The ‘working from home’ debate
Work in groups. You work in a centrally located office. The company needs to cut costs. Debate this management proposal, using the steps below.
‘We propose moving to a smaller office further from the centre and having at least half our staff work from home.’
GROUP A:
You are members of staff and are FOR THE MOVE.
You like the idea of working from home and feel that you can make use of the time saved by not commuting.
GROUP B:
You are members of staff and are AGAINST THE MOVE.
You find it helpful when colleagues can collaborate and feel social aspects help team building.
Prepare arguments for or against working at home. Give reasons and examples. Consider these points:
distractions collaboration commuting flexibility socialising space for home office the environment
Debate as a class. Then vote individually for or against the proposal.
DISCUSSION
Would you prefer to work from home?
Could you do your job better at home?
What distractions would you have?
Do you have/Would you prefer a hybrid working arrangement?