According to the survey, workers use a combination of conferencing, instant messaging, cell phones, landlines and e-mail when working away from the office. The primary technologies used are e-mail and mobile phone, although 21% will use conferencing to remotely connect with colleagues and customers during the holidays this year.
The survey also revealed where Americans will be working from:
- 85% will use their home office;
- 24% will work at a family member's home;
- 18% ignore travel delays at the airport by working;
- 17% report working while shopping and running errands;
- 15% work while they're vacationing at a resort or hotel;
- 6% plan to work in bed;
- 2% work while working out at the gym; and
- 2% are working instead of mingling at holiday parties.
Technology today is allowing people to become more connected than ever, and workers are taking advantage of that luxury. The result of this connectivity is that lines are being blurred between work and play. Today, workers are using technology as productivity tools to build a better balance between work and their everyday life. Clearly, technology is evolving from a convenience to a benefit.
According to Bob Wise, vice president of marketing and strategic development for InterCall, "Technology is empowering workers to take control over where and when they want to get work done. People can get more done when they use technology in the way that's most productive for them."