How Telecommuting Became Flex Fridays

In 2007 telecommuting had become a part of over 12 million Americans work life- for at least 8 hours out of every work week.

It has been found, based on statistics from the Telework Research Network, that 20 to 30 million people work out of their home at least one day a week.

Our business world today is moving at a pace unheard of in the 20th century. And, with gas prices rising, and the global economy embedded in our national mindset, telecommuting is becoming a part of the employee package in smart, evolving companies.

A great example of a visionary company of this type is Brenthaven. Brenthaven has been in business since 1980 and started out as a company that produced backpacks for explorers and adventurers. Today, Brenthaven is constructing backpacks for a new kind of explorer. Those road warriors, telecommuters and home workers who require a backpack, or case for their IPAD, computer, or Netbook are another segment of the Brenthaven consumer today.

Brenthaven is cognizant of the need to be ever vigilant when it comes to changing their product and business outlook with the times. And, this vision is implemented in real time by their Zero Impact Program.

Brenthaven's Zero Impact Program is three-fold.

1) Brenthaven creates products that are durable, made from the toughest materials and built to last. So, recycling is unnecessary.

2) Brenthaven employees are paid to walk, bike, carpool, and take public transportation to work. They are compensated for volunteering for environmental charities (I love that!) Brenthaven also offers, "Flex Fridays" where employees are allowed to work remotely, giving them the option to telecommute 1 day a week, thus saving precious fuel.

And if all that isn't enough -

3) Brenthaven combines investments in carbon offsets and donations to environmental charities to further reduce their carbon footprint.

"With our roots in the outdoor industry, we are passionate about the impact our company has on our environment. We believe our consumers want to do the right thing, and buy products from companies that are cognizant of their environmental footprint. We believe in making products that last a lifetime, without hurting our environment in the process." Linda Nguyen of Brenthaven.

It is obvious that companies that are serious about a sustainable mission statement must include telecommuting as part of their total company plan, in order to step into the 21st century. Companies like Brenthaven that have instituted this method as a part of their overall sustainability plan are forward thinking and will contribute to the overall profitability of our global economy.