Telecommuting is a popular practice within VF Internal Audit. As we studied our assurance process and opportunities to enhance the quality of life for our associates, we quickly recognized the project-oriented nature of our activities. As we rely heavily on communication with each other through our use of information technology, it also seemed a logical extension that our associates did not have to physically be at the office in order to work effectively or efficiently. Therefore, beginning in 1997, we instituted a telecommuting policy to allow associates to work at home when they are not traveling.

The reaction to telecommuting by our associates and others has been very favorable. In fact, acceptance of the program has been unanimous. We find that telecommuting greatly enhances the quality of life for our people. Commuting time is eliminated and daily time management is left up to each associate.

Of course, we expect a 40 hour work week when our associates telecommute. Each associate discusses their expected goals and time requirements with his/her Director at the inception of each telecommuting week. After that, the associate is empowered to complete the tasks as agreed, we really do not care if assignments are completed on a typical 9-5 routine. The associate must determine the appropriateness of their work schedule. However, we do care that the tasks are completed to the best of each associate's ability and done correctly. Our telecommuters are owners of their deliverables! In fact, we expect their productivity to rise and our expectations to be exceeded.

Below are some excerpts from our telecommuting policy...

Background:

Telecommuting is an off-site work arrangement that permits the Operations, Reporting and Compliance auditor or analyst ("the telecommuter") to work in his/her residence for all or part of the work week. Before an associate may telecommute, there must be an explicit understanding and agreement between the telecommuter and his/her Director on the following matters:

Eligibility:

All Operations, Reporting and Compliance auditors and analysts will be eligible for telecommuting after 90 days of employment with VF Internal Audit.

Policies/Procedures:

Telecommuters are expected to attend all departmental meetings. On such occasions when the telecommuter is required to attend meetings, the cost of transportation to/from the Hub is not reimbursable.

Work Hours:

The telecommuter is expected to set regular work hours which should be mutually agreed upon by the telecommuter and his/her Director. A minimum of 40 hours of work per week is expected. The telecommuter should notify his/her Director of any vacation days, sick days and medical appointments.

Communications:

The telecommuter is expected to be accessible during designated work hours. The telecommuter is expected to be accessible by phone or e:mail daily for messages and respond promptly to any calls received.

Work Space:

The telecommuter is expected to make reasonable provision for space in which to work at home. If possible, the telecommuter is encouraged to establish a work space in a separate and quiet room. The work space should be properly secured to protect sensitive and /or company proprietary information. A one-time telecommuting workstation allowance of $900.00 USD will be provided to cover items such as a Desk, Chair, File Cabinet, Phone, etc.

Family:

The telecommuter is expected to make arrangements for someone else to care for dependents during such time at home to the extent necessary to meet the needs of the job. Telecommuting is not a substitute for child/elder care.