, by compounding.

Etymons: home n. 1 , working n.

Nearby entries

• homeware, n. 1782–
• home waters, n. 1838–
• home wear, n. 1836–
• home-whining, n. a1657
• home wind, n. 1732–
• home-woe, n. 1838–
• homework, n. 1653–
• homework club, n. 1900–
• homework diary, n. 1973–
• homeworker, n. 1843–
• homeworking, n. 1844–
• home-working, adj. 1850–
• home worship, n. 1849–
• homewort, n. Old English–
• home-wreck, n. 1845–
• home-wrecker, n. 1878–
• home-wrecking, n. 1878–
• home-wrecking, adj. 1878–
• home zone, n. 1992–
• homichlin, n. 1859–
• homicidal, adj. 1725–

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Meaning & use

Pronunciation, entry history for homeworking, n..

Originally published as part of the entry for homework, n.

homeworking, n. was revised in September 2011.

homeworking, n. was last modified in July 2023.

oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:

• further revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into homeworking, n. in July 2023.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

A Supplement to the OED, Volume II (1976)

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OED Second Edition (1989)

• View homework in OED Second Edition

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Citation details

Factsheet for homeworking, n., browse entry.

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Homeworking sounds good – until your job takes over your life

Some may want an escape from the office grind, but remote working could eat into downtime and increase inequality

T he supposedly looming return to normality – whatever that is – may have almost squashed the hopes of a more equal, mutual-aiding, communitarian country that briefly flared to life during the first lockdown. But for those lucky enough to have a job that can just about be done without leaving the house, perhaps one alleged source of optimism still burns bright.

Big companies seem more open than ever to the idea of homeworking arrangements staying in place even after the worst of the pandemic is over and restrictions are lifted, and for some people the old grind of commuting and congregating in offices may at least partially be over. What this could mean for the smaller businesses that depend on the presence of large employers is clear from our emptied-out city centres, but “hybrid working” is the season’s most fashionable corporate concept, often talked up in the same la-di-da tones as all those lockdown-based articles about Zoom fatigue and the trials of baking bread.

In more sober tones, the Financial Times recently reported that some of Britain’s largest employers are in the midst of “reviews of working practices” and that most of the companies its journalists had contacted said they expected to soon introduce employment models split between the office and home. They included the professional services company PricewaterhouseCoopers, NatWest, HSBC (which apparently expects to cut its “property footprint” by 40%), Virgin Media and the online retail giant Very, whose “chief people officer” sounded less like a bringer of good news than someone cracking the whip: “We want our colleagues to be hyperproductive at home and hypercollaborative in the office.”

The current push for homeworking is tangled up with such genuinely liberating possibilities as the four-day week, but the differences between them are obvious. Long before the arrival of Covid-19, technology was blurring the distinctions between leisure and work, as demands on people’s time poured into their homes via laptops and smartphones, and ambitious twentysomethings were sold a new dream of apartment blocks that come with state-of-the-art workspaces.

In Europe, there is rising noise about the so-called “right to disconnect”, whereby workers can enforce the separation of work and downtime. But the pandemic also seems to have created the perfect pretext for the two becoming fatally blurred: if your home now doubles as your workplace, you should not be surprised if your job seems to have taken over even more of your life.

In September last year, researchers at New York University and Harvard Business School published their analysis of the emails and online meetings of 3.1 million remote workers in such cities as Chicago, New York, London, Tel Aviv and Brussels, in the very early phases of their countries’ first lockdowns. They found that the length of the average working day had increased by 8.2%, or nearly 50 minutes, “largely due to writing emails and attending meetings beyond office hours”.

The researchers acknowledged the possibility that longer days might sometimes be the result of people having “freedom over their own schedule”, but also talked about a possible “blurred distinction between work and personal life, in which it becomes easy to overwork due to the lack of clear delineation between the office and home”. Here, perhaps, is the key to the widely held belief that homeworking makes people more productive: it may well do, but only because it makes them put in more hours. A subsequent report by the British thinktank Autonomy saw in the research something insidious and perhaps unstoppable, “society’s shift away from synchronous to asynchronous work, where hours are put in at any time, and the week expands bit by bit”.

If this happens, the negative consequences will snowball. Recent UK reports have found that more than a quarter of people working from home do so from either a sofa or a bedroom, and that more than a third have developed musculoskeletal problems. And what of the psychological effects of technology that enables companies to monitor homeworkers’ activity, or the lack of it? Tracking software is becoming a common feature of remote-working setups, and the names of the apps on offer are often less than subtle – one package offering “work time tracking, productivity measurement, all activity tracking [and] absence monitoring” is called StaffCop .

It is not exactly a revelation that the stresses and pressures of homeworking fall disproportionately on women, who are often faced with an impossible pile-up of childcare, home schooling and the demand to be constantly on call. Again, research from the US is instructive here, showing that men are far more likely than women to experience homeworking as a boost to their productivity and career prospects (and if you want to instantly understand the gender politics of this crisis, consider that 3 million women have dropped out of the American workforce in the past year). To those privileged and self-confident enough to embrace the idea of a life without them, workplaces might be bywords for tedium and anxiety, but they are also where efforts to tackle inequalities acquire coherent shape. If employees are scattered, these things will often either founder, or not start in the first place.

Clearly, the rising prevalence of working from home also threatens new dimensions to class inequality. The daily commute and eight or so hours spent in a workplace at least denoted some kind of universal experience. Now, we seem to be on the cusp of a new economic model that splits people between those allowed – or positively encouraged – to work from home, and others who simply can’t. Moreover, those supposedly able to embrace homeworking will have drastically different experiences according to their domestic environment.

Space and quiet are likely to become new determinants of status, which will surely further increase the disadvantages piled on to the young: there is, after all, a big difference between labouring in a shared house and creating a home office in some expansive residence in the suburbs or countryside. We also need to think about the way that weakened ties to the office might dilute employers’ obligations to some of their staff – today’s homeworker could easily become tomorrow’s freelancer, with the loss of rights that usually implies.

Freedom and flexibility are nice words to put on motivational posters, but no one should overlook the eternal tensions between those old adversaries capital and labour – and how people are likely to accept demands from their employers in the midst of raised unemployment and difficult post-pandemic times. After-hours Zoom sessions and endless emails might eat into time once kept free of work, but if the alternative is either universal credit or the gig economy, will anyone want to complain? This, I fear, is the perfect way to lay a path to a future that would be hellish: phones trilling long into the evening, surveillance software following our every domestic move, and the barrier between work and leisure dissolving into nothing.

John Harris is a Guardian columnist

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