Companies small and large have been experimenting 
with telecommuting for years.&nbsp; Some companies are taking the next 
step in completely transitioning some or all of their workforce to a 
fully virtual office.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; Full time 
remote workers reduce office overhead costs and provide business continuity 
protection against office environment disruptions.&nbsp; Virtual offices 
also offer dramatic sustainability advantages in the number of daily 
commuting miles eliminated.&nbsp;

As with anything there are pitfalls along 
with the promise.&nbsp; Establishing a cohesive team environment, ensuring 
maximum productivity and creative energy, and keeping everyone "in 
the loop" while working remotely are significant challenges.&nbsp;


We'll examine the technical, social, 
and business implications of a virtual workforce.&nbsp; We'll cover 
areas such as productivity, measurement & accountability, teamwork 
& collaboration, attraction & retention benefits, and more.&nbsp; 
We'll talk with companies making use of home-based workers, coworking, 
office/desk shares, and other arrangements.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp;