Pastoid

Companies small and large have been experimenting 
with telecommuting for years.  Some companies are taking the next 
step in completely transitioning some or all of their workforce to a 
fully virtual office.  Offering full-time remote work enables companies 
to hire talented workers from well outside a commutable distance, and 
provides a significant quality-of-life advantage for many potential 
employees, especially those with family obligations.  Full time 
remote workers reduce office overhead costs and provide business continuity 
protection against office environment disruptions.  Virtual offices 
also offer dramatic sustainability advantages in the number of daily 
commuting miles eliminated. 
 
As with anything there are pitfalls along 
with the promise.  Establishing a cohesive team environment, ensuring 
maximum productivity and creative energy, and keeping everyone "in 
the loop" while working remotely are significant challenges. 
 
 
We'll examine the technical, social, 
and business implications of a virtual workforce.  We'll cover 
areas such as productivity, measurement & accountability, teamwork 
& collaboration, attraction & retention benefits, and more.  
We'll talk with companies making use of home-based workers, coworking, 
office/desk shares, and other arrangements.  At least one panelist 
will join the conversation via live video conferencing, to give the 
audience a direct feel for the pros and cons of interactive dialog via 
telepresence.