In 1996, Sikorsky Aircraft unveiled its first telecommute program in an effort to combat changing demographics of the workforce, increases in absenteeism, tardiness and turnover, low morale and an increase in the cost of office space and overhead. However, use of the telework program was very low. Insufficient management buy-in to the policy translated into a perception among employees that participating in the program would stall their careers.


The Managing Flexibility for Productivity program was designed to promote acceptance of the telecommute program among both managers and employees. Defining the formal policy process to make the program consistent, it provided tools to prepare and analyze telework proposals and trained management to re-examine workplace perceptions that had previously undermined telecommuting. This new effort also included a testimonial videotape from all levels of management and an explanation of the positive impact of telecommuting on the bottom line.


After incorporating feedback from the launch of a pilot program, an extensive training program was initiated for all staff. Initially, the time that company-wide training would entail seemed aan obstacle to immediate implementation. Over time, however, the 10-month duration proved to be a blessing in disguise: as participation began, successes mounted and word of mouth spread about the benefits of telecommuting.

“Have a solid business case when implementing… ather data on where flexible work arrangements can effect the bottom line in areas such as technology, customer service, office space, or re-engineering …”
-Marcia P. Ellis, formerly of Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Stratford, CT