The three major components that enable the deployment of a telecommuting program are: People, Telecommunication Systems, and Hardware.  Each component is examined in this three-part series.

 

Part 3 of 3: Major Component #3—Hardware

 

It is no secret that even the most qualified telecommuter with access to the best in telecommunications software will not meet top performance objectives without at least the minimum requirements for computer hardware and other devices, such as a mobile phone; the last indispensable component in a strong telecommuting program is its hardware.  Up-to-date, task-appropriate hardware plays an essential role in designing the ideal landscape for peak telecommuting operations.

Accordingly, below is a list of suggested hardware telework/telecommuting.

  

Recommended:	Also Consider:
Mobile Phone	Computer Microphone
Laptop Computer	Additional Monitor
Printer/FAX	Computer Video Camera
Scanner/Copier	Cordless Phone/Speaker Phone
Wireless Router and Wireless Network Card	Phone Headset/Microphone Headset
CD/DVD Burner	Backup Laptop Battery
Cordless Keyboard and Mouse	Flash Memory Drive (Portable Memory)

  

Ergonomics
Ergonomics, a scientific study of human/tool interaction, has been described as “the application of information about human characteristics to design applications, e.g. equipment, tools, work tasks – with the aim of improving safety and efficiency”¹.

 

In discussions about hardware for computing/telecommunications devices, ergonomics are often overlooked—but for telecommuters, as much as hardware matters, the appropriate design and fit (if applicable) of the hardware is extremely important as well.

While many ergonomic problems resulting from poor “fit” or improper handling are keyboard/typing or phone/cradling-related, other factors, such as:

also figure into the overall picture of how hardware can lead to increased or reduced physical stress on the worker.  

A telecommuting program’s success hinges on the people, telecommunications systems, and hardware deployed.  Consideration of these three major components will lead to favorable telecommuting results.

Reference:

“Ergonomics”, Health and Safety Terms, EDP HS&E Consultants, March 2006, http://www.edp-uk.com/glossaries/terms.htm