The Teleworking Handbook

There has been much talk in recent times about teleworking. The advent of 'connected' technology has brought the promise of more flexible conditions for modern office workers, but for many the technicalities remain daunting. The Teleworking Handbook aims to explain exactly how to do it.

As well as providing the would-be teleworker with the big picture, The Teleworking Handbook also attempts to cover most of the important changes in Internet and telecommunications technology. Each chapter includes comprehensive resource listings, URLs and bibliographies.

The truth is, however, that most people won't need to look further than this guide: it really is the most comprehensive reference source for teleworking I've ever seen. In fact, I wish I'd had a copy when I took the plunge to work remotely myself.

The 30-page introductory overview is almost worth the cost of the book itself. It paints perhaps the most pertinent picture of the teleworking concept to be delivered in the print medium to date. The introduction covers everything, defining telework itself, plotting both the advantages and disadvantages with equal honesty, and looking at the technological and social trends that need to be considered.

This is followed by a step-by-step guide to implementing a teleworking strategy, with both sound advice and case study material to ponder, and an essential survival guide that doesn't pull any punches.

The remaining 200 or so pages are just as informative, readable and vital for anyone who's really serious about teleworking. The book covers everything from suggestions of business ideas that are best suited to home working, through to safety, legal and taxation issues, equipment checklists and the on-line factor. It even includes a chapter that looks at the disability empowerment side of the teleworking equation.

Although the cover price of £19.95 might seem a bit on the high side, ignoring the fact that it entitles you to six months' free membership of the Telecottage Association, the practical and supremely comprehensive nature of this handbook makes it worth every penny.

Author: Davey Winder