Telework

Telework -- also know as telecommuting -- is an alternative work arrangement for employees to conduct all or some of their work away from the primary workplace. This concept can be applied to a variety of work experiences. Work locations might include residences, telework centers, or other acceptable locations. Telework schedules may be fixed or on an occasional basis. Telework benefits both the agency and the employees in a number of ways including:

• Increases employees’ productivity
• Optimizes the use of technology
• Provides a tool to attract and retain skilled employees
• Improves the quality of work life
• Reduces commuting time and expense to employees
• Offers reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities
• Ensures continuity of essential Government functions in the event of national or local emergencies

Commandant Instruction 12630.1 dated 15 July 1997, outlines the Coast Guard's Telework Program. The policy covers active duty/reserve military and appropriated/non-appropriated civilian employees. Telework is NOT a right or entitlement. However, it is a management tool to improve productivity by using the advantages of technology to gain flexibility in the work place and support continuity of operations efforts.

Employees who participate in telework must complete telework agreements and provide copies to their Coast Guard Telework Coordinators. A sample telework agreement can be found in COMDTINST 12630.1.

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the General Services Administration (GSA) have established a joint web site on Telework to provide access to guidance issued by both agencies. Among the tools available on this site are free online training courses for employees and supervisors, including Telework 101 for Employees and Telework 101 for Managers. Telework.gov also contains information regarding telework laws, telework centers, agency telework policies, telework FAQs, and annual reports to Congress on telework in the Federal Government.