Many companies in Finland are looking for ways to develop and improve their work practices as greater numbers of employees work outside office. In particular, the practice is receiving increased attention as employees on duty during the vacation period consider the possibility of working from their summer cottages – or even while at sea.
The IT company Mediamaestro has offices in Lappeenranta, Savonlinna and India. Fully one-third of the company’s workers regularly engage in remote work and the company has estimated that the telecommuting arrangement has resulted in annual savings of up to 100,000 euros, due in part to lower transportation costs.
But it’s not all just about the money. According to chief executive Mika Savolainen, having the option to work outside the office offers concrete benefits for workers as well.
“It certainly affects workers’ motivation and their job satisfaction, and that brings benefits to the business,” Savolainen declared.
Ignorance, prejudice a barrier to remote work
Currently an estimated 15 percent of employees in Finland work outside the office and there are indications that more would opt for remote working arrangements.
However a lack of information about the possibilities and preconceived notions about what remote working entails often prevent many from even trying this working style.
Analysts predict that an increase in telecommuting will change working practices in Finland. The Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation Tekes has launched a large scale project to look at evolving working habits, improving productivity and employee wellbeing in the workplace. Remote work is just one of the possible channels by which employers may achieve these goals.
- Sources Yle
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