NEW HAVEN, CONN. – Recent events have reminded Connecticut employers that having continuity plans in place can minimize the effect of unexpected interruptions on their operations. Integrating a telecommuting component into those plans is a proactive step employers can take to ensure that their plans are most effective when they need to be.

A business continuity plan is a logistical plan for how a business will recover and restore critical functions after a pandemic illness or other interruption such as severe weather or transportation disruption. "Having a business continuity plan with telecommuting in place to keep operations moving can be critical," said Jean Stimolo, Program Manager for the state's Telecommute Connecticut program. "Connecticut employers would benefit greatly by planning ahead so they are ready with a telecommuting option and are not caught off-guard when an employee's access to the office is blocked or limited," she said.

These days, companies need every advantage they have, and to be able to maintain business operations in the event of a major disruption in the workplace is a sound and prudent solution. Telecommuting addresses this issue directly by ensuring continuity of operations, particularly during an emergency, by enabling employees to work from home. Telecommuting provides flexibility and good results by allowing employees to maintain workflow regardless of onsite workplace disruptions.

The key to successful integration of telecommuting into any continuity planning effort is preparation. Telecommute Connecticut can provide free expert assistance to employers in creating and communicating guidelines, determining what essentials employees need to work at home. Telecommute Connecticut can also help employers implement telecommuting programs that will, in turn, allow employers to enjoy other benefits of telecommuting, including:

• Increased productivity
• Boost employee morale
• Ability to attract new employees and retain key employees
• Providing a solution for peak periods
• Reduced office space requirements and operating costs
• Integration into company green initiatives or sustainability efforts

Telecommute Connecticut is a free service that helps Connecticut employers design, implement and update their telecommuting programs. A team of experienced consultants in human resources and voice & data technology has provided assistance to more than 200 Connecticut employers in setting up their own telecommuting programs. Telecommute Connecticut is sponsored by the Connecticut Department of Transportation, which offers a wide range of transportation services through its Connecticut Commuter Services program.

For assistance integrating telecommuting into a business continuity plan or developing a telecommuting option contact Telecommute Connecticut at 1-800-255-7433 or tct@telecommuteCT.com. For more information on telecommuting and Telecommute Connecticut, visit www.telecommuteCT.com.