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The effects of telecommuting on productivity: An experimental examination. The role of dull and creative tasks

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  • Glenn Dutcher, E.

Abstract

In an effort to cut costs and improve worker morale, corporations are increasingly turning to telecommuting. Conflicting reports exist though on the effects that working outside the office has on productivity which directly affects a company's bottom line. This study explores these controversies using an experimental approach. Creative and dull individual tasks were used to mimic two extreme work climates. Results of this study indicate that the telecommuting environmental effects may have positive implications on productivity of creative tasks but negative implications on productivity of dull tasks.

Suggested Citation

  • Glenn Dutcher, E., 2012. "The effects of telecommuting on productivity: An experimental examination. The role of dull and creative tasks," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 84(1), pages 355-363.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jeborg:v:84:y:2012:i:1:p:355-363
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jebo.2012.04.009
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Telecommuting; Experimental economics; Labor productivity; Real task experiment;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J22 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Time Allocation and Labor Supply
    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • M54 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics - - - Labor Management

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